What is the best shield for durability in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild?

The best shield for durability in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is the Hylian Shield. This shield is renowned for its exceptional durability, high defense rating, and overall reliability in combat. It is the most durable shield in the game, capable of withstanding a significant amount of damage before breaking. However, obtaining and maintaining the Hylian Shield requires some effort and preparation.

To acquire the Hylian Shield, you must complete the "Locked Mementos" main quest, which leads you to Hyrule Castle. Inside the castle, you will find the shield in the lockup, a dungeon-like area located in the basement. To reach the lockup, you can enter Hyrule Castle through the docks on the east side, which is a safer route compared to the main entrance. Once inside, navigate through the corridors and defeat the Stalnox, a skeletal Hinox, to obtain the shield. The Stalnox is a mini-boss that requires some combat skill to defeat, so make sure you are well-prepared with weapons, armor, and healing items.

The Hylian Shield has a base durability of 800, which is significantly higher than any other shield in the game. For comparison, the next most durable shield, the Ancient Shield, has a durability of 32. This makes the Hylian Shield an invaluable asset for both defensive and offensive strategies. However, it is important to note that the Hylian Shield is not indestructible. If it breaks, you can purchase a replacement from Grant├® in Tarrey Town, but this will cost you 3,000 rupees. Therefore, it is wise to use the shield judiciously and avoid unnecessary damage.

To maximize the durability of the Hylian Shield, consider using it primarily in high-stakes situations, such as battles against powerful enemies like Lynels, Guardians, or during the final boss fight. For everyday use, you can rely on other shields with lower durability, such as the Royal Shield or the Knight's Shield, which are more common and easier to replace. This strategy helps preserve the Hylian Shield for when you truly need it.

Another important tip is to use the shield parry technique effectively. Parrying allows you to deflect attacks, including Guardian laser beams, without taking damage to your shield. Mastering this technique can significantly extend the lifespan of your Hylian Shield. To perform a parry, hold ZL to raise your shield, and press A just before an enemy attack lands. Timing is crucial, so practice this move against weaker enemies before attempting it in more challenging battles.

In terms of preparation, ensure you have a good supply of healing items, such as hearty meals or elixirs, before attempting to obtain the Hylian Shield. The journey to Hyrule Castle and the fight against the Stalnox can be perilous, so being well-equipped is essential. Additionally, consider upgrading your armor at Great Fairy Fountains to increase your defense and survivability.

Common mistakes to avoid include using the Hylian Shield for trivial tasks, such as blocking weak enemy attacks or surfing down hills. While the shield is durable, it is not invincible, and wasting its durability on minor encounters is inefficient. Another mistake is neglecting to repair or replace the shield if it breaks. Always keep an eye on its condition and plan accordingly.

Advanced techniques involve combining the Hylian Shield with other high-durability gear and strategies. For example, pairing it with the Ancient Armor set, which provides additional defense against Guardian attacks, can make you nearly unstoppable in combat. Additionally, using the shield in conjunction with powerful weapons, such as the Master Sword or Ancient weapons, can create a balanced and effective combat setup.

In summary, the Hylian Shield is the best shield for durability in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. Obtaining it requires completing the "Locked Mementos" quest and defeating the Stalnox in Hyrule Castle. To maximize its durability, use it strategically in high-stakes battles, master the shield parry technique, and avoid unnecessary damage. Proper preparation, resource management, and combat skills are key to making the most of this exceptional shield. By following these tips and strategies, you can ensure that the Hylian Shield remains a reliable and powerful asset throughout your adventure in Hyrule.