What is the best bow for long-range combat in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild?
The best bow for long-range combat in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is the Ancient Bow, which is crafted using ancient materials at the Akkala Ancient Tech Lab. This bow is highly effective for long-range engagements due to its exceptional range, accuracy, and durability. It is particularly useful for taking down enemies from a distance, sniping Guardians, or hitting distant targets in shrines or overworld puzzles. Below is a detailed explanation of how to obtain and use the Ancient Bow effectively, along with tips and strategies for maximizing its potential.
To obtain the Ancient Bow, you must first unlock the Akkala Ancient Tech Lab. This lab is located in the northeastern part of the map, near the Akkala Tower. To activate the lab, you need to complete the "Robbie's Research" side quest, which involves lighting the furnace outside the lab with a blue flame. You can find the blue flame at the base of the hill near the lab, but you will need to carry it through enemy-infested areas, so it is advisable to clear the path or use stealth to avoid combat. Once the lab is operational, you can speak to Robbie to purchase the Ancient Bow.
The Ancient Bow requires specific materials to craft: 1,000 rupees, 15 ancient springs, 10 ancient gears, and 1 giant ancient core. These materials can be obtained by defeating Guardians, particularly the decayed and stalker variants found in Hyrule Field and other areas. You can also find ancient materials in shrines or by defeating Guardian Scouts in Test of Strength shrines. Farming these materials may take some time, but it is worth the effort due to the bow's superior performance.
The Ancient Bow has a range of 40, which is significantly higher than most other bows in the game. It also has a durability of 120, making it one of the most durable bows available. Its accuracy is unparalleled, as arrows fired from the Ancient Bow travel in a nearly straight line, making it easier to hit distant targets. This makes it ideal for sniping enemies from a safe distance, especially when combined with stealth armor or elixirs to avoid detection.
When using the Ancient Bow, it is important to aim carefully and take advantage of its range. For example, you can use it to take out enemy archers or scouts before they spot you, or to hit weak points on Guardians from a distance. The bow is also useful for completing certain shrine puzzles that require precise long-range shots. Additionally, the Ancient Bow is effective against flying enemies like Keese or Aerocudas, as its accuracy allows you to hit them even when they are moving.
One common mistake players make is using the Ancient Bow for close-range combat. While it is possible to use it in close quarters, its true strength lies in its long-range capabilities. Using it up close can waste its durability and make it less effective in situations where its range is needed. Instead, consider using a different weapon for close-range encounters and saving the Ancient Bow for sniping or long-range engagements.
Advanced techniques for using the Ancient Bow include combining it with elemental arrows for added effects. For example, using shock arrows can stun enemies, while bomb arrows can deal massive damage to groups. You can also use the bow in conjunction with the Stasis+ rune to freeze enemies and line up precise shots. Additionally, wearing the Ancient Armor set, which increases damage with ancient weapons, can further enhance the bow's effectiveness.
Preparation is key when using the Ancient Bow. Make sure to stock up on arrows, as the bow consumes them quickly during extended battles. You can purchase arrows from shops or find them in chests and enemy camps. It is also a good idea to carry a few backup bows in case the Ancient Bow breaks during combat. Finally, consider using elixirs or food that boost your stealth or attack power to maximize the bow's potential.
Alternative approaches to long-range combat include using the Great Eagle Bow, which is obtained by completing the Vah Medoh Divine Beast quest. This bow has a slightly shorter range than the Ancient Bow but fires three arrows at once, making it effective for dealing with multiple enemies. Another option is the Phrenic Bow, which has a range of 20 and can be found in various locations, including shrines and enemy camps. While not as powerful as the Ancient Bow, it is a good alternative if you are unable to obtain the required materials.
In summary, the Ancient Bow is the best option for long-range combat in Breath of the Wild due to its exceptional range, accuracy, and durability. Obtaining it requires some effort, but the benefits far outweigh the costs. By using it strategically and combining it with other tools and techniques, you can dominate long-range engagements and overcome even the toughest challenges in the game.
To obtain the Ancient Bow, you must first unlock the Akkala Ancient Tech Lab. This lab is located in the northeastern part of the map, near the Akkala Tower. To activate the lab, you need to complete the "Robbie's Research" side quest, which involves lighting the furnace outside the lab with a blue flame. You can find the blue flame at the base of the hill near the lab, but you will need to carry it through enemy-infested areas, so it is advisable to clear the path or use stealth to avoid combat. Once the lab is operational, you can speak to Robbie to purchase the Ancient Bow.
The Ancient Bow requires specific materials to craft: 1,000 rupees, 15 ancient springs, 10 ancient gears, and 1 giant ancient core. These materials can be obtained by defeating Guardians, particularly the decayed and stalker variants found in Hyrule Field and other areas. You can also find ancient materials in shrines or by defeating Guardian Scouts in Test of Strength shrines. Farming these materials may take some time, but it is worth the effort due to the bow's superior performance.
The Ancient Bow has a range of 40, which is significantly higher than most other bows in the game. It also has a durability of 120, making it one of the most durable bows available. Its accuracy is unparalleled, as arrows fired from the Ancient Bow travel in a nearly straight line, making it easier to hit distant targets. This makes it ideal for sniping enemies from a safe distance, especially when combined with stealth armor or elixirs to avoid detection.
When using the Ancient Bow, it is important to aim carefully and take advantage of its range. For example, you can use it to take out enemy archers or scouts before they spot you, or to hit weak points on Guardians from a distance. The bow is also useful for completing certain shrine puzzles that require precise long-range shots. Additionally, the Ancient Bow is effective against flying enemies like Keese or Aerocudas, as its accuracy allows you to hit them even when they are moving.
One common mistake players make is using the Ancient Bow for close-range combat. While it is possible to use it in close quarters, its true strength lies in its long-range capabilities. Using it up close can waste its durability and make it less effective in situations where its range is needed. Instead, consider using a different weapon for close-range encounters and saving the Ancient Bow for sniping or long-range engagements.
Advanced techniques for using the Ancient Bow include combining it with elemental arrows for added effects. For example, using shock arrows can stun enemies, while bomb arrows can deal massive damage to groups. You can also use the bow in conjunction with the Stasis+ rune to freeze enemies and line up precise shots. Additionally, wearing the Ancient Armor set, which increases damage with ancient weapons, can further enhance the bow's effectiveness.
Preparation is key when using the Ancient Bow. Make sure to stock up on arrows, as the bow consumes them quickly during extended battles. You can purchase arrows from shops or find them in chests and enemy camps. It is also a good idea to carry a few backup bows in case the Ancient Bow breaks during combat. Finally, consider using elixirs or food that boost your stealth or attack power to maximize the bow's potential.
Alternative approaches to long-range combat include using the Great Eagle Bow, which is obtained by completing the Vah Medoh Divine Beast quest. This bow has a slightly shorter range than the Ancient Bow but fires three arrows at once, making it effective for dealing with multiple enemies. Another option is the Phrenic Bow, which has a range of 20 and can be found in various locations, including shrines and enemy camps. While not as powerful as the Ancient Bow, it is a good alternative if you are unable to obtain the required materials.
In summary, the Ancient Bow is the best option for long-range combat in Breath of the Wild due to its exceptional range, accuracy, and durability. Obtaining it requires some effort, but the benefits far outweigh the costs. By using it strategically and combining it with other tools and techniques, you can dominate long-range engagements and overcome even the toughest challenges in the game.