What is the best armor set for exploring the plains in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild?

The best armor set for exploring the plains in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild depends on the specific challenges you face in those areas. The plains, such as Hyrule Field, are vast open areas filled with enemies, environmental hazards, and opportunities for exploration. To maximize your effectiveness, you should consider armor sets that provide defense, mobility, and resistance to environmental effects. HereÔÇÖs a detailed breakdown of how to choose and optimize your armor for plains exploration.

First, letÔÇÖs discuss the mechanics of armor in Breath of the Wild. Armor sets consist of headgear, chest pieces, and legwear, each providing defense points and sometimes special bonuses. When you wear a full set, you often gain additional set bonuses, such as increased stealth, attack power, or resistance to specific elements. Armor can be upgraded at Great Fairy Fountains, which require rupees and specific materials like monster parts, gems, or plants. Upgrading armor increases its defense and can unlock set bonuses.

For plains exploration, the SoldierÔÇÖs Armor set is a strong choice. This set provides high defense, making it ideal for combat-heavy areas like Hyrule Field, where youÔÇÖll encounter powerful enemies like Lynels, Moblins, and Guardians. The SoldierÔÇÖs Armor set can be purchased in Hateno Village at the armor shop. To upgrade it, youÔÇÖll need materials like Bokoblin Horns, Moblin Horns, and Lynel Hooves, which are common drops from enemies in the plains. Upgrading this set to its maximum level will give you the highest defense in the game, making you nearly invulnerable to most attacks.

Another excellent option is the Ancient Armor set, which provides high defense and resistance to Guardian attacks. This set is particularly useful in plains areas where Guardians roam, such as Central Hyrule. You can acquire the Ancient Armor set by purchasing it from the Akkala Ancient Tech Lab using ancient materials like Ancient Cores, Ancient Shafts, and Ancient Gears. These materials are obtained by defeating Guardians or finding them in shrines. The Ancient Armor set also grants a set bonus that increases the damage of ancient weapons, making it a great choice for combat-focused players.

If you prefer a more balanced approach, the Barbarian Armor set is worth considering. This set increases your attack power, allowing you to defeat enemies more quickly. The Barbarian Armor set is found in three labyrinths across Hyrule: the North Lomei Labyrinth, the South Lomei Labyrinth, and the Tu KaÔÇÖloh Shrine on Eventide Island. Upgrading this set requires materials like Lynel Horns and Lynel Hooves, which can be challenging to obtain but are worth the effort for the increased damage output.

For players who prioritize mobility and stealth, the Stealth Armor set is a good alternative. This set increases your movement speed at night and makes you harder to detect by enemies. The Stealth Armor set can be purchased in Kakariko Village at the armor shop. Upgrading it requires materials like Silent Shrooms and Sunset Fireflies, which are relatively easy to find. While this set doesnÔÇÖt provide high defense, its stealth bonuses can help you avoid unnecessary combat and sneak past powerful enemies.

When preparing for plains exploration, itÔÇÖs important to consider your playstyle and the specific challenges youÔÇÖll face. If youÔÇÖre planning to engage in combat frequently, prioritize high-defense sets like the SoldierÔÇÖs Armor or Ancient Armor. If you prefer to avoid combat and focus on exploration, the Stealth Armor set is a better choice. Additionally, always carry healing items, such as cooked meals or elixirs, to replenish your health during battles.

A common mistake is neglecting to upgrade your armor. Upgrading armor significantly increases its effectiveness, so make sure to visit Great Fairy Fountains regularly and collect the necessary materials. Another mistake is not considering set bonuses. Wearing a full set of armor often provides additional benefits, so try to complete armor sets rather than mixing and matching pieces.

Advanced players can optimize their armor by combining different sets for specific situations. For example, you might wear the Ancient Armor set when facing Guardians and switch to the Barbarian Armor set for melee combat. This approach requires careful inventory management but can give you a significant advantage in challenging areas.

In summary, the best armor set for exploring the plains in Breath of the Wild depends on your playstyle and the specific challenges you face. The SoldierÔÇÖs Armor set offers high defense, the Ancient Armor set provides Guardian resistance, the Barbarian Armor set increases attack power, and the Stealth Armor set enhances mobility and stealth. Upgrade your armor regularly, consider set bonuses, and prepare for combat with healing items to maximize your effectiveness in the plains.