The Strongest Weapons in Breath of the Wild: A Closer Look at Hyrule’s Arsenal

Unleash Hyrule’s Fury: A Deep Dive into Breath of the Wild’s Strongest Weapons

You’ve bravely entered the stunning world of Hyrule in Breath of the Wild. Maybe Bokoblins with rusty clubs are handing you defeats. That’s normal; we’ve all faced that. Don’t worry, courageous adventurer! The secret to victory is in the weapons. The powerful armaments of Hyrule will change everything. Forget flimsy branches; these are the big guns that make Lynels into loot pinatas and Guardians into scraps. Let’s explore Hyrule’s strongest weapons!

The Apex Predators of Weaponry

Some weapons tower over the rest in raw power. They can intimidate even Calamity Ganon. We’re not playing with pot lids here.

• Savage Lynel Crusher: The King of Crushers This is the Savage Lynel Crusher! It’s not just powerful; it’s beastly. With a strength level of 78, this weapon declares war on all foes. It has a durability of 35. It won’t fall apart after a few hits. This is for those wanting to make a loud statement. If you manage to get it from a Lynel, you hold the heavyweight champion of Hyrule’s arsenal. Just be careful not to break it on the first Bokoblin. Exercise some restraint.
• Master Sword: The Blade of Evil’s Bane The Master Sword! No list of Zelda’s power weapons is complete without it. This isn’t just any blade; it’s the legendary Sword that Seals the Darkness. It fulfills its reputation. Upgraded through the Trial of the Sword DLC, it has a base damage of 60. But its true strength is in its unique traits. First, and most importantly for collectors, the Master Sword is unbreakable. Yes, you heard correctly. It defies degradation. Technically, it doesn’t break but loses energy with use. Take it as getting tired, not shattered. When its energy depletes, it recharges in your inventory after a few minutes. It’s the renewable energy of Hyrule’s weapons. But wait! Against Guardians, the Master Sword deals double damage. That’s right. Those terrifying encounters become much easier. And there’s more! It proves effective against Malice too, that creepy goo in Hyrule. After conquering the Trial of the Sword DLC, it also shoots beams of light when you’re at full health, reminiscent of classic Zelda action. For facing Calamity Ganon or anything foul in Hyrule Castle, the Master Sword is your best ally. Game Rant would support its legendary status.
• Ancient Battle Axe++: Guardian-Grade Grinding Do you want to break Guardians down quickly? Use the Ancient Battle Axe++. This massive ancient weapon has a base power of 60, rivaling the upgraded Master Sword. Don’t overlook Guardian Scout-forged weapons; they are powerful. The Ancient Battle Axe++ is the top in its family. It delivers damage capable of cutting enemies like butter. It’s particularly effective against ancient foes, making Guardian Stalkers far less threatening.
• Royal Guard’s Claymore: Hyrule Castle’s Heavy Hitter Explore Hyrule Castle’s depths, and you might find the Royal Guard’s Claymore. This isn’t a standard Royal Claymore; it’s a special version from the castle grounds. Its stats can vary, but it’s known for high attack power with low durability. Picture a glass cannon; devastating but fragile. In skilled hands (like yours), the Royal Guard’s Claymore can inflict great damage, especially against tough foes in Hyrule Castle. Bring backups, just in case.
• Bow of Light: The Divine Arrow Launcher If you prefer attacking from a distance, the Bow of Light is the best in Breath of the Wild. With an attack power of 100 and a range of 500, this bow is like a portable siege engine. It’s designed for your final battle with Dark Beast Ganon, and it shows. Its durability of 100 makes it almost unbreakable during that boss fight. You won’t use it for hunting squirrels, but for annihilating evil from afar, it shines. Plus, shooting arrows of pure light feels amazing.
• Savage Lynel Bow: Multi-Shot Mayhem If the Bow of Light serves as a siege engine, then the Savage Lynel Bow acts like rapid-fire artillery. It fires three arrows simultaneously, transforming shots into a shower of destruction. Among multi-shot bows, it excels with a might of 32 per arrow. Perfect for rapidly moving targets or heavily armored foes, it overwhelms enemies with arrows. Just keep restocking your arrows; you’ll use them faster than candy on Halloween.
• Fierce Deity Sword: The Masked Menace’s Blade Channel your dark side with the Fierce Deity Sword. Infused with the power of the Fierce Deity mask, it’s a formidable weapon. Its stats may change based on how you get it (more later), but the Fierce Deity Sword is high-ranked with great power and good durability. Its strength comes from its aggressive nature, making it perfect for unleashing your inner warrior.
• Biggoron’s Sword: The Two-Handed Titan For Zelda fans, the Biggoron’s Sword is nostalgia at its best. This giant two-handed blade hails from Ocarina of Time and lives up to its greatness. It moves slowly and is heavy, but it packs a punch. It strikes like a freight train when it connects. But here’s the catch: in Breath of the Wild, it’s an amiibo exclusive. You can only obtain it by scanning an amiibo, particularly the Ocarina of Time Link amiibo. Even then, it appears only sometimes in treasure chests after scanning, especially after freeing a Divine Beast. So if you’re a collector and love heavy weaponry, be prepared for treasure hunting.

Decoding Weapon Attributes: Beyond the Attack Number

We’ve discussed major players, but understanding weapon strength goes deeper than attack power alone. Breath of the Wild’s weapon system is intricate, so let’s highlight attributes that define a weapon’s effectiveness.

• Attack Power: The Raw PunchThis attribute is clear: it defines base damage dealt per hit. Higher power usually means quicker enemy defeats. Weapons like Savage Lynel Crusher and Bow of Light have impressively high attack power, making them superior damage dealers. However, attack power isn’t everything; various attributes also factor into weapon effectiveness.
• attributes are essential.
• Durability: Staying Power Durability affects how long weapons last. In Breath of the Wild, it is crucial. Each swing or parry reduces durability. Some weapons, such as the Master Sword and Bow of Light, are exceptions. For most weapons, manage durability carefully. Higher durability allows more powerful swings. Choose between high damage, low durability or balanced options. Adapt your strategy to the situation and your playstyle.
• Special Effects: The Hidden Perks Many Breath of the Wild weapons have special effects that enhance their value. The Master Sword, for instance, has bonus damage against Guardians. Other effects include elemental damage or boosts to Link’s stats. These can transform average weapons into exceptional ones. Look for effects that fit your combat style or exploit enemy weaknesses.
• Modifiers: Random Enhancements Many weapons include random modifiers that can enhance attributes. Common ones are “Attack Up,” which boosts power, “Durability Up,” which increases durability, and “Critical Hit,” raising the chance to land critical hits. Finding perfect modifiers can elevate a weapon’s value. It adds excitement to the loot hunt!

Master Sword: A Deeper Look at the Legendary Blade

The Master Sword deserves a detailed look. It is more than just a powerful weapon; it is iconic.

• How to Obtain the Master Sword: Prove Your Worth Obtaining the Master Sword requires more than just finding it. In Breath of the Wild, the Sword that Seals the Darkness tests your worthiness by demanding 13 heart containers. Temporary hearts do not count; you need permanent ones from defeating bosses and completing quests. This demands exploration and challenges. In Tears of the Kingdom, the process changes. You must find the Light Dragon, reach its head, and have two full stamina wheels to pull it. Committing to hearts or stamina is mandatory for the Master Sword.
• Recharge Mechanic: Rest and Recover The Master Sword’s recharge mechanic sets it apart. It does not break like typical weapons. Instead, after use, it loses energy and needs a recharge. This time is brief, a few minutes, especially when stored in your inventory. The sword remains a reliable option when you need it most, despite requiring breaks occasionally. Think of it as a long-distance runner.
• Effectiveness Against Ganon: The Ultimate Showdown Against Calamity Ganon, the Master Sword shines. It deals substantial damage to Ganon and his minions. As Screen Rant states, it’s ideal for Hyrule Castle and the final battle. “Undoubtedly, the best weapon for Hyrule Castle and Calamity Ganon is the Sword that Seals the Darkness.” Yet, it’s not required to defeat Ganon. Other weapons, like Silver Arrows, can also work. In A Link to the Past, Silver Arrows deliver the final blow to Ganon. While effective, Hyrule’s fate relies on more than just this blade.

Bow Durability: Archery Endurance

For archers, bow durability is essential. Arrows may be consumables, but bows can break. Let’s examine durable bows in Hyrule.

• Ancient Bow: The Arrow Arsenal Made from ancient tech, the Ancient Bow is highly durable with 120 hitpoints. That’s many arrows launched before breaking. If you prefer archery, this bow is a solid choice for long sessions.
• Twilight Bow: Legendary Longevity The Twilight Bow also offers impressive durability at 100 hitpoints. Linked to Zelda herself, it fires light arrows traveling straight. Gaining this bow can be challenging, needing amiibo or specific events. Its durability and unique powers make it a sought-after item for archers.

The Hylian Shield: Defense Personified

No gear discussion in Breath of the Wild is complete without mentioning the Hylian Shield. Though not a weapon, it is critical defensive gear.

• Unbreakable…ish: Hylian Shield Durability and Defense The Hylian Shield boasts exceptional durability with a starting value of 800, potentially rising to 1160 with a modifier. Its defense starts at 90 but can increase to 144 with another modifier. These stats surpass most other shields in the game. Nonetheless, even a legendary shield like this can break under enough stress. It takes great punishment to shatter it, debunking myths around its indestructibility. GamesRadar gives more info on unbreakable items, but the Hylian Shield isn’t on that list.
• Replacement Policy: Tarrey Town to the Rescue If you destroy the Hylian Shield, don’t worry! You can buy a new one from Granté in Tarrey Town after completing a side quest. This means if disaster strikes, you can still replace it for a steep fee, almost like insurance against mishaps.
• Hylian Shield Location: Under Hyrule Castle Docks Locating the Hylian Shield is a rite of passage for any Breath of the Wild player. It lies in a chest under Hyrule Castle at coordinates (-0161, 1159, 0037). Prepare for a battle with a Stalnox guarding it. Defeating it is worth your effort since the Hylian Shield is an invaluable asset for your journey.

Ganon: Know Your Enemy’s Weaknesses

Understanding your enemy is vital as having strong weapons. Here’s what you need to know about Ganon.

• Ganon’s Many Faces: From Weakest to Strongest Ganon is not a single villain form. He appears in various forms across the series with differing power levels. In Breath of the Wild, Calamity Ganon is one of the weaker versions compared to Demon King Ganondorf from Tears of the Kingdom. Yet “weaker” Ganon remains dangerous, deserving respect from a well-prepared Link.
• Beyond the Master Sword: Alternative Ganon-Slaying Methods While effective against Ganon, the Master Sword is not the only option for defeating him. Silver Arrows can also do damage. There’s also Ancient Arrows, Bow of Light arrows, and Master Sword beams that work against Dark Beast Ganon. You should feel free to explore other choices without feeling stuck if you lack the Master Sword.
• Sword. Hyrule has many paths to victory.
• Human vs. Beast: Ganon’s Forms Ganon changes forms. His human form is Ganondorf. His beast form is Beast Ganon, a pig-like creature. This form shows his demonic power, especially in places like the Dark World. Understanding these forms helps in dodging attacks and striking weaknesses.
• Ancient Arrow Advantage: Defeating Evil Ancient Arrows work well on Ganon’s beast form, Dark Beast Ganon. They are one means to defeat him, along with the Bow of Light and Master Sword beams. If Dark Beast Ganon challenges you, an Ancient Arrow can change the fight. However, they destroy normal enemies and yield no loot, so use them wisely.

Exploiting Weaknesses: Combat Tactics

Knowing enemy weaknesses is vital as strong weapons. Hyrule has many creatures, and targeting their vulnerabilities ensures survival.

• Lynel Lockdown: Stasis Tactics Lynels are centaur-like creatures and tough enemies. They have weaknesses too. Lynels can be frozen in Stasis+, allowing you time to attack or escape. Urbosa’s Fury shocks them greatly. Ancient Arrows are also a strong option to inflict high damage.
• Guardian Gremlins: Weapon Advantages Guardians shoot lasers and have strong armor. But they are weak to Ancient weapons and the Master Sword. The Master Sword does double damage against them. Ancient weapons from Akkala Tech Lab can dismantle these machines easily. Use their own technology against them!

Beyond Combat: Notable Items and Completion

Strong weapons matter for fights, but Breath of the Wild includes many items and challenges to enhance the experience.

• Ancient Arrows: The Obliterators Ancient Arrows merit attention. Crafted from ancient materials, they can destroy many enemies in one shot. They are effective against bosses and foes like Lynels and Guardians. Be cautious, as they can vaporize enemies, complicating material farming.
• Goddess Sword: Skyward Legacy The Goddess Sword pays tribute to Skyward Sword. Scanning the Skyward Sword Link amiibo grants it randomly from a treasure chest. It isn’t the strongest weapon, but serves as a collectible and piece of Zelda history.
• 100% Completion: Ultimate Challenge Achieving 100% in Breath of the Wild is a large task. It goes beyond defeating Ganon. To conquer Hyrule, finish all Divine Beasts, each of 120 Ancient Shrines, gather 900 Korok Seeds (good luck!), and explore every location. This journey tests your patience and skills but offers immense bragging rights.
• Amiibo Arsenal: Special Weapons Amiibo can unlock additional weapons in Breath of the Wild. Previously mentioned items like Biggoron’s Sword can come from amiibo as well as the Goddess Sword. The Sword of the Six Sages is also amiibo-exclusive, available through Ganondorf scanning, adding to collectibles.

The Rarest Items: Hyrule’s Hidden Treasures

Breath of the Wild contains rare items that collectors and completionists desire.

• Hestu’s Gift: Korok Collector’s Prize Collecting all 900 Korok Seeds is a huge task. Your reward is Hestu’s Gift. Its practical value is dubious (it’s a golden poop). Still, it symbolizes dedication and is among the rarest items in the game.
• Hylian Shield: Defense Rarity The Hylian Shield can be obtained but remains rare due to exceptional abilities and acquisition challenges. Every serious adventurer should have it.
• Fierce Deity Sword: Powerful Rarity The Fierce Deity Sword connects with Fierce Deity Armor set (amiibo or Expansion Pass). It is rare and strong, prized for its high attack power and unique design.
• Ancient Hero’s Aspect: Armor Rarity The Ancient Hero’s Aspect rewards you for finishing the 120 shrines. It is full armor in one item, offering great defense and a symbol of 100% completion—a prestigious game artifact.

The Weakest Link: Low-End Weapons

We discussed strong weapons but let’s now cover the weakest. What is the absolute worst weapon in Breath of the Wild?

• A Leaf: Nature’s Weakness The weakest weapon is a leaf. This simple leaf does a “miserable” amount of damage, almost none at all. It’s more for laughs than use, perhaps a gentle poke for a Chuchu, but ineffective in real battle. It shows that some weapons are not made equal; sometimes rocks work better.

This guide covers the strongest weapons in Breath of the Wild and explores weapon attributes, durability, enemy weaknesses, and even the featherweight weapon (poor leaf). Equip yourself with this info, explore Hyrule, and challenge Ganon with confidence! Your weapon durability depends on it!