What is the best way to use the Royal Guard's Claymore in combat in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild?

The Royal Guard's Claymore is one of the most powerful two-handed weapons in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, boasting high damage output. However, it has low durability, meaning it will break quickly if not used strategically. To maximize its effectiveness in combat, you need to understand its mechanics, plan your approach, and use it in situations where its strengths shine.

First, let's discuss the mechanics of the Royal Guard's Claymore. This weapon deals 72 damage, making it one of the strongest two-handed weapons in the game. However, its durability is extremely low, so it will break after only a few uses. This makes it ideal for specific scenarios where you need to deal massive damage quickly, such as against high-health enemies like Lynels or Guardians. Its two-handed nature means it swings slower than one-handed weapons, but it can deal more damage per hit and has a wide attack range. Additionally, two-handed weapons can perform a spinning attack by holding the attack button, which is useful for crowd control or dealing continuous damage to a single target.

To use the Royal Guard's Claymore effectively, you should focus on high-value targets. For example, when fighting a Lynel, you can use the Claymore to deal significant damage during flurry rushes or when mounting the Lynel. When mounting a Lynel, your weapon does not lose durability, making this an ideal time to use the Claymore. To mount a Lynel, you need to stun it by shooting it in the face with an arrow, then run up to it and press the prompt to mount. Once mounted, you can attack with the Claymore without worrying about durability loss.

Another strategy is to use the Claymore for sneak attacks. Sneak attacks deal eight times the weapon's damage, so a sneak attack with the Royal Guard's Claymore can deal up to 576 damage in a single hit. To perform a sneak attack, crouch and approach an enemy from behind without being detected, then press the attack button. This is particularly effective against high-health enemies like Hinoxes or Moldugas.

Preparation is key when using the Royal Guard's Claymore. Since it breaks quickly, you should always have backup weapons ready. Additionally, consider using armor or food buffs to increase your attack power. The Barbarian Armor set or the Attack Up food buff can further enhance the Claymore's damage output. To cook Attack Up food, combine ingredients like Mighty Bananas, Razor Shrooms, or Mighty Thistles with a monster part or other cooking ingredient.

One common mistake is using the Royal Guard's Claymore against weaker enemies or in situations where its high damage is unnecessary. This wastes its durability, which is better saved for tougher foes. Another mistake is relying solely on the Claymore without considering other combat options. For example, using elemental weapons or arrows can sometimes be more effective, especially against enemies with specific weaknesses.

Advanced techniques include combining the Claymore with other combat mechanics. For example, you can use Urbosa's Fury, a Champion ability, to stun multiple enemies and then follow up with the Claymore's spinning attack to deal massive damage. Additionally, you can use the Claymore in conjunction with environmental hazards, such as pushing enemies into water or off cliffs, to conserve its durability.

In terms of alternative approaches, you might consider using the Royal Guard's Claymore as a last-resort weapon. For example, if you're running low on weapons during a tough fight, the Claymore can be a lifesaver. Alternatively, you can use it to quickly defeat a powerful enemy and then switch to a more durable weapon for the rest of the battle.

A specific example of using the Royal Guard's Claymore effectively is during the fight against a Silver Lynel. These enemies have high health and deal significant damage, making them ideal targets for the Claymore. Start by stunning the Lynel with an arrow to the face, then mount it and attack with the Claymore. After being thrown off, use flurry rushes to continue dealing damage. This approach allows you to maximize the Claymore's damage output while minimizing durability loss.

In conclusion, the Royal Guard's Claymore is a powerful but fragile weapon best used in specific scenarios. By focusing on high-value targets, preparing with buffs, and using advanced techniques, you can make the most of this weapon's potential. Avoid wasting its durability on weaker enemies and always have backup weapons ready. With careful planning and execution, the Royal Guard's Claymore can be a game-changer in tough battles.