Can You Use Stasis on Monsters? A Comprehensive Guide
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
Yes, absolutely! The ability to use stasis on monsters is a core mechanic in certain games, providing players with a tactical advantage in combat. The specific effects and limitations of stasis can vary widely depending on the game, but the underlying principle remains consistent: to temporarily halt or significantly slow the movement and actions of enemies. In games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, stasis is a rune ability that allows players to freeze enemies in place, providing a window of opportunity for attacks or escapes. However, it’s crucial to understand that not all enemies react the same way to stasis, and some may have unique resistances or shorter duration times. Let’s delve deeper into the mechanics and specific use cases of stasis on monsters.
Understanding Stasis Mechanics
The core principle behind using stasis on monsters is to interrupt their momentum and render them vulnerable. This temporary paralysis or slowing effect can be invaluable for repositioning, targeting weak points, or simply gaining a breather in a chaotic fight. Different games implement stasis in their own unique ways, leading to a diverse range of effects:
Freezing Enemies
In Breath of the Wild, the Stasis rune, and later Stasis+, allow you to literally freeze enemies in time for a short duration. The upgraded Stasis+ rune extends this freeze time slightly, and more importantly, it allows freezing enemies, which is impossible with basic Stasis. This is crucial for planning attacks and escaping dangerous situations.
Slowing Down Enemies
Some stasis effects do not completely freeze enemies but rather drastically slow their movements. This type of stasis can be useful in games where precise timing is important, allowing players to exploit slower attacks or telegraphs.
Stasis Duration and Resistance
Not all enemies are equally susceptible to stasis. Some might have innate resistances that significantly shorten the stasis duration, while others might be entirely immune. For example, in Breath of the Wild, Guardians are frozen for a shorter time than smaller enemies. It’s important to note that after the Stasis effect is removed, the targeted enemy cannot be frozen or burned or shocked for a short period. Understanding these differences is essential for effective combat.
Specific Monster Interactions
The effectiveness of stasis depends on the specific monster encountered. Let’s look at how stasis functions against various enemies:
Lynels
Lynels are affected by stasis, though they break out of it quickly. This can create an opportunity to land a few hits before they recover. In Breath of the Wild, using Stasis in combination with a mounted attack is a very effective strategy against Lynels. You can use Stasis+ to freeze them momentarily, and then utilize Urbosa’s Fury to keep them stun-locked while mounting. Additionally, you can use ice arrows or stasis to freeze Lynel temporarily as well.
Guardians
Guardians are affected by stasis, but the duration is significantly reduced to around 1.5 seconds. While a short duration, this window is enough to create an opening to close the gap or escape. Guardians cannot be fully frozen even with stasis+. It’s a crucial time window to rush them down to exploit a weak point.
Bosses
Many bosses are susceptible to stasis, though they often break out of it much faster than regular enemies. The brief window of opportunity may not be very useful in a direct assault but might help in positioning for further attacks.
Other Monsters
Other types of monsters, such as Hinoxes and Taluses, are also susceptible to stasis, though durations can vary. Experimenting with stasis on different enemies is often the best way to understand their specific weaknesses.
Strategic Uses of Stasis
The tactical advantage provided by stasis is not limited to direct combat. Here are some strategic uses:
Offensive Maneuvers
Stasis can be used to create opening for a Flurry Rush or to focus attacks on weak points. By halting an enemy’s movement, you can gain the upper hand in an otherwise challenging encounter.
Defensive Maneuvers
In situations where you are overwhelmed, using stasis can create an opening for a quick escape or a chance to heal. The brief window of pause can be enough to reposition yourself to better advantageous location
Puzzle Solving
In some games, stasis is used to solve environmental puzzles, where you may need to freeze objects to reach new areas or activate mechanisms.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Stasis+?
Stasis+ is an upgraded version of the Stasis rune that allows freezing of enemies. It provides a longer stasis duration compared to the base version, and it is essential to use against enemies who are not affected by the basic Stasis.
2. How do you upgrade to Stasis+?
In Breath of the Wild, the Stasis rune is upgraded to Stasis+ at the Hateno Ancient Tech Lab by giving Purah three Ancient Cores.
3. Can you use Stasis on Calamity Ganon?
Yes, Calamity Ganon can be affected by Stasis. Using stasis to briefly freeze Ganon is used in certain combat techniques, often in conjunction with other abilities or attacks.
4. Are Lynels immune to Stasis?
No, Lynels are not immune to Stasis, but the effect is brief. Stasis is often used to set up attacks or create an opportunity to mount the Lynel.
5. How long does Stasis last on Guardians?
Stasis duration is reduced for Guardians, lasting approximately 1.5 seconds compared to the normal five seconds for smaller enemies.
6. Does Stasis work on all bosses?
While most bosses can be affected by stasis, the effect is usually brief, and they recover quickly. The specific duration varies depending on the boss.
7. Can you use Stasis to escape?
Yes, stasis is a useful tool for escaping, as it provides a brief pause in combat that allows you to reposition or flee.
8. Is it worth upgrading to Stasis+?
Upgrading to Stasis+ is highly recommended as it significantly increases the tactical versatility of the rune, especially for freezing enemies. However, the usefulness will be dependent on the players playstyle.
9. Can you use Ice Arrows to freeze Lynels?
While Ice Arrows cause a freezing effect on most enemies, they do not freeze Lynels as they are resistant to the effects of those arrows.
10. Can you Flurry Rush after using Stasis?
Yes, you can use Stasis to create an opportunity for a Flurry Rush, by setting up an attack window and exploiting that by initiating a Flurry Rush.
11. Are there any Stasis-specific weapon perks?
Some games, especially in games like Destiny 2, may feature Stasis-specific perks on weapons that enhance the effectiveness of stasis abilities. Chill Clip and Headstone are examples of such perks, increasing the power of stasis builds.
12. Is stasis only used in Breath of the Wild?
No, stasis is a mechanic seen in many games, though its implementation varies widely. The principles of freezing and slowing enemies remain similar across titles.
13. What is the best class for stasis in Destiny 2?
The Warlock class is often recommended for those new to Stasis in Destiny 2, as it offers strong abilities and is relatively easy to learn. However other classes are equally viable.
14. Can stasis be used to solve puzzles?
Yes, in some games, stasis is integrated into the puzzle mechanics, where you can use the ability to temporarily freeze moving objects or activate mechanisms.
15. Are there any exotics for stasis?
While there aren’t many exotics solely designed for stasis in Destiny 2, there are exotics that synergize well with Stasis builds, and some of the more potent stasis weapons can make builds incredibly powerful.
Conclusion
The ability to use stasis on monsters is a powerful mechanic that can significantly enhance a player’s combat and strategic options. While the specific implementations and effects may differ across various games, the fundamental principles of freezing or slowing enemies remain consistent. By understanding the limitations and strengths of stasis, players can effectively utilize this ability to gain an edge in challenging encounters and overcome formidable foes.