Do You Need the Master Sword to Beat Ganon? The Definitive Answer
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The question of whether the Master Sword is essential to defeating Ganon in The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is a common one among players. The short, direct answer is: No, you do not need the Master Sword to defeat Ganon. While the Master Sword is a powerful and iconic weapon that offers significant advantages, it is not a mandatory requirement for completing the game. You can successfully conquer Ganon without ever wielding the sacred blade.
However, dismissing the Master Sword entirely would be a mistake. The game mechanics, enemy behaviors, and item accessibility are designed such that you could complete the game with or without it. Let’s delve into why this is the case and what other considerations you should have when facing the final battle.
The Significance of the Master Sword
The Master Sword, often called the “Blade of Evil’s Bane,” boasts some undeniable benefits when used against Ganon. Its most critical advantage is its unbreakable status during the final fight with Ganondorf. While other weapons might shatter after deflecting just one of his energy orbs, the Master Sword remains resilient throughout the entire battle. This reliability provides consistent damage output and shields you against the frustration of weapon breaking. Furthermore, the Master Sword deals significant damage, making the final encounter more manageable. However, this doesn’t mean it’s the only option.
Alternative Paths to Victory
You can absolutely beat Ganon without the Master Sword, however, it will likely increase the challenge. Many strategies that bypass the need for the Master Sword exist, these range from exploiting game mechanics to carefully strategizing weapon choices.
Perfect Dodges and Guards
One of the most effective strategies for taking down Ganon is mastering the Perfect Dodge and Perfect Guard. These techniques allow you to exploit Ganon’s attack patterns by providing an opening for a flurry of attacks. A Perfect Guard can deflect Ganon’s melee attacks, while a Perfect Dodge lets you slow time to deal a series of devastating blows. These are tricky techniques that require practice, but will be advantageous for the final fight.
Weapon and Armor Combinations
Using other formidable weapons and robust armor will allow you to triumph over Ganon without needing the Master Sword. A Hylian Shield, for instance, is a worthy replacement for protection, easily obtainable after defeating a Stalox. The Ancient Armor is also particularly beneficial, offering added defense against Ganon’s ancient tech-based attacks. You can acquire this at the Akkala Ancient Tech Lab. This armor set can be even more potent when combined with ancient weapons, which already deal 50% more damage against Blights and Ganon, boosting this to 80% with the armor’s set bonus. You can also utilize fusion to increase your weapons’ attack power.
The Divine Beast Advantage
If you’ve completed all four Divine Beasts, you’ll find Ganon’s final phase to be significantly easier, as the Divine Beast powers will assist in combat. If you haven’t done this, you will need to face each of the Blights again before fighting Ganon. It is possible to rush straight to Ganon from the start of the game but doing so will significantly increase the difficulty of the encounter.
Master Sword as a Significant Advantage
Despite not being mandatory, securing the Master Sword certainly makes the Ganon fight smoother and more forgiving. It’s an investment of time and effort that, while optional, is recommended for a more enjoyable and less challenging final encounter. It also allows you to use fusion to make the sword even more powerful, further aiding your final battles.
Ultimately, your decision on whether to seek out the Master Sword should align with your playstyle and comfort level. If you like a challenge, then going without may be for you. However, if you like the security of a powerful weapon, getting the sword is still recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some Frequently Asked Questions to further clarify the topic:
1. Can I beat Ganon right away in Tears of the Kingdom?
Yes, you can. The game allows you to reach Ganon from almost the start. You can access the final boss area shortly after gaining the Paraglider. However, doing this will significantly increase the difficulty of the fight.
2. What happens if the Master Sword discharges?
The Master Sword in Tears of the Kingdom does not break. Instead, it can discharge after repeated use, requiring a cooldown period before being available again.
3. Is the Master Sword unbreakable during the Ganondorf fight?
Yes, the Master Sword is unbreakable during the Ganondorf fight, but it can be discharged.
4. How much damage does the Master Sword do against Ganon?
The base damage of the Master Sword is 30. This number does not increase when it’s glowing near gloom, but it can be significantly increased by fusing materials to it.
5. Can you fuse the Master Sword?
Yes, the Master Sword can be fused with monster parts to increase its damage and grant it additional properties.
6. What is the best armor to wear against Ganon?
The Ancient Armor set is an excellent choice. This armor provides a high level of protection, especially against the ancient tech-based attacks used by Ganon and his minions.
7. Do ancient arrows deal extra damage to Ganon?
Yes, ancient weapons deal 50% more damage against Blights and Ganon, while ancient arrows add an extra 20 damage points on top of the bow’s strength. Using the ancient set bonus will increase this to 80% with Ancient weapons.
8. What is the difference between Ganon and Ganondorf?
Ganon is the villain’s beast form, while Ganondorf is his human Gerudo form.
9. How many hearts should I have before fighting Ganon?
It is highly recommended to have at least eight hearts before facing Phantom Ganon. However, for the final fight against Ganondorf, having more hearts will make the battle more manageable.
10. How do I prepare for the Ganondorf fight?
To prepare effectively, it is advised to:
* Gather all five Sages
* Obtain the Master Sword (though optional)
* Collect good weapons
* Obtain a strong armor set
* Cook plenty of healing meals using Sundelions
* Set a Travel Medallion near the final battle for easy access.
11. Is Thunderblight Ganon the hardest boss?
Thunderblight Ganon is generally considered one of the more challenging Blights due to its speed and lightning attacks.
12. What is the easiest Ganon fight?
Fireblight Ganon is typically considered one of the easiest Blights due to his slower movement patterns and less aggressive attacks.
13. Does the Master Sword have any weaknesses?
The Master Sword does not have any weaknesses. However, it does not get the extra damage bonus that some other weapons do when near gloom. It’s more a case of being well-rounded and powerful rather than having one strength and a weakness.
14. Can I keep playing after beating Ganon?
Yes, you can. After defeating Ganon, the game will return you to the state before the final battle, allowing you to continue exploring, completing side quests, and further preparing for a second playthrough. A star is also placed on the map to show you have completed the game.
15. Does Zelda turn back into a human after the Ganondorf fight?
Yes, Zelda does turn back into a human after Link defeats Ganondorf, even though the act of draconification is described as irreversible. Rauru and Sonia’s spirits help her return to human form.