Decoding the Jaws of Death: Thunderjaw Health on Ultra Hard in Horizon Zero Dawn

The Thunderjaw, a mechanical behemoth ripped straight from a robotic dinosaur fever dream, reigns supreme as one of the most formidable foes in Horizon Zero Dawn. Tackling this beast on Ultra Hard difficulty isn’t just a test of skill; it’s a trial by fire. So, how much punishment can this metal monstrosity endure before biting the digital dust?

On Ultra Hard, the Thunderjaw boasts a daunting health pool somewhere between 5,000 and 6,000 HP. Yes, you read that right. Thousands of hit points standing between you and sweet, sweet victory. This staggering number emphasizes the need for meticulous planning, strategic target prioritization, and mastery of Aloy’s arsenal. Simply flailing about and hoping for the best is a surefire path to a swift, machine-induced demise.

Now, before you hyperventilate and consider lowering the difficulty, remember that health isn’t the only factor. Tear values of the Thunderjaw’s components, as detailed in the Horizon Zero Dawn Collector’s Edition Strategy Guide, play a critical role. Concentrating your efforts on stripping away armor and exposing weak points is paramount. Knowledge is power, and understanding where to strike is just as important as knowing how hard to strike.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Taking Down a Thunderjaw

What is the fastest way to kill a Thunderjaw on Ultra Hard?

The key is exploiting its vulnerabilities. Begin by targeting the disc launchers on its shoulders with a high tear weapon like a Sharpshot Bow with Tearblast arrows. Once detached, these disc launchers become your own devastating weapons, capable of inflicting massive damage. Another critical tactic is exposing and attacking the heart and data nexus after removing their protective armor.

What is the Thunderjaw’s greatest weakness?

The Thunderjaw’s major tactical weaknesses are its heart and data nexus. Ranged weapon strikes on either cause significant damage once they are exposed via the removal of the armor covering them. Prioritizing these targets can drastically shorten the fight.

What weapons are most effective against a Thunderjaw?

Weapons that excel at tear damage are crucial for stripping away armor. A Sharpshot Bow with Tearblast arrows is an excellent choice. Once the armor is gone, high-damage weapons like the Hunter Bow with hardpoint arrows or even the Improved Stormslinger (if you have it from The Frozen Wilds DLC) can deliver devastating blows. The detached disc launchers are, of course, a top-tier option.

What armor is best suited for fighting a Thunderjaw?

Armor with high resistance to ranged attacks and fire damage is ideal. Thunderjaws deal significant damage with their projectiles, and their stomps can inflict fire. The Shield-Weaver armor (obtained through the Ancient Armory side quest) offers excellent overall protection, but any armor with strong defensive stats will be beneficial. Mods that enhance these resistances are also highly recommended.

How do you dodge a Thunderjaw’s attacks?

Dodging is crucial for survival. The Thunderjaw’s attacks are telegraphed, but they’re quick and powerful. Watch for wind-up animations and use Aloy’s dodge roll to evade. Utilize the environment for cover when possible. Mastering the dodge roll is essential.

How do you get the disc launchers off a Thunderjaw?

Use a weapon with high tear damage, such as a Sharpshot Bow with Tearblast Arrows, to target the disc launchers on the Thunderjaw’s shoulders. Focus your fire on these components until they detach. Remember to aim for the glowing canisters underneath them to ensure the components are quickly dislodged.

Are there any traps that are effective against a Thunderjaw?

Tripwires can be helpful for controlling the battlefield and inflicting some initial damage. Blast tripwires are particularly effective. However, a Thunderjaw is too big and mobile to be reliably trapped. Focus more on direct attacks and strategic dodging.

What resources should I bring into a Thunderjaw fight?

Stock up on healing potions (to restore health), resistance potions (for extra defense), and plenty of ammunition for your preferred weapons. Having a full inventory of crafting components is also wise, allowing you to replenish ammo mid-battle if necessary.

How important is overriding other machines during the fight?

Overriding smaller machines like Striders or Grazers can provide a useful distraction. However, the Thunderjaw’s sheer power often makes short work of overridden machines. Focus on directly engaging the Thunderjaw.

What skills are most useful for fighting a Thunderjaw?

Skills that enhance your accuracy, damage output, and dodging ability are invaluable. “Concentration” and “Critical Hit” are excellent choices for increasing damage, while “Silent Strike” and “Dodge Prowess” improve your survivability. The “Hunter Reflexes” skill can be also very helpful.

Is Redmaw harder than a regular Thunderjaw?

While tactics remain the same, fighting Redmaw requires a high tear damage output, high resistance, patience, and strategic planning to defeat.

What loot do you get from a Thunderjaw?

Thunderjaws drop a variety of valuable resources, including machine hearts, lenses, braiding, and specific components needed for crafting and upgrading weapons and outfits. The Thunderjaw Tail and Apex Thunderjaw Heart are particularly sought-after for high-tier upgrades.

How does difficulty affect the Thunderjaw fight?

Higher difficulties increase the Thunderjaw’s health, damage output, and aggression. Conversely, Aloy’s damage is reduced. This necessitates a more tactical and efficient approach.

What are the most dangerous Thunderjaw attacks?

The Thunderjaw’s most dangerous attacks include its disc launcher volleys, tail swipes, stomp attacks (which can inflict fire damage), and its charge attack. Learning to anticipate and dodge these attacks is crucial for survival.

What is the hardest trophy to get in Horizon Zero Dawn related to the Thunderjaw?

While there isn’t a single trophy solely focused on the Thunderjaw, completing the game on Ultra Hard difficulty is arguably the most challenging. Defeating the Thunderjaw on this difficulty is a significant hurdle towards achieving that trophy.

What can be learned from studying game design?

Studying game design can enhance your understanding of game mechanics, storytelling, and player engagement, as explored by the Games Learning Society. Visit GamesLearningSociety.org to delve deeper into the educational aspects of gaming and how they translate to real-world skills.

Conquering a Thunderjaw on Ultra Hard in Horizon Zero Dawn is a testament to your skill, strategy, and perseverance. It’s a rite of passage for any serious player, proving that with the right knowledge and execution, even the most daunting mechanical beast can be brought to its knees. So, gear up, sharpen your arrows, and prepare to face the Thunderjaw head-on!