Fierce Deity vs. Barbarian: Which Armor Reigns Supreme in Hyrule?
The age-old question for any aspiring hero in Hyrule: Is the Fierce Deity armor better than the Barbarian armor? The short answer: it’s complicated. Mechanically, both sets offer the same Attack Up bonus, which significantly boosts Link’s damage output. However, the subtle differences in acquisition, the availability of the Fierce Deity Sword, and upgrade paths mean the “better” armor set ultimately depends on your play style and where you are in your adventure. Let’s delve into the nuances of each set, exploring their strengths and weaknesses to help you decide which will best equip you for your Hyrulean journey.
Deep Dive: Armor Set Comparison
At their core, both the Fierce Deity Armor and the Barbarian Armor provide the same Attack Up bonus. This is crucial for maximizing damage, especially against tougher enemies and bosses. When fully equipped, either set will allow Link to deal significantly more damage with every weapon strike.
Acquisition: The Hunt vs. the Scan
The Barbarian Armor is obtained through exploration and puzzle-solving. Each piece is located in a different cave throughout Hyrule, requiring you to overcome challenges and solve riddles to claim them. This makes the Barbarian Armor a rewarding option for players who enjoy exploration and discovering secrets.
The Fierce Deity Armor, on the other hand, is primarily acquired through scanning the corresponding Amiibo. This gives players immediate access to the set (or at least the possibility of it dropping), bypassing the need for exploration. While some pieces can be found in chests scattered across Hyrule without the Amiibo, this method is far more time-consuming and unreliable.
This difference in acquisition is a major factor. Those without the Amiibo will find acquiring the Fierce Deity Armor a significantly more challenging undertaking. The Barbarian Armor is readily available through in-game exploration, making it accessible to all players regardless of their Amiibo collection.
The Sword in the Stone (or, Rather, the Fierce Deity Sword)
One crucial advantage of the Fierce Deity set is that completing the set grants you access to the Fierce Deity Sword. This powerful two-handed weapon boasts a base attack power of 38, making it a potent weapon for the early to mid-game. While it does have durability and will eventually break (just like any other weapon), it’s a fantastic bonus to an already powerful armor set. This sword can be re-obtained by rescanning the amiibo after it breaks.
The Barbarian Armor offers no such bonus. You’ll need to rely on your own weapon discoveries and ingenuity to arm Link.
Upgrade Materials: The Grind is Real
Both armor sets can be upgraded at Great Fairy Fountains to increase their defense stats and unlock a set bonus: Charge Attack Stamina Up. However, the materials required for upgrading differ. Generally, players find the Fierce Deity Armor materials easier to acquire than those needed for the Barbarian Armor, especially in the early game. This is subjective and depends on individual play styles and exploration habits, but many find that the monster parts required for the Fierce Deity Armor are more readily available.
Aesthetics and Roleplay
Beyond the mechanics, aesthetics play a role. The Fierce Deity Armor transforms Link into a striking and imposing figure, channeling the power of the Fierce Deity from Majora’s Mask. This appeals to players who enjoy the visual flair and the roleplaying aspect. The Barbarian Armor, on the other hand, provides a more rugged and primal look, befitting a warrior who relies on strength and savagery.
Verdict: A Matter of Preference
Ultimately, the choice between the Fierce Deity Armor and the Barbarian Armor depends on your priorities.
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Choose Fierce Deity Armor if:
- You have the Amiibo and want to acquire the set quickly.
- You appreciate the visual style and the Fierce Deity Sword.
- You prefer potentially easier-to-acquire upgrade materials.
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Choose Barbarian Armor if:
- You enjoy exploration and discovering secrets in the game.
- You prefer a more readily available option without relying on Amiibo.
- You prefer the Barbarian Armor’s visual style.
Both sets are excellent choices for boosting attack power, and both will serve you well in your quest to save Hyrule. Consider your play style, your available resources, and your aesthetic preferences to determine which armor set is the best fit for you.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Does the Fierce Deity Armor have the same effect as the Barbarian Armor?
Yes, both armor sets provide the same Attack Up bonus. When all three pieces are equipped, Link’s attack power is significantly increased. The Attack Up bonuses are identical between the two sets.
2. Is the Fierce Deity Sword unbreakable?
No, the Fierce Deity Sword, like all weapons in the game, has durability and will eventually break. However, you can re-obtain the sword by scanning the associated Amiibo again.
3. Can you upgrade the Fierce Deity Sword?
No, the Fierce Deity Sword cannot be upgraded. However, you can fuse materials to it to increase its attack power and add elemental effects.
4. How do you get the Fierce Deity Armor without the Amiibo?
While the Amiibo provides the easiest route, you can find pieces of the Fierce Deity Armor in chests hidden throughout Hyrule without scanning an Amiibo. This method is much less reliable and requires extensive exploration, but it is possible.
5. What materials are needed to upgrade the Fierce Deity Armor?
The upgrade materials vary depending on the level of the upgrade, but generally include monster parts such as Hinox Toenails, Lynel Hooves, and Dragon parts (scales, claws, fangs).
6. What is the set bonus for the Fierce Deity Armor?
The set bonus for both the Fierce Deity Armor and the Barbarian Armor is Charge Attack Stamina Up. This reduces the stamina consumption of charge attacks, allowing you to perform more powerful strikes before tiring.
7. Is the Barbarian Armor better for early game?
The Barbarian Armor is generally considered better for the early game if you don’t have the Fierce Deity Amiibo. The pieces are obtainable through gameplay and don’t require any outside resources. It can also be better than the Fierce Diety Armor if you happen to stumble across it by accident.
8. Can you dye the Fierce Deity Armor?
No, the Fierce Deity Armor cannot be dyed at the Kochi Dye Shop. Its distinctive color scheme is fixed.
9. Does the Attack Up bonus stack with attack-boosting meals?
Yes, the Attack Up bonus from the armor sets stacks with the Attack Up effect from meals and elixirs. This allows you to further increase your damage output for even more devastating attacks.
10. Is the Ancient Armor better than the Fierce Deity Armor?
The Ancient Armor is better for defense against Ancient enemies and Guardians due to its Ancient Proficiency bonus. However, it does not provide the Attack Up bonus of the Fierce Deity Armor or the Barbarian Armor. Therefore, the “better” armor depends on the specific situation and the enemies you are facing. The Ancient Armor also requires more work to acquire.
11. What is the strongest armor in the game overall?
This is subjective and depends on what you value most. The Ancient Armor offers high defense and resistance to ancient attacks, while other sets like the Champion’s Tunic provide unique benefits. For pure attack power, the Fierce Deity Armor and the Barbarian Armor remain top contenders.
12. Does the Fierce Deity Armor provide any hidden bonuses?
Aside from the Attack Up and the Charge Attack Stamina Up set bonus, the Fierce Deity Armor doesn’t offer any additional hidden bonuses. Its primary purpose is to boost attack power and provide a unique aesthetic.
13. How many times can you scan the Fierce Deity Amiibo?
You can scan the Fierce Deity Amiibo once per in-game day. This allows you to potentially acquire the armor pieces and the Fierce Deity Sword repeatedly if they break or are lost.
14. Is the Fierce Deity set worth upgrading?
Yes, upgrading the Fierce Deity Armor is worthwhile. Upgrading increases the armor’s defense stats, making Link more resistant to damage. Unlocking the set bonus, Charge Attack Stamina Up, is also extremely valuable for combat.
15. Can I use the Fierce Deity Sword without wearing the armor?
Yes, you can use the Fierce Deity Sword even if you are not wearing the Fierce Deity Armor. The sword is a separate item that can be equipped and used independently of the armor set.