Taming Titans: The Hardest Horse to Get in Zelda: Breath of the Wild

The question of the hardest horse to get in Zelda: Breath of the Wild doesn’t have a single, definitive answer, as “difficulty” is subjective and depends on player skill and strategy. However, the generally accepted answer is the Royal Stallion, Epona, and the Giant Horse. While Epona technically requires the correct Amiibo (which can be difficult to acquire and use reliably), the Giant Horse presents a significant challenge in terms of taming. It is located in the Taobab Grassland region, is incredibly powerful, and requires maxed-out stamina or stamina-boosting items to even attempt mounting, let alone taming it. Its temperament is exceptionally stubborn, making it a true test of Link’s horse-taming skills. While the Royal Stallion’s requirements might be harder to meet in terms of external resources (Amiibo), the Giant Horse demands the most raw in-game effort and preparation from the player, making it the horse that demands the most persistence and stamina (literally!).

Why the Giant Horse is a Taming Trial

The Giant Horse stands out for several reasons that contribute to its challenging acquisition:

• Location and Environment: The Taobab Grassland, while not inherently dangerous in terms of enemies, is a sprawling area. Tracking down the Giant Horse can be time-consuming. The vastness of the region can make sneaking up on it difficult, as you need to approach it quietly.

• Physical Power: The Giant Horse is immense and possesses considerable strength. This translates into an incredibly stubborn temperament during the taming process. It bucks and struggles relentlessly.

• Stamina Requirement: Unlike other horses, the Giant Horse demands a massive amount of stamina to tame. Without at least two full extra wheels of stamina (via the stamina vessel upgrades) or stamina-boosting elixirs or meals, successfully mounting and soothing it is almost impossible.

• Stealth and Approach: Getting close enough to mount the Giant Horse without spooking it is another hurdle. A stealthy approach is crucial. Players often rely on stealth armor or consume stealth-boosting elixirs to increase their chances.

Comparing to Other Horses

While other horses in Breath of the Wild may present their own challenges, they generally don’t combine all these factors to the same degree as the Giant Horse. For example:

• Epona (Amiibo): While relying on Amiibo can be frustrating if you don’t have one or can’t get it to work, the actual taming process is relatively straightforward once Epona appears. It is a matter of external resources, not raw in-game skill.

• Royal Stallion: The Royal Stallion requires sneaking, but the stamina needed to tame is manageable. It is found near the Safula Hill region.

• Other High-Stat Horses: Other horses with good stats can be challenging to find and tame, but they typically don’t require the same level of stamina management or strategic approach as the Giant Horse.

Therefore, while the perceived difficulty may vary among players, the Giant Horse stands out as the horse that demands the most preparation, skill, and persistence to acquire. It is a true test of Link’s abilities and a rewarding achievement for those who manage to tame this magnificent beast.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Horses in Breath of the Wild

Here are 15 frequently asked questions about horses in Breath of the Wild, designed to help players understand horse mechanics and improve their horse-riding experience.

1. How do I tame a horse in Breath of the Wild?

To tame a horse, you must first sneak up behind it and mount it. Once mounted, you need to repeatedly soothe the horse by pressing the “L” button whenever it tries to buck you off. The amount of stamina required to soothe the horse depends on its temperament. You need to continue soothing it until a bond is formed and it stops trying to throw you off.

2. Where can I find the best horses in Breath of the Wild?

High-stat horses can be found in various locations, but some popular spots include the Taobab Grassland, Upland Lindor, and the plains around Hyrule Ridge. Look for herds of horses and experiment with taming different ones.

3. How do I increase my stamina in Breath of the Wild?

You can increase your stamina by offering Spirit Orbs to statues of the Goddess Hylia, found in temples and settlements throughout Hyrule. For every four Spirit Orbs you offer, you can choose to increase either your maximum health or your maximum stamina.

4. What are the best stamina-boosting foods and elixirs for taming horses?

Foods that contain stambulb and elixirs that use monster parts and insects with a restoring effect will increase your stamina. Some effective recipes include Enduring Mushroom Skewer, Enduring Fried Wild Greens, and elixirs made with Restless Crickets or Energetic Rhino Beetles.

5. How do I register a horse at a stable?

Once you’ve tamed a horse, take it to any stable in Hyrule. Speak to the stable master and choose the “Register Horse” option. You’ll be able to name your horse and add it to your stable roster.

6. How many horses can I register at a stable?

You can register a maximum of five horses at any given time. If you want to register a new horse and your roster is full, you’ll need to release one of your existing horses.

7. What are horse stats and what do they mean?

Horse stats include Speed, Strength, Stamina, and Temperament.

• Speed: Affects how fast the horse can run.
• Strength: Determines how much the horse can pull and how well it resists being stunned.
• Stamina: Indicates how many spurs the horse has available for boosting its speed.
• Temperament: Reflects how easily the horse can be controlled.

8. How do I improve my bond with my horse?

You can improve your bond with your horse by riding it frequently, soothing it with the “L” button, feeding it apples, and using it in combat. A higher bond level unlocks new abilities and improves the horse’s responsiveness.

9. Can horses die in Breath of the Wild?

Yes, horses can die in Breath of the Wild if they take too much damage from enemies or fall from a great height. However, you can revive a deceased horse at the Horse God Malanya if you have the required rupees. Malanya is located in the Lake Region.

10. How do I revive a dead horse?

To revive a dead horse, visit the Horse God Malanya. Malanya will revive a deceased horse in exchange for a fee of special endura carrots and other foods.

11. What is the Ancient Bridle and Saddle, and where can I find them?

The Ancient Bridle and Saddle are ancient horse gear that provide significant benefits. The Ancient Bridle increases the horse’s spur count, and the Ancient Saddle allows you to summon your horse from greater distances. They are obtained by completing specific quests for the Great Fairy Tera.

12. Can I customize my horse’s appearance?

Yes, you can customize your horse’s mane and saddle at stables. Some stables also offer the option to change the horse’s bridle. The available options depend on the stable and your bond with the horse.

13. What is the difference between a wild horse and a registered horse?

A wild horse is a horse that has not been tamed or registered at a stable. A registered horse is a horse that you have tamed and registered at a stable, allowing you to summon it at stables throughout Hyrule. Registered horses also have a bond with Link, which affects their behavior and responsiveness.

14. How do I use a horse in combat?

You can use your horse in combat by attacking enemies while riding it. You can use your melee weapons or bows and arrows. A higher bond level will make your horse more cooperative in combat situations.

15. What makes Epona so special and how do I get her?

Epona is a legendary horse from the Zelda series, known for her exceptional stats and loyal temperament. In Breath of the Wild, Epona can only be obtained by scanning the correct Amiibo figure. Using the right Amiibo, there is a chance of receiving her in the game.

The world of horses in Breath of the Wild is vast and rewarding. From the thrill of taming a wild stallion to the convenience of having a loyal companion, understanding horse mechanics and mastering taming techniques can significantly enhance your gameplay experience. The Games Learning Society promotes exploration and discovery, much like the journey to find and tame these magnificent creatures. Learning through gameplay is a powerful tool, and Breath of the Wild offers countless opportunities for exploration and strategic thinking. Check out GamesLearningSociety.org for more insights on the educational aspects of gaming.