For over 30 years, the Legend of Zelda series has pitted players against imposing enemies and daunting bosses. But few foes inspire fear and respect like the Lynel – centaur-like beasts wielding heavy weapons with deadly skill. Lynels have appeared in multiple Zelda games as optional minibosses, providing a challenge for seasoned players. With the upcoming launch of Tears of the Kingdom on May 12, 2023, Lynels are poised to test our skills once again as we journey across Hyrule.
In this guide, we‘ll dive deep on how to find and defeat Lynels in Tears of the Kingdom. I‘ll share tips from my experience battling Lynels across the Zelda series, so you can take down these minibosses and claim their treasures. Let‘s get started!
A Brief History of Lynels
Lynels have been part of Zelda lore since the original Legend of Zelda game back in 1986. These fearsome centaur-like creatures debuted as sword-wielding enemies in 2D sprite form. When Ocarina of Time launched in 1998, Lynels received a major upgrade to 3D models andDead Man‘s Volley battles against Link.
Lynels come in different colors indicating their strength – red Lynels are standard, blue are advanced, white are expert, and gold are the deadliest. Breath of the Wild really expanded their role, featuring 40+ Lynels of varying types, attacks and weapons. Lynels established themselves as a formidable enemy that could kill Link in just 2-3 hits if you weren‘t careful!
Now in Tears of the Kingdom, Lynels return once again as dangerous optional encounters scattered across Hyrule. Let‘s see how to survive these epic battles.
Analyzing Lynel Behaviors and Attacks
The first step to toppling a Lynel is carefully studying their movements and attack patterns. Lynels are extremely agile – they can charge, leap through the air for a slam, fire Shock Arrows, breathe fire, and perform4-hit combos with their melee weapons.
In my experience, the most perilous attack is their charging spear dash. Lynels wind up briefly before galloping full speed at Link covering huge ground. It deals massive damage if it connects. Lynels may also follow up with wide horizontal swings or vertical slams with their spears, swords and crushers.
Their ranged Shock Arrows are dangerous as well – Lynnels will unleash quick 3-arrow volleys. You‘ll need to keep moving or lift your Shield to block them. Fire breath and AoE blast attacks round out a Lynel‘s diverse offense. Patience and well-timed dodges are crucial to avoiding their assaults. Analyze and recognize each telegraphed attack to master the patterns.
Recommended Strategies and Gear
Based on Tears of the Kingdom trailers, the Lynel moveset looks similar toBreath of the Wild. Here are some tips to take them down based on my experience:
Weapons: One-handed swords or spears over 40 damage work best. You need quick attacks and ability to Shield.
Bows: Shock Arrows to stun. Slow-mo Headshots disrupt Lynel aim.
Armor: Max upgraded sets with high defense – Ancient, Barbarian, Soldier.
Runes: Cryonis and Stasis immobilize briefly, giving you openings to strike.
Food: Hearty meals to tank hits. Attack/defense boosts even the odds.
Approach: Use pillars and walls as cover when Lynels charge. Circle and look for openings rather than rushing in.
Mounting: Shoot their face then mount their back to deal big damage. But watch their bucking attempts!
Flaurry Rush: Time this perfectly to activate slow-mo and retaliate. Works great against spear charges.
Shield Bash: Parry blows at the right time to stun Lynels and counterattack.
With the right gear and quick reflexes, you‘ll be able to stand toe-to-toe with a Lynel. Stay light on your feet, time your Shield parries and Flurry Rushes, and be patient for openings to strike rather than blindly attacking. You‘ve got this!
Ideal Places to Find Lynels
Now that you know how to defeat them, where exactly can you find Lynels in Tears of the Kingdom? Based on the trailers and my knowledge of previous games, here are prime spots to look:
- Cliffs and mountain peaks – Lynels love the high ground
- Maze-like forest areas – they patrol secluded wooded lands
- Near Shrines and dungeons – Lynels often guard treasure and puzzles
- Open plains and prairies – their charges are deadly on flat terrain
- Regions added in the new game like floating islands – expect ambushes!
Specifically, we‘ve seen a red Lynel west of Illumeni Plateau and a white Lynel east of Ukuku Plains. Seek out new regions and be prepared for Lynel battles as you explore. Uncovering their lairs nets you powerful loot!
With courage and preparation, you can overcome the Lynel threat in Tears of the Kingdom. Analyze their moves, equip the right gear, and master the perfect parry and dodge timing. Soon you‘ll be able to add these magnificent beasts to your list of fallen foes. I hope my guide gives you confidence to seek out and triumph over every Lynel you encounter. Let me know if you have any other tips for fellow players in the comments!
