The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild offers players a challenging and immersive experience, with the Trial of the Sword being one of its most demanding tests. Level 20 of the Final Trials, in particular, presents a formidable challenge that requires careful strategy and skill to overcome. This article will explore the best strategies to conquer this level, providing detailed insights and tips to help you emerge victorious.

Understanding the Battlefield

Level 20 of the Final Trials takes place in a large grassy area with a central fountain[1]. This arena serves as both your battleground and your shelter, offering opportunities for both offense and defense. The layout is crucial to your success, as it provides cover and strategic positioning options.

Key Elements of the Arena

1. **Central Fountain**: This structure is not just decorative; it's a vital piece of cover that can shield you from the Guardian's attacks[1]. 2. **Grassy Areas**: The terrain offers some concealment, which can be useful for stealthy approaches. 3. **Crates**: Located near the fountain, these contain additional arrows, which can be crucial for your ranged attacks[1].

Unexpected Allies

Interestingly, there are two horses present in the arena[1]. While they can be used as mounts, their unpredictable movement can make them challenging to control effectively in combat. However, their presence adds an extra layer of strategy for those who can master horseback combat.

Know Your Enemy: The Guardian

The primary challenge in this level is a single Guardian[1]. These ancient machines are formidable opponents, known for their powerful laser attacks and sturdy construction. Understanding the Guardian's capabilities and weaknesses is essential for developing an effective strategy.

Guardian Characteristics

- **Laser Attacks**: The Guardian's primary weapon is a devastating laser beam that can deal significant damage. - **Mobility**: Guardians can move around the arena, though their speed can be reduced by damaging their legs. - **Weak Points**: The Guardian's eye is its primary weak point, and targeting it can lead to critical hits.

Strategic Approaches

1. The Defensive Approach

One of the most effective strategies for this level is to use the central fountain as a shield[1]. This approach allows you to slowly chip away at the Guardian's health while minimizing your exposure to its attacks. **Key Tactics**: - Use the fountain as cover, peeking out only to launch attacks. - Alternate between different sides of the fountain to keep the Guardian guessing. - Listen for the Guardian's movements and adjust your position accordingly.

2. Leg Targeting Strategy

Disabling the Guardian's legs can significantly reduce its mobility, making it easier to control the fight[1]. **Steps**: 1. Focus your initial attacks on the Guardian's legs. 2. Use arrows or melee weapons to strike the legs repeatedly. 3. Once immobilized, the Guardian becomes a stationary target, allowing for more precise attacks on its weak points.

3. Horseback Combat

For skilled riders, utilizing the horses in the arena can provide a mobile platform for attacks[1]. However, this strategy requires excellent control and timing. **Advantages**: - Increased mobility allows for quick hit-and-run tactics. - Elevation on horseback can provide better angles for targeting the Guardian's weak points. **Challenges**: - Horses can be difficult to control in the heat of battle[1]. - You're more exposed to attacks while mounted.

4. Stealth and Precision

A more methodical approach involves using the grassy areas for cover and focusing on precise, powerful attacks. **Tactics**: - Use the grass for concealment between attacks. - Employ stealth to get close for powerful melee strikes. - Utilize perfect dodges to trigger Flurry Rushes for maximum damage.

Weapon and Item Utilization

Bow and Arrow Techniques

Arrows are crucial in this fight, especially for targeting the Guardian's eye[1]. **Tips**: - Aim for the eye to stun the Guardian momentarily. - Use elemental arrows if available for additional effects. - Remember to collect arrows from the crates near the fountain[1].

Melee Weapon Strategies

While ranged combat is safer, melee attacks can deal significant damage if executed correctly. **Effective Moves**: - **Downward Thrust**: Perform this by pressing Y while gliding. It deals AoE damage and can be effective against the Guardian's top surface[3]. - **Jump Slash**: Execute by pressing Y while in the air. This deals double damage but leaves you vulnerable[3].

Rune Abilities

Don't forget to utilize your Sheikah Slate abilities: - **Stasis+**: If upgraded, you can freeze the Guardian briefly, creating openings for attacks[6]. - **Remote Bombs**: These can be used to damage the Guardian's legs or create distractions.

Advanced Techniques

Perfect Dodge and Parry

Mastering these defensive moves can turn the tide of battle: - **Perfect Dodge**: Execute a backflip or side hop just as an attack is about to hit. This triggers a Flurry Rush, allowing for multiple quick strikes[3]. - **Perfect Parry**: Time your shield parry correctly to deflect the Guardian's laser back at it, dealing massive damage.

Environmental Exploitation

Use the environment to your advantage: - **Fire Tactics**: Create updrafts by setting grass on fire. This allows you to gain height for aerial attacks or escape[6]. - **Elemental Advantages**: If you have elemental weapons, use them strategically. For instance, ice weapons can slow the Guardian's movements[6].

Preparation and Resource Management

Inventory Optimization

Before entering the trial, ensure your inventory is well-stocked: - **Weapons**: Bring a variety of weapons, including at least one high-durability shield for parrying. - **Arrows**: Stock up on as many arrows as possible, especially bomb arrows if available. - **Food**: Prepare meals that offer attack boosts, defense boosts, or extra hearts[6].

Cooking for Success

Proper meal preparation can give you a significant edge: - **Hearty Meals**: Cook dishes with Hearty Durians or Big Hearty Radishes for full health restoration and bonus hearts[6]. - **Attack Boost**: A combination of Mighty Bananas, Mighty Thistle, and a Dragon Horn can provide a +3 attack boost for 30 minutes[6]. - **Defense Boost**: Similar recipes with Ironshroom or Armoranth can enhance your defense.

Psychological Approach

Patience and Observation

The key to victory often lies in patience: - Take time to observe the Guardian's movement patterns. - Don't rush your attacks; wait for clear openings. - Stay calm and focused, even if you take damage.

Adaptability

Be prepared to switch strategies if your initial approach isn't working: - If ranged attacks aren't effective, try closing in for melee combat. - If you're struggling with direct confrontation, try a more stealthy approach.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. **Overconfidence**: Don't underestimate the Guardian's power, even if you've faced them before. 2. **Ignoring Cover**: Failing to use the fountain and terrain for protection can lead to quick defeat. 3. **Poor Resource Management**: Running out of arrows or breaking all your weapons mid-fight can be disastrous. 4. **Neglecting Healing**: Keep an eye on your health and use food or fairies when necessary. 5. **Fixating on One Strategy**: Be willing to adapt if your chosen approach isn't working.

Post-Victory Considerations

Once you've defeated the Guardian, take a moment to: - Collect any dropped materials, which can be useful for upgrades later. - Reflect on the strategies that worked best for you, as they may be applicable in future challenges. - Prepare yourself mentally for the next levels, which may present different types of challenges.

Conclusion

Conquering Level 20 of the Final Trials in Breath of the Wild is a testament to a player's skill, strategy, and adaptability. By understanding the arena layout, utilizing the central fountain for cover, and employing a mix of ranged and melee tactics, you can overcome this formidable Guardian. Remember to make full use of your runes, perfect your dodging and parrying, and manage your resources wisely. With patience, practice, and the right approach, you'll emerge victorious and one step closer to completing the Trial of the Sword. The strategies outlined here are not just applicable to this specific level but can be adapted for many challenging encounters throughout Breath of the Wild. As you continue your journey through Hyrule, carry these lessons with you, and you'll find yourself better equipped to face whatever challenges the game throws your way. May the wisdom of the Goddess Hylia guide you to victory! Citations: [1] https://www.ign.com/wikis/the-legend-of-zelda-breath-of-the-wild/Trial_of_the_Sword_-_Final_Trials_Floor_20_Walkthrough [2] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eidzoh06eTg [3] https://www.zeldadungeon.net/forum/threads/breath-of-the-wild-no-spoilers-tips-tricks-guide-from-noob-to-1337.61577/ [4] https://www.polygon.com/zelda-breath-of-the-wild-guide-walkthrough/2017/7/13/15962536/the-master-trials-trial-of-the-sword-final-trials-underground-floor-20-enemies-items-treasure-chest [5] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OpN2k7aGpF4 [6] https://www.gamesradar.com/zelda-breath-of-the-wild-tips/ [7] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lNlVj6BYckU [8] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pAIwAxbwdvo [9] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fh3DhjZzeSE