Is it possible to tame a Lynel Zelda breath of the wild?

Is it Possible to Tame a Lynel in Zelda Breath of the Wild?

In the Zelda series, taming and dominating powerful creatures is a feat that few can achieve. One of the most elite and elusive creatures in Link’s world is the Lynel. Can you, as Link, tame and ride a Lynel like a horse? Short answer: no, at least not in the classic sense.

Mount, Not Tame

Before we dive into the "why" behind Lynel tamability, let’s clarify that the game design doesn’t allow for outright taming of these intimidating creatures. Instead, we can "mount" or "ride" them momentarily, giving us a way to explore the world. This can be done by sneaking up on an unsuspecting Lynel or using a clever tactic with the paraglider to land on their back while they’re in a state of vulnerability. When attacking a Lynel, a prompt to mount them may appear. Be wary, as this opportunity rarely lasts long, and fighting them directly is a considerable challenge.

No Riding, Just Mounting

So, what’s the difference between "taming" and "mounting"? Taming implies controlling and owning the creature as a domesticated companion or mount, whereas mounting describes a more temporary arrangement for transportation or exploration. For Lynels, we experience the latter. We borrow their back for a limited time to traverse the overworld before they toss Link off their shoulders and engage in battle once more. Don’t expect lasting companionship or control, as the Lynel Horn is a one-time opportunistic exploit.

Lynel Horn Limitations

Speaking of which, the Lynel Horn, a rare collectible item, is limited to crafting specific armor. We can’t employ it for sustained use in combat or exploration. Using the horn on a lynel may yield temporary resistance to elemental attacks or stun effects, but its usage is generally tied to brief, situation-specific advantages during battles.

Unlocking Advanced Armor Sets

While mounted on a Lynel’s back, Link earns the right to access limited crafting opportunities. If you have the Lynel Horn, you can refine specific armor sets using that horn, unlocking powerful combat gear and enhancements. Note that this doesn’t grant taming capabilities, merely unlocks crafting possibilities and rewards exploration.

Tips for Mounting Lynels

When searching for opportunities to mount these powerful foes, utilize the paraglider to surprise them from an unexpected angle. Cautious movement and attentive listening for Lynel stances and vocal cues enhance your chances of successfully launching a mounted attack. Pay attention to environmental clues for Lynel spawn points and specific terrain leading to easier mounting attempts. When attacked, always prioritize mounting the Lynel before focusing on battle victory to ensure you collect the necessary materials and, occasionally, a brief reward.

Conclusion

Unfortunately, it’s not currently possible to tame Lynels in Breath of the Wild. The game’s designers opted for a more practical approach to interaction, rendering the term "tame" ambiguous. Instead of domestication, we exploit brief moments of vulnerability with the paraglider. For those seeking powerful mounts or unique armor craftings, mounting Lynels offers exciting opportunities, with the understanding that this exploit is not equivalent to taming.

Next time, we’ll focus on more comprehensive topics: Strategies for effectively defeating Lynels (Hint: elemental weaknesses play a crucial role) and optimizing your in-game performance during battles against these formidable allies. Stay tuned!