Yes. In The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, an Ancient Arrow can make a Lynel disappear when it hits—but the Lynel will not leave its usual materials. Use one when removing the enemy matters more than the loot; fight it normally if you want a chance to collect Lynel drops.
What happens when an Ancient Arrow hits a Lynel?
The Lynel disappears from the encounter instead of continuing the fight. The effect removes the enemy, but it also removes the opportunity to collect its usual materials. The Ancient Arrow’s effect and the lack of drops are documented by the Zelda Wiki’s Ancient Arrow reference and echoed in player reports.
Should you use one or fight the Lynel normally?
| Approach | What it does | Best when |
|---|---|---|
| Ancient Arrow | Removes the Lynel when it hits; it leaves no usual materials. | You want to end the encounter quickly and do not need the drops. |
| Ordinary combat | Keeps the fight going and gives you a chance to collect the Lynel’s drops. | You want Lynel materials or equipment. |
Nintendo’s Lanayru guide for Breath of the Wild describes Lynels as dangerous opponents and recommends aiming a bow and arrow at the head to take one down.
Does this apply to every Zelda game?
This answer is about Breath of the Wild. Do not assume the same interaction in The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, which uses different arrow and fuse mechanics. The cited sources establish the basic Breath of the Wild effect, but do not settle every edge case involving impact location or combat conditions.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition; upgrade details
- Support for the ZELDA NOTES game-specific service via Nintendo Switch App; improved frame rates and resolution; faster load times; HDR support; nintendo Account, persistent internet and compatible smart device required; data charges may apply; HDR-compatible display required when playing in TV mode
Rank #3
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- Discover Hyrule as never before: by making your own path, choices, and consequences
- Ingenuity is the key to survival: find multiple solutions to tons of dynamic puzzles
- Surprises hide around every corner: scavenge weapons, armor, plants, animals, and more
- Live off the land: find weapons and armor, cook food, and brew elixirs
- Utilize special technology: the in-game Sheikah Slate controls objects and enemies in fun ways
Rank #2
- Enhanced resolution, framerates, and load times optimized for Nintendo Switch 2.
- Explore a massive open-air version of Hyrule with complete freedom.
- Solve physics-based puzzles, survive dynamic weather, and uncover hidden secrets.
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- Use the ZELDA NOTES app for bonuses, item sharing, and social features.
#1 Best Overall
- Discover Hyrule as never before: by making your own path, choices, and consequences
- Ingenuity is the key to survival: find multiple solutions to tons of dynamic puzzles
- Surprises hide around every corner: scavenge weapons, armor, plants, animals, and more
- Live off the land: find weapons and armor, cook food, and brew elixirs
- Utilize special technology: the in-game Sheikah Slate controls, objects and enemies in fun ways
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