In The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, players are empowered with limitless creativity through innovative gameplay mechanics such as the fuse ability. In the aftermath of the Upheaval, weapons in Hyrule have deteriorated due to the Gloom emanating from the Chasms, necessitating the attachment of materials to fortify them. Thanks to the abilities bestowed upon him by Rauru, the first King of Hyrule, Link can easily accomplish this task. However, while certain materials are frequently used to fuse weapons, players may be missing out on some lesser-known items that can enhance their combat prowess.
6 Dazzlefruit
When Dazzlefruit is utilized in combat, its stunning effect is a powerful tool that can incapacitate enemies within Link's immediate vicinity. This creates an opening for Link to deal devastating blows to his opponents while they are vulnerable and disarmed. By combining the use of Dazzlefruit with Puffshrooms, players can strategically take control of ambush situations, providing a new level of combat tactics.
Aside from its stunning capabilities, Dazzlefruit also has a hidden ability that players may not be aware of. When used against Stal enemies, it instantly kills them, allowing players to explore without being hindered by these undead foes. However, it is important to note that using Dazzlefruit against a Stalnox will not produce the same outcome.
5 Muddle Bud
When in combat, Muddle Buds can be a useful tool for Link to confuse enemies and cause them to attack each other instead of him. This tactic is especially effective when facing a Boss Bokoblin and their minions, as fusing a Muddle Bud to an arrow can cause the boss to turn on its own followers. Additionally, if the Muddle Bud hits multiple enemies, Link can use the chaos to his advantage by hiding and waiting for the perfect opportunity to join the fray. This strategy is particularly useful in Coliseum fights in the Depths, especially against stronger waves of enemies.
4 Bokoblin Armor Shard
Bokoblins in Tears of the Kingdom have introduced a range of new tactics, including the use of stone armor. Without removing this armor, players will have a tough time causing any damage to these enemies. However, this can be easily achieved by using a Hammer or Sledge weapon or throwing a Bomb Flower.
When the armor is destroyed, an Armor Shard will drop to the ground which Link can fuse to his shield or weapon. This plating is particularly effective when combined with a shield, as it offers an additional layer of durability and can prolong the lifespan of weaker shields that are found early on in the game.
3 Stalnox Horn
Finding Stalnox in Breath of the Wild can be a challenging task, but as players explore Hyrule, they will begin to discover areas where Stalnox tend to appear, such as the Royal Hidden Passage under Lookout Landing leading to Hyrule Castle or the Depths. In Tears of the Kingdom, Stalnox still drops valuable materials, including a horn adorned with Bokoblin skulls. This material is essential for fusing weapons and has a base power attack of 29. When combined with a potent weapon and a Flurry Rush buff, the Stalnox Horn can significantly enhance Link's combat abilities.
2 Stal Arms
When playing Tears of the Kingdom, players have the option to fuse enemy bones to their weapons for added attack power. One bone in particular, the Gibdo Bone, boasts an impressive base attack power of 40, but unfortunately, it has a brittle nature and easily breaks when attached to a weapon, arrow, or shield. However, players can collect multiple Gibdo Bones to use over time. In the event that they run out, players can make use of Stal Arms, which may not have the same attack power as Gibdo Bones, but can increase Link's damage proficiency with bone weapons when used in conjunction with the Evil Spirit or Radiant Armor Set. As players encounter Stal enemies frequently throughout their playthrough, Stal Arms can become a deadly weapon in Tears of the Kingdom.
1 Talus Heart
To take down a Talus, shooting the ore deposit on its body is key knowledge for experienced players. However, the Tears of the Kingdom DLC brings new elements to the battle, allowing Link to use Recall to send the rock arms flying and Ascend through the monster to reach the deposit quickly. Once defeated, Talus leaves behind a Talus Heart, which can be fused to a weapon or shield to increase attack power. The type of Heart obtained varies depending on the Talus, with the Rare Stone Talus Heart yielding the highest attack boost of 33. Fusing the Heart to a one-handed or two-handed weapon creates a Hammer, while using it on a spear results in a Sledge. Though the Heart cannot be added to Link's inventory, it remains a valuable asset for weapon upgrades.
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is available now on Nintendo Switch.