Although the remake isn’t receiving the same critical acclaim the Wii original did, Skyward Sword HD is doing wonders for the game’s reputation. With tighter motion controls and an abundance of quality of life features that downplay Skyward Sword’s worst aspects, it’s never been easier to appreciate one of the most unique entries in The Legend of Zelda. Along with sporting one of the strongest stories in the franchise, Skyward Sword excels when it comes to dungeon and boss design.
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The dungeons in Skyward Sword are arguably the best set in the series when it comes to pure puzzle quality and creativity, but the boss fights are in another league of their own. 3D Zelda has a bad habit of tanking the difficulty curve by the halfway point, if not immediately. This is a problem Skyward Sword side steps entirely. Skyward Sword is harder than the average Zelda and that means indulging in tough boss fights that actually force you to think critically while honing your reflexes.
The boss of the Lanayru Mining Facility, Moldarach the Scorpion is your final challenge in Skyward Sword’s third dungeon. Moldarech requires you to use your dungeon item like a typical Zelda boss, but goes one step further by demanding a fair bit of swordplay. Moldarach can be a challenge if you’re too used to the series’ simpler boss design.
Phase 1
The first half of the fight against Moldarach keeps things relatively grounded as far as swordplay is concerned. During phase 1, you’ll need to damage the eyeballs on Moldarach’s pincers. To do so, you need to wait for Moldarach’s claws to open up and then swing your sword precisely. You can only damage Moldarach’s eyes when they’re purple, not red. If the eyes are red, get out of the way to avoid getting hit.
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After dealing enough damage to one of the eyeballs, the whole claw will come off. You need to slice off both of Moldarach’s claws to end the first phase of the battle. Fortunately, this isn’t too difficult if you know how to make accurate swings and are observant. Be ready to strike whenever Moldarach leaves itself open and then dodge the incoming counterattack. With enough punishment, the fight will move onto the second phase.
Phase 2
Moldarach will transition to the second phase of the fight after you manage to cut off both of its claws. Quickly stab it in its central eye before it burrows underground. You’ll need to equip the Gust Bellows to clear the sand from the boss arena and reveal Moldarach’s hiding spot. Once you’ve found him and sucked away all the sand with the Gust Bellows, Moldarach will leap up.
Stay aggressive and stab them in the eye. It might take you a while to get through the second phase depending on where exactly Moldarach hides, but so long as you’re quick enough with the Gust Bellows, they should be no trouble. Be mindful of small scorpions hiding in the sand, as well. And be ready to fight back with your sword once Moldarach is uncovered.