Lynel

The Lynel is a centaur-like being common to the overworld of, , , , , and that is known not only for its varying coloration, but its resistance to all forms of close combat attack. These foes are often seen prowling around, but not exclusive to, mountainous climates in the titles they appear in.

Characteristics
The Lynel is an elusive enemy, but a hardened one, in comparison to many of the commonplace overworld creatures such as Octoroks and Keese, both of which can often be defeated in one strike of the sword. Another trademark feature of this species is their ability to shoot projectiles from their mouths; for example, the incarnation seen in The Legend of Zelda fires beam sword-like projectiles at Link whenever he is close by, while the versions seen in A Link to the Past and the Oracle titles regurgitate fireballs. Interestingly, the sword-like shots coming from the Lynel of The Legend of Zelda cannot be blocked with the standard shield, and must be evaded at all costs if Link is to remain uninjured; at least until he upgrades to the Magical Shield. Only the Red Shield and Mirror Shield can deflect the Lynel's shots in A Link to the Past, and rightly so, as the small shield, as in The Legend of Zelda, is much too weak. In A Link Between Worlds, only the Hylian Shield can block its attacks.



In Oracle of Seasons, the Lynel is one of the few foes, including Octoroks and Moblins, that may appear in a golden variety, considering certain conditions are met. Overall, the Lynel of the Oracle titles have the same general behavior with a slight change in physical appearance.

In A Link Between Worlds, Lynels attack differently: they release a flame thrower that projects a short distance, rather than a fireball, which flies long distances. There are two types of Lynel which appear in the game. The first appear on Death Mountain, and have white hair. The other variety has orange hair and a black body, and can only be found in Treacherous Tower. Their attacks are very damaging, so it's best to repeatedly attack them before they release the flame.

For the Lynels' 3D debut in Breath of the Wild, their lethality increases tenfold. They retain their fireball attack from previous games, but they also gain a sword and shield to fight with, and possess an entire repertoire of extremely powerful sword attacks. They also use a powerful bow with Lightning Arrows if Link gets too far away from them. They are also quick, nimble, and make good use of their shields, making them formidable opponents.

Varieties
In all of its appearances, the Lynel appears in different forms, and hence different colors. There are most often two varieties, with increasing power and strength. In The Legend of Zelda, A Link to the Past, Oracle of Seasons and Oracle of Ages, the red Lynel will fire projectiles that inflict one heart of damage, while the blue Lynel inflicts double damage. In A Link Between Worlds, the varieties are distinguished by the colour of their hair, and share the same characteristics. Breath of the Wild also introduces silver Lynels, which are even more formidable than their blue brethren.

Weaknesses
Just because the Lynel is one of the strongest enemies in the Zelda franchise does not mean it cannot be vanquished through conventional means. Link can defeat these enemies with his sword, although they can take a great number of hits before falling. However, in A Link to the Past, Lynels are immune to every attack except the Sword (only using the Spin Attack with a level 2 sword), the Magic Hammer or a well aimed Silver Arrow. In Breath of the Wild, Urbosa's Wrath can be used to stun them just as easily as most other enemies, giving Link an opportunity to attack. Using a Perfect Dodge is also recommended, as the Lynels' speed makes them difficult to land many hits on normally.

Animated series
Two Lynels appear in the "Sing for the Unicorn" episode of the animated series. Before Link, Princess Zelda and Sing can make their way to Ganon's lair, Link must fight a pair of Lynels, one blue and one red, that stand in their way. The young hero blocks their attacks and then proceeds to zap both of them, with one of them dropping a recorder that would allow them to escape the Underworld later on in the episode.

The Legend of Zelda comic
Lynels also appear in the Day of the Triforce story from the Legend of Zelda comic. These foes, along with other of Ganon's minions, go to the Water Town of Saria to set fire to the village, as well as capturing and injuring many of its people. When Cassiopia goes to North Palace to inform Princess Zelda of what has happened, Zelda decides to go to Saria to aid Cassiopia and the rest of the citizens. Upon arrival, Zelda encourages the townsfolk to fight back, and together, the princess along with the Saria people successfully defeat the Lynels and the rest of the monsters.

Trivia

 * In the Oracle of Seasons book, Lynels are incorrectly identified as "Fire Cats", a reference to their lion-like appearance.
 * In order to damage the Lynels in A Link to the Past with the Master Sword (Lv2), Link must hit them with a Spin Attack.
 * There are only three Lynels in A Link to the Past, but five of them appear in the new ending added to the Game Boy Advance version.