How to Sneak Attack in Tears of the Kingdom

When you think of combat in Tears of the Kingdom, you may think of several options. However, while you can get creative, your two main ways are to swing around melee weapons and use a bow to shoot arrows. You can also use your Ultrahand and other shrine abilities to have fun during fights, but if you want stealth combat, you won’t even need these! If you’re curious, continue reading to learn how to sneak attack in The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom.

How to Sneak Attack With Sneakstrike in The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom

In TOTK, sneak attacks are known as sneakstrikes! These special attacks allow you to deal massive damage to an unsuspecting foe as long as they don’t see you approaching. If an enemy catches your movements, they’ll go on alert and chase you, prompting a regular fight.

To pull off the sneak attack, you’ll have to very slowly walk toward the monster by pushing your joycon/controller thumbstick to move at a snail’s pace. It’ll take some time, and you’ll need a lot of patience, but it’s important to ensure the enemy doesn’t hear you.

Once you’re in range, you’ll find an option to sneakstrike and attack! You’ll deal huge damage and surprise your foe, allowing you to get off some extra hits if you’re fast enough. It’s a great way to attack if you’re like me and run out of arrows for your bow. On the plus side, Tears of the Kingdom has several ways to get more arrows if you need them!

What If I Miss My Chance to Sneakstrike in Tears of the Kingdom?

Let’s say you accidentally push on your joycon thumbstick too hard and start running, alerting the enemy of your location. Maybe you pressed the attack button a little too early and swung a massive hammer toward them. Regardless, there are situations where your attempt at sneakstriking is unsuccessful. I mean, hey, it took me three tries to get that picture I posted above because the robot kept finding me before I got close enough!

During times like this, you’ll have to try to run away and hide from the monster, causing them to search around and look for you. If you see a question mark appear above their head, they’ll stop their search and head back to their initial spawn spot, letting you try another sneak attack if you’d like.

Related: How to Break Ore Deposits in Tears of the Kingdom

While this isn’t always an option, especially if you’re in an open area with few hiding spots, you at least have a chance to hide before the enemy attacks you.

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is available to play on Nintendo Switch. To learn more about the game, click the tag below to check out our complete TOTK content list!