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Skyward Sword fatal blow – how to unlock and use it

Everything you need to know in order to perform a Skyward Sword fatal blow

Link performing a fatal blow in Skyward sword

The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD remaster is here, so it’s time to pick up your blade and fight through Hyrule, saving Zelda while you’re at it – what else is new. Of course, there’s one aspect of the game that makes it stand out from the crowd, and that’s its motion controls, which return in the Switch adaptation. So, move your joy-cons as though you’re swinging a sword and wielding a shield, and get ready to dive back into this classic adventure.

Our Skyward Sword fatal blow guide aims to provide you with details on the sword technique, including what it is, how to unlock it, how you can perform it, and what damage it inflicts upon your enemies. Fatal blow is one of several abilities available to Link in-game, and is vital to ensuring victory against the final boss.

Assuming you’re a Legend of Zelda fan, why not check out our BotW Link and BotW Zelda guides to learn everything you need to know about the heroes. We also have a BotW Amiibo guide detailing the in-game benefits these figures give you. Alternatively, if you’re after a different open-world RPG, why not try out Genshin Impact? Be sure to check out our Genshin Impact codes guide to grab some freebies.

What is a Skyward Sword fatal blow?

Fatal blow is one of Link’s abilities, and is a sword technique that finishes off enemies easily due to its high damage output. As a result, Link defeats enemies that usually withstand several hits much quicker. We recommend you acquaint yourself with the move, given it saves time and energy as you traverse through Hyrule. It’s also great for crow control, as removing enemies at a faster pace increases your chances of being victorious.

Eagus offering to teach Link fatal blow

How do I unlock the Skyward Sword fatal blow?

Like most abilities, you need to unlock fatal blow before you can use it. Fortunately, it’s easy to learn. First, at Skyloft, while you train with the practice sword, you must successfully perform various sword techniques on the logs found in the room. Following this, Eagus tasks you with completing a spin attack, do so successfully, and he offers to teach you fatal blow.

How do I perform a Skyward Sword fatal blow?

There are a couple of steps to follow to perform a fatal blow successfully. Firstly, you must lock on to your enemy. Next, perform a spinning attack, or any offence that knocks your opponent onto their back. Now you need to move quickly – less your enemy rise once more – and get within range to see a fatal blow prompt.

How you perform a fatal blow varies depending on which controller type you’re using. Once in range, perform the attack by moving the analogue stick up, down, and up if using button controls. Alternatively, if you’re using motion controls, shake the right joy-con up, down, and up.

And that’s everything you need to know about the Skyward Sword fatal blow. After saving Zelda – again – check out our list of the best Switch RPGs to find your next adventure.