From: PartOfYourWorld | #010
3D Zelda combat has had some longstanding complaints about its lack of difficulty. Much of this was attributed to the broken ass shield mechanics, where simply holding the block button rendered 90% of enemy attacks ineffective. In that sense, this game doesn't discourage you from using your shield, it discourages you from spamming it without skill. If you use it well (parry with precise timing), it actually gives you a good advantage in most combat scenarios.
That said, I barely ever used my shield, preferring to dodge attacks instead.
I understand the problem, its the solution that doesn't seem logical. The ideal solution is smarter AI, enemies who have more in their arsenal than a single melee swing to a central area on Link. Why can't enemies work together instead of all lining up to take it in turns to smash Links shield? Why can't there be more knockbacks or aerial assaults? Underground shocks, leg sweeps? Why is discouraging shielding to compensate for basic, static AI acceptable?
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