- "The enemies that are filled with energy will quickly recover and attack again even when stunned by a powerful strike. The ending blow is a secret technique you can use to end their breath before they spring back into action."
- — Hero's Shade
The Ending Blow, also known as the Fatal Blow, is a recurring skill in The Legend of Zelda series. As its name implies, it is a powerful technique that, if executed correctly, dispatches a downed enemy in a single strike, regardless of the enemy's current level of health. If the enemy gets up before the Ending Blow hits, Link's sword becomes temporarily stuck in the ground.
In execution, it is remarkably similar to an uncommonly executed Parry move from The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker. It is also similar to Downthrust from Zelda II: The Adventure of Link and the down air attack that Link, Young Link and Toon Link use in Super Smash Bros., Melee, and Brawl.
Appearances[]
Spoiler warning: Plot or ending details follow.
The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess[]
The Ending Blow is one of the seven Hidden Skills; among these, the Ending Blow is unique in that it is required to complete the game. The Ending Blow is necessary to defeat Ganondorf in the final battle. After performing enough hits to knock Ganondorf off his feet, Link must use the Ending Blow to fully defeat him. Additionally, most dungeon bosses in the game can be finished with the Ending Blow once they have taken sufficient damage. When the Ending Blow is performed on Ganondorf, Link does a significantly more extravagant Ending Blow, leaping higher into the air, and performing three flips in midair. In addition, unlike with other enemies, Link leaves the Master Sword stuck into Ganondorf's chest when finishing the maneuver.
The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword[]
The Fatal Blow is executed by moving the Wii Remote and Nunchuk at the same time while targeting a stunned enemy lying on the ground. Link must use the Fatal Blow against Ghirahim during the first phase of their final battle, as well as against Demise. Successfully landing hits on Demise will provide three opportunities to execute a Fatal Blow. However, Link must perform the technique quickly, as the slightest delay gives Demise enough time to recover and renew his assault. When performing the Ending Blow on Demise, Link spins around twice in midair, after lightning is absorbed into his sword.
Spoiler warning: Spoilers end here.
See also[]
- Back Slice
- Shield Attack
- Helm Splitter
- Mortal Draw
- Jump Strike
- Great Spin Attack
- Hidden Skills
- Parry
- Weak Point Smash