No, it is not possible to tame a Lynel in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.
Taming Lynels in Breath of the Wild: The Reality
Despite their impressive stature and the ability for Link to briefly interact with them, Lynels are fierce, untamable creatures in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. They are designed as formidable mini-bosses that challenge Link's combat skills rather than offering a companionship opportunity. While certain interactions are possible, permanent taming is not one of them.
What You Can Do with a Lynel
While taming is out of the question, players can engage with Lynels in a specific, temporary manner:
- Mounting: Link can temporarily mount a Lynel by stunning it (e.g., with a well-aimed arrow to the face, especially from above using a paraglider, or by utilizing Stasis+) and then climbing onto its back. While mounted, Link can unleash a series of attacks with any equipped weapon without consuming durability.
- Combat: The primary interaction with a Lynels is through combat. They are challenging enemies that drop valuable materials and powerful weapons upon defeat.
What You Cannot Do with a Lynel
It's crucial to understand the limitations regarding Lynel interactions:
- Taming: Lynels cannot be soothed or tamed in the way horses or other wild animals can. They will buck Link off their back after a short period, returning to their aggressive state.
- Registration: Unlike horses, Lynels cannot be registered at any stable across Hyrule, meaning they cannot become a permanent mode of transportation or companion.
- Befriending: There is no mechanic in the game to develop a friendly relationship with a Lynel. They remain hostile and aggressive towards Link.
Comparison: Lynels vs. Tamable Creatures
To clarify the distinction, here's a quick comparison of Lynels with tamable creatures like horses:
| Feature | Lynel Interaction | Horse Taming |
|---|---|---|
| Mountable | Yes (temporary during combat) | Yes (can be ridden permanently) |
| Tamable | No (cannot be soothed) | Yes (can be soothed and tamed) |
| Permanent Bond | No | Yes (can form a bond) |
| Registerable | No | Yes (at any stable) |
| Companion | No (remains a hostile enemy) | Yes (can be a loyal companion) |
In essence, Lynels serve as apex predators and combat challenges within the game world, designed to test the player's abilities rather than become a part of their travel party.
