You! Yes, you! Ever pondered the perfect weapon to wield in any game, across any digital realm? It’s a fun thought experiment, isn’t it? Forget pressure; let’s dive into a lighthearted discussion about gaming’s most iconic and effective melee weapons.
In a previous post, we explored the universally loved Hookshot from Zelda, and how it could enhance virtually any game. This got us thinking: if one piece of equipment is so broadly appealing, what about melee weapons? If we could equip every player character with a single close-combat tool, what should it be?
This isn’t about raw power or personal favorites. We’re on a quest to identify the ideal melee weapon – the one that seamlessly fits into any game world and empowers any protagonist.
Below, we’ll explore some prime contenders for the title of “Ideal Melee Weapon,” starting with a personal favorite. We’re eager to hear your suggestions too – what melee weapon reigns supreme in your gaming arsenal?
The Wraith Blade (Legacy of Kain & Soul Reaver): An Ethereal Powerhouse
For fans of the Legacy of Kain series, the Wraith Blade is instantly recognizable as a weapon of immense power and unique properties. Born from the shattered Soul Reaver sword, this weapon is essentially a concentrated coil of raw energy. While that’s a simplified explanation of its lore, let’s focus on its in-game capabilities, which are truly remarkable.
Firstly, the Wraith Blade is devastatingly effective. Whether facing humans, vampires, monstrous creatures, or demonic entities, this ethereal blade delivers lethal strikes. Its ease of use is another significant advantage. Simply direct your arm and swing – the Wraith Blade effortlessly cleaves through enemies. Durability is a non-issue; it never breaks, never dulls, and bypasses conventional defenses.
Beyond mere cutting power, the Wraith Blade possesses soul-devouring abilities. It can tear enemies apart physically or extract their very essence. Furthermore, it can be imbued with elemental enhancements like fire for devastating flame attacks, adding another layer of tactical depth. And if that wasn’t enough, it can also project energy pulses, effectively functioning as a ranged weapon when needed.
Convenience is also key. The Wraith Blade is bound to the wielder’s arm, weightless, and can be summoned or dismissed with a simple gesture. It evokes the satisfying activation of Halo’s Energy Sword, but without the worry of energy depletion.
Are there any drawbacks? Frankly, weaknesses are hard to pinpoint. Perhaps its only quirk – and it’s a minor one – is its slight sentience and hunger for souls. If neglected, it might… theoretically… start feeding on the wielder. But as long as you keep it “fed” with enemy souls, the Wraith Blade remains an unparalleled ally.
Sledgehammer (Red Faction: Guerrilla): Environmental Destruction and Hilarious Ragdoll Physics
While iconic looks are secondary to functionality in this discussion (sorry Wrench and Crowbar fans), the Sledgehammer from Red Faction: Guerrilla deserves serious consideration.
It’s not just about demolishing walls, although that’s a major part of its appeal. The Sledgehammer’s true genius lies in its impact on enemies. Enemies struck by this weapon react with exaggerated ragdoll physics, crumpling, twisting, and flying through the air like deflated balloons. The sheer comedic impact of each swing is undeniably satisfying. And yes, we should reiterate: you can smash through walls.
Of course, in games lacking environmental physics, the Sledgehammer might be reduced to an oversized, albeit powerful, blunt instrument. However, even in such scenarios, its sheer impact force and enemy ragdoll effects could still make it an incredibly fun and effective weapon.
The Blades of Exile (God of War III): Chained Fury and Versatile Combat
Despite past criticisms, Kratos from God of War is undeniably a phenomenal character, and his signature Blades of Exile (and their predecessors, “of Chaos” and “of Athena”) are iconic for good reason. They are visually striking and brutally effective.
Like the Wraith Blade, the Blades of Exile are bound to Kratos, but via chains rather than direct attachment. These chains grant exceptional versatility, allowing Kratos to fling the blades at enemies for ranged attacks, retrieve them swiftly, or unleash devastating spinning and flailing combos.
The chain-and-blade combination offers diverse combat options. Enemies can be yanked from the air, pulled in close for up-close brutality, or kept at a distance. Beyond combat, Kratos utilizes the blades for environmental traversal, swinging across gaps and scaling massive structures, even colossal monsters.
While undeniably potent in Kratos’ hands, the Blades of Exile might have limitations in other contexts. The blades themselves are relatively short, and their effectiveness is arguably tied to Kratos’s superhuman strength, rage, and combat prowess. The elaborate combos might not be easily replicated by every player character.
Frying Pan/Skillet (Left 4 Dead 2): The Surprisingly Effective and Hilarious Zombie Slayer
Left 4 Dead 2 boasts a range of melee weapons, from katanas to guitars and chainsaws, perfect for zombie annihilation. So why highlight the humble frying pan? Chainsaws run out of fuel, katanas are less common, and arguably, the frying pan’s sound effect is superior to the guitar. The satisfying “BONK” of pan meeting zombie skull is undeniably delightful and, dare we say, more impactful than a guitar’s “TWANG.” Imagine a group of survivors charging through a zombie horde, armed with frying pans – the auditory chaos alone is worth it.
Rumor has it the Frying Pan is surprisingly effective against Tanks, potentially even outperforming firearms in terms of damage output. However, rigorous testing of this claim is…unlikely.
The Pan may not match the raw power of other weapons on this list, but its reliability, ease of use, and comedic value are undeniable. It’s a simple, effective, and giggle-inducing tool for zombie disposal.
BONK!
Dagger of Time (Prince of Persia): Rewinding Mistakes and Manipulating Time
While some weapons excel at destruction, others offer more nuanced advantages. The Dagger of Time from Prince of Persia provides the extraordinary ability to undo mistakes. Take a beating? Rewind time. Want to execute a more stylish move? Rewind. Fall off a platform? Rewind. Repeatedly? Rewind, rewind, rewind.
Beyond error correction, the Dagger of Time also manipulates time in combat, allowing for slowdowns or pauses. Even novice fighters can exploit this advantage, landing cheap shots, disrupting enemies, or even tying shoelaces before making a strategic retreat. And when direct combat is necessary, the Dagger is surprisingly sharp, piercing armor with ease.
However, the Dagger of Time isn’t without limitations. It’s not just about size (insert size joke here if appropriate for your audience). It requires “ammo” in the form of magic sand. Run out of sand, and you’re left with a decorative, albeit pointy, letter opener.
Master Sword (Legend of Zelda Series): The Iconic Blade of Light
No discussion of iconic melee weapons would be complete without mentioning Link’s Master Sword. It’s a symbol of the Zelda franchise and a powerful in-game tool. Typically, it deals double the damage of Link’s previous swords, and at full health, it can unleash energy beams for ranged attacks.
Despite its legendary status, the Master Sword’s effectiveness outside of the Zelda universe is debatable. Link’s signature spin attack, a staple of his combat style, is intrinsically tied to him. Furthermore, Link’s reliance on various tools and gadgets in Zelda games suggests that the Master Sword alone isn’t designed to handle all combat situations single-handedly.
Sorry, Link, while iconic and powerful in your world, the Master Sword might not be the most universally adaptable melee weapon.
Your Ideal Melee Weapon?
So, what do you think? What melee weapon deserves the title of “ideal” and would seamlessly transition into any game? Is there a perfect blade, hammer, or something else entirely that every protagonist should have access to? Share your thoughts and suggestions in the comments below!
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Author: Rufus Scott
A lifelong gamer, history teacher, and part-time geek, I write about the positive aspects of gaming, especially its educational potential. My posts are often nostalgic, sometimes offbeat, and always intended to spark conversation. Expect whimsical reflections on gaming and teaching, punctuated with random insights. View all posts by Rufus Scott
