Welcome to our comprehensive The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild Walkthrough! Whether you’re a newcomer to Hyrule or a seasoned adventurer, this guide is your ultimate companion in navigating one of the most captivating worlds in gaming history. Dive into detailed sections, including Starting Your Adventure, where you’ll grasp the fundamentals to kickstart your journey. Discover the secrets behind Key Locations and Shrines that pepper the vast landscape. Master the art of Defeating the Divine Beasts with expert strategies and learn indispensable tips for Strategies for Boss Battles. Finally, unlock the mysteries to Unlocking All Endings and ensure no stone is left unturned in your epic quest. Embark on an adventure like no other and become the hero Hyrule needs today!
Starting Your Adventure
Welcome to the vast, open world of Hyrule! “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild” offers an enormous sandbox to explore, filled with hidden treasures, powerful enemies, and ancient secrets just waiting to be uncovered. Here’s how to get started on your epic journey.
Waking Up and Leaving the Shrine of Resurrection
Your adventure begins when Link awakens in the Shrine of Resurrection. This facility has been your home for the past 100 years, where you’ve been healing after a deadly battle.
- Grab the Sheikah Slate: This magical device is your main tool for navigation and puzzles. It’s lying on a pedestal right in front of you.
- Open the Doors: Use the Sheikah Slate to open the large, ancient doors ahead. Just approach them and press ‘A’ to interact.
- Collect Basic Clothing: As you move through the shrine, you’ll find two chests containing the Old Shirt and Well-Worn Trousers. Equip them from your inventory to give Link some basic protection.
- Step into the Light: Exit the shrine to experience a breathtaking view of Hyrule, setting the stage for the incredible adventures ahead.
Meeting the Old Man
Outside the shrine, you’ll encounter your first NPC, an Old Man. He’ll provide some much-needed guidance for your early game.
- Approach the Old Man: He’s standing by a fire, next to a baked apple and a torch. Speak to him to get some basic info about where you are.
- Grab the Torch: Pick up the torch near the Old Man. You can light it using the fire, which can help in dark caves or combat.
- Cook the Baked Apple: Click ‘A’ to interact with the baked apple by the fire, triggering a brief dialogue. You can eat it to replenish your health.
Unlocking the Great Plateau
The Great Plateau serves as your tutorial area, teaching you the basic mechanics of the game. You need to finish this part to unlock the rest of Hyrule.
- Head to the Temple of Time: From the Old Man’s campfire, go straight towards the Temple of Time. It’s a large, ruined structure not too far away.
- Activate the First Tower: Here, you will follow the Old Man’s advice and use your Sheikah Slate on the pedestal to activate the first tower. This will reveal a portion of the map and unlock several new objectives.
- Visit Shrines: Four Shrines are scattered around the Great Plateau. These are Oman Au, Ja Baij, Owa Daim, and Keh Namut. Each shrine gives you Spirit Orbs, stamina boosts, and new runes for the Sheikah Slate. You need to complete all four shrines to leave the Great Plateau.
Essential Shrines and Runes
- Remote Bombs (Ja Baij Shrine): These bombs can destroy obstacles and damage enemies from a distance.
- Magnesis (Oman Au Shrine): This rune lets you lift and move metallic objects, which is crucial for many puzzles.
- Stasis (Owa Daim Shrine): Use Stasis to freeze objects in time, enabling puzzles and strategic combat advantages.
- Cryonis (Keh Namut Shrine): Create pillars of ice on water surfaces, useful for crossing lakes or reaching high places.
Each shrine also contains a set of puzzles. Once solved, they will reward you with a Spirit Orb. Collecting Spirit Orbs allows you to upgrade your health or stamina at the Temple of Time.
Getting the Paraglider
After you have cleared all four shrines, return to the Old Man at the Temple of Time. He’ll reveal himself as the spirit of the long-deceased King of Hyrule. As a reward for your effort, he’ll give you the Paraglider, allowing you to finally glide off the Great Plateau and begin your journey to save Princess Zelda and defeat Calamity Ganon.
That’s it! You’re now ready to explore the wild and become the hero Hyrule needs. Pack your courage, a sense of adventure, and maybe some extra snacks for the road. Off you go, the future of Hyrule rests on your shoulders!
Happy adventuring!
Key Locations and Shrines
Exploring the vast world of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is both thrilling and challenging. To make the most of your adventure, here’s a guide to some key locations and shrines you’ll want to visit early and often.
Great Plateau
Your journey begins on the Great Plateau. This tutorial area familiarizes you with the game’s mechanics and introduces you to the first four shrines you need to complete to acquire the Paraglider. Here’s a quick rundown:
- Oman Au Shrine: This shrine is where you get the Magnesis Rune, allowing you to lift and manipulate metallic objects.
- Ja Baij Shrine: Grants you the Remote Bomb Rune, providing both cube and spherical bombs for different uses.
- Keh Namut Shrine: Here, you’ll receive the Cryonis Rune, letting you create ice pillars on water surfaces.
- Owa Daim Shrine: The final shrine on the plateau gives you the Stasis Rune, which lets you stop time for objects.
Kakariko Village
After leaving the Great Plateau, head to Kakariko Village in the Dueling Peaks Region. This quaint village is critical for progressing the main story. Seek out Impa to learn more about your mission, and explore the village to find valuable items, shops, and side quests.
Hateno Village
Further east of Kakariko Village is Hateno Village. Key locations here include:
- Hateno Ancient Tech Lab: Meet Purah and complete her task to unlock the Sheikah Slate upgrades.
- Myahm Agana Shrine: Located just outside the village, this shrine offers a challenging motion-controlled puzzle.
Divine Beasts
Four Divine Beasts are scattered across Hyrule, each guarded by formidable foes. You’ll need to visit these areas and assist the local tribes:
- Vah Ruta (Zora’s Domain): Head to Lanayru Region and help Prince Sidon to tackle this water-based Divine Beast.
- Vah Rudania (Goron City): Found in Eldin Region, team up with the Gorons to breach the fiery defenses.
- Vah Medoh (Rito Village): In Hebra Region, partner with the Rito to conquer the aerial challenge.
- Vah Naboris (Gerudo Town): Journey to Gerudo Desert and work with the Gerudo to calm this sandstorm beast.
Key Shrines to Visit Early
While there are over 120 shrines throughout Hyrule, some are particularly helpful early on:
- Ree Dahee Shrine (Dueling Peaks): A bit challenging, but completing it gives you a better understanding of using tilt controls on the Sheikah Slate.
- Toto Sah Shrine (Hateno Region): Offers a rewarding puzzle experience and a useful spirit orb for early combat boosts.
- Dah Kaso Shrine (Central Hyrule): Near the Riverside Stable, it provides an easy combat trial to enhance your fighting skills.
Akkala Region
Don’t miss the Akkala Ancient Tech Lab in Akkala Region. It’s here you’ll meet Robbie and find valuable Guardian weapons and items. The shrine near this area, Ze Kasho Shrine, is relatively straightforward and offers good rewards.
Final Notes
Remember, shrines not only provide Spirit Orbs that boost your health and stamina, but also serve as fast travel points. Prioritize unlocking shrines in every new region you explore to make travel more convenient. Happy adventuring!
Defeating the Divine Beasts
In The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, you’ll need to take down four Divine Beasts to stand a chance against Calamity Ganon. Each Divine Beast is located in different regions and controlled by a unique boss. This guide will help you track them down and emerge victorious.
Vah Ruta (Zora’s Domain)
Preparation
- Equip Zora armor for easy swimming.
- Gather shock arrows by taking on Lynel or finding them around Ploymus Mountain.
Approach
- Head to Zora’s Domain and speak with King Dorephan to start the quest.
- Alongside Prince Sidon, swim towards Vah Ruta while dodging ice blocks and shooting shock arrows at the orbs.
Inside Vah Ruta
- Activate the map and gain control of the trunk.
- Use Cryonis to create ice blocks and open gates.
- Manipulate the trunk to solve puzzles, using it to control water flow.
Boss Fight - Waterblight Ganon
- Use Cryonis to block ice projectiles.
- Attack during openings after dodging his spear strikes.
- In the second phase, stay on land and use ranged weapons.
Vah Rudania (Goron City)
Preparation
- Obtain flame-resistant armor from Goron City.
- Stock up on ice arrows and elixirs.
Approach
- Follow Bludo’s questline in Goron City.
- Accompany Yunobo up Death Mountain, using him to break through barricades.
Inside Vah Rudania
- Activate the map to tilt the Beast.
- Light torches and use Magnesis to move metal blocks.
- Use the tilting mechanism to navigate through lava and reveal hidden paths.
Boss Fight – Fireblight Ganon
- In the first phase, use bombs to counter his fire shield.
- Stay mobile to avoid his fiery attacks.
- In the second phase, keep distance and use ranged attacks.
Vah Naboris (Gerudo Desert)
Preparation
- Acquire Gerudo gear for desert heat.
- Gather bomb arrows and electric-proof elixirs.
Approach
- Help Riju and Teba in the Yiga Clan Hideout.
- Ride sand seals and shoot bomb arrows to destroy the legs of the Beast.
Inside Vah Naboris
- Activate the map to control the Beast’s rotation.
- Use Magnesis and electricity to align circuits and power terminals.
- Navigate shifting rooms and platforms.
Boss Fight – Thunderblight Ganon
- Use shield parrying to counter his fast attacks.
- Take advantage of his vulnerability during his electric rod attack.
- In the second phase, dodge lightning bolts and control the environment using Magnesis.
Vah Medoh (Rito Village)
Preparation
- Gain warm elixirs or clothing.
- Stock up on arrows, especially bomb arrows.
Approach
- Partner with Teba to infiltrate the Beast, shooting targets.
- Use updrafts to gain air and avoid attacks.
Inside Vah Medoh
- Activate the map to control tilt and create wind currents.
- Use the wind to solve puzzles and reach terminals.
- Adjust the wings for easier access and paths.
Boss Fight – Windblight Ganon
- Use bomb arrows to inflict massive damage.
- Watch out for his tornado attacks.
- In the second phase, avoid tracking lasers and utilize updrafts for aerial attacks.
Tips for All Divine Beasts
- Save Often: Don’t forget to save your game frequently, especially before big fights or tackling difficult puzzles.
- Use Runes: Make liberal use of your Sheikah Slate runes for solving puzzles and battling enemies.
- Upgrade Armor: Consider visiting Great Fairies to upgrade your armor for better defense.
- Stock Up: Always carry enough food, elixirs, and weaponry, preparing for any situation.
Conclusion
The Divine Beasts are challenging but rewarding parts of Breath of the Wild. Each one has its own unique flair and set of puzzles. Use this guide to conquer them all and get one step closer to defeating Calamity Ganon. Good luck, Champion!
Strategies for Boss Battles
Boss battles in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild can be a real challenge, but with the right strategies, you can take down even the toughest enemies. Here are some tips and tricks to help you defeat the main bosses you’ll encounter throughout the game.
General Tips
Before diving into individual bosses, keep these general strategies in mind:
- Prepare Your Gear: Make sure you have strong weapons, a sturdy shield, plenty of arrows, and healing items like cooked meals and elixirs.
- Learn Patterns: Study the boss’s attack patterns. Most bosses have telltale signs before they strike, giving you a chance to dodge or parry.
- Use Runes: Your Sheikah Slate runes can be super helpful, especially Stasis to freeze enemies or Cryonis for making platforms on water.
Windblight Ganon
Windblight Ganon is the boss you’ll face in Vah Medoh, the Divine Beast of the Rito.
Phase 1:
- Weapons: Use arrows, especially bomb arrows if you have them.
- Attack Patterns: Dodge its wind gusts and laser shots. Use your bow to shoot Windblight Ganon’s eye when it’s at a distance.
- Close Combat: When it comes down, use melee attacks.
Phase 2:
- New Attacks: It will create cyclones and shoot faster lasers.
- Strategy: Use the updrafts created by the cyclones to get airborne and shoot it with arrows. Aim for the eye for maximum damage.
Fireblight Ganon
Face Fireblight Ganon in Vah Rudania, the Divine Beast of the Gorons.
Phase 1:
- Weapons: Use any arrows; ice arrows work best.
- Attack Patterns: Avoid its fiery slashes and fireballs.
- Close Combat: Attack when it’s recovering from a strike.
Phase 2:
- New Attacks: It will create a fire shield and start charging at you.
- Strategy: When he charges up his fireball, throw a Remote Bomb to interrupt and deal damage. Then, move in for melee attacks.
Waterblight Ganon
In Vah Ruta, the Divine Beast of the Zora, you’ll battle Waterblight Ganon.
Phase 1:
- Weapons: Use shock arrows for extra damage.
- Attack Patterns: Watch out for its spear thrusts and water attacks.
- Close Combat: Get in close when it’s not attacking and hit fast.
Phase 2:
- New Terrain: Platforms will appear on the water.
- Strategy: Use Cryonis to create ice blocks for protection. Shoot the boss with arrows when it’s idle, and climb onto platforms to stay dry.
Thunderblight Ganon
Thunderblight Ganon in Vah Naboris, the Divine Beast of the Gerudo, can be tricky.
Phase 1:
- Weapons: Strong melee weapons and arrows.
- Attack Patterns: It moves really fast and uses electric attacks.
- Dodging: Perfect dodge is crucial to get Flurry Rushes. Avoid staying grounded for too long.
Phase 2:
- New Attacks: It will summon metal spikes charged with electricity.
- Strategy: Use Magnesis to pick up and throw the spikes back at it to stun. Use this moment to get some solid hits in.
Calamity Ganon
Finally, the ultimate battle against Calamity Ganon at Hyrule Castle.
Phase 1:
- Weapons: Use your strongest weapons and ancient arrows if possible.
- Attack Patterns: Dodge its laser attacks and ground slams. Use Daruk’s Protection and Urbosa’s Fury when needed.
- Runes: Use Stasis to get brief moments for uninterrupted attacks.
Phase 2:
- New Attacks: It gains a glowing weak spot and does more aggressive attacks.
- Strategy: Stay on the move, attack the glowing areas when they appear, and use Champion abilities wisely.
Final Tips
- Save Often: Save your game before entering a boss fight. You can always reload if things go south.
- Stay Calm: Panicking can cause you to miss dodges and waste resources. Keep cool, and focus on the patterns.
- Experiment: If one strategy isn’t working, try another weapon or rune. Flexibility can make all the difference.
Defeating these bosses is one of the most rewarding experiences in Breath of the Wild. With practice and patience, you’ll become adept at taking them down. Good luck, and happy adventuring!
Unlocking All Endings
Unlocking all the endings in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild adds a satisfying layer to your adventure through Hyrule. The game features two primary endings: the basic ending and the true ending. Here’s how you can unlock both and experience the full story arc.
Basic Ending
To unlock the basic ending, your mission is straightforward: defeat Calamity Ganon. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you there:
Complete Main Quests: Make sure you follow the main story quests. Start by awakening the four Divine Beasts:
- Vah Ruta (Zora’s Domain)
- Vah Rudania (Goron City)
- Vah Medoh (Rito Village)
- Vah Naboris (Gerudo Town)
Hyrule Castle: Once all Divine Beasts are on your side, it’s time to storm Hyrule Castle. This tough area is crawling with Guardians and strong enemies, so come prepared with plenty of powerful weapons, hearty meals, and elixirs.
Calamity Ganon: Face off against Calamity Ganon in a multi-phase battle. Beat him, and you’ll see the basic ending cutscene!
True Ending
For the true ending, you’ll need to put in some extra effort. This ending provides more context and insight into Princess Zelda’s fate and adds a satisfying conclusion to the story.
Unlock All Memories: The key to getting the true ending is recovering all Link’s lost memories scattered across Hyrule. These are the main quests:
Captured Memories: This quest unlocks after you visit Impa in Kakariko Village. She’ll give you the “Captured Memories” quest and a picture album with locations for 12 memories.
Elemental Shrines: There are 4 additional memories tied to specific locations and characters connected to the Divine Beasts. Don’t miss these while you’re freeing the Divine Beasts.
Find the Locations: Use the visual clues from the photograph album to track down each memory. Seek help from townsfolk or look for environmental landmarks shown in the pictures. Your Sheikah Slate’s map will mark each memory you’ve unlocked, making tracking your progress easier.
Return to Impa: Once you’ve collected all the memories, go back to Impa in Kakariko Village. She’ll reveal one final memory and complete the quest.
Defeat Calamity Ganon: With all memories unlocked, head back to Hyrule Castle and defeat Calamity Ganon once more. This time, after the credits roll, you’ll be treated to an additional cutscene that brings closure to Zelda’s story.
Tips to Make It Easier
- Explore Thoroughly: You don’t need to rush the main quests. Take your time exploring different regions, talking to NPCs, and completing side quests. This will help you gather important resources and weapons.
- Cook Buff Meals: Prepare dishes and elixirs that boost your attack power, defense, and health. They’ll come in handy during tough battles.
- Upgrade Gear: Strengthen your armor sets by collecting materials and visiting Great Fairy Fountains scattered across Hyrule.
- Master Combat: Practice your combat techniques, like perfect dodging and parrying, to make battles smoother.
Unlocking both endings in Breath of the Wild adds depth and satisfaction to your journey. By taking the time to discover all memories and fully engage with the world, you’ll enjoy a richer, more complete adventure. So grab your Sheikah Slate and start exploring!