Why is the Master Sword Destroyed? Unraveling the Fate of the Blade of Evil’s Bane
The Master Sword, the legendary Blade of Evil’s Bane, isn’t always at its peak. Its “destruction,” or rather, its weakened state, is a recurring theme across the Legend of Zelda series, particularly prominent in Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom. The primary reasons for this diminished power are exposure to Ganon’s Malice, the sword’s age and accumulated damage from past battles, and the hero’s own strength and connection to the blade. In Breath of the Wild, the Master Sword is initially found severely weakened after the Great Calamity a century prior to the game’s events, corroded by Malice and requiring time to recharge after extended use. In Tears of the Kingdom, we see the Master Sword further damaged at the beginning of the game, necessitating its journey of restoration. The sword’s condition is intrinsically linked to the ongoing battle against evil and Link’s ability to wield its power effectively.
The Corrosive Power of Malice
The Primary Culprit: Ganon’s Influence
The most significant factor contributing to the Master Sword’s degraded state is the corrupting influence of Ganon’s Malice. Malice, a potent dark magic emanating from Ganon, acts like a disease, weakening anything it touches.
- Breath of the Wild: The opening sequence vividly demonstrates Malice assaulting Link and coating the Master Sword. This direct exposure corrodes the blade, leaving it damaged and requiring a prolonged period of recharge after use. The “rust” or degradation seen on the sword is not mere oxidation, but the tangible effect of Ganon’s Malice seeping into and corrupting the blade.
- Tears of the Kingdom: The initial destruction of the Master Sword can again be attributed to the concentrated Malice released by Ganondorf’s awakening. This event forces Zelda to take drastic measures, sending the sword back in time to regain its power.
The Cycle of Degradation and Restoration
The Zelda narrative often involves a cycle: evil rises, the Master Sword weakens, and Link must restore the blade’s power. This cycle creates a compelling gameplay loop, pushing players to explore, complete challenges, and grow stronger to wield the sword effectively.
Age, Battle Fatigue, and Heroic Connection
A Century of Wear and Tear
The Master Sword, despite being a magical blade, is not invulnerable. The battles of the Great Calamity, as depicted in Breath of the Wild, took a heavy toll. The sword was used extensively against Ganon’s forces and, over a century, has lost its peak capacity due to battle fatigue.
- Breath of the Wild Lore: The game explicitly states that the Master Sword’s low damage output (30, increasing to 60 in the presence of Malice) and its need to recharge are consequences of its weakened state after the Great Calamity.
The Link Between the Blade and the Hero
The Master Sword’s power isn’t just inherent; it’s also tied to Link’s strength and connection to the blade. The stronger Link becomes, the more effectively he can wield the sword and unlock its true potential. This is often reflected in gameplay mechanics where Link must complete trials or gather power to restore the sword’s full strength. This concept is discussed at length by the Games Learning Society in many of their publications, with focus on how character and weapon leveling create a personalized experience for players. Visit GamesLearningSociety.org to learn more.
Alternative Blades and the Master Sword’s Unique Role
Raw Power vs. Light Magic
While other swords in the Zelda universe, such as the Fierce Deity Sword or the Biggoron Sword, may boast higher raw damage output, the Master Sword holds a unique place due to its ability to repel evil and its connection to the Triforce of Courage. The Biggoron Sword is physically more powerful than the Master Sword, but the Master Sword possesses light magic and to kill a truly evil being, you must banish it with the light. The Master Sword’s light magic and inherent ability to harm evil beings make it the ultimate weapon against Ganon, even if other blades might seem stronger on the surface.
FAQs: Mastering the Master Sword
1. Can you get the Master Sword back if it breaks?
Yes, in Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, the Master Sword can be retrieved after it “breaks” (i.e., runs out of energy). It requires a recharge period before it can be used again.
2. Why is the Master Sword rusted in Breath of the Wild?
The “rust” is more accurately described as corrosion caused by Ganon’s Malice. This Malice seeps into the blade, weakening it and reducing its power.
3. Why is the Master Sword so weak initially?
The Master Sword deals only 30 damage initially because it was broken and weakened during the battles of the Great Calamity.
4. Is there a sword stronger than the Master Sword?
Swords like the Fierce Deity Sword and the Great Fairy Sword can deal more raw damage. However, the Master Sword’s unique ability to harm evil makes it indispensable in the fight against Ganon. The Biggoron Sword is physically more powerful than the Master Sword, but the Master Sword possesses light magic and to kill a truly evil being, you must banish it with the light.
5. Can the Master Sword defeat Guardians?
Yes, the Master Sword is extremely effective against Guardians, particularly when it glows blue in the presence of Malice, increasing its damage output. Ancient arrows paired with any bow is also very effective against Guardians.
6. What happens if you fuse something to the Master Sword in Tears of the Kingdom?
Fusing materials to the Master Sword in Tears of the Kingdom adds their properties to the blade. For example, fusing a Hydrant causes it to spew water with each hit.
7. Why is my Master Sword damage 60 sometimes?
The Master Sword deals 60 damage when near a source of Ganon’s corruption, like Malice or corrupted Guardians. The blade glows with a light blue aura in this state.
8. Why does the Master Sword only glow sometimes?
The Master Sword glows only in the presence of Ganon’s Malice or corrupted enemies. This indicates that it is drawing upon its inherent power to combat evil.
9. Can you repair the Hylian Shield?
While you cannot directly repair the Hylian Shield, you can purchase a replacement in Tarrey Town from Grante after obtaining it once in Hyrule Castle.
10. Do Octoroks repair weapons?
Yes, Rock Octoroks can repair weapons in Breath of the Wild by sucking them in and spitting them back out.
11. What is the corrupted Master Sword?
The corrupted Master Sword, as seen in some mods or fan theories, is often depicted as a blade imbued with dark magic that deals elemental damage while absorbing stamina and trapping enemy souls. This is not a feature of the standard game.
12. Is Zelda The Light Dragon?
Yes, in Tears of the Kingdom, Princess Zelda transforms into the Light Dragon by swallowing her Secret Stone to heal the damaged Master Sword and imbue it with holy power.
13. How many times can you hit with the Master Sword before it needs recharging?
In the fully powered-up state, the Master Sword has nearly 200 strikes before needing to recharge.
14. Can the Master Sword be upgraded?
Yes, the Master Sword’s base damage can be upgraded to 40, 50, or 60 by completing the Trial of the Sword from The Master Trials DLC in Breath of the Wild.
15. Does the Master Sword break in Tears of the Kingdom?
No, the Master Sword doesn’t break permanently in Tears of the Kingdom, but it does require recharging after extended use. There are limits on the weapon, and it is not the strongest weapon in the game.
The Master Sword’s journey, marked by periods of destruction and restoration, underscores the central themes of the Zelda series: the enduring battle between good and evil, and the unwavering spirit of the hero who wields the Blade of Evil’s Bane. The dynamic interplay of weapon degradation and restoration not only reinforces the narrative but also enhances player engagement, compelling them to actively participate in the sword’s ongoing saga.