Table of Contents

Can the Master Sword Shoot Beams? A Comprehensive Guide

Yes, the Master Sword can indeed shoot beams in both Breath of the Wild (BotW) and Tears of the Kingdom (TotK), but there are specific conditions that must be met for this to occur. This iconic ability, deeply rooted in the lore of the Zelda franchise, adds another layer of strategy and power to Link’s arsenal, making him an even more formidable opponent against the forces of evil. Mastering the Master Sword’s beam attack is crucial for any aspiring hero of Hyrule.

Understanding the Master Sword Beam Mechanics

The exact mechanics of how the Master Sword unleashes its beam attack differ slightly between Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, but the core principle remains the same: Link needs to be at full health to trigger the beam.

Breath of the Wild

In Breath of the Wild, the beam attack is executed by mimicking the action of throwing the Master Sword. However, because the sword is indestructible, Link instead unleashes a powerful beam of energy.

Full Health Requirement: Link must have all of his hearts filled. Temporary hearts granted by food or elixirs also contribute to meeting this requirement.
Activation: Hold down the R button (or the corresponding button for throwing weapons on your chosen console). Link will assume the stance as if preparing to throw the Master Sword.
Execution: Release the R button to unleash the beam. The beam travels in a straight line, damaging enemies it hits.

Tears of the Kingdom

Tears of the Kingdom retains the full health requirement and the beam attack, although the activation method is slightly refined.

Full Health Requirement: Just like in Breath of the Wild, Link must have full health.
Activation: Hold down the R button. If Link is at full health, the Master Sword will charge, and a visual cue will appear.
Execution: Release the R button to fire the beam.

Enhancing the Master Sword Beam in Tears of the Kingdom

Tears of the Kingdom introduces a new mechanic to enhance the Master Sword’s beam attack, which involves equipping and upgrading a specific armor set.

Armor Set: Equipping all three pieces of the Fierce Deity Armor is necessary.
Upgrade Requirement: Each piece of the Fierce Deity Armor must be upgraded to at least two stars at a Great Fairy Fountain.
Bonus: Once the armor is fully equipped and upgraded, the Master Sword Beam Up set bonus activates.
Effect: This bonus significantly increases the range and power of the Master Sword’s beam attack, allowing Link to strike enemies from a greater distance.

The Master Sword: More Than Just a Beam Weapon

While the beam attack is a valuable asset, the Master Sword is much more than just a ranged weapon. It is a legendary blade imbued with sacred power, and its properties evolve based on the circumstances.

Base Damage: The Master Sword typically has a base damage of 30.
Enhanced Damage: When near sources of Malice or corrupted enemies like Guardians, the Master Sword glows with a blue aura, and its damage doubles to 60.
Recharging: Unlike other weapons, the Master Sword doesn’t break. Instead, after prolonged use, it runs out of energy and needs to recharge for 10 minutes of real-time gameplay before it can be used again.
Unbreakable Nature: The Master Sword cannot be broken, making it a reliable weapon in any situation.

Why the Master Sword Matters

The Master Sword is a symbol of hope and a crucial tool for defeating evil in the Zelda universe. Its unique properties, including the beam attack and its ability to increase in power when facing evil, make it an indispensable weapon for Link’s quest. The sword’s connection to Zelda, especially in Tears of the Kingdom, further solidifies its importance in the ongoing battle against darkness. The Master Sword is also a great teaching tool. Through games like Zelda, we can explore complex problem solving. At the Games Learning Society, we explore these subjects in more detail; visit GamesLearningSociety.org to learn more.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Master Sword and its beam attack.

1. When can the Master Sword shoot beams?

The Master Sword can shoot beams when Link is at full health. This applies to both Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom. If Link is missing even a single heart, the beam attack will not activate.

2. Why doesn’t the Master Sword shoot beams?

The most common reason is that Link does not have full health. Ensure that all of Link’s hearts are filled, including any temporary hearts granted by food or elixirs. If you’re still having trouble, make sure you are holding the “throw” button (R) long enough to initiate the charge.

3. Does the Master Sword attract lightning?

Yes, the Master Sword is a metal weapon and will attract lightning during thunderstorms. It’s crucial to unequip the Master Sword and any other metal equipment to avoid being struck by lightning.

4. Can anything break the Master Sword?

No, the Master Sword cannot be broken. However, it does have a recharge mechanic. After extended use, it will run out of energy and become unusable for 10 minutes of real-time gameplay.

5. Why is my Master Sword only doing 30 damage?

The Master Sword has a base damage of 30. This damage increases to 60 when Link is near sources of Malice or corrupted enemies. Completing the Trial of the Sword DLC in Breath of the Wild can permanently increase its base damage.

6. How do I increase the range of the Master Sword beam?

In Tears of the Kingdom, equip the Fierce Deity Armor and upgrade each piece to at least two stars at a Great Fairy Fountain. This will activate the Master Sword Beam Up set bonus, significantly increasing the beam’s range.

7. Can I fuse the Master Sword?

Yes, in Tears of the Kingdom, you can fuse materials to the Master Sword to enhance its attack power and add elemental effects. Be creative and experiment with different materials to find powerful combinations.

8. Is there a weapon stronger than the Master Sword?

While the Master Sword is iconic and has unique properties, some weapons can deal more raw damage. Weapons like the Fierce Deity Sword or the Great Fairy Sword can sometimes surpass the Master Sword in terms of base attack power.

9. Why does the Master Sword only glow sometimes?

The Master Sword glows when near sources of Malice or corrupted enemies. This indicates that the sword is empowered and dealing increased damage. The glow is a visual cue that the sword is at its most potent.

10. How long does it take for the Master Sword to recharge?

The Master Sword takes 10 minutes of real-time gameplay to recharge after it runs out of energy. This is a fixed duration and cannot be shortened.

11. Does Zelda turn back from a dragon?

Yes, in Tears of the Kingdom, Zelda does eventually turn back into her human form after Link defeats Ganondorf. Her sacrifice to become the Light Dragon is ultimately reversed, restoring her to her original self.

12. Which dragon has the Master Sword?

The Master Sword is found embedded in the head of the Light Dragon, who is actually Princess Zelda in her dragon form. Obtaining the sword requires Link to have at least two full stamina wheels.

13. What happens if I throw away the Master Sword?

You cannot permanently throw away the Master Sword. If you attempt to throw it, the Master Sword will return to the forest and reappear in your inventory.

14. Is the DLC worth it for Breath of the Wild?

Yes, the DLC for Breath of the Wild, known as The Master Trials, is highly recommended. It includes the Trial of the Sword, which permanently increases the Master Sword’s base damage, along with other valuable additions.

15. Can the Master Sword be upgraded?

The Master Sword can be upgraded through the Trial of the Sword DLC in Breath of the Wild. Completing the trials will increase its base damage, making it an even more powerful weapon. Additionally, in Tears of the Kingdom, fusing materials to the Master Sword acts as a temporary upgrade.

By understanding these mechanics and answering these common questions, you can harness the full potential of the Master Sword and become a true hero of Hyrule.

Can the Master Sword shoot beams?