Do Any Weapons Not Break in Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom?
The weapon durability system in The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom (TotK) is a core gameplay mechanic, forcing players to constantly adapt and experiment with new weapons. The constant search for fresh gear and the strategic use of the Fuse ability are integral to the game’s experience. However, amidst the chaos of broken swords and shattered shields, the question arises: are there any weapons that defy this rule? Yes, there is one weapon that does not break: the Master Sword. While most weapons in Hyrule will eventually crumble, the Master Sword stands as a unique exception, albeit with its own set of stipulations.
The Unbreakable Master Sword: A Unique Case
The Master Sword, a series staple, maintains its status as the only truly unbreakable weapon in Tears of the Kingdom. This is a significant departure from nearly all other weapons in the game, which will shatter with enough use. Unlike these conventional weapons, the Master Sword does not lose durability in the traditional sense. Instead, it loses energy with each swing, and its power is diminished when it’s depleted.
How the Master Sword Works
Instead of breaking, the Master Sword goes into a period of rest when it runs out of energy. It does not simply disappear from your inventory or become unusable like other broken weapons. When its energy is depleted, you will no longer be able to use it. However, unlike other weapons that are lost forever, the Master Sword will recharge. After a few minutes in your inventory, it is ready to be wielded once more. In a sense, it functions as a renewable weapon. This recharge mechanism is the way that Nintendo implemented the idea of an “unbreakable” sword while still respecting the durability concept of the game.
Obtaining the Master Sword
Acquiring the Master Sword is no easy task. In Tears of the Kingdom, the sword is initially broken and unusable, and you must embark on a quest to restore it. You will eventually encounter the Light Dragon, which holds the sword and allows Link to retrieve it, but only when Link has two full rings of stamina.
Is the Master Sword Always the Most Powerful?
The Master Sword base damage is 30. It’s important to remember that while the Master Sword is unbreakable, it doesn’t always inflict the highest damage. You can increase its attack power by fusing monster parts. Furthermore, it does not automatically increase its damage near gloom, but only through specific fusion combinations.
The Importance of Durability and Fuse
The weapon durability system is not just about breaking weapons; it’s about encouraging experimentation with the Fuse ability. This ability allows you to combine weapons with other items, adding durability and unique effects. While fusing can delay the inevitable breaking of your weaponry, it cannot create an unbreakable sword. It enhances your weapons but doesn’t stop them from eventually shattering.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Weapon Durability in Tears of the Kingdom
1. Do all weapons break in Tears of the Kingdom?
Yes, with the sole exception of the Master Sword, all other weapons in Tears of the Kingdom will break. This includes swords, spears, bows, and shields.
2. Can you repair weapons in Tears of the Kingdom?
Aside from using Octoroks (which can partially repair weapons by “eating” them), there is no method to repair weapons in Tears of the Kingdom. The Fuse ability adds durability but doesn’t restore it. Once a weapon is broken, it’s gone.
3. Does the Hylian Shield break?
Yes, the Hylian Shield, despite its high base defense of 90, can break. It is not an unbreakable item like the Master Sword.
4. What happens if the Hylian Shield breaks?
If the Hylian Shield breaks, it will no longer appear in the Hylian Castle Lockup. It can be purchased from a special vendor after completing a lengthy quest.
5. Can the Fierce Deity Sword break?
Yes, the Fierce Deity Sword can break. It is subject to the same durability rules as other weapons.
6. How do you get the Fierce Deity Sword?
The Fierce Deity Sword is obtained after collecting all three pieces of the Fierce Deity armor set, usually through amiibo.
7. Can you get more than one Fierce Deity Sword?
Yes, you can obtain additional Fierce Deity Swords using the amiibo again.
8. What is the strongest spear in Tears of the Kingdom?
The Gloom Spear is considered the strongest spear in Tears of the Kingdom.
9. Is the Biggoron Sword unbreakable?
No. Despite its unbreakable status in Ocarina of Time, the Biggoron Sword does indeed break in Tears of the Kingdom. Its in-game model even shows nicks in the blade, implying wear and tear.
10. Does the Master Sword have unlimited durability?
The Master Sword does not have unlimited durability, but it is unbreakable in the sense that it doesn’t shatter. Instead, it loses energy and must recharge. It has a cool-down period.
11. What happens when the Master Sword runs out of energy?
When the Master Sword runs out of energy, it can’t be used. After a few minutes of recharging in your inventory, you can use it again.
12. Does the Master Sword become more powerful near Gloom?
The base damage of the Master Sword does not automatically increase when near Gloom, it can be enhanced by specific fusion combinations.
13. What is the rarest sword in Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom?
The Silver Longsword is a rare weapon only reliably found in a specific area behind Zora’s Domain’s Sheikah Shrine.
14. Does Fusing increase weapon durability?
Yes, fusing items to your weapons increases their overall durability. However, it won’t make a weapon completely unbreakable.
15. Is Zelda the Light Dragon?
Yes, the Light Dragon’s true form is Princess Zelda. She swallowed her Secret Stone to become a powerful, immortal dragon and imbue the broken Master Sword with holy power.
Conclusion
While the weapon durability system in Tears of the Kingdom can be challenging, it is designed to be overcome through the creative application of the Fuse ability. The Master Sword, with its ability to recharge, remains the only truly unbreakable weapon, reinforcing its significance in the game. Players should focus on strategizing with fusions and adapting their tactics based on the weapons they have available and not rely on finding other weapons that don’t break.