Do Kilton’s Masks Work? A Deep Dive into Monster Deception in Zelda: Breath of the Wild
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Yes, Kilton’s masks absolutely work in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. They function by providing a temporary disguise, allowing Link to blend in with specific monster types, and enabling players to avoid combat encounters under certain conditions. While not foolproof, these masks offer unique gameplay advantages that can significantly alter your exploration and combat strategies within Hyrule. However, their effectiveness is dependent on several factors, including the specific mask, the type of monsters nearby, and your actions while wearing them. Let’s delve deeper into how these masks work and their various applications.
Understanding Kilton and His Wares
Kilton, the quirky monster parts merchant, is a unique character who only appears at night. He operates the “Fang and Bone” shop, offering a variety of monster-themed items, including the masks in question. To gain access to Kilton’s shop, you must first complete the side quest “A Shady Customer,” which involves meeting him at Skull Lake. After that, he can be found in various locations around Hyrule at night.
Kilton trades in Mon, his unique currency, which can only be obtained by exchanging monster parts. The better the monster part, the more Mon it’s worth. This creates a gameplay loop encouraging players to actively hunt monsters, not just for their drops but to purchase Kilton’s exclusive items.
The masks Kilton sells include:
- Bokoblin Mask: Allows Link to blend in with Bokoblins.
- Moblin Mask: Allows Link to blend in with Moblins.
- Lizalfos Mask: Allows Link to blend in with Lizalfos.
- Lynel Mask: Allows Link to blend in with Lynels (temporarily).
How the Masks Function
The core mechanic of these masks is to fool monsters into believing Link is one of their own. When wearing a mask, monsters of that type will generally not attack Link unless he gets too close, acts aggressively, or there are other non-masked monsters nearby.
The Bokoblin, Moblin, and Lizalfos Masks
These masks are relatively straightforward. When worn, Bokoblins, Moblins, and Lizalfos, respectively, will be less likely to attack Link. They might approach and sniff him cautiously, but generally, they’ll leave him alone. However, it’s crucial to maintain a non-threatening posture and avoid any sudden movements. If Link starts attacking, running, or gets too close, the monsters will realize he’s an imposter and attack.
The Lynel Mask: A Different Beast
The Lynel Mask is unique in that it only provides a temporary reprieve. Lynels are much smarter than other monsters and will eventually see through the disguise. The Lynel Mask is intended to allow the player to approach the Lynel to get some initial hits in before the fight begins, or to survey the area.
Limitations and Considerations
- Other Monsters: The masks only work on the specific monster type they represent. Other monster types will still attack Link.
- Aggressive Actions: Any aggressive action, such as attacking, drawing a weapon, or using a rune power, will break the disguise.
- Proximity: Getting too close to monsters, especially Lynels, will raise their suspicion and eventually cause them to attack.
- Environmental Factors: Being discovered by one monster can alert others nearby.
- Mask Durability: The masks do not have durability and will not break.
Strategic Uses of Kilton’s Masks
Kilton’s masks are valuable tools for various gameplay strategies:
- Stealth and Exploration: Safely traverse areas populated by specific monsters, allowing for easier resource gathering and exploration.
- Monster Part Farming: Approach monsters without immediately triggering combat, giving you time to assess their strength and plan your attack.
- Distraction: Use the masks to lure monsters away from valuable resources or areas you want to explore undisturbed.
- Unique Encounters: Observe monster behavior up close without the threat of immediate attack, leading to interesting discoveries.
Beyond Kilton: Other Masks and Their Effects
It’s important to note that Kilton’s masks are not the only masks in Breath of the Wild. The Amiibo-exclusive masks and the DLC-exclusive Majora’s Mask also offer unique abilities and effects. For example, Majora’s Mask makes it harder for certain enemies to spot you, while the Korok Mask shakes when a Korok is nearby.
The Value Proposition
While Kilton’s masks won’t make you invincible, they offer significant gameplay advantages for players who enjoy stealth, exploration, and strategic combat. The masks are an investment that, if used wisely, can make your journey through Hyrule a more enjoyable and rewarding experience. Furthermore, supporting Kilton’s business helps to add to the unique and engaging world that Breath of the Wild has to offer. The unique systems that the video game industry has to offer can be a great way to study and better our world; you can learn more on the Games Learning Society website.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Kilton’s Masks
1. Can Kilton’s masks be upgraded or enhanced?
No, Kilton’s masks cannot be upgraded or enhanced at the Great Fairy Fountains. Their effects remain constant throughout the game.
2. Do the masks work on all difficulties (Normal, Master Mode)?
Yes, the masks function the same way in both Normal and Master Mode. The increased enemy strength in Master Mode makes the masks even more valuable for avoiding unnecessary combat.
3. Will wearing the Dark Link set help with the masks’ effectiveness?
The Dark Link set provides a Night Speed Up bonus, but it does not directly enhance the masks’ effectiveness. However, moving faster at night can help you navigate monster-infested areas more quickly and avoid detection.
4. How long does the Lynel Mask’s effect last?
The Lynel Mask’s effect is temporary and varies depending on the Lynel’s type and alertness. Generally, it lasts for a few seconds to a minute before the Lynel becomes suspicious.
5. Can I use the masks to sneak up on Lynels for a sneakstrike?
Yes, the Lynel Mask allows you to approach a Lynel unnoticed, giving you an opportunity to perform a sneakstrike if you’re quick and stealthy enough.
6. If I’m wearing a mask, will other monsters ignore me completely?
No, the masks only work on the specific monster type they represent. Other monsters will still attack Link as usual.
7. Can I cook with monster extract obtained while wearing a mask?
Yes, wearing a mask does not affect your ability to gather monster parts or cook with monster extract. Monster extract is needed for some quests that involve cakes.
8. Where can I find Kilton after the initial meeting at Skull Lake?
After meeting Kilton at Skull Lake, he can be found in various locations around Hyrule at night, typically near towns or stables. Look for his distinctive hot air balloon.
9. How do I earn Mon to purchase Kilton’s masks?
You earn Mon by trading monster parts to Kilton. The rarer and more powerful the monster part, the more Mon it’s worth.
10. Does the Majora’s Mask have the same effect as Kilton’s masks?
Majora’s Mask makes it harder for all certain enemies to spot you, while Kilton’s masks only work on the specific monster type they represent.
11. What happens if I take off the mask while surrounded by monsters?
Taking off the mask will immediately break the disguise, and the monsters will attack Link.
12. Are there any quests related to Kilton besides “A Shady Customer?”
There is a side quest involving Koltin (Kilton’s brother) called “The Hunt for Bubbul Gems!” that unlocks armor.
13. Do the masks work on Guardians?
No, the masks do not work on Guardians or any other mechanical enemies.
14. Does weather affect the effectiveness of the masks?
No, weather conditions do not directly affect the effectiveness of the masks. However, rain can make it harder for monsters to see and hear you, which can indirectly improve your stealth.
15. Does the difficulty of the Lynel (Red, Blue, White-Maned, Silver) affect how long the Lynel Mask works?
Yes, the difficulty of the Lynel does influence how long the Lynel Mask is effective. The smarter and more powerful Lynels are, the less effective the mask will be.
By understanding the mechanics and limitations of Kilton’s masks, players can utilize them effectively to enhance their gameplay experience in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, promoting strategic decision-making and adaptive exploration.