Does Tears of the Kingdom Have Two Endings? Unraveling the Truth
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Yes, Tears of the Kingdom does technically have two endings: a “regular” ending and a “true” ending. However, it’s important to understand that the core narrative conclusion remains the same. The distinction lies in an additional, approximately 6-minute-long cutscene that players unlock upon fulfilling certain criteria. This extra scene doesn’t alter the events of the main story; instead, it provides further closure and a more complete sense of resolution to Link and Zelda’s journey. Think of it less as two divergent storylines and more as the difference between a satisfying ending and a truly exceptional one.
Understanding the Endings
The standard ending of Tears of the Kingdom occurs after you defeat Ganondorf, the Demon King, in Hyrule Castle. The credits roll, showcasing the characters and the world you’ve helped to save. However, the true ending unlocks after meeting specific conditions throughout your playthrough.
How to Unlock the True Ending
To access the true ending, you must meet these requirements:
- Complete all main story quests: This is the most fundamental requirement. Follow the main quest line meticulously.
- Obtain the Master Sword: Wielding the Master Sword is crucial to achieving the true ending.
- Unlock all Geoglyph memories: Finding all the Geoglyphs scattered across Hyrule and viewing their corresponding memories is essential. These memories delve into Zelda’s past and the history of Hyrule, providing vital context for the narrative.
What the True Ending Adds
The true ending cutscene expands upon the game’s conclusion, offering additional context and closure regarding the characters and their destinies. While we won’t spoil the specifics, it’s fair to say that it provides a more emotionally resonant and satisfying conclusion to Link and Zelda’s intertwined journeys. Many players find the extra effort required to unlock it well worth the experience.
Gameplay After the Ending
Tears of the Kingdom, similar to Breath of the Wild, does not offer a traditional post-game state where the world is altered based on your victory over Ganondorf. After the final boss fight, you’re returned to the title screen. However, you can load your save file, which will now feature a star indicating you’ve defeated the final boss. You’ll be placed right before the final encounter, allowing you to continue exploring Hyrule, completing side quests, and gathering resources.
The game also introduces a completion rate displayed on the map screen, encouraging you to explore every nook and cranny of the world. Unfortunately, there is no New Game Plus mode at launch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about the endings and post-game content in Tears of the Kingdom:
1. What Happens After Beating Ganon in TotK?
After defeating Ganondorf in Tears of the Kingdom, you’re sent back to the title screen. Loading your save file will place you right before the final boss fight, but with a star indicating your victory. This allows you to continue exploring and completing any unfinished tasks.
2. Does Tears of the Kingdom Have a Post-Game?
No, Tears of the Kingdom doesn’t have a traditional post-game where the world is altered based on your progress. You can continue playing from the save point before the final boss.
3. Is There a New Game Plus Mode in Tears of the Kingdom?
Unfortunately, Tears of the Kingdom does not feature a New Game Plus mode at launch.
4. What Carries Over After Beating Tears of the Kingdom?
Since there is no post-game or New Game Plus, nothing carries over directly after beating the game. You load your save file right before the final fight. However, the game now tracks your completion rate.
5. How Many Shrines Are in Tears of the Kingdom?
There are a total of 152 Shrines in Tears of the Kingdom: 120 on the surface of Hyrule and 32 in the Sky Islands.
6. What Counts Towards 100% Completion in TotK?
The 100% completion rating on the map only considers discoveries registered on your map. This includes locations, dungeons, and other map markers, but doesn’t include quest completion or activities completed. The completion of the map in Tears of the Kingdom allows users to gain a greater sense of enjoyment from playing the game. This is also true for more general topics in gaming. The Games Learning Society explains more on this topic at GamesLearningSociety.org.
7. Can I Play TotK After Beating Ganon?
Yes, you can continue playing Tears of the Kingdom after defeating Ganondorf, but your save file will place you right before the final battle.
8. Is It Possible to Miss the True Ending in TotK?
Yes, it is possible to miss the true ending. You must fulfill the specified requirements (completing all main story quests, obtaining the Master Sword, and unlocking all Geoglyph memories) before defeating Ganondorf.
9. Does Zelda Turn Back from a Dragon?
Yes, Zelda does eventually return to her human form after Link defeats Ganondorf. The spirits of Rauru and Sonia assist in this transformation.
10. Who Is the Final Boss in Tears of the Kingdom?
The final boss in Tears of the Kingdom is, unsurprisingly, Ganondorf, the Demon King.
11. What is the Final Mission in TotK?
The final main quest in Tears of the Kingdom is “Destroy Ganondorf,” which requires you to find and defeat him.
12. Why Can’t Zelda Hear the Sword?
The in-game explanation is that Zelda’s power has waned, and she no longer has the ability to hear Fi, the spirit residing within the Master Sword.
13. Is Finding Zelda the End of TOTK?
Finding Zelda is a significant milestone in the story, but it is not the end. You must still confront and defeat Ganondorf.
14. What is The Rarest Item in TotK?
Determining the “rarest” item is subjective, but valuable ores like diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and topazes are highly sought after for their high selling prices.
15. Has Anyone 100% Tears of the Kingdom?
Yes, many players have achieved 100% completion in Tears of the Kingdom, dedicating significant time to exploring and discovering every aspect of the game.