Does Zelda Return to Normal? A Deep Dive into the Princess’s Fate in Tears of the Kingdom and Beyond
Yes, Zelda ultimately returns to her original Hylian form in The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. After a perilous journey through time and a selfless act of sacrifice, she is restored, bringing a sense of completion to her character arc. However, the nuances of her transformation and return are complex and intertwined with the overarching themes of the game. This article explores the intricate details surrounding Zelda’s transformations, the true ending, and other intriguing aspects of her journey.
Zelda’s Transformation and Sacrifice in Tears of the Kingdom
Time Travel and the Secret Stone
Tears of the Kingdom presents a unique narrative where Zelda travels back in time due to the power of a Secret Stone. Encountering Ganon beneath Hyrule Castle, the stone amplifies a latent ability within her bloodline, granting her control over time. This unexpected journey launches her into Hyrule’s distant past, reshaping her destiny in profound ways.
Becoming the Light Dragon
To ensure the Master Sword‘s recovery and safeguard Hyrule’s future, Zelda makes the ultimate sacrifice: she consumes her own Secret Stone, transforming into the Light Dragon. This drastic action allows her to embed the Master Sword in her forehead, providing it with the necessary time and energy to be revitalized over millennia. This sacrifice highlights her unwavering commitment to her kingdom and to Link.
The Restoration
Throughout the game, Link’s actions and unwavering dedication create the possibility of Zelda’s restoration. Driven by his quest, and assisted by ancient sages, Link eventually defeats Ganondorf, paving the way for Zelda to return to her original form. Rauru and Hylia, appearing to grant Link the extra powers he needs to save Zelda, help Link heal Zelda. As a result, Zelda returns to her original form.
The True Ending: A Moment of Peace
Understanding the True Ending
Achieving the “True” Ending in Tears of the Kingdom doesn’t alter the core events of the story. Instead, it rewards players with an extended cutscene following the credits. This scene offers closure and emphasizes the profound connection between Link and Zelda. The additional 6 minutes are well worth the effort for players invested in the narrative.
Significance of the True Ending
The cutscene solidifies the bond between Link and Zelda, showcasing their shared understanding and commitment to Hyrule’s future. It reinforces the theme of hope and highlights the sacrifices made to achieve peace.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Zelda’s Fate
1. How does Zelda go back in time in Tears of the Kingdom?
Zelda travels back in time using the power of a Secret Stone after an encounter with Ganon beneath Hyrule Castle. The stone amplifies a dormant power within her bloodline, granting her the ability to control time itself.
2. What is the Secret Stone?
The Secret Stones are ancient artifacts with immense power. They seem to resonate with individuals who possess the appropriate lineage or inherent abilities. They are used in Tears of the Kingdom to grant abilities, transform Zelda into a dragon, and propel her back in time.
3. Why does Zelda turn into a dragon?
Zelda turns into a dragon to ensure the Master Sword‘s recovery over thousands of years. Embedding the sword in her forehead allows it to absorb her light energy and become powerful enough to defeat Ganondorf.
4. Does Link’s arm return to normal?
Yes, with the combined efforts of the Gods, Zelda returns to normal and Link’s arm returning to normal.
5. Is there a “true” ending in Tears of the Kingdom?
Yes, there is a “true” ending in Tears of the Kingdom. It doesn’t change the story’s outcome, but it includes a longer cutscene after the credits, which emphasizes the relationship between Link and Zelda.
6. Do Link and Zelda end up together romantically?
The relationship between Link and Zelda is nuanced. While romantic interest is hinted at, particularly in Skyward Sword and Breath of the Wild, their bond is often portrayed as platonic or professional. The games emphasize their deep care and support for each other, whether or not it becomes romantic. Their relationship can be seen as loving, but not necessarily romantic.
7. Is Zelda alive at the end of Breath of the Wild?
Yes, Zelda is alive at the end of Breath of the Wild. She is in Hyrule Castle, using her power to restrain Calamity Ganon.
8. How many endings does Breath of the Wild have?
Breath of the Wild has two endings: a standard ending where Link defeats Ganon and saves Zelda, and a secret ending triggered by fulfilling specific requirements in the game.
9. Can you keep playing Tears of the Kingdom after you beat it?
Yes, you can continue playing Tears of the Kingdom after beating Ganon. The game saves your progress, and you can return to Hyrule to complete unfinished quests, find collectibles, and explore the world further.
10. Why doesn’t Zelda age in Breath of the Wild?
Zelda doesn’t age in Breath of the Wild because her sealing power created a barrier between Hyrule Castle and the surrounding area. This effectively froze her in time, preventing her aging for 100 years.
11. What happens after beating Ganon in Tears of the Kingdom?
After defeating Ganon in Tears of the Kingdom, the game returns you to the main menu. Your save file will have a star, indicating completion, and a completion rate will be displayed on the map.
12. Is Tears of the Kingdom the end of the Zelda franchise?
No, Tears of the Kingdom is not the end of the Zelda franchise. Given the series’ continued success and the demand for new installments, it’s highly likely that new Zelda games will be developed.
13. Who does Link truly love in the Zelda universe?
The question of who Link truly loves is open to interpretation. While many fans speculate on his feelings for Zelda, the games often leave the nature of their relationship ambiguous, allowing players to project their own interpretations onto the characters.
14. Is Link supposed to marry Zelda in any of the games?
Link and Zelda are never explicitly shown marrying in any of the games. While some games hint at a romantic connection, it’s never fully realized in a marriage.
15. Was Link originally intended to be a girl?
While Link has always been depicted as male, the character’s design has often been gender-neutral to allow players to project themselves onto the character. The developers considered making Link a female character at one point.
Conclusion: Zelda’s enduring legacy
Zelda’s journey through time and transformation into the Light Dragon in Tears of the Kingdom showcases her selflessness and unwavering commitment to Hyrule. Ultimately, she does return to her original form, bringing a sense of closure to her character arc. Despite not always ending up romantically involved with Link, their bond is always powerful and integral to the storyline. The narrative complexity and character depth are elements that make the Zelda franchise so enduring.
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