Unleashing the Master Sword’s True Potential: A Comprehensive Guide to Powering Up

The Master Sword, the legendary blade of the Hero, is a cornerstone of the Zelda universe. While already potent, its power can be significantly amplified in both Breath of the Wild (BOTW) and Tears of the Kingdom (TOTK). There are several ways to enhance the Master Sword’s capabilities.

• Completing the Trial of the Sword (BOTW): This DLC challenge is the most direct method to increase the Master Sword’s base damage. Clearing all levels of the Trial unlocks the Sword’s awakened state, boosting its base damage to 60 and extending its durability.

• Proximity to Malice and Guardians (BOTW): When Link is near sources of Malice or Guardians, the Master Sword glows with a blue aura and its attack power temporarily increases to 60.

• Fusing Materials (TOTK): In Tears of the Kingdom, the Fuse ability allows you to attach materials to the Master Sword, adding their attack power to the weapon. Powerful monster parts like Lynel Saber Horns or elemental horns like Gleeok Horns can dramatically increase its damage output.

• Utilizing Full Hearts for Beam Attacks: When Link has full hearts, he can unleash a powerful beam attack with the Master Sword, providing ranged combat ability.

While the Master Sword is designed to be a potent weapon, understanding its limitations and the methods to overcome them are key to maximizing its effectiveness in your adventures across Hyrule.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Master Sword

Here are 15 frequently asked questions about the Master Sword, providing valuable information for those looking to master this iconic weapon:

What is the base damage of the Master Sword?

The Master Sword’s base damage is 30. However, this can fluctuate depending on the circumstances. Completing the Trial of the Sword permanently increases the base damage to 60 in BOTW. In TOTK, the Fuse ability and proximity to malice influence the effective damage output.

How does the Trial of the Sword affect the Master Sword?

The Trial of the Sword, available as part of the Expansion Pass DLC for Breath of the Wild, allows you to complete 3 separate levels of trials. Each level allows for a different power up on the Master Sword. Completing the Trial of the Sword permanently awakens the Master Sword, increasing its base damage from 30 to 60. In addition, the Master Sword’s durability increases significantly.

Can the Master Sword break?

The Master Sword cannot break permanently. However, after extended use, it runs out of energy and becomes unusable for a short period. This “recharge” mechanic replaces traditional weapon breaking.

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

The Master Sword takes 10 minutes of real-time to recharge after it runs out of energy. During this time, the sword is unavailable for use.

Why does the Master Sword glow blue?

The Master Sword glows blue when Link is in close proximity to sources of Malice or Guardians. While glowing, its attack power is temporarily increased to 60.

Can I use the Master Sword beam attack all the time?

No. The Master Sword’s beam attack is only available when Link has full hearts. Consuming items that provide temporary hearts will not allow you to use the beam attack.

How many hits can the Master Sword take before needing to recharge?

The number of hits the Master Sword can take before needing to recharge depends on whether it is in its awakened state (after completing the Trial of the Sword) or its default state. In its default state, it can withstand approximately 40 hits. When awakened, it can withstand close to 200 hits before needing to recharge.

What are some good materials to fuse with the Master Sword in Tears of the Kingdom?

In Tears of the Kingdom, several materials can be fused with the Master Sword to enhance its power. Some excellent choices include:

• Lynel Saber Horns: These provide a substantial damage boost.
• Gleeok Horns: These add elemental damage (fire, ice, or lightning) in addition to attack power.
• Dragon Parts (e.g., Light Dragon Horn): These offer both damage and unique properties.
• Silver Lynel Saber Horn: One of the strongest monster parts to fuse with the Master Sword for incredible damage.

Experimenting with different materials is key to finding the optimal combination for your playstyle.

Can the Master Sword be upgraded in Tears of the Kingdom?

Yes, in Tears of the Kingdom, the Master Sword can be “upgraded” through the Fuse ability. By fusing materials to it, you enhance its attack power and add unique properties based on the material used. The possibilities are nearly endless, allowing for a high degree of customization.

What happens if someone other than Link tries to use the Master Sword?

In the lore of the Zelda universe, only the chosen hero (Link) can wield the Master Sword effectively. If anyone else attempts to use it, the sword will reject them, causing them great pain and rendering it unusable.

Is there a way to make the Master Sword unbreakable?

While the Master Sword cannot be made entirely unbreakable, completing the Trial of the Sword significantly increases its durability, allowing for much longer use before it needs to recharge. In Tears of the Kingdom, strategic use of the Fuse ability can help prolong its use by effectively adding durability through fused materials.

How much stamina do I need to pull the Master Sword?

In Breath of the Wild, the player needs two full Stamina Wheels to draw the Master Sword. As food and potions cannot contribute here, this means that Link will need to obtain five Stamina Vessels to add to the single Wheel he starts the game with. In Tears of the Kingdom, there are other ways to draw the Master Sword without fully upgrading Stamina Wheels.

Why is my Master Sword only doing 30 damage?

If your Master Sword is only doing 30 damage, it’s likely because you haven’t completed the Trial of the Sword in Breath of the Wild or aren’t near a source of Malice or Guardians. In Tears of the Kingdom, it might also mean you haven’t fused any materials to it yet.

What is the strongest weapon in Zelda games?

While the “strongest” weapon can be subjective and depend on the specific game and context, the Master Sword is often considered one of the best due to its unique properties, durability, and potential for increased power. In some games, fully upgraded versions of the Master Sword, like the Master Sword Lv3 (Golden Sword), are the ultimate weapons.

Where can I learn more about the educational aspects of video games?

If you’re interested in exploring the educational potential of video games like Zelda, be sure to check out the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org. The Games Learning Society researches and promotes the use of games in education, highlighting how games can foster critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and creativity.

By understanding these aspects of the Master Sword, players can harness its full power and become truly formidable heroes in Hyrule!