Unbreakable Legend: How Many Hits Can the Master Sword Truly Take?
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
The question of the Master Sword’s durability in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom is a persistent one, debated amongst Hyrule historians and casual players alike. So, let’s get right to it:
The Master Sword doesn’t break in the traditional sense. Instead, it runs out of energy and requires a recharge period. In Breath of the Wild, a fully powered-up Master Sword, achieved through the Trial of the Sword DLC, can withstand approximately 200 hits against standard enemies before needing to recharge. In Tears of the Kingdom, while the base damage and abilities have been tweaked, the core mechanic remains the same – it depletes its energy rather than shattering into pieces. It takes 10 minutes for the Master Sword to recharge.
Understanding the Master Sword’s Unique Durability
The Master Sword is no ordinary weapon. Forged with sacred power, it possesses a unique property: rather than shattering like other weapons, it enters a “depleted” state when its energy reserves are exhausted. During this time, the sword is unusable, but it remains in Link’s inventory and automatically recharges over a set period.
Factors Affecting Master Sword Usage
Several factors influence how long the Master Sword can be used before it needs recharging:
-
Enemy Type: The Master Sword is exceptionally effective against enemies corrupted by Malice or associated with Calamity Ganon. Against these foes, its attack power doubles (30 to 60 in Breath of the Wild, potentially higher with buffs in Tears of the Kingdom), and its durability dramatically increases.
-
Trial of the Sword: Completing the Trial of the Sword in Breath of the Wild‘s DLC significantly enhances the Master Sword. This upgrade boosts its base damage and alters its visual appearance, reinforcing its strength. It’s important to note, however, that while the strength of the Master Sword may change, its durability remains largely the same.
-
Environment: In Tears of the Kingdom, the Master Sword’s abilities are further influenced by the environment. Its interaction with gloom and other environmental factors can temporarily boost its attack power and range.
Master Sword FAQs: Separating Fact from Legend
Let’s delve into some frequently asked questions about the Master Sword, clarifying common misconceptions and offering helpful insights.
1. Can the Master Sword be fused?
Yes, in Tears of the Kingdom, you can fuse materials to the Master Sword using the Fuse ability, enhancing its attack power and adding elemental or status effects. Experimentation is key to discovering the most effective combinations.
2. How does the Master Sword gain 60 damage?
The Master Sword reaches 60 damage (in Breath of the Wild) when wielded against enemies affected by Ganon’s Malice, such as Guardians, Blights, and Ganon himself. Its blade glows with a blue aura in these encounters, signifying its enhanced power.
3. Can the Hylian Shield break?
Yes, unlike the Master Sword, the Hylian Shield can break. While it boasts incredible durability, prolonged and excessive abuse will eventually lead to its destruction.
4. Is there an unbreakable shield in Breath of the Wild?
No, there is no truly unbreakable shield in Breath of the Wild. The Hylian Shield is the most durable but can still break under duress.
5. Why is the Master Sword sometimes only 30 damage?
The Master Sword’s base damage is 30 when used against regular enemies because it was weakened during the Great Calamity. It needs the presence of Malice or Ganon’s influence to reach its full potential.
6. Can the Master Sword break while fighting Ganon?
No, the Master Sword cannot break when fighting Ganon. It’s specifically designed to combat him, dealing double damage and maintaining its functionality throughout the battle.
7. What is the strongest weapon in Breath of the Wild?
The Master Sword is considered the best weapon overall, even with its recharge mechanic. Its consistent damage output, especially against corrupted enemies, and its unique properties make it invaluable.
8. Can you get the Master Sword with 10 hearts?
No, you need a minimum of 13 full heart containers to pull the Master Sword. Temporary heart buffs do not count.
9. Why is the Master Sword sometimes 60 and sometimes 30?
As mentioned previously, the Master Sword deals 60 damage against enemies affected by Ganon’s Malice and 30 against standard enemies.
10. Can the Hylian Shield respawn?
Yes, in Tears of the Kingdom, you can repurchase the Hylian Shield from Cece’s shop in Hateno Village after completing specific quests. In Breath of the Wild, you can repurchase it from Grante in Tarrey Town.
11. Who can fix the Hylian Shield?
You cannot repair the Hylian Shield directly. Instead, you can buy a replacement from Grante in Tarrey Town (Breath of the Wild) or Cece’s shop in Hateno Village (Tears of the Kingdom) after obtaining it once.
12. What is Link’s shield called?
Link’s iconic shield is known as the Hylian Shield. It’s a recurring item in the Legend of Zelda series and is often associated with the Knights of Hyrule.
13. What is the best shield in Breath of the Wild?
The Hylian Shield is widely regarded as the best shield due to its high durability and damage protection.
14. How much HP do you need to pull the Master Sword?
You require a minimum of 13 Heart Containers to claim the Master Sword.
15. Why is the Master Sword so special?
The Master Sword is special because it’s the only weapon capable of permanently defeating Calamity Ganon. It has a unique ability, it also can emit light beams to inflict substantial damage on nearby adversaries. It’s imbued with sacred power, capable of banishing evil and protecting Hyrule. For more about the power of play and gaming, see Games Learning Society or GamesLearningSociety.org.
Mastering the Master Sword: Tips for Extended Use
Here are some tips to maximize the Master Sword’s lifespan and minimize recharge time:
-
Prioritize Malice-Infested Enemies: Save the Master Sword for battles against Guardians, Blights, and other Ganon-related threats. This will take full advantage of the Master Sword’s increased durability.
-
Utilize Other Weapons: Don’t rely solely on the Master Sword for every encounter. Use other weapons for standard enemies to conserve its energy.
-
Experiment with Fusing (Tears of the Kingdom): In Tears of the Kingdom, fusing the Master Sword with the right materials can significantly increase its damage output, reducing the number of hits needed to defeat enemies.
-
Understand Environmental Effects (Tears of the Kingdom): Exploit the environmental boosts that enhance the sword’s abilities in Tears of the Kingdom, further increasing its effectiveness.
In conclusion, while the Master Sword may not be entirely unbreakable, its unique durability mechanic and enhanced power against specific enemies make it an invaluable asset in Link’s quest to save Hyrule. By understanding its limitations and utilizing it strategically, you can wield the Sword That Seals the Darkness effectively and become a true hero of legend.