Is The Dark Tunic Worth It in Tears of the Kingdom? A Deep Dive
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Is the Dark Tunic worth the Poes in Tears of the Kingdom? The short answer is: it depends on your playstyle and current stage in the game. For early game exploration in the Depths, where Gloom is a constant threat, the temporary heart the Tunic provides is invaluable. However, its limited defense and inability to be upgraded make it less appealing later in the game when facing tougher enemies. Its “cool factor” and the Night Speed Up bonus when the full set is equipped definitely give it some appeal, so consider if those elements are valuable to you.
Understanding the Dark Tunic and Dark Armor Set
The Dark Tunic is a piece of armor in The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom that forms part of the Dark Armor Set, alongside the Dark Hood and Dark Trousers. It’s obtained by trading Poes at a Bargainer Statue located in the Depths. The Tunic is recognizable by its dark color scheme, a direct color-swap of the classic Tunic of Time, giving Link a more menacing appearance.
Key Features of the Dark Tunic
- Base Defense: 3
- Effect: Provides a temporary heart that absorbs Gloom damage.
- Set Bonus: When worn with the Dark Hood and Dark Trousers, provides a Night Speed Up bonus.
- Obtained: Trading 150 Poes at a Bargainer Statue in the Depths.
- Upgradable: No.
- Dyeable: Yes, at the Dye Shop in Hateno Village.
Pros and Cons of the Dark Tunic
To properly evaluate if the Dark Tunic is “worth it,” let’s break down the advantages and disadvantages.
Pros
- Early Gloom Protection: The temporary heart offered by the Dark Tunic is a huge advantage when first exploring the Depths, a region riddled with Gloom. Gloom can permanently reduce your maximum health, so having a buffer to absorb that damage is crucial.
- Night Speed Up Bonus: When the entire Dark Set is worn, you get a Night Speed Up bonus. This is useful for covering ground quickly during nighttime expeditions, especially in areas with difficult terrain.
- Cool Aesthetic: Let’s be honest, the Dark Tunic looks cool. The menacing appearance can be a fun change from Link’s usual heroic garb. Some characters also react negatively when they see Link wearing it, which can add to the atmosphere.
- Relatively Easy to Acquire Early On: While collecting 150 Poes might seem daunting at the start, it’s achievable fairly early in the game, especially if you focus on exploring the Depths.
Cons
- Low Base Defense: A base defense of only 3 is relatively low compared to other armor sets in the game, particularly those acquired later on. This makes it less effective in combat against powerful enemies.
- Cannot Be Upgraded: The inability to upgrade the Dark Tunic at Great Fairy Fountains is a major drawback. Many armor sets become significantly more powerful with upgrades, making them much more viable in late-game combat.
- Defense Power Wanes Later in the Game: As you progress and encounter stronger enemies, the Dark Tunic’s low defense becomes increasingly inadequate. You’ll likely need to switch to more protective armor to survive challenging encounters.
- The Gloom Resistance is Limited: While the temporary heart is helpful, it only absorbs a limited amount of Gloom damage. In areas with high Gloom concentrations, you’ll still take damage to your regular hearts. Other armors offer outright Gloom resistance instead.
When Is the Dark Tunic “Worth It”?
The value of the Dark Tunic largely depends on the specific circumstances of your gameplay.
- Early Game Exploration in the Depths: This is where the Dark Tunic shines. The temporary heart provides essential protection against Gloom, allowing you to explore the dangerous Depths without constantly worrying about permanent health loss.
- Nighttime Travel: If you frequently travel at night and value increased movement speed, the full Dark Set can be useful. However, other sets offer more substantial bonuses and better defense.
- Aesthetic Preference: If you simply like the way it looks, then it’s “worth it” to you! The Dark Tunic offers a visual change and allows you to express your individual play style.
- Completionists: If you are trying to collect every armor set, of course you need it.
Alternatives to the Dark Tunic
Several armor sets offer better protection, bonuses, and overall utility than the Dark Tunic, especially later in the game. Here are a few notable alternatives:
- Depths Armor Set: This set provides resistance to Gloom damage, negating the need for the temporary heart offered by the Dark Tunic.
- Radiant Armor Set: Provides a disguise that prevents Stal-type enemies from attacking you.
- Soldier Armor Set: Offers high base defense and can be upgraded at Great Fairy Fountains for even greater protection.
- Zonai Armor Set: Provides energy buffs for using Zonai devices, making it ideal for building and traversal.
- Champion’s Leathers: Offers the highest single defense value of any chest piece.
- Armor that can be Upgraded: Any fully upgraded set offers superior protection than the non-upgradable Dark Tunic set.
FAQs About the Dark Tunic and Dark Armor Set
1. Where can I find Bargainer Statues to trade Poes for the Dark Tunic?
Bargainer Statues are located throughout the Depths. You can find one near the Lookout Landing chasm, and others are scattered throughout the region, often near mines or abandoned mineshafts. The video mentioned in some sources (not included here) may help locate them.
2. How do I collect Poes in Tears of the Kingdom?
Poes are found primarily in the Depths. They appear as floating, glowing spirits. Simply walk near them to collect them. Larger clusters of Poes can be found near areas of interest, such as mines or abandoned structures.
3. Can the Dark Tunic be upgraded at Great Fairy Fountains?
No, the Dark Tunic cannot be upgraded at Great Fairy Fountains. This is a significant drawback compared to other armor sets.
4. Can I dye the Dark Tunic?
Yes, the Dark Tunic can be dyed at the Dye Shop in Hateno Village.
5. How much does the Dark Tunic sell for?
The Dark Tunic sells for a very low price, reflecting its primarily aesthetic value. It is not recommended to sell it unless you desperately need Rupees.
6. Does the Dark Armor Set have a set bonus?
Yes, the Dark Armor Set (Dark Tunic, Dark Hood, and Dark Trousers) provides a Night Speed Up bonus when worn together.
7. Does the Dark Tunic protect you from Gloom?
The Dark Tunic provides a temporary heart that absorbs Gloom damage. However, it does not offer full resistance to Gloom like the Depths Armor Set.
8. Is there Gloom-resistant armor in Tears of the Kingdom?
Yes, the Depths Armor Set provides Gloom resistance, making it a superior option for exploring areas with high Gloom concentrations.
9. What is the best armor in Tears of the Kingdom?
The “best” armor depends on your playstyle and needs. For pure defense, the Soldier Armor Set or Wild Armor Set (once upgraded) are excellent choices. The Zonaite Armor Set is best for using Zonai Devices. For individual pieces, the Champion’s Leathers offer the highest defense of any chest piece.
10. How many Poes do I need to get the entire Dark Armor Set?
You need a total of 650 Poes to purchase the entire Dark Armor Set (150 for the Tunic, 300 for the Hood, and 200 for the Trousers).
11. Where is the Evil Spirit Armor located?
The Evil Spirit Armor is found in the Lomei Depths Labyrinth, but you must complete all stages of The Lomei Labyrinth Island Prophecy Side Quest.
12. What does the Lynel Mask do?
The Lynel Mask allows you to approach Lynels unnoticed for a short time, but they will eventually detect you. It also works to fool Bokoblins and other common enemies.
13. What is the best way to get more hearts in Tears of the Kingdom?
You get more hearts by completing Shrines and trading Lights of Blessing for heart containers at Goddess Statues.
14. Can you upgrade armor in Tears of the Kingdom?
Yes, you can upgrade most armor sets at Great Fairy Fountains. However, the Dark Armor Set is an exception and cannot be upgraded.
15. Will there be DLC for Tears of the Kingdom?
According to Aonuma, there are no plans for DLC for Tears of the Kingdom.
Final Verdict
The Dark Tunic is a useful piece of armor for early-game exploration in the Depths, offering a temporary heart to absorb Gloom damage. However, its low defense and inability to be upgraded make it less appealing later on. Its worth is subjective and depends on your playstyle and priorities. If you value the aesthetic, the Night Speed Up bonus, and the early Gloom protection, then it’s a worthwhile investment. Otherwise, there are better armor sets to prioritize.
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