Is the Fully Upgraded Master Sword Unbreakable?
The simple answer is no, the fully upgraded Master Sword is not completely unbreakable in The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. While it gains enhanced durability and a powerful glow when in the presence of gloom-infused enemies or areas, and can be repaired after a period of rest, it still has a durability limit and can “break.” It’s more accurate to say it’s highly durable and self-repairing, not indestructible. Understanding its mechanics is crucial for effectively utilizing this legendary blade.
Understanding the Master Sword’s Mechanics
The Master Sword’s unique functionality has evolved throughout the Zelda series. In Tears of the Kingdom, it doesn’t operate like typical weapons with a linear durability meter depleting with each swing. Instead, it possesses a hidden durability score. When this score reaches zero, the sword doesn’t shatter into pieces like other weapons. Instead, it runs out of energy and enters a “recharging” state, becoming unusable for a set amount of in-game time (approximately 10 minutes in real-time).
During this recharging period, the Master Sword’s glowing aura dims, and Link must rely on other weapons and strategies. After the recharge time has elapsed, the Master Sword is once again ready for battle, its durability fully restored. This cycle of usage and recharge is fundamental to how the Master Sword functions in Tears of the Kingdom.
The Power of Upgrades
The Master Sword’s power is intimately tied to the storyline and the defeat of Phantom Ganon within the Depths. Successfully facing this challenge grants the Master Sword its full potential, signified by a permanent, brighter glow. This upgrade increases the sword’s base attack power to 60 (double its initial value of 30) and significantly enhances its durability.
While the upgrade makes the Master Sword more resilient, it doesn’t negate its durability limit entirely. The number of hits the upgraded Master Sword can sustain before needing to recharge is substantially higher than its initial state, but it remains a finite number.
Gloom Weapons and the Master Sword
A critical element affecting the Master Sword’s durability is its interaction with Gloom-infused enemies and locations. The Master Sword resonates with these dark forces, becoming even more powerful when used against them. This connection is visually represented by an even brighter, intensified glow.
However, prolonged use against Gloom enemies, particularly without utilizing appropriate tactics, can still drain the Master Sword’s durability faster. While the sword is arguably most effective against Gloom, players shouldn’t assume it is immune to wear when facing these challenging encounters. Effective use means strategically switching weapons, utilizing elemental advantages, and minimizing unnecessary hits.
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Master Sword FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Master Sword’s durability, upgrades, and usage in The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom:
1. How do I obtain the Master Sword in Tears of the Kingdom?
Obtaining the Master Sword requires completing a series of main story quests and increasing Link’s stamina to two full wheels. The “Dragon’s Tears” questline is essential to understanding the sword’s location and the steps needed to acquire it. You’ll need to locate the Light Dragon to retrieve the sword.
2. What happens when the Master Sword “breaks”?
When the Master Sword’s durability reaches zero, it doesn’t shatter like other weapons. Instead, it enters a recharging state, indicated by a dimmed glow. It becomes unusable for approximately 10 minutes (real-time).
3. How long does it take for the Master Sword to recharge?
The Master Sword takes about 10 minutes of real-time to fully recharge after its durability is depleted. You cannot speed up this process.
4. Does the Master Sword break faster in certain areas?
Yes, prolonged use against Gloom-infused enemies and in Gloom-covered areas can drain its durability more quickly, despite the sword’s enhanced power in these situations.
5. Can I repair the Master Sword?
Unlike other weapons, you cannot repair the Master Sword at a Stable or using Rock Octoroks. It is self-repairing through its recharge mechanic.
6. Is the upgraded Master Sword stronger than other weapons?
Yes, the upgraded Master Sword has a base attack power of 60, making it one of the strongest single-handed weapons in the game. Furthermore, its increased power against Gloom enemies makes it invaluable.
7. How do I upgrade the Master Sword to its full potential?
To fully upgrade the Master Sword, you must defeat Phantom Ganon in the Depths, as part of the main storyline. This permanently unlocks its enhanced power.
8. Does fusing materials to the Master Sword affect its durability?
Yes, fusing materials to the Master Sword will affect its durability. While it doesn’t change the base recharge mechanic, certain materials add more durability or combat effectiveness. This helps to extend its usefulness.
9. What are the best materials to fuse with the Master Sword?
The best materials depend on the situation. Silver Lizalfos Horns provide high attack power, while elemental horns offer elemental damage, and construct horns offer utility like fan blades or rocket propulsion.
10. Can I increase the Master Sword’s durability beyond its normal limit?
No, you cannot permanently increase the Master Sword’s underlying base durability value beyond what is set at the design level with in-game mechanisms, although fusing specific materials can add temporary benefits.
11. Does the Master Sword lose durability while mining?
Yes, using the Master Sword for actions like mining or cutting trees will still deplete its durability. It’s best to use dedicated tools for these tasks.
12. Is it worth using the Master Sword against regular enemies?
While the Master Sword is powerful, it’s often more strategic to use other weapons against regular enemies to conserve its durability for more challenging encounters, especially Gloom-infused ones.
13. Does the Master Sword’s power increase as I progress through the game?
The Master Sword’s base power remains consistent after being upgraded. Its effectiveness comes from the player’s skill, fused materials, and strategic usage against Gloom enemies.
14. What happens if I try to use the Master Sword while it’s recharging?
If you attempt to equip the Master Sword while it’s recharging, Link will simply pull out another weapon from his inventory, it will not appear in your hand until the recharging is complete.
15. Are there any glitches to make the Master Sword truly unbreakable?
While glitches may exist, relying on them can corrupt your save file or diminish your gaming experience. Playing the game as intended and managing the Master Sword’s durability strategically is the most rewarding and reliable approach.
Conclusion
While the fully upgraded Master Sword in Tears of the Kingdom is incredibly powerful and durable, it is not indestructible. Understanding its recharge mechanic, strategic usage against different enemies, and the impact of fusing materials are crucial for maximizing its effectiveness. By managing its durability and utilizing other weapons when appropriate, players can wield the Master Sword to its full potential and overcome the challenges of Hyrule.