Is the Master Sword Trials a DLC? A Comprehensive Guide
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Yes, the Master Sword Trials are indeed a DLC (Downloadable Content) feature for The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. Specifically, they are part of the first DLC pack, titled “The Master Trials,” which is bundled with a second DLC pack as part of the Expansion Pass. This means you cannot access the Master Sword Trials without purchasing this specific DLC. Let’s delve deeper into what this entails, its challenges, and related frequently asked questions to give you a complete understanding.
The Master Trials DLC Explained
The Master Trials DLC is a significant addition to Breath of the Wild, introducing a variety of new features beyond just the sword trials. It’s essential to understand that this content is not free and requires the purchase of the Expansion Pass which is bundled with the second DLC pack for a set price.
What Does the Master Trials DLC Include?
- Trial of the Sword: This is the core focus of many players. It consists of a series of increasingly difficult combat challenges, spanning 45 rooms, broken into three trials. Completing these trials empowers the Master Sword, permanently upgrading its power.
- Master Mode: This new difficulty setting drastically increases the game’s challenge. Enemies are stronger, regenerate health, and new variants appear, requiring you to rethink your strategies.
- Hero’s Path Mode: This feature allows you to track your movements across the vast Hyrule map, helping you find undiscovered locations.
- Travel Medallion: A highly coveted item that lets you create a custom fast-travel point.
- New Equipment: The DLC adds new armor and other useful items to your inventory.
Unlocking the Master Sword Trials
To access the Trial of the Sword, you must first obtain the Master Sword from the Korok Forest. Once you have the sword, you must place it back into its pedestal. Note that the Master Sword must not be out of energy when you place it back into its pedestal, otherwise the trial cannot be accessed. If the sword is glowing after using it in battle, wait for it to return to its unpowered form before putting it in the pedestal.
The Challenge of the Trial
The Trial of the Sword is designed to be the most difficult challenge in Breath of the Wild. The trials remove all your equipment at the start and require you to rely on your combat skills, knowledge of the environment, and resource management. Each of the three sections has its own set of challenges and a series of increasingly difficult enemies, culminating in a challenging boss encounter. There is a Lynel encounter in the beginning trials, requiring some creative combat or the use of ancient arrows to quickly defeat.
Why is the Trial So Hard?
- Limited Resources: You start each trial with basic gear, forcing you to carefully manage resources.
- Powerful Enemies: You will face enemies at all levels, including stronger variants and boss-level encounters.
- Strategic Combat Required: Rushing in blindly will not work. You need to utilize all your combat skills and understanding of the game’s mechanics.
Rewards for Completing the Trials
The ultimate reward for conquering the Trial of the Sword is the True Master Sword. When fully powered, the Master Sword permanently maintains its 60 attack power (ordinarily it is at 30 and goes to 60 only in specific situations). In addition, it no longer has a cooldown, and is ready to use at any time without having to wait for it to recharge.
Is the Master Sword Trial Worth It?
Absolutely! The upgraded Master Sword is a powerful asset. The feeling of satisfaction that comes from completing the trials is immense. It’s not just about the reward; it is also about the personal growth and mastering combat techniques that the trials demand.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is the Master Trials DLC Free?
No, the Master Trials DLC is not free. It’s part of the Expansion Pass that must be purchased for a specific price. This pass also includes a second DLC pack with additional content.
2. What is included in the Master Trials DLC?
The DLC includes Trial of the Sword, Master Mode, Hero’s Path Mode, the Travel Medallion, and new equipment.
3. Is Master Mode a separate game?
No, Master Mode is a difficulty setting added by the Master Trials DLC, not a separate game. It makes Breath of the Wild significantly more challenging.
4. How do I activate the Master Sword Trials?
You activate the Master Sword Trials by placing the Master Sword back into its pedestal in the Korok Forest, after obtaining it. Ensure the sword is not glowing from overuse.
5. Can I save my progress in the Trials?
Yes, you can save after completing each of the three sections of the Trial of the Sword but not in between.
6. Does the Master Sword break in the trials?
No, the Master Sword cannot break but it can run out of energy temporarily, but is recharged much quicker after the trials.
7. Are there Lynels in the Trial of the Sword?
Yes, there is a Lynel in one of the early trials, you need to have an effective way to dispatch him.
8. What happens when you complete the Trial of the Sword?
Completing all three sections of the Trial of the Sword fully upgrades the Master Sword, permanently increasing its attack power and removing the cooldown.
9. What is DLC?
DLC, or Downloadable Content, refers to additional content that is added to video games after their initial release.
10. Can you do the Trial of the Sword before beating the game?
Yes, you can attempt the Trial of the Sword before completing the main storyline. The game lets you try it at any point if you have obtained the sword.
11. Is the expansion pass for BotW worth it?
Yes, many consider the Expansion Pass to be a worthwhile purchase. It adds new content, challenges, and quality-of-life features that enhance the overall experience.
12. Why is the Master Sword’s power at 60?
The Master Sword has a base power of 30, which increases to 60 when Link is near Calamity enemies or after completing the Trial of the Sword.
13. Do weapons break more easily in Master Mode?
Yes, weapons tend to break more quickly in Master Mode due to the increased combat required and enhanced enemy health.
14. Is the Phantom Ganon armor part of the DLC?
Yes, the Phantom Ganon Armor is exclusive to the Champions’ Ballad DLC Pack, which is the second pack included in the Expansion Pass.
15. Is there DLC for Tears of the Kingdom?
No, Nintendo has confirmed there will be no DLC for Tears of the Kingdom, as they feel they have included all elements they desired in the main game.
Conclusion
The Master Sword Trials are a challenging and rewarding experience that greatly enhances The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. Being a part of the Master Trials DLC, it requires a purchase of the Expansion Pass, but the benefits of the improved Master Sword and the added features make it a worthy addition to your game. We hope this article has clarified any questions you may have about the Master Sword Trials and its associated DLC. Happy adventuring!