What Happens if You Throw the Master Sword? A Deep Dive into Hyrule’s Legendary Blade

The Master Sword, the iconic blade of the Legend of Zelda series, is a powerful and often mysterious weapon. Its role is crucial in the fight against evil, and its unique properties make it unlike any other sword in the game. One question that often arises is: What happens if you try to throw the Master Sword? The short answer is: You can’t throw the Master Sword in the traditional sense, nor can you drop it. It is permanently bound to Link’s inventory once acquired. However, the game features a specific animation that might look like throwing under certain conditions, which is tied to a special attack known as the Sword Beam.

The Sword Beam Illusion

Instead of throwing the Master Sword like other weapons, Link executes a Sword Beam attack. This happens when Link attempts to “throw” the sword while not at full health. He will still perform the throwing motion, but without sufficient energy, no beam will be fired. This attack is actually the result of the Master Sword releasing energy. Note this does not mean the Master Sword will leave your inventory. This mechanic is crucial in battle, especially when facing powerful enemies like Dark Beast Ganon. It also factors in the durability of the Master Sword.

The Sword Beam mechanic is tied to the lore of the sword; it’s an extension of its inherent magical properties and not a literal throwing action. Link isn’t tossing the sword away; he’s channeling its energy outwards. Keep in mind this specific ‘throw’ only happens when not at full health; this mechanic is designed to emphasize the player’s health status. Players often attempt this maneuver when they are out of regular ranged weapon options, thinking of the Master Sword as a last resort, often only to be reminded it doesn’t work like a typical weapon.

Why Can’t You Throw or Drop the Master Sword?

The inability to throw or drop the Master Sword is not a glitch but rather a fundamental aspect of the game’s design. The Master Sword is not just another weapon; it’s a core part of Link’s identity and destiny. The sword’s significance means it remains permanently in Link’s inventory. This permanent nature emphasizes its unique place in the game, preventing any accidental discarding. It also helps make the weapon feel more ‘legendary’ and less like a common, replaceable one. The Master Sword’s power is meant to be constantly available, not a disposable resource.

The Master Sword’s Durability and Power

While the Master Sword cannot be thrown or dropped, its functionality has its quirks. It doesn’t break like other weapons, but it does require recharging after extended use. The sword’s power will temporarily deplete, returning to a weaker state, which is visually represented in the weapon inventory. This is a form of ‘durability,’ but it’s unlike any other weapon. After about ten minutes of no use, it fully recharges and its full power is restored. This adds another strategic element to the combat.

During special fights, such as the final battle against Ganondorf, the Master Sword’s durability functions differently. It becomes unbreakable during the Ganondorf fight, emphasizing its crucial role in the final confrontation. This ensures that Link has access to the Master Sword’s power without fear of it breaking.

The Master Sword’s Damage Output

The Master Sword’s damage output also has unique attributes. Usually, it does 30 damage. However, when near malice, it does 60 damage. It’s important to remember that the Master Sword doesn’t display its damage number in the game, but its effectiveness is apparent. With its unique durability and variable damage capabilities, the Master Sword proves to be a cornerstone of Link’s arsenal, but not as an exploitable ‘thrown’ weapon.

The Master Sword’s Connection to Zelda

The Master Sword is inextricably linked to Princess Zelda’s story. In Tears of the Kingdom, Zelda becomes the Light Dragon, swallowing her Secret Stone to imbue the damaged Master Sword with holy power and assist Link. This connection underscores the sword’s legendary status. The fact that it’s found lodged in the Light Dragon’s head, also the form of Zelda, further emphasizes its crucial role.

Obtaining and Restoring the Master Sword

To obtain the Master Sword, Link needs a minimum of 13 full heart containers. In Breath of the Wild, you would find the Master Sword at the center of the Lost Woods. In Tears of the Kingdom, the sword is found lodged in the Light Dragon. While the sword is initially corrupted, it can be purified back to its standard form. Once purified, the Master Sword can even be fused with other items using the new game mechanics, though this primarily affects its utility rather than its main properties.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can you lose the Master Sword in Breath of the Wild or Tears of the Kingdom?

No, once you obtain the Master Sword, it cannot be lost, dropped, or thrown away in either game.

How do you use the Sword Beam attack?

The Sword Beam attack is executed when you attempt to throw the Master Sword while not at full health.

Can the Master Sword break?

The Master Sword does not break like regular weapons. Instead, its power temporarily depletes, and it needs time to recharge. During certain battles, such as against Ganondorf, it becomes unbreakable.

Where do you find the Master Sword in Tears of the Kingdom?

The Master Sword is lodged in the Light Dragon’s head.

How many heart containers do you need to pull the Master Sword in Breath of the Wild?

You need a minimum of 13 full heart containers to pull the Master Sword.

What happens if the Master Sword is fully broken?

While it cannot be broken, if the Master Sword were to be totally unusable, there is always another sword in every timeline capable of sealing darkness.

Is the Master Sword corrupt?

The Master Sword can be found in a corrupted state but can be purified back to its standard form.

Can you fuse the Master Sword with other items?

Yes, in Tears of the Kingdom, the Master Sword can be fused with other items, such as a hydrant to create a water attack.

What is the maximum damage the Master Sword can do?

The Master Sword can do a total of 10,800 damage while in its awakened state. The damage changes from 30 to 60 when near malice.

Why doesn’t the Master Sword have a damage number?

The Master Sword has an implied damage number of 30, which changes depending on various conditions. It simply doesn’t show the number in-game.

Who is the Light Dragon?

The Light Dragon is the transformed Princess Zelda, who swallowed her Secret Stone to become a powerful, immortal dragon.

Does the Master Sword break during the Ganondorf fight?

No, the Master Sword is unbreakable during the Ganondorf fight.

Is Farosh the Light Dragon?

No, Farosh is a separate dragon associated with lightning, not the Light Dragon.

Does the Master Sword return to Link after losing its power?

Yes, the Master Sword returns to full power after about ten minutes. Its icon will be faded out when out of energy.

What is the quickest way to retrieve the fixed Master Sword?

The fastest way to retrieve the fixed Master Sword is to land on the Light Dragon.

Conclusion

The Master Sword’s mechanics, far from being simple, are interwoven with the very lore and gameplay of the Legend of Zelda series. Understanding its unique features, like its inability to be thrown, its sword beam mechanic, and its relationship with Zelda, enhances the playing experience. The Master Sword is not just a weapon; it’s a symbol of hope, destiny, and the enduring battle against darkness, and understanding its nuances enhances a players understanding of the game as a whole.