Unlocking the Ancient Hero: What Happens When You Complete Every Shrine in TOTK?
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The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom (TOTK) is a massive game, brimming with exploration, puzzles, and combat. Among the many challenges, the 152 shrines scattered across Hyrule are a cornerstone of the experience. Completing them all isn’t just about earning Spirit Orbs; it’s about unlocking one of the game’s most unique and powerful rewards. So, what exactly happens when you complete every shrine in TOTK? The answer is simple yet incredibly impactful: you receive the Ancient Hero’s Aspect. This isn’t just another piece of armor; it’s a full outfit that occupies all three armor slots (head, body, and legs), significantly changing how you play the game.
Upon completing the final shrine, a message will appear, instructing you to “make your way to the Temple of Time”. There, you’ll find the Ancient Hero’s Aspect waiting as a “suitable reward for your efforts.” This outfit is more than just a cosmetic change. It’s a powerful set that grants a unique passive ability which allows you to use the powers of some sages without requiring them to be physically present. Essentially, it enhances Link’s abilities, making him even more formidable.
Understanding the Ancient Hero’s Aspect
The Ancient Hero’s Aspect stands out for several reasons:
- Full Outfit: Unlike other armor sets in TOTK, which are comprised of three separate pieces, the Ancient Hero’s Aspect is a single, all-encompassing outfit. This means you equip it in all three armor slots simultaneously.
- Unique Ability: The armor grants a special ability that allows you to use the powers of some sages without needing them to be actively with you. This offers tactical advantages, allowing for more flexible combat and puzzle-solving.
- Distinct Appearance: The Aspect itself is visually striking, giving Link a distinct and powerful look that sets him apart from his traditional attire.
- End-Game Reward: Obtaining the Ancient Hero’s Aspect signifies a significant commitment to exploration and puzzle-solving, making it a true end-game reward.
The Journey to 152 Shrines
The path to unlocking the Ancient Hero’s Aspect is lengthy and requires patience and skill. Here’s a brief look at the distribution of these shrines:
- Surface Shrines: There are 120 shrines located on the surface of Hyrule, mirroring the number in Breath of the Wild.
- Sky Shrines: An additional 32 shrines can be found in the sky islands, adding a new layer of challenge and exploration.
- No Depths Shrines: It’s important to note that there are zero shrines in the Depths. However, you can find 120 Lightroots down there, which correspond directly with the surface shrines.
Finding all the shrines is a significant undertaking, but the reward is well worth the effort for players looking to maximize Link’s power and explore all aspects of the game.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions about completing shrines and related game aspects in Tears of the Kingdom:
1. How many shrines are there in TOTK?
There are a total of 152 shrines in The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom.
2. Are there any shrines in the Depths?
No, there are no shrines located in the Depths. However, there are 120 Lightroots which directly correspond to the shrines on the surface.
3. How many hearts do you get from completing shrines?
Each completed shrine rewards you with one Spirit Orb. You need four Spirit Orbs to exchange for either a Heart Container or a Stamina Vessel.
4. How many shrines are needed to get 13 hearts?
You need 40 completed shrines to get 13 hearts since you start the game with three hearts and need to obtain 10 more Heart Containers through Spirit Orbs.
5. What is the maximum number of hearts you can get in TOTK?
The maximum number of hearts you can have in Tears of the Kingdom is 38, even though you begin the game with 40 temporarily.
6. Can you max out both hearts and stamina in TOTK?
No, you cannot max out both hearts and stamina. You must choose which one to prioritize as you gather Spirit Orbs.
7. What other rewards do you get for completing shrines?
Beyond Spirit Orbs and the Ancient Hero’s Aspect for completing all 152 shrines, you also receive various items and resources along the way.
8. What happens when you complete the final shrine?
After completing the final shrine, you will receive a message indicating you should “make your way to the Temple of Time” to collect your reward: The Ancient Hero’s Aspect.
9. Can I get the Master Sword before completing all shrines?
Yes, the Master Sword is not directly tied to completing all shrines, though it requires a certain number of hearts, which you can upgrade with Spirit Orbs earned through the shrines.
10. Is the Ancient Hero’s Aspect the best armor in the game?
The Ancient Hero’s Aspect is certainly one of the most powerful and unique armors, however, what constitutes ‘best’ may vary from player to player depending on their preferred play style.
11. Is there any DLC for TOTK?
No, it has been confirmed by the producer Eiji Aonuma, that there will be no DLC for Tears of the Kingdom.
12. Can you continue to play after beating the final boss?
Yes, after completing the final boss and watching the ending, you will return to the game just before the boss fight, allowing you to continue to play and finish remaining tasks, such as completing the shrines, or other side quests.
13. What does the “True Ending” in TOTK require?
The “True Ending” in TOTK requires completing all main story quests, getting the Master Sword, and collecting all Memories.
14. Are there any divine beasts in TOTK?
No, the divine beasts that appeared in Breath of the Wild do not exist in Tears of the Kingdom.
15. How long does it take to complete all shrines?
The time to complete all shrines varies significantly depending on individual playstyle. A rough estimate would be between 50-100+ hours for full completion of the game, which includes all shrines.
Completing all 152 shrines in The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is not merely about ticking off a checklist. It’s a significant journey that unlocks a unique, powerful, and transformative reward in the Ancient Hero’s Aspect, which enhances your playthrough and adds an exciting new dimension to Link’s capabilities. It’s a true testament to dedication and exploration, and worth the journey for those looking to truly master Hyrule.