What is Link’s Default Horse Name? Unveiling the Steed Behind the Hero
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Link, the iconic protagonist of The Legend of Zelda series, is known for his courage, his sword skills, and his trusty steed. While many players immediately think of Epona when a Zelda horse is mentioned, the answer to the question “What is Link’s default horse name?” isn’t as straightforward. The answer is: Link’s Horse. Yes, the default horse that Link is often seen riding in trailers, memories, and during the final battle of Breath of the Wild is simply referred to as “Link’s Horse“. This unnamed steed is the canonical default, distinct from the legendary Epona, and it plays a unique role in Link’s adventures.
Understanding Link’s Default Horse
Not Epona, but Still Special
It’s easy to confuse Link’s default horse with Epona, the chestnut mare that has become synonymous with the series. However, “Link’s Horse” is not Epona. This unnamed, typically brown, horse serves as the primary mount for Link in Breath of the Wild when a player doesn’t have a registered horse or during specific key moments in the game. Unlike Epona, who is obtainable only through Amiibo, Link’s default horse is a free and readily available steed within the game.
The Significance of “Link’s Horse”
While not having a fancy name, this horse is quite significant. It is heavily featured in promotional material for Breath of the Wild, showcasing Link’s travels across Hyrule. It’s present during crucial memories, including Memory #5 and Memory #14, emphasizing its connection to Link’s personal history and the story’s narrative. Furthermore, during the final battle against Calamity Ganon, if the player does not have a registered horse, “Link’s Horse” is the steed Link rides into the final fray, further solidifying its status as the hero’s default ride. This shows that the horse is intended to be seen as an extension of the hero himself, a loyal companion, rather than just any horse.
A Design Choice
The decision to give Link a default horse without a specific name is likely intentional. It allows for a sense of player agency, enabling them to form a personal connection with the mount they choose to ride while also acknowledging the important default steed that Link has throughout the main events of the game. This distinction between “Link’s Horse” and Epona maintains the special status of the legendary mare while still providing players with a reliable steed when they first begin.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Link’s Horses
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the topic of Link’s horse(s) and the lore surrounding them:
1. Who is Epona?
Epona is the iconic, recurring fictional horse in The Legend of Zelda series. She first appeared in Ocarina of Time and is known for being Link’s main mode of transportation. Her name is derived from the Celtic goddess of horses. Epona is typically depicted as a chestnut mare with a white mane.
2. Can you get Epona in Breath of the Wild?
Yes, you can obtain Epona in Breath of the Wild, but it is not easy. You must use a specific Amiibo, either the Super Smash Bros. Series Link Amiibo or the Twilight Princess Link Amiibo, to have a chance to summon her.
3. How can you get Epona in Tears of the Kingdom?
Similar to Breath of the Wild, the only way to obtain Epona in Tears of the Kingdom is by scanning the Smash Bros. 4 Link or the Twilight Princess Link Amiibo. It is not a guaranteed spawn, so you may need to try multiple times.
4. What breed is Epona thought to be?
Based on her build and appearance, Epona resembles a light draught horse breed, such as a Noriker. This makes her well-suited for the mountainous terrain often encountered in Hyrule.
5. Does Zelda have a horse?
Yes, Princess Zelda has a horse named Storm, as revealed in the Valiant Comics. Storm is described as a large, white horse who aids Zelda during critical moments. In Tears of the Kingdom, Zelda also has a unique Golden Horse, which can be obtained by players.
6. What is the name of Zelda’s white horse in the comics?
Zelda’s white horse in the Valiant Comics is named Storm.
7. Is “Link’s Horse” a male or female?
The default horse, “Link’s Horse,” does not have a clearly defined gender in the games. It’s mostly referred to as just “Link’s Horse”, so the gender is largely unimportant.
8. Is Epona male or female?
Epona is confirmed to be a mare (a female horse) in the series.
9. What is the default horse’s unique quality?
While it might not be the most exciting answer, the unique thing about “Link’s Horse” is that it serves as the default mount that all players use at the beginning and at critical cinematic moments. This horse is specifically used during official trailers, memory flashbacks, and the final boss battle if the player has not registered a horse.
10. Can you customize “Link’s Horse”?
No, as the default horse is not registered, you cannot customize “Link’s Horse” through any means. The color and design are pre-set.
11. What is the significance of Malanya?
Malanya is the god of horses in Tears of the Kingdom. He offers aid to players who care for horses, allowing them to strengthen or even revive their equine allies.
12. What is Ganon’s horse called?
Ganondorf’s horse in Tears of the Kingdom is not specifically named, but it is a distinct black Gerudo stallion with a fiery mane and tail.
13. Is Epona a God?
No, Epona is not a God. However, in Celtic mythology, Epona was the goddess of horses. The Legend of Zelda’s Epona is inspired by this deity but does not hold any divine power in-game.
14. Is it a coincidence that the horse god in Zelda is named Malanya and a Goddess is named Epona?
No, this is likely an intentional design choice. The name Epona is directly inspired by the Celtic Goddess of Horses, while Malanya is very similar to the horse god from Slavic folklore, Malan.
15. Does Link have a full name?
According to Shigeru Miyamoto, Link’s full name is Link Link, a humorous nod to the idea that Mario’s full name is Mario Mario, in reference to the 1993 Super Mario Bros. movie.
Conclusion
While Epona holds a special place in the hearts of many Zelda fans, it is essential to recognize “Link’s Horse” as the true default steed for the hero. This unnamed horse is a faithful and consistent companion throughout the epic journey, highlighting the special connection Link has with his default mount during the major events in the game. Understanding the distinction between “Link’s Horse” and Epona provides a clearer understanding of the nuanced lore of The Legend of Zelda series. Whether you’re galloping through Hyrule on Epona or journeying on the dependable “Link’s Horse,” the bonds between Link and his equine companions are an integral part of the Zelda experience.