Preparing for the Showdown: What to Do Before the Crisis at Hyrule Castle in Tears of the Kingdom

So, you’re gearing up for the Crisis at Hyrule Castle in The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom? Excellent! This is a pivotal moment, but rushing in unprepared is a surefire recipe for a Link-sandwich served with a side of gloom. Let’s ensure you’re ready to face whatever awaits you.

The Crisis at Hyrule Castle quest will be available after you have finished all four regions of the “Regional Phenomena” main quest. If you haven’t already done so, then make sure you complete the find Captain Hoz quest step, complete the above regions, and return to Purah.

Before you even think about setting foot inside Hyrule Castle to address the Crisis, focus on the following:

• Complete the Regional Phenomena: This is your absolute first priority. The game guides you here for a reason. The powers you gain from these quests are vital.

• Gear Up – Hearts, Stamina, and Armor: Aim for at least 10-15 Heart Containers and a full second wheel of Stamina. Upgrade your favorite armor set(s) to at least level 2 but ideally level 3. Defense matters!

• Master the Master Sword (If Possible): While not strictly required before the Crisis quest begins, obtaining the Master Sword will make your life considerably easier. It’s a powerful tool that significantly impacts combat.

• Assemble Your Sages: The Sages you unlock during the Regional Phenomena quests are more than just plot devices; they’re potent allies in battle. Make sure they’re all active and ready to fight.

• Stockpile Resources: Meals are your lifeline. Cook up a variety of dishes focused on healing, attack boosts, and defense boosts. Sundelions are crucial for dealing with Gloom-related damage. Gather arrows, bombs, and elemental materials to fuse with your weapons.

• Explore and Discover: Hyrule is vast and filled with secrets. Delve into the Depths, explore sky islands, and uncover hidden shrines. These explorations will provide valuable resources, upgrades, and experience.

• Hylian Shield Retrieval: Tracking down and reclaiming the Hylian Shield is a significant defensive boost. While its durability isn’t infinite, it’s incredibly resilient.

• Consider Side Quests: While the main quest is important, side quests often reward you with valuable items, armor, and experience. Don’t neglect them entirely.

• Know Your Enemy (Sort Of): While you won’t know everything before you go in, understanding the general types of enemies you’ll face – from Gloom Spawn to tougher variations of familiar foes – will help you prepare your strategy and your arsenal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is the Crisis at Hyrule Castle the last mission in Tears of the Kingdom?

No, absolutely not! While it’s a major turning point and feels like a climactic event, completing the Crisis at Hyrule Castle unlocks further quests and leads you deeper into the story. Specifically, you’ll be tasked with finding the fifth sage.

2. When should I go to Hyrule Castle in Tears of the Kingdom?

You can technically visit Hyrule Castle early on, but the Crisis at Hyrule Castle quest officially begins after you’ve completed the Regional Phenomena and spoken with Purah at Lookout Landing.

3. What happens if I go straight to Hyrule Castle at the beginning of the game?

If you head straight to Hyrule Castle at the very start, you won’t find the final boss waiting for you. You’ll be able to explore, but the true challenge won’t be present until you’ve progressed further in the main quest.

4. Is the Crisis at Hyrule Castle near the end of the game?

No, the Crisis at Hyrule Castle is a mid-game quest. You can start it early, but you can’t finish it until you’ve completed other significant story objectives.

5. How many shrines should I complete before facing Ganon?

This is largely up to your comfort level and skill. However, many players recommend completing around 100-120 Shrines to gain sufficient Spirit Orbs for Heart Containers and Stamina upgrades.

6. Can I explore Hyrule Castle before defeating Ganon?

Yes! You can explore much of Hyrule Castle without triggering the final boss fight. Just avoid the Sanctum (the red glowing dot on the map near the top of the castle) if you’re not ready for the confrontation.

7. What is at the bottom of Hyrule Castle?

Beneath Hyrule Castle lies the Royal Hidden Passage, a secret area containing armor, enemies like a Stalnox, and other valuable resources.

8. Can the Hylian Shield break?

Yes, the Hylian Shield can break, although it’s highly durable. If it does break, there’s a way to obtain a new one, though it requires some effort.

9. What is the final quest in Tears of the Kingdom?

The final main quest is “Destroy Ganondorf“. Everything leads to this confrontation.

10. What is the best armor in Tears of the Kingdom?

There’s no single “best” armor set, as it depends on the situation. However, some highly regarded sets include the Zonaite Armor (for energy efficiency), the Fierce Deity Armor (for attack power), and the Glide Armor (for skydiving).

11. Is there gloom resistant armor in Tears of the Kingdom?

Yes! The Depths Set provides resistance to Gloom damage, making exploration of the Depths much more manageable.

12. Can you defeat Ganon straight away?

While technically possible for highly skilled speedrunners, it’s generally not recommended to fight Ganon immediately. You’ll be severely underpowered and lack essential abilities.

13. What to do before beating Ganon in Tears of the Kingdom?

• Get all five Sages on your team: Their abilities are invaluable.
• Get the Master Sword: A must-have weapon.
• Get a decent other weapon: Diversify your attack options.
• Get a decent set of armor: Prioritize defense and relevant resistances.
• Prepare a lot of meals: Focus on healing, buffs, and Gloom resistance.
• Make sure you have a Travel Medallion: For quick escapes and strategic positioning.

14. How old is Link in Tears of the Kingdom?

Link is estimated to be around 122-125 years old in Tears of the Kingdom, considering his age in Breath of the Wild and the time elapsed between the games.

15. Does completing the Hyrule Compendium give you anything useful?

Yes! Completing the Hyrule Compendium rewards you with Robbie’s Fabric, a unique paraglider material.

By taking these steps and preparing thoroughly, you’ll be well-equipped to face the Crisis at Hyrule Castle and continue your adventure in The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. Remember, preparation is key, and a well-equipped Link is a victorious Link! Don’t forget that the Games Learning Society fosters a community dedicated to understanding the educational and cultural impact of gaming. Check them out at GamesLearningSociety.org to discover more about the power of games in learning and society.