Why Can’t I Upgrade the Dark Tunic in Tears of the Kingdom?
The burning question on many Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom players’ minds is: “Why can’t I upgrade my Dark Tunic?” The simple, yet frustrating, answer is that the Dark Set, which includes the Dark Tunic, Dark Hood, and Dark Trousers, is specifically designed not to be upgradable at Great Fairy Fountains. This design choice is consistent with how the set functions in Breath of the Wild as well. Unlike many other armor sets in the game, the Dark Set is treated as a unique, special item, focusing on its unique set bonus and aesthetic appeal rather than raw defensive power.
The inability to upgrade the Dark Tunic and the rest of the Dark Set is intentional, and it’s linked to the armor’s lore and purpose. These pieces aren’t designed for maximum defense; instead, they provide a different kind of benefit. The Dark Set is meant to be a cool-looking cosmetic set that triggers a specific set bonus, Night Speed Up, when worn together. It also plays on the concept of a “Dark Link” aesthetic. The Dark Set is not intended to be a primary defensive set, especially when compared to armor like the Zonaite Armor or Ancient Armor which can be substantially enhanced by the Great Fairies. The Dark set’s base defense is only 3 per piece, thus relying on the Night Speed Up bonus for utility.
This limitation makes the Dark Tunic and its accompanying pieces more of a novelty item than a serious contender for the best defensive armor. While other sets offer a path to significantly higher defense through upgrading, the Dark Set’s power remains static. The Dark Tunic, while providing a “fake heart” to protect against gloom, is not intended to be a primary means of resistance.
The source of the Dark Tunic further solidifies its unique status. Unlike armor crafted or found in the world, the Dark Tunic, is obtained by trading Poes with Bargainer Statues in The Depths. These statues also sell other unique items that are not typically upgradable.
In short, the inability to upgrade the Dark Tunic is a deliberate design decision meant to give the set a specific role and identity within the world of Tears of the Kingdom, focused on aesthetics, a speed boost at night, and a cool factor rather than simply stacking defensive stats.
Dark Tunic: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions about the Dark Tunic and the Dark Set, designed to cover all the essential information you might need:
1. Where Can I Get the Dark Tunic?
The Dark Tunic can be purchased from Bargainer Statues in The Depths in exchange for Poes.
2. What Does the Dark Set Include?
The Dark Set consists of the Dark Tunic, the Dark Hood, and the Dark Trousers.
3. Can I Dye the Dark Tunic?
No, the Dark Tunic and the entire Dark Set cannot be dyed at the Kochi Dye Shop in Hateno Village.
4. What is the Set Bonus of the Dark Set?
Wearing all three pieces of the Dark Set together triggers the Night Speed Up set bonus, allowing for faster movement at night.
5. Does the Dark Tunic Protect from Gloom Damage?
Yes, the Dark Tunic provides a temporary “fake heart” to absorb Gloom damage. This heart will regenerate over time when not receiving Gloom damage, however, it does not protect from the gloom effect which will still lower your overall max hearts.
6. How Much Defense Does the Dark Tunic Have?
Each piece of the Dark Set (including the tunic) has a base defense of 3.
7. Is the Dark Set Worth Wearing?
The Dark Set is worth wearing for its unique Night Speed Up bonus and its striking appearance, not for its defensive capabilities, which can be considered quite low compared to other sets in the game.
8. Can I Upgrade Any Part of the Dark Set?
No, the Dark Set, including the Dark Tunic, cannot be upgraded at Great Fairy Fountains.
9. Does Wearing the Dark Set Scare NPCs?
Yes, many NPCs will react negatively and express fear when they see Link wearing the Dark Set.
10. Is the Dark Set the Same as the Dark Link Armor?
Yes, the Dark Set is essentially the Dark Link armor set from previous games in the series.
11. What is the Best Armor in Tears of the Kingdom?
The Zonaite Armor is considered the best armor in terms of raw defense potential, particularly when fully upgraded. Ancient Armor is also a strong contender, especially against Guardian attacks.
12. What is the Best Armor Set for Combat?
Armor sets like the Fierce Deity Armor and Barbarian Armor are highly effective for combat due to their attack-boosting abilities, while the Ancient Armor excels against Ancient enemies.
13. Is There Any Armor in the game that is Unbreakable?
No, there is no armor that is truly unbreakable in Tears of the Kingdom.
14. What is the best armor to use against Ganon?
The Ancient Armor is an excellent choice due to its defense against the Ancient technology that Ganon and his forces often wield.
15. Can the Master Sword be Upgraded?
The Master Sword cannot be “upgraded” in the traditional sense, as with armor. Its power can be increased in certain scenarios, such as when near gloom-affected areas or when facing gloom-infested enemies. It does break but recharges after a cooldown.