Why Did Revali Lose? Understanding the Rito Champion’s Fall
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Revali, the Rito Champion and skilled archer of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, met a tragic end during the Great Calamity. But why did Revali lose to Windblight Ganon? The short answer is that he was simply outmatched by the corrupted power of the Calamity. He encountered Windblight Ganon already in control of Vah Medoh, his assigned Divine Beast. This prevented him from utilizing the beast’s trap mechanisms and further hindered his ability to fight effectively. While Revali’s exceptional aerial combat skills were undeniable, he faced a foe possessing not only significant power but also a manipulation of his own Divine Beast’s technology against him. He was a capable fighter but, ultimately, not prepared for the insidious and overwhelming force of Calamity Ganon.
The Battle Against Windblight Ganon
Revali’s approach to confronting the Calamity was head-on. He used his Revali’s Gale ability to swiftly reach Vah Medoh. This demonstrates his confidence and tactical mindset. However, he was unaware that his Divine Beast had already fallen under the influence of Windblight Ganon. The beast’s systems were compromised, and rather than aiding Revali, they became a liability. This is a crucial factor in his defeat. He found himself not only fighting Windblight Ganon but also struggling against the corrupted mechanisms of Vah Medoh, and it’s likely that the trap he was meant to use on enemies was used against him by Windblight. This combination of factors created a devastating and unfair fight. He was already at a disadvantage, which proved too much to overcome, despite his best efforts.
Factors Contributing to Revali’s Defeat
- Windblight Ganon’s Superior Power: Windblight Ganon was a manifestation of Calamity Ganon’s malevolent energy. It possessed significant offensive capabilities, including powerful gusts of wind and projectiles, and was also capable of manipulating Vah Medoh. These powers were far beyond what Revali was accustomed to dealing with.
- Loss of Control Over Vah Medoh: Unlike Link’s experience, Revali did not have the opportunity to initially activate Vah Medoh. This meant the beast’s systems were not under his control and could not be utilized for tactical advantage. This lack of control put Revali in a position where the beast itself became a part of the problem.
- Revali’s Arrogance: While not a direct cause of his defeat, Revali’s arrogance may have played a role in his underestimation of the situation. He likely approached the fight confident in his abilities, unaware of the extent to which Vah Medoh was corrupted. This led to a lack of caution and ultimately contributed to his demise.
- Trap Manipulation: As noted before, it’s highly probable that a trap that Revali would have used against the Blight, he was in turn a victim of it. We see the ability of the Blights to manipulate their Divine Beasts’ systems in other fights.
Revali’s Spirit and Redemption
Although defeated in life, Revali’s spirit was later awakened by Link. Through facing his pride and accepting Link, Revali eventually helped Link defeat Windblight Ganon. This development shows his resilience and willingness to contribute to Hyrule’s salvation, despite his past grudges. His spirit’s aid is instrumental, demonstrating the Rito champion’s true value. He is not remembered for his defeat, but for his skill, his commitment and the help he ultimately provides to Link. Revali’s story is ultimately one of growth and redemption, even if that is posthumous.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions to provide a deeper understanding of Revali and his story:
1. What exactly was Revali’s role as a Champion?
Revali was chosen as the Rito Champion to pilot the Divine Beast Vah Medoh. His role was to assist in defending Hyrule against the Calamity using his unmatched aerial combat skills and the power of the Divine Beast. He was essential as a formidable fighter and a skilled tactician.
2. Why was Revali so resentful of Link?
Revali felt that Link hadn’t earned the right to be a Champion, whereas he had worked hard and honed his skills to reach his position. This inferiority complex led him to resent Link’s natural talent. He was also envious of the respect and recognition Link received.
3. Was Revali in love with Mipha?
There’s a suggestion that Revali had feelings for Mipha, though his proud nature made it difficult for him to express them. His interactions with her display a certain timidity and a desire to impress. Their relationship had been developing and there was an implied attraction between the two.
4. Did Revali have romantic feelings for Link?
There is speculation within the fandom that Revali might have had romantic feelings for Link. This is partly based on scenes where Revali seems to be trying to impress Link with his abilities. However, this is not explicitly confirmed and is more a matter of fan interpretation.
5. How was Revali killed by Windblight Ganon?
Revali encountered Windblight Ganon already in control of Vah Medoh. Despite his best efforts, he was overpowered and ultimately killed due to the Blight’s manipulation of the Divine Beast’s systems and its raw power. Revali was defeated by the corrupted might of the Calamity.
6. Is Revali still alive in Tears of the Kingdom?
No, Revali is not alive in Tears of the Kingdom. He is a spirit, but his impact on the world and on Link is still felt through his abilities and the other champions’ contributions. The story focuses on the present and on new challenges.
7. Is Teba, the Rito warrior, related to Revali?
No, Teba is not related to Revali. He simply fills Revali’s old role as a skilled Rito warrior. Teba was also not a Champion and is just a talented Rito.
8. Did Revali know about his own flaws and insecurities?
It is strongly implied that Revali suffered from an inferiority complex. He went to extreme lengths to improve his skills, often getting hurt in the process. This indicates an awareness of his own insecurities, which he attempted to compensate for with pride and arrogance.
9. What was Revali’s unique ability?
Revali’s unique ability was Revali’s Gale, which allowed him to create an upward gust of wind, enabling him to fly high into the air quickly. This ability was crucial for his aerial combat and navigation.
10. Did the Zora evolve into the Rito?
Yes, according to The Legend of Zelda lore, the Zora evolved into the Rito after the Great Flood. The change was a result of the unnatural water created by the gods, which became uninhabitable for the Zora.
11. What is the significance of Revali’s spirit helping Link?
Revali’s spirit helps Link by providing his special ability, Revali’s Gale. This greatly enhances Link’s ability to navigate and engage in combat and demonstrates his eventual cooperation with Link. This help is critical to progressing through the game.
12. Why is Revali sometimes considered ‘salty’?
Revali is often seen as ‘salty’ because he worked hard to become a Champion and he feels that his success was not as easily earned as the other champions. This is shown in how he speaks to Link, Zelda and the other Champions.
13. Why did the Zora initially blame Link for Mipha’s death?
The Zora blamed Link because he was the assigned knight and was therefore expected to protect all the Champions. They also blamed him for his absence when it occurred. This was part of the wider confusion and fear caused by the Calamity.
14. Is Riju, the Gerudo chief, related to Urbosa?
Yes, Riju is a descendant of Urbosa, the Gerudo Champion. Riju inherited her position as chief at a young age following the passing of her mother. She shares a lineage with the great Champion, Urbosa.
15. What is the ship ‘Revalink’?
‘Revalink’ is the fan-created ship that pairs Revali and Link. This pairing explores the potential romantic connection between the two characters, often focusing on Revali’s attempts to impress Link and the dynamics of their relationship. Although not canon, it is a popular ship in the fandom.