Why is Zora not in Wind Waker?

The Zora are notably absent from The Wind Waker because, according to The Legend of Zelda: Encyclopedia, the Great Sea was an illusory ocean that only monsters and less humanoid creatures like the Fishmen could inhabit, forcing the Zora to adapt to non-aquatic lifestyles. This adaptation ultimately led to the evolution of the Zora into the Rito, a distinct species that inhabits the world of The Wind Waker.

Introduction to the Zora and their Evolution

The Zora, as an aquatic race, have always been closely tied to the sea and other waterways, cherishing and protecting their home with great pride. Their absence in The Wind Waker is a significant aspect of the game’s lore, highlighting the dramatic changes that occurred in the Zelda universe.

The Zora Evolution into Rito

The transformation of the Zora into the Rito is a pivotal event in the Zelda timeline, influenced by the Great Flood and the resulting unnatural water created by the gods, which was inhospitable to the Zora. This process, occurring over a century, led to the Rito becoming the direct descendants of the Zora, with distinct physical and possibly cultural differences.

FAQs about Zora and Related Topics

General FAQs

1. What happened to the Zora in The Wind Waker? – The Zora evolved into the Rito due to the Great Flood and the unnatural water that made their traditional habitats uninhabitable.
2. Can Zora marry Hylians? – It is highly unlikely due to biological differences, such as the Zora laying eggs, which would make inter-species reproduction challenging.
3. Why do Zora look different in various games? – The Zora design has undergone changes across different games, reflecting their adaptation to new environments and the artistic direction of each title.
4. What fish are Zora based on? – The Zora are based on various real-life sea creatures, with some characters resembling specific fish or aquatic animals.
5. How old is Mipha in Zora years? – Mipha is approximately 55 years old in Zora years, which corresponds to the age of Link and Zelda in human years.

The Wind Waker Specific FAQs

6. Is there a Zora in The Wind Waker? – Yes, Laruto, the Sage of Earth, is the only Zora mentioned in The Wind Waker, who was killed by Ganondorf.
7. Why is the Master Sword different in The Wind Waker? – The Master Sword in The Wind Waker is a replica created by the people of Hyrule to seal away evil, as the original was lost.
8. Who is the most cowardly resident in Wind Waker? – Gossack, a resident of Windfall Island, is known for his fearful nature.

Biological and Cultural FAQs

9. Do Zora age slower? – Yes, the Zora have a slow aging rate, as evidenced by Sidon being 135 years old but considered young.
10. Can Zora survive in salt water? – Yes, Zora can thrive in both fresh and salt water, as seen with the Great Bay Zora in Majora’s Mask.
11. Who laid the Zora eggs? – Lulu, the lead singer of The Indigo-Go’s, laid the Zora eggs in Majora’s Mask.

Character and Relationship FAQs

12. Was Link in love with Mipha? – There are indications that Link and Mipha shared a deep affection for each other, potentially romantic in nature.
13. Who is Princess Zelda in love with? – Princess Zelda has feelings for Link, with their relationship rooted in childhood and developed over time.
14. What is Zora’s relationship with other creatures? – The Zora have a deep respect for other amphibious creatures and are proud protectors of their aquatic home.
15. Can Zora have children with Hylians? – Due to significant biological differences, such as Zora laying eggs, it is unlikely that Zora and Hylians can produce offspring.