Complete BOTW Walkthrough - Tips & Strategies

Nintendo’s The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (BOTW) is an expansive open-world adventure that encourages exploration, experimentation, and creativity. With countless shrines, secrets, and challenges, players may find themselves overwhelmed. This comprehensive walkthrough is designed to guide you through Hyrule, offering essential tips and strategies to enhance your journey.

Starting Your Adventure

Upon waking up in the Shrine of Resurrection, players will quickly realize that Hyrule is vast and filled with hidden wonders. Begin your adventure by exploring the Great Plateau, which serves as your tutorial area. Here, you’ll learn the basic mechanics of the game, including combat, climbing, and cooking. Be sure to gather resources like apples and mushrooms, as these will be crucial for your survival.

Unlocking Your Map

As you progress, your first objective is to activate the four Towers scattered throughout the Great Plateau. Climbing these Towers not only unlocks sections of your map but also reveals nearby Shrines. Make sure to climb each Tower before leaving the area, as this will significantly aid in navigation later in the game.

Completing Shrines

Shrines are mini-dungeons that test your skills through puzzles and combat challenges. Each Shrine rewards you with Spirit Orbs, which can be exchanged for increased health or stamina. Here are a few tips for tackling Shrines:

• Take Your Time: Each Shrine has unique mechanics, so don’t rush. Experiment with the environment and items at your disposal.
• Use Your Sheikah Slate: The Sheikah Slate’s runes, such as Magnesis and Stasis, are crucial for solving many puzzles. Familiarize yourself with these abilities.
• Remember the Environment: Look for hints in the Shrine’s design. Many puzzles are solvable using elements found within the Shrine itself.

Exploring Hyrule

After completing the Great Plateau, you’re free to explore Hyrule at your own pace. Here are some recommended strategies for exploration:

1. Follow Your Curiosity: Don’t be afraid to deviate from the main quest. Hyrule is filled with interesting locations, NPCs, and side quests that enhance your experience.

2. Utilize Fast Travel: As you discover new locations and complete Shrines, be sure to activate them for fast travel. This will save you time when navigating the expansive world.

3. Upgrade Your Inventory: Collect Korok Seeds found throughout Hyrule to increase your inventory space. This will help you carry more weapons, shields, and bows, allowing for greater flexibility in combat.

Confronting Divine Beasts

The Divine Beasts are crucial to your quest to defeat Calamity Ganon. Each Divine Beast presents its own set of challenges, and defeating them grants you powerful abilities. Here are tips for tackling each Divine Beast:

• Research Their Weaknesses: Speak with NPCs in the corresponding regions to gather information about each Divine Beast. Understanding their mechanics will give you an advantage.

• Prepare for Battle: Stock up on meals and elixirs that enhance your abilities. Buffs can significantly turn the tide in tough fights.

• Utilize Your Environment: Each Divine Beast has unique environmental elements. Use them to your advantage during battles.

Mastering Combat

Combat in Breath of the Wild can be both rewarding and challenging. Here are essential combat strategies:

• Dodge and Parry: Mastering dodging and parrying can give you openings to deal damage while avoiding attacks.

• Experiment with Weapons: Different weapons have unique properties. Try various options to find your preferred playstyle, whether it’s melee combat or archery.

• Use Stealth: In many situations, stealth can be more effective than brute force. Crouch to sneak up on enemies or use elixirs that enhance your stealth abilities.

Conclusion

Nintendo’s The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is a richly detailed game filled with secrets and challenges. By following this complete walkthrough, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate Hyrule, conquer its shrines, and face the Divine Beasts. Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination—embrace the freedom to explore, experiment, and uncover the mysteries of Hyrule. Happy adventuring!

FAQ for The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

1. What platforms can I play Breath of the Wild on?

Breath of the Wild is available on the Nintendo Switch and Wii U.

2. Is there a recommended order for completing the Divine Beasts?

While you can tackle the Divine Beasts in any order, many players find it beneficial to start with the one that suits their playstyle. For instance, Vah Ruta (Zora) is often recommended for its ability to provide water-related assistance.

3. How can I increase my health and stamina?

You can increase your health and stamina by collecting Spirit Orbs from Shrines. Once you gather four Spirit Orbs, visit a Goddess Statue to exchange them for health or stamina upgrades.

4. What are Korok Seeds, and how do I collect them?

Korok Seeds are collectibles hidden throughout Hyrule. You can find them by completing small environmental puzzles. Collecting Korok Seeds allows you to expand your inventory space with Hestu.

5. How do I unlock fast travel points?

Fast travel points are unlocked by activating Towers and completing Shrines. Once activated, you can travel to these locations from anywhere in the game.

6. Can I save my game anytime?

The game features an auto-save system that saves your progress at various intervals. You can also create manual save points before major events or battles.

7. Are there any crafting or cooking mechanics?

Yes, cooking plays a significant role in Breath of the Wild. You can combine different ingredients in pots to create meals and elixirs that restore health or grant various buffs.

8. What are the different types of weapons and how do they work?

There are several types of weapons, including swords, axes, and bows. Each weapon has unique properties and durability. Experiment with different weapons to find which suits your combat style.

9. How do I defeat tough enemies?

Tough enemies require strategy. Use stealth to avoid direct confrontation when possible, stock up on healing items, and learn enemy attack patterns to dodge or parry effectively.

10. What is the purpose of the Master Trials DLC?

The Master Trials DLC introduces new challenges, including the Trial of the Sword, which tests your combat abilities. Completing these trials rewards you with the Master Sword's true power.

11. How can I locate all the Shrines?

You can find Shrines by exploring Hyrule, solving environmental puzzles, and completing quests. There are 120 Shrines in total, and using the Purah Pad can help highlight nearby Shrines on your map.

12. Can I play Breath of the Wild in a co-op mode?

Breath of the Wild is a single-player game with no multiplayer or co-op options.

13. What are the best strategies for collecting materials?

Focus on gathering materials while exploring. Chopping down trees, mining ore deposits, and hunting animals will provide essential resources for cooking and crafting.

14. How do I upgrade my armor?

Armor can be upgraded at Great Fairy Fountains, requiring specific materials and rupees. Upgrade your armor to increase its defense against enemies.

15. Can I interact with NPCs for side quests?

Yes, NPCs throughout Hyrule offer various side quests, providing rewards and insights into the world. Be sure to talk to villagers and travelers for potential quests.

16. What should I do if I'm stuck on a puzzle or shrine?

Take a break and come back to the puzzle with fresh eyes. Often, a different perspective or a simple walkthrough can help you find the solution.

17. How can I ensure I’m prepared for a boss battle?

Before a boss battle, stock up on food, elixirs, and weapons. Understanding the boss’s attack patterns and weaknesses is crucial, so do your research or watch videos if you’re struggling.

18. What items can I use for stealth?

To improve stealth, use items like the Sneaky Elixir or consume meals that provide stealth buffs. Wearing stealth-enhancing armor can also help you sneak up on enemies.

19. Are there any in-game achievements?

Breath of the Wild has various achievements related to exploration, combat, and completion of challenges. Tracking your progress can enhance your overall gaming experience.

20. How can I best enjoy my experience in Hyrule?

Take your time to explore, experiment with different gameplay styles, and embrace the freedom that Breath of the Wild offers. Every player’s journey will be unique, so enjoy the adventure at your own pace!