View source for Master Sword

{{Spoiler}}
{{Specify|this=the recurring legendary sword|other=the precursor from ''[[The Legend of Zelda]]'' and ''[[Zelda II: The Adventure of Link|The Adventure of Link]]''|link=[[Magical Sword]]|second=the sword's ''[[Hyrule Warriors]]'' moveset|secondlink=[[Hylian Sword]]|third=The [[Recovered Memory]] from ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild|Breath of the Wild]]''|thirdlink=[[The Master Sword (Memory)]]}}
{{Infobox|weapon
| image		= [[File:Master Sword TPHD Art.png|160px]]
| caption	= ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD|Twilight Princess HD]]'' artwork
| number	= 
| game		= ''[[The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past|A Link to the Past]]''<br/>''[[The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time|Ocarina of Time]]''<br/>''[[The Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Seasons|Oracle of Seasons]]''<br/>''[[The Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Ages|Oracle of Ages]]''<br/>''[[The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker|The Wind Waker]]''<br/>''[[The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess|Twilight Princess]]''<br/>''[[The Legend of Zelda: Four Swords#The Legend of Zelda: Four Swords Anniversary Edition|Four Swords Anniversary Edition]]''<br/>''[[The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword|Skyward Sword]]''<br/>''[[The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds|A Link Between Worlds]]''<br/>''[[The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild|Breath of the Wild]]''<br/>''[[The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom|Tears of the Kingdom]]''<br/><br/>''[[BS The Legend of Zelda: Ancient Stone Tablets|Ancient Stone Tablets]]''<br/>''[[Super Smash Bros. (Series)|Super Smash Bros.]]''<br/>''[[Hyrule Warriors]]''<br/>''[[Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity]]''
| locations	= [[Lost Woods (A Link to the Past)|Lost Woods]] (''ALttP''/''ALBW'')<br/>[[Temple of Time (Ocarina of Time)|Temple of Time]] (''OoT'')<br/>[[Hyrule Castle (The Wind Waker)|Hyrule Castle]] (''TWW'')<br/>[[Sacred Grove]] (''TP'')<br/>[[Korok Forest]] (''BotW'')<br/>[[Light Dragon]] (''TotK'')
| upgrade from	= [[Noble Sword]] (''OoS''/''OoA'')
| upgrade to	= [[Tempered Sword]] (''ALttP'')
| quest		= 
| fusion materials = 
| shop		= 
| cost		= 
| obtain	= 
| used by	= [[Link]]
| element	= 
| power		= 30 (base)<br/>40 (''BotW'', first luster)<br/>45 (''TotK'', luster)<br/>50 (''BotW'', second luster)<br/>60 (full luster)<br/>1 (decayed)
| shown power	= 
| durability	= 40 (base)<br/>188 (''BotW'', full power)<br/>5 (decayed)
| range		= 
| best bonus	= 
| related	= [[Magical Sword]]<br/>[[Tempered Sword]]<br/>[[Golden Sword]]<br/>[[Four Sword]]<br/>[[Phantom Sword]]<br/>[[Lokomo Sword]]<br/>[[Goddess Sword]]
| type		= 
}}
{{Languages
| jpn = {{Tt|Masutā Sōdo|マスターソード}}<br/>{{Tt|マスターソード(レバル1)}}(Master Sword Lv1)
| ess = Espada Maestra
| esl = Espada Maestra
| frf = Épée de légende
| frc = Épée de légende
| deu = Master-Schwert
| ita = Spada Suprema
| dut = Meesterzwaard
| rus = {{Tt|Vysshiy Mech|Высший Меч}} (Supreme Sword)
| zht = {{Tt|Dàshī zhī jiàn|大師之劍}}
| kor = {{Tt|Maseuteo Sodeu|마스터 소드}}
}}
The '''Master Sword''' is a recurring [[sword]] in [[The Legend of Zelda (Series)|''The Legend of Zelda'' series]]. Also known as the '''Sacred Sword''', the '''Blade of Evil's Bane''', or the '''Sword that Seals the Darkness''', it is the signature weapon of [[Link]] and one of the most integral parts of both the character's visual identity and the franchise as a whole.

==Overview==
The Master Sword was originally forged by the Goddess [[Hylia]] as the [[Goddess Sword]], which was later forged into the Master Sword by the [[Link (Skyward Sword)|Hero of the Sky]] and the spirit which dwelled inside the blade, [[Fi]]. The two bathed the Goddess Sword in the three [[Sacred Flames]] around the [[Hyrule|Surface]] to awaken the blade's hidden strength; [[Din's Flame]] specifically granted the Sword the ability to repel evil in all forms. After being bathed in all three Flames, Zelda's blessing transformed the Master Sword into its true form.

In ''[[The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past|A Link to the Past]]'', the Master Sword had a red grip and yellow cross-guard (both are red in-game); However, before drawn from its pedestal, it is seen with a blue cross-guard and purple grip. The Master Sword's most iconic design, established in ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time|Ocarina of Time]]'', is as a longsword with a blue handle and pommel, green grip, blue cross-guard shaped like a pair of extended wings, a yellow gem in the center of the cross-guard, and a ricasso with the symbol of the [[Triforce]] etched into it. The blade itself is often seen with an ethereal blue shine, showing the sacred power that dwells inside the Master Sword.

==Abilities==
The Master Sword is blessed with sacred light, and has the ability to vanquish any source of evil, bypassing even the power of the Triforce. It can also be used to destroy magical barriers or break curses involving [[Shadow Crystal|powerful dark magic]], and is capable of sealing the remains of demons inside of itself. Additionally, the sword draws on heavenly power to perform [[Skyward Strike]]s, firing projectiles of sacred power. Even when on low power, the Master Sword can conduct lightning strikes to fire Skyward Strikes made from electricity.

Only a hero "pure of heart and strong of body" is capable of wielding the Master Sword, and anyone with a tainted heart cannot even touch the blade. If a hero chosen by the Master Sword draws the blade when they are too young to bear the title of hero, their spirit will be sealed away, sending them into a deep slumber until they come of age (as seen in ''Ocarina of Time''). If someone attempts to draw the Master Sword but is too physically weak to wield it, the blade will gradually drain their life force and kill them unless they release the sword. In ''Ocarina of Time'', the Master Sword also serves as a key, keeping the entrance to the [[Sacred Realm]] sealed so long as it remains in the [[Pedestal of Time]]. If a hero has been placed into stasis by the blade, they can exploit this to perform a limited form of time travel, returning the Master Sword to the pedestal to revisit their youth, or drawing it again to return to the present.

As seen in ''A Link to the Past'' and ''[[The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds|A Link Between Worlds]]'', the Master Sword can be further upgraded through smithing or magical means. However, these upgrades are never permanent, and after its task is accomplished and the Master Sword returned to its pedestal, it will dull back to its original state.

==Mainline appearances==
===''A Link to the Past''===
{{Quote|The hero's triumph on Cataclysm's Eve wins three [[Pendants of Virtue|Symbols of Virtue]]. The Master Sword he will then retrieve, keeping the knights' line true.|Engraving on the Master Sword's pedestal, ''[[The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past|A Link to the Past]]''}}
In ''[[The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past|A Link to the Past]]'', [[Link (A Link to the Past)|Link]] is instructed to find the Master Sword by [[Saharasla]], in order to defeat [[Agahnim]] and stop him from conquering [[Hyrule]]. The Master Sword is kept deep in the [[Lost Woods (A Link to the Past)|Lost Woods]], accessed through a log tunnel in the northwest corner of the woods; A prophecy is inscribed into the Sword's pedestal in ancient [[Hylian]], which can be translated using the [[Book of Mudora]]. To obtain the Master Sword, Link must first obtain all three [[Pendants of Virtue]], which enable him to pull the blade out.

The Master Sword replaces the [[Fighter's Sword]] once obtained. It deals double damage, has a slightly longer reach, and grants Link the ability to fire [[Sword Beam]]s while at full health; It is also required to destroy the magical barrier blocking access to the upper levels of [[Hyrule Castle (A Link to the Past)|Hyrule Castle]], and is used to obtain the [[Ether Medallion]] and [[Bombos Medallion]]. Finally, the Master Sword's [[Spin Attack]]s are the only attack capable of damaging Ganon. After Ganon is defeated, Link returns the Master Sword to the Lost Woods, where it can rest until the next hero needs it.

In the [[The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past (GBA)|GBA version]], the Master Sword can also break [[Jar]]s and [[Skull]]s. The Master Sword can later be upgraded into the [[Tempered Sword]], and then into the [[Golden Sword]].

===''Ocarina of Time''===
In ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time|Ocarina of Time]]'', the Master Sword is kept in a hidden chamber in the [[Temple of Time (Ocarina of Time)|Temple of Time]], behind the [[Door of Time]]; The Sword serves as a seal to separate Hyrule from the [[Sacred Realm]], protecting the [[Triforce]] from falling into the wrong hands. During the events of the game, [[Link (Ocarina of Time)|Link]] is sent on a quest by the [[Great Deku Tree]] (and later [[Princess Zelda]]) to obtain the three [[Spiritual Stones]] and enter the Sacred Realm, so that he may claim the Triforce before Ganondorf does. After Link opens the Door of Time by placing the Spiritual Stones on their respective pedestals and playing the [[Song of Time]], he gains access to the hidden chamber, and pulls the Master Sword from the [[Pedestal of Time]]. However, since Link is too young to become the hero of time, his spirit is sealed inside the [[Chamber of Sages]] for seven years until he has come of age; During this time, Ganondorf enters the Sacred Realm, claims the [[Triforce of Power]], and conquers Hyrule as the King of Evil.

The Master Sword is Adult Link's default weapon. It deals double damage compared to the [[Kokiri Sword]] and has a longer reach; Additionally, the Master Sword is the only weapon which deals normal damage against Ganon. After completing the [[Forest Temple (Ocarina of Time)|Forest Temple]] and meeting [[Sheik]] at the Temple of Time, Link can use the Master Sword to travel through time; Placing it back in the pedestal sends him back to the child era, before Ganondorf becomes the King of Evil, while drawing it again returns him to the adult era. After Ganondorf is defeated and banished, Zelda sends Link back to the child era with the [[Ocarina of Time]] so he can regain his childhood; The young hero leaves the Master Sword in the Temple of Time, preventing the seal from ever breaking.

===''Oracle of Seasons'' & ''Oracle of Ages''===
{{Quote|You got the legendary Master Sword!|N/A, ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Seasons|Oracle of Seasons]]'' and ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Ages|Oracle of Ages]]''}}
In ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Seasons|Oracle of Seasons]]'' and ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Ages|Oracle of Ages]]'', the Master Sword is an optional sword upgrade that can only be obtained via a [[Linked Game]]. To obtain it, [[Link (Oracle Series)|Link]] must receive a sword upgrade with the [[Noble Sword]] in hand; This is done either by completing the [[Trading Sequence]], or via either the [[Clock Shop Secret]] or [[King Zora Secret]] (depending on the game). If Link obtains one of these upgrades with the [[Wooden Sword]], he will receive the Noble Sword instead, and the Master Sword is located via the other upgrade.

The Master Sword replaces the Noble Sword once obtained. It deals double damage compared to the Noble Sword (quadruple damage compared to the Wooden Sword), making it the most versatile sword in the game. Uniquely, the Master Sword in the ''Oracle'' games is not the real Master Sword, but merely the Noble Sword tempered to match its power; The replica resembles the Noble Sword, but is blue and features a second pair of prongs on the bottom of the cross-guard.

===''The Wind Waker''===
{{Quote|You got the Master Sword! The legendary blade with the power to repel evil...once wielded by the legendary hero himself!|N/A, ''[[The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker|The Wind Waker]]''}}
{{Quote|The prayers of the [[Medli|Earth Sage]] have restored the Master Sword's former energy! There is but one last step before it becomes the true Master Sword again!|N/A, ''[[The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker|The Wind Waker]]''}}
{{Quote|The Master Sword has returned! Its blade once again houses the power to repel evil. The sword of the one true hero is revived at last!|N/A, ''[[The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker|The Wind Waker]]''}}
In ''[[The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker|The Wind Waker]]'', the Master Sword is kept in a hidden chamber in [[Hyrule Castle (The Wind Waker)|Hyrule Castle]]; While the Hero of Time returned to his era and left the Master Sword in the Pedestal of Time, the version of the Sword he used remained in the adult era, and was taken into safekeeping. The chamber features stained-glass windows depicting each of the Seven Sages, to memorialize the legend of ''Ocarina of Time''. Once again, the Master Sword maintains a seal, this time keeping time frozen in Hyrule Castle and weakening Ganondorf's magic; However, [[Link (The Wind Waker)|Link]] unknowingly draws the Master Sword from the pedestal after being instructed by the [[King of Red Lions]]; As a result, time in Hyrule Castle begins to flow again, and Ganondorf's magic is fully restored.

The Master Sword replaces the [[Hero's Sword]] once obtained; It deals double damage, and has a longer reach. However, Link later learns that Ganondorf has had the original Sages of Earth and Wind, [[Laruto]] and [[Fado]], murdered, and without their prayers to maintain its strength, the Master Sword has dulled and lost its sacred power. In its dulled state, the cross-guard is curved into the blade rather than extending outwards, the gem on the base is black rather than gold, the Triforce symbol on the ricasso is gone, and the blade has lost its shine. After Link awakens [[Medli]] and [[Makar]] as the new Sages, their prayers restore the Master Sword's power; Medli's prayers restore the cross-guard to its original position, while Makar's restore the gem, Triforce symbol, and shine. Once both Sages are awakened, the Master Sword regains the power to repel evil, and can destroy the magical barrier blocking access to [[Ganon's Tower (The Wind Waker)|Ganon's Tower]].

Link uses the Master Sword during the final battle against Ganondorf, and with the help of [[Tetra|Princess Zelda]], kills him by driving the blade through his skull. As the last of Hyrule is flooded beneath the [[Great Sea]], the Master Sword is left stuck in Ganondorf's petrified body, where it would remain for the rest of time.

===''Twilight Princess''===
{{Quote|You got the Master Sword! Only the true hero can wield this legendary weapon!|N/A, ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess|Twilight Princess]]''}}
{{Quote|Light filled the Master Sword! Its blade glows with a golden light in the [[Twilight Realm]]. With it, you can cut through dark fog!|N/A, ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess|Twilight Princess]]''}}
In ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess|Twilight Princess]]'', the Master Sword is kept deep within the [[Sacred Grove]] in [[Faron Woods (Twilight Princess)|Faron Woods]], inside the ruins of the [[Temple of Time (Twilight Princess)|Temple of Time]]. When [[Link (Twilight Princess)|Link]] is trapped in his [[Wolf Link|wolf form]] after [[Zant]] drives a [[Shadow Crystal]] into his forehead, [[Zelda (Twilight Princess)|Princess Zelda]] informs him that only the Master Sword can remove it and lift the curse. Link and [[Midna]] journey to the Sacred Grove and are eventually able to gain access; The Master Sword emits a brilliant blast of sacred light, removing the Shadow Crystal from Link and enabling him to draw the blade.

The Master Sword replaces the [[Ordon Sword]] once obtained. It deals double damage, has a longer reach, and is used to gain access to the Temple of Time dungeon by placing it in the Pedestal of Time. Later, after Link infuses the Master Sword with the [[Sol]]s in the [[Palace of Twilight]], the Master Sword's sacred power becomes even stronger, making it capable of instantly defeating [[Twilight]] monsters and clearing away [[Dark Fog]]. However, this upgrade is only in effect inside the [[Twilight Realm]]; [[Midna]] notes that this is a sign of the Twilight gods' favour.

At the end of the game, Link uses the Master Sword to finish Ganondorf using the [[Ending Blow]]. As peace returns to Hyrule, Link returns the Master Sword to the pedestal in the Sacred Grove, where it rests.

===''Four Swords''===
In ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Four Swords Anniversary Edition]]'', the Master Sword is an optional sword upgrade that is obtained by completing the [[Realm of Memories]]. It enables [[Link (Four Swords)|Link]] to fire Sword Beams while at full health. It is implied that this Master Sword is simply an upgrade to the [[Four Sword]], given that Link can still divide into four copies using it.

===''Skyward Sword''===
{{Quote|The [[Din's Flame|flames of Din]] have imbued your blade with a sacred white light that demons revile.|N/A, ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword|Skyward Sword]]''}}
{{Quote|The [[Hylia|goddess]] has blessed your blade, and the Master Sword has at last achieved its ultimate form! The sword is now imbued with the mythical power to drive back demons, and only [Link] may wield it!|N/A, ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword|Skyward Sword]]''}}
In ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword|Skyward Sword]]'', the Master Sword is revealed to have originally been the Goddess Sword, and inhabited by a guardian spirit known as Fi. After Zelda and [[Impa (Skyward Sword)|Impa]] travel to the past at the [[Temple of Time (Skyward Sword)|Temple of Time]], the Old One informs Link that the Goddess Sword is not powerful enough to open the second [[Gate of Time]] in the [[Sealed Grounds]], and that Link must first use the three Sacred Flames around the Surface to temper the blade and unlock the required power. Each Flame empowers and physically alters the sword; Din's Flame tempers the [[Goddess White Sword]] into the Master Sword. In this state, however, the blade's color scheme is duller, the cross-guard is curved into the blade, the gem on the cross-guard is black, and the blade is plain white, indicating that it is not yet at full power. Regardless, this Master Sword has gained the ability to repel evil, and can activate the Gate of Time.

After visiting Zelda in [[Hylia's Realm]], the Master Sword is blessed, becoming the '''True Master Sword''' and reverting to its classic design. In this state, the Master Sword can only be wielded by a hero chosen by the Goddess, and its Skyward Strikes have greater speed and range. If examined closely, it is revealed that the cross-guard's unique design is meant to resemble a [[Loftwing]], with the yellow gem as the beak and gold decals as the body.

===''A Link Between Worlds''===
{{Quote|You got the Master Sword—a blade for a true hero! It fires a beam when you're at full health.|N/A, ''[[The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds|A Link Between Worlds]]''}}
In ''[[The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds|A Link Between Worlds]]'', the Master Sword is kept in its pedestal in the Lost Woods, mirroring its appearance in ''A Link to the Past''. It is obtained in the same way; [[Link (A Link Between Worlds)|Link]] must obtain all three Pendants of Virtue, which will enable him to draw the Master Sword from its pedestal.

The Master Sword replaces the [[Forgotten Sword]] once obtained. It deals double damage, has a longer reach, and can fire Sword Beams when Link is at full health; It is also required to dispel the magical barrier around Hyrule Castle and confront [[Yuga]]. It can later be upgraded to the [[Tempered Sword|Master Sword Lv2]], and then the [[Golden Sword|Master Sword Lv3]], by giving [[Master Ore]] to the [[Blacksmith]] in both Hyrule and [[Lorule]], respectively.

===''Breath of the Wild''===
{{Quote|The legendary sword that seals the darkness. Its blade gleams with a sacred luster that can oppose the Calamity. Only a hero chosen by the sword itself may wield it.|[[Hyrule Compendium]] description, ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild|Breath of the Wild]]''}}
{{Quote|The legendary sword that seals the darkness, a blade that can combat the Calamity. Link's triumph over the [[Trial of the Sword]] has awakened its true splendour.|Description after completing [[EX Trial of the Sword]], ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild|Breath of the Wild]]''}}
In ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild|Breath of the Wild]]'', the Master Sword was wielded by [[Link (Breath of the Wild)|Link]] prior to the [[Great Calamity]], after he was discovered to be worthy of drawing the blade from its pedestal in [[Korok Forest]]. In "[[Subdued Ceremony]]", the speech recited by [[Zelda (Breath of the Wild)|Zelda]] states that the Sword is bound to the spirit of the hero, and whether "skyward bound", "adrift in time", or "steeped in the glowing embers of twilight", it always comes to aid him. In "[[Resolve and Grief]]", Zelda reveals that she can hear the Master Sword talk to her, presumably referring to Fi.

During the Great Calamity, Link wielded the Master Sword against an attacking horde of [[Guardian (Breath of the Wild)|Guardians]] as he was escorting Zelda to [[Fort Hateno]]. During the intense battle that ensued, Link was gravely wounded, and the Master Sword's power was completely exhausted from overuse, the blade being reduced to a decayed stump. When Zelda awakened her sacred powers and shut down the Guardian horde, she had Link delivered to the [[Shrine of Resurrection]] so he could recover from his wounds, and returned the Master Sword to its pedestal in Korok Forest so that it could recover, promising the blade that its master would return.

100 years later, in the present, the Master Sword remains in Korok Forest, the blade fully repaired; Link can come across several hints on where to find the Master Sword during his journey. When he does find the Sword, the Great Deku Tree warns Link that to test the wielder's worth, drawing the blade will drain their life energy and kill them if they are not worthy. To draw the Master Sword from its pedestal, Link must have at least 13 [[Heart Container]]s.

The Master Sword is a metal [[One-Handed Weapon]], which cannot be dropped or put on display in [[Link's House]]; However, it takes up no space in the player's inventory, instead having a dedicated slot. It has a base attack power of 30, and a base durability of 40. However, if Link is in the proximity of [[Malice]] (either from being inside a [[Dungeon]], in the proximity of Guardians, [[Blight Ganon]]s, Calamity Ganon, or Malice itself), the blade will glow blue, increasing the attack power to 60 and vastly increasing the durability; The awakened Master Sword is the strongest one-handed weapon in the game. If Link attempts to throw the Master Sword, he will instead fire a Sword Beam if he is at full health, which takes 1 durability from the blade; Sword Beams deal 10 damage, and the range increases alongside Link's number of Heart Containers. Upon running out of durability, the Master Sword's blade turns black and loses its sacred property, rendering it unusable for 10 real-life minutes until it has recharged.

The Master Sword can be upgraded by progressing through the [[Trial of the Sword]]. Completing the Beginning Trials increases the Master Sword's base attack power to 40, and completing the Middle Trials increase it to 50. Completing the Final Trials will awaken the Master Sword's full power, causing it to remain in its awakened state at all times, enabling Link to fire Sword Beams without draining durability, and increasing the durability to a whopping 188.

===''Tears of the Kingdom''===
{{Quote|The legendary sword that seals the darkness. Its sacred power has been diminished after being ravaged by the [[Gloom|gloom]] beneath [[Hyrule Castle (Breath of the Wild)|Hyrule Castle]].|Decayed Master Sword description, ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom|Tears of the Kingdom]]''}}
{{Quote|The legendary sword that seals the darkness. Its corruption was healed by its time with the [[Light Dragon]]. The blade gleams with a scared luster that can oppose the Demon King.|Hyrule Compendium description, ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom|Tears of the Kingdom]]''}}
In ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom|Tears of the Kingdom]]'', the Master Sword was returned to its pedestal sometime after the events of the previous game, to recharge following Calamity Ganon's defeat. When [[Gloom]] begins to leak from [[Beneath Hyrule Castle]], Link and Zelda retrieve the sword to use during their investigation; The Great Deku Tree explains that the Master Sword has been restored to its full power, and reveals that it has the ability to grow stronger when exposed to sacred light, potentially with no limit. Later, when the two confront Ganondorf's mummified body in the [[Imprisoning Chamber]], Link attempts to use the Master Sword to block a stream of Gloom directed at Zelda; The Gloom corrodes and shatters the blade into pieces, although the tip cuts Ganondorf's cheek as it flies off. Ganondorf recognizes the Master Sword for what it is, and expresses disappointment at having defeated Link so easily. When the [[Upheaval]] begins and Zelda falls into the chasm below, Link tosses the destroyed Master Sword aside to try and save her.

When Link recovers in the [[Room of Awakening]], he finds the '''Decayed Master Sword''' stuck in a nearby rock, with only the hilt and decayed ricasso still intact. In this state, the Master Sword has a base damage of 1 and a durability of 5; It has lost all of its sacred power, cannot be [[fuse]]d, and will not recharge after running out of energy, making it the worst weapon in the game. However, it is required in order to get past several vine walls that block Link's path in the Room of Awakening. Later, after Link passes through the [[Temple of Time (Tears of the Kingdom)|Temple of Time]], he discovers a pedestal with a glowing yellow light shining from it; The Master Sword instructs him to place it on the pedestal. When Link does so, the blade is sent back in time via [[Recall]], where it is retrieved by Zelda in the distant past.

The Master Sword assures Zelda that Link is safe in the present, and that it was sent back so that it could recover its strength to face Ganondorf. Now understanding why she was sent back in time, Zelda comes up with a plan to [[Draconification|draconify]] herself, enabling the Master Sword to absorb sacred light over millennia and return to its former glory. After [[Mineru]] seals her spirit in the [[Purah Pad]], the rest of the [[Seven Sages]] promise to pass on their abilities to their descendants, and the [[Great Sky Island]] is equipped with everything Link needs to recover, Zelda swallows a [[Secret Stone]] and transforms into the [[Light Dragon]], the Master Sword becoming embedded in a growth on her forehead.

In the present, after Link awakens Mineru, she advises that he recover the Master Sword. To locate the blade, Link must defeat the [[Gloom Spawn]] inside the [[Deku Tree Chasm]] and purge the corrupted fog from Korok Forest; The recovered Great Deku Tree will then mark the Light Dragon's current position on the map. When Link attempts to pull the Master Sword, the Light Dragon reacts in pain and attempts to shake him off; Link needs at least two complete [[Stamina Wheel]]s to hold on until the Light Dragon calms down and the growth retracts. Once successful, Link draws the Master Sword; The decayed blade has been replaced with one made from the Light Dragon's crystal, and its power is restored. If Link did not already retrieve the Master Sword, he automatically draws it during the battle against the [[Demon Dragon]].

The Master Sword functions similarly to its appearance in ''Breath of the Wild'' but like all other weapons, has been nerfed to account for fusing. When the blade is in the proximity of Gloom-infected enemies, it glows blue, increasing its attack power by 15 while confronting [[Phantom Ganon (Tears of the Kingdom)|Phantom Ganon]] and [[Demon King Ganondorf|Ganondorf]], it increases by 30 and becomes unbreakable. The Master Sword can be fused like any other weapon, with the fused material remaining until the blade runs out of energy; However, the material cannot be recovered at the [[Break-A-Part Shop]] and its durability isn't increased. When the blade is fused, glowing [[Zonai]] runes appear along the side, and the fused material will only appear briefly as a green apparition whenever the blade is drawn.

An alternate version of the Master Sword, titled "MsgNotFound", is used by Link in the game's prologue. It is based on the sword's first appearance before Ganondorf destroys it, and it can be used in regular gameplay through hacking; It has a base power of 30 and infinite durability, but cannot be fused without causing glitches.

==Spin-off appearances==
{{Non-Canon|section}}
===''Ancient Stone Tablets''===
In ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Ancient Stone Tablets|Ancient Stone Tablets]]'', the Master Sword can be obtained from the Lost Woods during Week 4; In previous weeks, the entrance to its resting place is blocked by a Soldier. It is the strongest sword in the game, and can shoot Sword Beams while the player is at full health. In the ending, the player, Zelda, and [[Aginah]] return the Master Sword to its pedestal.

===''Hyrule Warriors''===
{{Quote|The legendary blade of evil's bane. Only the chosen hero can wield this sword. When attacking with full health, your strikes gain a little extra oomph!|In-game description, ''[[Hyrule Warriors]]''}}
In ''[[Hyrule Warriors]]'', the Master Sword is a [[Hyrule Warriors Weapons|weapon]] class used by [[Link (Hyrule Warriors)|Link]], wielded alongside the [[Hylian Shield]]. The [[Hyrulean Forces]] resolve to obtain the sacred blade and use its power in the final assault against [[Cia]], with [[Zelda (Hyrule Warriors)|Princess Zelda]] and [[Lana]] both believing Link to be worthy of the sword. Link is able to obtain the sword inside the [[Temple of the Sacred Sword]], where he uses it to fend off [[Wizzro]] and an army of attacking monsters. However, Link begins to grow cocky after wielding the Master Sword, behaving more recklessly in battle and refusing to listen to his allies' orders. Cia exploits Link's hubris, cursing him and summoning an endless army of [[Dark Link]]s that overwhelm the allied forces. Link's allies convince him that he can't do everything by himself, enabling the hero to overcome his pride and unlock the Master Sword's full potential, banishing the curse.

Uniquely, the Master Sword is one-of-a-kind, and the player cannot obtain new copies of the weapon or sell it. It uses the same moveset as the [[Hylian Sword]], but several attacks are stronger, and Link's [[Spin Attack]] has a wider range. After completing [[A War of Spirit]] in [[Legend Mode]], the Master Sword's power is fully awakened, enabling Link to fire Sword Beams after certain attacks while at full health. Additionally, the Master Sword comes with two Legendary Skills, which can only be removed once a specific requirement has been fulfilled:

*'''Evil's Bane:''' To unlock this Skill, remove the Legendary Seal by obtaining all Level 1, 2, and 3 weapons, then get 10,000 KOs (25,000 in the Wii U version) to unlock the Skill. Increases the Master Sword's strength by +200.
*'''Exorcism:''' Only appears in ''[[Hyrule Warriors Legends]]'' and ''[[Hyrule Warriors: Definitive Edition|Definitive Edition]]''. To unlock this Skill, remove the Legendary Seal by obtaining all Level 4 (and 4+ in ''Definitive Edition'') weapons, then get 15,000 KOs to unlock the Skill. Increases the Master Sword's strength by +400, and unlocks all Sealed Skills on other weapons.

{|class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
!Weapon
!Element
!Strength
!Location
|-
|[[File:HW Master Sword.png|140px]]<br/>Master Sword
|{{Light}} Light
|300<br/>(+200 with Evil's Bane)<br/>(+400 with Exorcism)
|Complete [[The Sacred Sword]] in [[Legend Mode]].
|}

===''Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity''===
In ''[[Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity]]'', the Master Sword is a [[One-Handed Weapon (Age of Calamity)|One-Handed Weapon]] that is unlocked by completing [[Freeing Korok Forest]]. It is wielded alongside the Hylian Shield and [[Knight's Bow]]. Just like its predecessor, it can fire Sword Beams after certain attacks if Link is at full health.

==Other appearances==
{{Non-Canon|section}}
===''A Link to the Past'' (Ishinomori)===
In the [[The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past (Comic)|''A Link to the Past'' comic miniseries]], [[Sahasrahla's Wife]] elaborates on part of the Master Sword's history: she tells of ancient scrolls that speak of the prosperous people who lived in Hyrule prior to its decline. They forged several powerful weapons, including the Master Sword, a treasure created to resist evil power that now dwells in the Lost Woods. When Agahnim kidnaps Princess Zelda, Link begins his journey to find the Master Sword after Zelda states that it is the only weapon that can harm the sorcerer. He finds Sahasrahla, who is surprised that a youth is attempting to find the legendary blade, but nonetheless informs him that he must first recover the Pendants of Virtue.

After acquiring all three Pendants, Link draws the Master Sword from its pedestal and travels to Hyrule Castle to confront Agahnim; Though he grows cocky, Sahasrahla warns Link not to place his full trust in the blade, as even the Master Sword cannot harm Agahnim's body. Sure enough, the Master Sword passes through Agahnim without harming him, and the sorcerer paralyzes Link with a single glance before banishing him to the [[Dark World]]. Since the hero and the blade are as one, Link's rage towards Agahnim channels through the Master Sword, Sahasrahla informs Link that the Master Sword can also ''repel'' evil, not just resist it; Turning Agahnim's magic back at him, Link is able to win the fight.

Link uses the Master Sword against Ganon, stunning him and enabling Zelda to finish the King of Thieves with the [[Silver Arrow]]s. As peace returns to Hyrule, Link returns the Master Sword to its pedestal; The final scene is of the Master Sword, overgrown and covered in foiliage, as it rests.

==Crossover appearances==
{{Non-Canon|section}}
===''Super Smash Bros.'' Series===
In every ''[[Super Smash Bros. (Series)|Super Smash Bros.]]'' game, Link and [[Link (The Wind Waker)|Toon Link]] wield the Master Sword as his main weapon, alongside the Hylian Shield and [[Hero's Shield]], respectively. In ''[[Super Smash Bros. Melee]]'', the Master Sword in the Pedestal of Time also appears as an obtainable Trophy. In ''[[Super Smash Bros. Ultimate]]'', Link can fire Sword Beams from the Master Sword by performing his forward smash at 0%.

===''SoulCalibur II''===
In ''[[SoulCalibur II]]'', the Master Sword is the default weapon used by Link. It is wielded alongside the Hylian Shield, but can also be wielded alongside the [[Mirror Shield]] from ''Ocarina of Time'' after unlocking it.

{|class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
!Weapon
!Cost (Gold)
!Attributes
!Description
|-
|[[File:SC2-Master Sword & Hylian Shield.png|80px]]<br/>Master Sword
|Unlocked from start.
|Well-balanced
|A magic sword and shield that have accompanied Link on many adventures and helped him repeatedly save the land of Hyrule. This journey is no less dire, and Link once again goes into battle equipped with these items, this time in another world. These are well-balanced arms for Link.
|-
|[[File:SC2-Master Sword & Mirror Shield.png|80px]]<br/>[[Mirror Shield]]
|2,200
|Hits taken are counters<br/>33% of damage received is inflicted back onto opponent
|A mirror-like shield found in the [[Spirit Temple (Ocarina of Time)|Spirit Temple]]. It is an amazing work of art, and there are few who would argue that it is not one of the finest shields in Hyrule. It is said that its surface reflects not only light but hostile intent as well.
|}

===''The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim''===
In ''[[The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim]]'', the Master Sword is exclusive to the Nintendo Switch version, and can be obtained by scanning Zelda [[Amiibo]] or inside a chest near Paarthurnax at the Throat of the World. It functions as an Elven Sword with slightly lower weight, and uniquely, it is the only weapon in the game that does not accumulate bloodstains.

===''Nintendo Land''===
{{Monita|This legendary sword is imbued with awe-inspiring magical power and can only be wielded by the righteous. That means if you've been very naughty, you probably won't be able to use it.|hide|left}}
In ''[[Nintendo Land]]'', the Master Sword appears as one of the 200 prizes that can be won using the central tower in Nintendo Land plaza. 
{{Clear}}

===''My Nintendo Picross: Twilight Princess''===
In ''[[My Nintendo Picross: Twilight Princess]]'', the Master Sword is the twenty-fourth puzzle in the ''Picross'' series and the sixteenth in the ''Mega Picross'' series.

===''Super Mario Maker 2''===
In ''[[Super Mario Maker 2]]'', the Master Sword as added as a power-up to the ''Super Mario Bros.'' style in the v2.0.0 update. When collected, it transforms the player into Link, who can use the sword to perform stab attacks, as well as the [[Dash Attack]] and [[Down Thrust]]; Link can also block hazards with the Hylian Shield, use the [[Bow]] to fire [[Silver Arrow]]s, and create and throw [[Bomb]]s; Additionally, the game's music is replaced with the soundtrack from ''[[The Legend of Zelda]]''.

==Trivia==
*According to the original Japanese txt in ''The Wind Waker'', the Master Sword only kept Ganondorf's minions sealed and not his magic, as observed in-game.
*The Master Sword is a common symbol of the ''Legend of Zelda'' franchise, frequently displayed in both game logos and as Link's main weapon in crossover appearances.
*''[[Wikipedia:Fire Emblem: Mystery of the Emblem|Fire Emblem: Mystery of the Emblem]]'', which released shortly after ''A Link to the Past'', features a weapon called the Master Sword. While it shares the name and is also a powerful weapon, the blade has a very different appearance. It also appears in the [[Nintendo DS]] remake, and in ''[[Wikipedia:Fire Emblem: Thracia 776|Fire Emblem: Thracia 776]]'', where the appearance is closer to the ''Zelda'' design. Its also appears in ''[[Wikipedia:Fire Emblem Heroes|Fire Emblem Heroes]]'' as the "Meisterschwert", under the ownership of Reinhardt: Thunder's Sword.
*The Snake Killer from ''[[Wikipedia:Kaeru no Tame ni Kane wa Naru|The Frog For Whom the Bell Tolls]]'' is very similar to the Master Sword; It was drawn from the ground in an isolated area (the Ice Cave), and was required to defeat the final boss (Delarin, a snake). An ancient tablet regarding the Snake Killer had the message "When thou seeth thy true friend, the golden sword shalt awaken." When the spring bell was rung and Richard transformed back into a human, the Snake Killer began to glow and was used by Prince Sable to slay Delarin.
*In the ending of ''Skyward Sword'', due to the time travel involved, the Master Sword and Goddess Sword exist simultaneously; The Master Sword is laid to rest in the [[Sealed Temple]], while the Goddess Sword remains [[Inside the Statue of the Goddess]] in [[Skyloft]]. This likely explains how the [[Goddess Statue]]s in ''Tears of the Kingdom'' are able to reward it to Link.
**The Master Sword also exists twice in both ''Breath of the Wild'' and ''Tears of the Kingdom''; The original one, wielded by Link before the Great Calamity and during the events of ''Breath of the Wild'', and the repaired Master Sword embedded in the Light Dragon's forehead.
*''A Link to the Past'' and ''A Link Between Worlds'' are the only games where the Master Sword can be permanently upgraded beyond its base power.
*The ''A Link to the Past'' manga claims the Master Sword was forged by the Sages, on behalf of the Goddess.
*While the Master Sword is a one-handed weapon, it can be used with both hands due to being a two-handed broadsword.
*In ''Twilight Princess'', the gem and round area above the grip are engraved with boxlike symbols reminiscent of [[Hylian]]. ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD|Twilight Princess HD]]'' removed the symbols from the gem and replaced the cross-guard engravings with the Latin alphabet, represented by corresponding characters from the Greek alphabet. The exceptions are "j" and "v", as other characters are used due to them having no Greek equivalent.
*Despite being claimed by the storyline to be the strongest blade in existence and the only one capable of defeating Ganon, stronger weapons do exist, such as [[Biggoron's Sword]], the [[Silver Arrow]]s, and [[Light Arrow]]s. It can also be upgraded in certain games.
*It is implied that the Master Sword absorbs and draws power from fused materials, rather than attaching to them.
*Princess Zelda is the only character other than Link who is seen touching the Master Sword; She returns it to Link when the blade is knocked out of his hand in ''The Wind Waker'', she places the broken Master Sword into its pedestal in ''Breath of the Wild'', and carries it in ''Tears of the Kingdom'' after Link sends it back to her. It is implied that [[Rauru (Tears of the Kingdom)|King Rauru]] can also touch the Master Sword, since there is no other plausible explanation for how the blade was transported from the Depths to the Room of Awakening.
*According to the [[Hyrule Historia]], the Master Sword's hilt and the [[Ocarina of Time]] were both forged from [[Timeshift Stones]]s, explaining their similar colour and time-based abilities.
*In the French version of ''A Link to the Past'' and the [[Nintendo GameCube|GameCube]] version of ''The Wind Waker'' and ''Twilight Princess'', the Master Sword is called "Excalibur" and in ''Oracle of Seasons'' and ''Oracle of Ages'', it is called "Épée Maitre", but this was changed to the official French name "Épée de Légende" in the HD remaster of ''The Wind Waker'' and ''Twilight Princess''

==Gallery==
<gallery caption="''A Link to the Past''">
File:Master Sword - LTTP art.png|Official artwork
File:Lttp mastersword.jpg|Official artwork of the Master Sword in its pedestal
File:Master Sword 25th Anniversary Wallpaper - LTTP.jpg|25th Anniversary artwork
File:Lttpmaster sword.png|The Master Sword in its pedestal
File:Lttp mastersword sprite.jpg|Pulling the Master Sword
File:Lttp zd 108.png|Link draws the Master Sword
File:Item mastersword.gif|Pedestal sprite
File:Master-Sword-Inventory.png|Inventory icon
</gallery>
<gallery caption="''Ocarina of Time''">
File:Master-Sword-Art.png|N64 promo render
File:Master Sword OoT.png|The Master Sword in the Pedestal of Time
File:Oot3ds mastersword.jpg|Link draws the Master Sword (''[[The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D|Ocarina of Time 3D]]'')
File:Master Sword - OoT N64 Icon.png|N64 icon
File:Master-Sword-3D.png|3DS icon
</gallery>
<gallery caption="Oracle Games">
File:Oosmastersword.png|Obtaining the Master Sword in ''Seasons'' from the Trading Sequence
File:King-Zora-Secret-3.png|Obtaining the Master Sword in ''Ages'' with the King Zora Secret
File:Master Sword OOX.png|Sprite
</gallery>
<gallery caption="''The Wind Waker''">
File:TWW-Master-Sword.png|GCN artwork
File:Ww mastersword.png|Link draws the Master Sword
File:Ww mastersword2.png|First blessing
File:Ww mastersword3.png|Full power
</gallery>
<gallery caption="''Twilight Princess''">
File:Master Sword Sacred Grove.jpg|The Master Sword in the Sacred Grove
File:Tp mastersword.png|Link draws the Master Sword
File:Master Sword - TPHD icon.png|Inventory icon
</gallery>
<gallery caption="''Skyward Sword''">
File:Master Sword Artwork (Skyward Sword).png|Artwork
File:Ss mastersword.jpg|Master Sword
File:Ss mastersword2.png|True Master Sword
</gallery>
<gallery caption="''A Link Between Worlds''">
File:ALBW-MasterSword.jpg|Render
File:A Link Between Worlds - Master Sword.png|Link obtains the Master Sword
</gallery>
<gallery caption="''Breath of the Wild''">
File:Master Sword - HWAoC icon.png|Inventory icon
File:Hyrule-Compendium-Master-Sword.png|Default Hyrule Compendium image
</gallery>
<gallery caption="''Tears of the Kingdom''">
File:Master Sword (Initial) - TotK icon.png|right|144x144px|Master Sword (Initial)
File:Decayed Master Sword - TotK icon.png|Decayed Master Sword
File:Master Sword - TotK icon.png|Master Sword, Healed 
File:Master Sword (Fused) - TotK icon.png|Master Sword, [[fuse]]d to any item
File:Master Sword (Glowing) - TotK icon.png|Master Sword, glowing [[gloom]]-activated state
File:Master Sword (Glowing, Fused) - TotK icon.png|Master Sword (Glowing, Fused)
</gallery>
<gallery caption="Spin-off appearances">
File:Hyrule Warriors Artwork Link Master Sword 2.png|Artwork of Link with the Master Sword in ''Hyrule Warriors''
File:Link Champion Tunic - HWAoC.png|Artwork of Link with the Master Sword in ''Age of Calamity''
File:Link with Master Sword - HWAoC prerelease screenshot.jpg|Link with the Master Sword in ''Age of Calamity''
</gallery>
<gallery caption="Other appearances">
</gallery>
<gallery caption="Crossover appearances">
File:Master Sword - SSB Melee Trophy 174 with text.png|''Super Smash Bros. Melee'' trophy
File:SC2-MasterSword.png|''SoulCalibur II'' model
File:SC2-Master Sword & Hylian Shield 1.png|Master Sword gallery entry in ''SoulCalibur II'' (p. 1)
File:SC2-Master Sword & Hylian Shield 2.png|Master Sword gallery entry in ''SoulCalibur II'' (p. 2)
File:SC2-Mirror Shield 1.png|Mirror Shield gallery entry in ''SoulCalibur II'' (p. 1)
File:SC2-Mirror Shield 2.png|Mirror Shield gallery entry in ''SoulCalibur II'' (p. 2)
File:Master Sword - SMM2.png|''Super Mario Maker 2'' sprite
</gallery>

{{Listbox|A Link to the Past Items}}
{{Listbox|Ancient Stone Tablets Items}}
{{Listbox|Ocarina of Time Items}}
{{Listbox|Oracle of Seasons Items}}
{{Listbox|Oracle of Ages Items}}
{{Listbox|The Wind Waker Items}}
{{Listbox|Twilight Princess Items}}
{{Listbox|Skyward Sword Items}}
{{Listbox|A Link Between Worlds Items}}
{{Listbox|Breath of the Wild One-Handed Weapons}}
{{Listbox|Age of Calamity Weapons|hide=hide}}
{{Tears of the Kingdom Equipment}}

{{Cat|Swords}}
{{Cat|A Link to the Past Items}}
{{Cat|Ancient Stone Tablets Items}}
{{Cat|Ocarina of Time Items}}
{{Cat|Oracle of Seasons Items}}
{{Cat|Oracle of Ages Items}}
{{Cat|Four Swords Items}}
{{Cat|The Wind Waker Items}}
{{Cat|Twilight Princess Items}}
{{Cat|Skyward Sword Items}}
{{Cat|A Link Between Worlds Items}}
{{Cat|Breath of the Wild One-Handed Weapons}}
{{Cat|Tears of the Kingdom One-Handed Weapons}}
{{cat|SoulCalibur II}}
{{Cat|Age of Calamity Weapons}}