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{{redirect|The Master Sword|the [[Recovered Memory]] from [[The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild|Breath of the Wild]]|[[The Master Sword (Memory)]]}}
{{Spoiler}}
{{Infobox|item
{{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)]]}}
| image = [[File:Master Sword Artwork (Skyward Sword).png|80px]]
{{Infobox|weapon
| caption       = Artwork from ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword|Skyward Sword]]''
| image = [[File:Master Sword TPHD Art.png|160px]]
| game = ''[[The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past|A Link to the Past]]''<br/>''[[BS The Legend of Zelda: Ancient Stone Tablets|Ancient Stone Tablets]]''<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/>''[[Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity|Age of Calamity]]''<br/>''[[The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom|Tears of the Kingdom]]''
| caption = ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD|Twilight Princess HD]]'' artwork
| location = '''''A Link to the Past'''''<br/>[[Lost Woods (A Link to the Past)|Lost Woods]]<br/>'''''Ocarina of Time'''''<br/>[[Temple of Time]]<br/>'''''Twilight Princess'''''<br/>[[Sacred Grove]]<br/>'''''Breath of the Wild'''''<br/>[[Korok Forest]]<br/>'''''Tears of the Kingdom'''''<br/>On the [[Light Dragon]]
| number =
| use = Damaging evil enemies
| 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]]''
| related = [[Goddess Sword]]<br/>[[Four Sword]]<br/>[[Phantom Sword]]<br/>[[Lokomo Sword]]<br/>[[Tempered Sword]]<br/>[[Golden Sword]]
| 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/>[[Korok Forest]] (BotW)<br/>[[Light Dragon]] (TotK)
| music    = [[Master Sword (Theme)]]
| 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 (BotW, full luster)<br/>1 (Decayed)
| shown power =
| durability = 40 (BotW, 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
{{Languages
| jpn = マスターソード
| 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)
| esp = Espada Maestra
| ess = Espada Maestra
| fra = Épée de Légende
| esl = Espada Maestra
| frf = Épée de légende
| frc = Épée de légende
| deu = Master-Schwert
| deu = Master-Schwert
| ita = Spada Suprema
| 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}}
}}
}}
{{Quote|The Master Sword is a sacred blade which evil ones may never touch.... Only one worthy of the title of "Hero of Time" can pull it from the Pedestal of Time....|[[Rauru (Ocarina of Time)|Rauru]]}}
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.


The '''Master Sword''', also known as the '''Blade of Evil's Bane''' and the '''Sword that Seals the Darkness''', is a recurring [[sword]] in [[The Legend of Zelda (Series)|''The Legend of Zelda'' series]]. Said to be the only weapon capable of defeating [[Ganon]], the Master Sword is blessed with sacred light and possesses the ability to repel beings of evil, and is considered the main weapon of [[Link]]; several incarnations of the hero have used the Master Sword during their adventures, with each one returning it to the [[Pedestal of Time]] once the land has been saved. The Master Sword has also appeared in various other video games and media, and is one of the most recognizable objects in video gaming.
==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.


==History==
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.
The Master Sword was forged from the [[Goddess Sword]], a blade originally wielded by the Goddess [[Hylia]]. During the events of ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword|Skyward Sword]]'', [[Link]] is revealed as Hylia's chosen hero and removes the blade from its pedestal on the floating island of [[Skyloft]]. The sword is tied with a guardian entity known as [[Fi]], a being created by Hylia to guide the chosen hero. Fi assists [[Link]] forging the Master Sword by travelling with him to three [[Sacred Flames]] across [[Hyrule]] - each Flame, representing the Goddesses [[Din]], [[Nayru (Goddess)|Nayru]], and [[Farore]], enhances both the sword's structure and its powers.


Once Link has visited all of the Sacred Flames, he will have forged the Goddess Sword into the [[Master Sword (Skyward Sword)|Master Sword]], which is capable of opening the [[Gate of Time]] inside the [[Sealed Grounds]]. Link travels through the Gate and into [[Hylia's Realm]], where he meets [[Zelda#Skyward Sword|Zelda]] - after she reveals her past as the Goddess Hylia, Zelda blesses the Master Sword, turning it into the True Master Sword. Link uses the blade to vanquish [[Demise]] and seal his "residual consciousness" inside of it - however, Demise curses both Link and Zelda, promising that anyone with the spirit of the hero or the blood of the Goddess would forever be at war with his [[Ganon|reincarnated vengeance]]. Following the events of ''Skyward Sword'', Link leaves the Master Sword in a pedestal in the Sealed Grounds, with [[Fi]] entering the Master Sword to remain dormant inside of it for eternity. From then on, the Master Sword would be used by several future incarnations of Link to protect [[Hyrule]] from Ganon, with each hero returning the Sword to its pedestal once Hyrule was safe.
==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|Skyward Strikes]], firing projectiles of sacred power. Even when on low power, the Master Sword can conduct lightning strikes to fire Skyward Strikes made from electricity.


==Design==
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.
The Master Sword is a double-edged, one-handed longsword with no fuller and a blue hilt, although in the artwork for ''[[The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past|A Link to the Past]]'', the sword has a gold hilt. The cross-guard is large and elaborate in relation to its pommel, and is similar to the seal of [[Royal Family of Hyrule|Hyrule's Royal Family]]. The [[Triforce]] is engraved on the base of the blade, and a yellow gem is embedded in the cross-guard.


In ''[[The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker|The Wind Waker]]'', the state of the gem in cross-guard seems to be indicative of the sword's power. When Link first acquires the un-awakened Master Sword, the gem in its cross-guard is dark, and the guard itself seems to have retracted toward the grip. Only once the sword has been restored to its full power does its hilt regain its signature appearance, and its blade again shines a mysterious light. In ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess|Twilight Princess]]'', the Master Sword is much longer and slimmer.
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.


In ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom|Tears of the Kingdom]]'', the Master Sword's blade is now made from a light blue crystal, due to the blade having been repaired thanks to its time with the [[Light Dragon]].
==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.


==''A Link to the Past''==
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|Sword Beams]] 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|Spin Attacks]] 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.
[[File:Lttpmaster sword.png|thumb|left|200px|The Master Sword as seen in ''[[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]]'', the Master Sword is located in a pedestal hidden in the [[Lost Woods]] of northwest Hyrule. An ancient text is inscribed into the pedestal, which when translated by the [[Book of Mudora]], reads "''The Hero's triumph on Cataclysm's Eve wins three Symbols of Virtue. The Master Sword he will then retrieve, keeping the knights' line true.''" Once Link has obtained all three [[Pendants of Virtue]], he will be able to draw the Master Sword from the pedestal, dispelling the fog over the Lost Woods in the process.


In-game, the Master Sword replaces the [[Fighter's Sword]] as Link's main weapon once obtained - it is required to dispel the magical barrier blocking access to the third floor of [[Hyrule Castle]], and thus is necessary to confront [[Agahnim]]. It deals double damage compared to the Fighter's Sword, has a longer reach, and has the ability to fire [[Sword Beam|Sword Beams]] when Link is at full health. It can also be upgraded into the [[Tempered Sword]], and eventually the [[Golden Sword]]. In [[A Link to the Past (GBA)|the GBA version]], the Master Sword can also break [[Jar|Jars]].
In the [[The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past (GBA)|GBA version]], the Master Sword can also break [[Jar|Jars]] and [[Skull|Skulls]]. The Master Sword can later be upgraded into the [[Tempered Sword]], and then into the [[Golden Sword]].


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===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.


==''Ocarina of Time''==
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.
[[File:oot3ds_mastersword.jpg|thumb|left|200px|The Master Sword as seen in ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D|Ocarina of Time 3D]]'']]
In ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time|Ocarina of Time]]'', the Master Sword is kept in the [[Temple of Time]], specifically inside the [[Pedestal of Time]]. [[Link#Ocarina of Time|Link]] is sent on a mission by the [[Great Deku Tree]], and later [[Zelda#Ocarina of Time|Zelda]], to obtain the Master Sword and use it to stop [[Ganon#Ocarina of Time|Ganondorf]] from conquering Hyrule. The pedestal itself is locked inside a hidden chamber; to access it, Link must obtain all three [[Spiritual Stones]], place them in their pedestals, and then play the [[Song of Time]] on the [[Ocarina of Time]]. Once Link draws the Master Sword, however, he is sealed away inside the [[Sacred Realm]] for seven years, as he is too young to wield the blade. This allows Ganondorf to enter the Sacred Realm and claim the [[Triforce]] for himself, conquering Hyrule in the seven-year timespan. When Link awakens in the future, now an adult, he wields the Master Sword on his quest to free the [[Seven Sages]]. After defeating Ganon, Zelda returns Link to the present, before he ever pulled the Master Sword, and he uses his knowledge of the future to stop Ganondorf before his plan can begin, creating a split in the [[Timeline]].


In-game, the Master Sword is Adult Link's default sword. It deals double damage compared to the [[Kokiri Sword]], and has a longer blade, giving it increased reach - in addition, it is the only weapon that can deal the final blow to [[Ganon#Ocarina of Time]]. After completing the [[Forest Temple]], Link can return to his childhood by placing the Master Sword back in its pedestal, enabling him to travel between the present and future.
===Oracle of Seasons & Oracle of Ages===
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{{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 Games)|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.


==''Oracle of Seasons''==
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.
[[File:oosmastersword.png|thumb|left|200px|The Master Sword as seen 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 the final upgrade of the [[Wooden Sword]] and can only be obtained in a [[Linked Game]] with ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Ages|Oracle of Ages]]''.
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==''Oracle of Ages''==
===The Wind Waker===
[[File:ooamastersword.png|thumb|left|200px|The Master Sword as seen in ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Seasons|Oracle of Seasons]]'' and ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Ages|Oracle of Ages]]'']]
{{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]]''}}
The Master Sword is the final upgrade of the Wooden Sword and can only be obtained in a Linked Game with ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Seasons|Oracle of Seasons]]''.
{{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]]''}}
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{{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.


==''Four Swords Anniversary Edition''==
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]].
[[File:fsanniversary_mastersword.png|thumb|left|200px|The Master Sword as seen in ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Four Swords|Four Swords]]'' 25th Anniversary Edition]]
The Master Sword is obtained after completing the [[Realm of Memories]]. It allows [[Link (Four Swords)|Link]] to shoot [[Sword Beam]]s.
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==''The Wind Waker''==
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.
[[File:ww_mastersword.png|thumb|left|200px|The Master Sword in its weakened state in ''[[The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker|The Wind Waker]]'']]In ''[[The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker|The Wind Waker]]'', [[Link (The Wind Waker)|Link]] finds the Master Sword underneath the [[Great Sea]] within [[Hyrule Castle]] in the drowned land of Hyrule. After his first face-to-face encounter with [[Ganon]]dorf, he is told that the Master Sword has lost its power. To restore the Master Sword to its former glory, Link must awaken the new [[Sage]]s of earth and wind.
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[[File:ww_mastersword2.png|thumb|left|200px|The Master Sword powered with the prayers of the Sage of Earth]]
<br/>After awakening [[Medli]] as the new Earth Sage, Link takes her to the [[Earth Temple (The Wind Waker)|Earth Temple]]. Upon defeating [[Jalhalla]], Link and Medli play the [[Earth God's Lyric]] and restore power partially to the Master Sword.
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[[File:ww_mastersword3.png|thumb|left|200px|The Master Sword returns!]] After awakening [[Makar]] as the new Wind Sage, Link then travels with him to the [[Wind Temple (The Wind Waker)|Wind Temple]]. Upon defeating [[Molgera]], Link and Makar play the [[Wind God's Aria]]. With the prayers of both Sages, the Master Sword returns to its true state.
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==''Twilight Princess''==
===Twilight Princess===
[[File:tp_mastersword.png|thumb|left|200px|[[Link (Twilight Princess)|Link]] removing the Master Sword from its pedestal in ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess|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]]''}}
In ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess|Twilight Princess]]'', [[Link (Twilight Princess)|Link]] obtains the Master Sword after getting cursed by [[Zant]], causing Link to remain permanently as a [[Wolf Link|wolf]]. The Master Sword is the only thing that can break the curse and it lies in a place called the [[Sacred Grove]].
{{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.


Later in the game, upon entering the [[Palace of Twilight]], Link infuses the Master Sword with light. This light comes from the light sources of the [[Twilight Realm]] known as [[Sol]]s. Once infused with light, the Master Sword can cut through veils of [[twilight]] which normally would transform Link into a wolf upon exposure. The light vanishes from the sword upon leaving the [[Twilight Realm]], but returns to the sword upon re-entry.
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|Sols]] 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.
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==''Skyward Sword''==
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.
[[File:ss_mastersword.jpg|thumb|left|200px|Upon exposure to Din's flame, the Goddess White Sword becomes the Master Sword in ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword|Skyward Sword]]'']] ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword|Skyward Sword]]'' explains the creation of the Master Sword. It was originally known as the [[Goddess Sword]] wielded by the Goddess, [[Hylia]]. The blade was exposed to three [[Sacred Flames]]—[[Farore's Flame]], [[Nayru's Flame]] and [[Din's Flame]]—and then blessed by the Goddess in the form of [[Zelda (Skyward Sword)|Zelda]], turning it into the True Master Sword. In comparison to the Goddess Longsword, it deals twice the damage. Each slash can deal 16 points of damage. The Spin Slash deals 24 points of damage and the Skyward Strike deals 8 points of damage.


{{Clear|left}}
===Four Swords===
[[File:ss_mastersword2.png|thumb|left|200px|The Master Sword in its true state after being blessed by [[Hylia]]]]
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.
In this game, the Master Sword also has the ability to [[Skyward Strike|shoot beams of light]] and can [[Dowsing|search for people or items]]. This is likely due to the presence of Fi, the spirit inside the sword. After completing the game, the player can replay it in Hero Mode, which makes the Goddess Sword and subsequently the Master Sword's Skyward Strikes much quicker from the very beginning.
{{Clear|left}}


==''A Link Between Worlds''==
===Skyward Sword===
[[File:A_Link_Between_Worlds_-_Master_Sword.png|thumb|left|200px|[[Link (A Link Between Worlds)|Link]] obtaining the Master Sword from the Lost Woods in ''[[The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds|A Link Between Worlds]]'']]
{{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]]''}}
The Master Sword makes an appearance in ''[[The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds|A Link Between Worlds]]'', and is found in the same location as ''[[The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past|A Link to the Past]]''. It can be found in the Lost Woods and cannot be obtained until after [[Link (A Link Between Worlds)|Link]] has collected the [[Pendants of Virtue]] and finds his way through the woods. It is needed to break the barrier around Hyrule Castle.
{{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.


The Master Sword replaces the [[Captain's Sword]] and features enhanced strength over his previous sword, and like its predecessor, a sword beam can be shot out of the Master Sword whenever Link has full health. It can be upgraded to deal more damage if Link acquires two [[Master Ore]]s and gives them to the [[Blacksmith (Hyrule)|Blacksmith]] in [[Hyrule]], and he can further upgrade the Master Sword if he takes two more [[Master Ore]]s to the [[Blacksmith (Lorule)|Blacksmith]] in [[Lorule]]. When upgraded, the Master Sword Lv2 has a red blade while the Master Sword Lv3 has a golden blade, much like the [[Tempered Sword]] and the [[Golden Sword]] respectively in ''A Link to the Past''.
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.


{{Clear}}
===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.


==''Breath of the Wild''==
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 Master Sword Lv2, and then the Master Sword Lv3, by giving [[Master Ore]] to the [[Blacksmith]] in both Hyrule and [[Lorule]], respectively.
{{Main|Heart Container#Master Sword Requirements|Master Sword Requirements}}
{{spoiler|section}}
{{image|file=Master-sword.png|align=right}}


In ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild|Breath of the Wild]]'', the Master Sword can be found in its pedestal in the [[Korok Forest]], guarded by the [[Great Deku Tree]].  
===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.


===Background and Obtaining the Sword===
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.


The Great Deku Tree reveals to [[Link (Breath of the Wild)|Link]] that if a person deemed to be weak attempts to draw the Master Sword from its pedestal, they will slowly lose their life. This means that Link must be powerful enough to draw the blade from its slumber and, unlike any previous incarnation, he requires at least thirteen hearts to successfully retrieve the sword (These hearts must be permanent [[Heart Container|heart containers]]: using consumables that [[Temporary Heart|temporarily increase Link's maximum hearts]] will not allow him to obtain the Master Sword). Note that the [[Horned Statue]] can be used to convert stamina to hearts to get thirteen hearts, even if they are converted back later.
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|Heart Containers]].


The Great Deku Tree will prevent Link from dying if he fails to lift it the first time, but Link will die upon further attempts with not enough hearts. Upon taking the sword, Link will obtain [[The Master Sword (Memory)|a memory of the sword being placed in the pedestal]]; however, this memory is not actually Link's, rather, it is [[Zelda (Breath of the Wild)|Princess Zelda]]'s. Zelda placed the sword in its resting place after [[Zelda's Awakening|Link's near-death]], where the hero would come to retrieve it once more after his slumber in the [[Shrine of Resurrection]].
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.


It is not necessary for Link to have a free Weapons slot to pick up the Master Sword, though it occupies a permanent inventory space when picked up; this slot does not affect the number of slots that can be obtained through the exchange of [[Korok Seed]]s.  
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.


The Master Sword plays a prominent role in Link's memories, and is once again indicated to only be usable by the chosen hero. During Link's final memory, and Zelda's memory when the Sword is retrieved, it is shown to be in a severely damaged and rusted condition, something that has not been seen in any previous Zelda game. After being placed into its resting spot by Princess Zelda, the Sword gradually regained its luster and restored itself to its most powerful state.  
===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.


After Link's death during his final memory, the sword begins to flash blue and emit a sound that is the same as [[Fi]]'s in ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword|Skyward Sword]]'', indicating that she is still present within the blade. Fi speaks to Princess Zelda, and tells her that Link can still be saved by taking him to the [[Shrine of Resurrection]], where he can fully recover to fight [[Calamity Ganon]] once more.
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|fused]], 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.


===Statistics===
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.


The Master Sword has an initial base attack power of 30, leaving it outclassed by a multitude of other [[Breath of the Wild One-Handed Weapons|one-handed weapons]] in its unaltered state. Its true power, however, comes in the presence of evil when Link ventures to certain areas or draws near certain enemies. This includes near any [[Guardian (Breath of the Wild)|guardian]] variations (except [[Guardian Scout]]s), the entirety of [[Hyrule Castle (Breath of the Wild)|Hyrule Castle]], as well as within the four [[Divine Beast]]s, i.e. where Ganon's presence is most powerful. In this awakened state, the blade will start glowing with a blue aura and its attack rating will be boosted to 60, making it the most powerful single-handed weapon in the game.  
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|Stamina Wheels]] 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]].


It is possible to increase the base power of the Master Sword by progressing in the [[Trial of the Sword]] from [[The Master Trials#The Master Trials|The Master Trials DLC]]. Completion of each section will increase the attack power by 10, with completion of the third [[Trial of the Sword#Final Trials|Final Trials]] boosting its attack power from 50 to 60, ultimately leaving it in its "awakened" state at all times (alongside a hefty durability increase):
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 in the proximity of Gloom (either from Gloom-infected enemies, [[Gloom Spawn]], [[Phantom Ganon]], or Ganondorf), the blade glows blue, increasing its attack power by 15; Its durability, like all other weapons in the game, has also been reduced. 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]]. 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.


{| class="wikitable"
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.
|-
! Power Stage !! Attack ∕ vs. [[Guardian (Breath of the Wild)|Guardian Enemies]] !! Durability !! Requirements
|-
| Standard || 30 ∕ '''60''' || 40 || 13 [[Heart Container#Breath of the Wild|Heart Containers]]
|-
| 1st Luster || 40 ∕ '''60''' || 40 || Have the [[Breath of the Wild Expansion Pass]]<br />Clear the [[Trial of the Sword#Beginning Trials|Beginning Trials]] of the [[Trial of the Sword]]
|-
| 2nd Luster || 50 ∕ '''60''' || 40 || Have the [[Breath of the Wild Expansion Pass]]<br />Clear the [[Trial of the Sword#Middle Trials|Middle Trials]] of the [[Trial of the Sword]]
|-
| Full Luster || '''60''' || '''188''' || Have the [[Breath of the Wild Expansion Pass]]<br />Clear the [[Trial of the Sword#Final Trials|Final Trials]] of the [[Trial of the Sword]]
|}


===Properties and Powers===
==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.


[[File:Hyrule-Compendium-Master-Sword.png|180px|left|Hyrule Compendium image]]
===Hyrule Warriors===
Like all other weapons in ''Breath of the Wild'', it can be rendered unusable after extensive use. However, it is special in that the Sword will never break, or disappear from the inventory after obtaining it. After the Sword loses its power from extensive use, it will auto-repair itself gradually and return to normal after some time. When the Master Sword is engulfed in its true power, it will gain a huge durability boost.
{{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|Dark Links]] 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.


The Master Sword can shoot blade beams of energy when Link has full health. The distance covered by the beams depends on Link's total hearts at full health (the more hearts, the more distance), and the rate and frequency of beam shooting can be enhanced by wearing specific armor sets like the ★★-tier [[Hero of the Wild Set]]. Each beam spends one point of damage on the weapon until it has [[Master Sword#Statistics|full luster]]; at that point, the sword can shoot beams without consuming durability.
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:


Albeit it has its own built-in power boost in the presence of Guardians or while at Hyrule Castle, the Master Sword is entirely unaffected by the Guardian Weapon bonuses of the [[Ancient Set]] and the [[Diamond Circlet]]; as such, wearing these armor items will '''not''' boost the Master Sword's attack.
*'''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 +500, and unlocks all Sealed Skills on other weapons.


The Master Sword is part of the [[Hyrule Compendium]], and should a picture not have been taken before acquiring it, as the sword cannot be dropped to take a picture from a distance, a picture can be obtained by taking a selfie with the [[Camera (Rune)|Camera Rune]], or by purchasing pictures at bulk from [[Symin]].
{|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/>(+500 with Exorcism)
|Complete [[The Sacred Sword]] in [[Legend Mode]].
|}


==''Age of Calamity''==
===Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity===
{{stub|section}}
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.
[[File:Master Sword - HWAoC icon.png|150px|right]]
The Master Sword is obtained by [[Link (Breath of the Wild)#Age of Calamity|Link]] in the [[Freeing Korok Forest]] [[Age of Calamity Scenarios#Chapter 3|Chapter 3 scenario]]. It is part of his One-Handed Weapon moveset, and is paired with the [[Hylian Shield]] when used.
{{clear}}


==''Tears of the Kingdom''==
==Other appearances==
===Story===
{{Non-Canon|section}}
{{spoiler|section}}
===A Link to the Past (Ishinomori)===
[[File:Master Sword - TOTK card art.jpg|150px|right]]
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.
The Master Sword initially starts in [[Link (Breath of the Wild)#Tears of the Kingdom|Link]]'s inventory but is grievously damaged by Ganondorf's [[Gloom]] attack during the opening.  


Upon Link's awakening in the [[Great Sky Island]], he will instead be in possession of a Decayed Master Sword, a weapon with a measly 1 attack power, ensuring he cannot be without a source of damage output in the game's tutorial segment. Like its variant in ''Breath of the Wild'', it will go into an auto-repair state once broken instead of permanently disappearing. However, due to the sword being decayed, it will be remain recharging indefinitely. After Link clears the Great Sky Island, the Decayed Master Sword will disappear in a flash of light, before the [[Light Dragon]] appears and parts the [[Cloud Barrier]], granting access to the rest of [[Hyrule]].
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.


Through memories, the Sword is shown to have travelled through time and appeared to [[Zelda (Breath of the Wild)#Tears of the Kingdom|Zelda]] in the past. Over the course of Zelda's time there, and especially after [[Ganon#Tears of the Kingdom|Ganondorf]] comes to power, Zelda realizes that she was sent there to restore the Master Sword to its full potential. As [[Mineru]] tells her, this would likely take eons to accomplish, and a source of power could not normally be provided for such a long time. Zelda resorts to the only possible method - consuming her [[Secret Stone]] and irreversibly turning into a Dragon. At the end of the memories and the past events, Zelda stands behind the [[Temple of Time (Tears of the Kingdom)|Temple of Time]], and consumes the Stone. She grabs the decayed Master Sword and holds it in front of her before she transforms into the Light Dragon.  
Link uses the Master Sword against Ganon, stunning him and enabling Zelda to finish the King of Thieves with the [[Silver Arrow|Silver Arrows]]. 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.


In the present, the restored Master Sword can be found stuck in the brow of the Light Dragon, who soars all around Hyrule. The Master Sword requires 5 [[Stamina Vessel]]s (the equivalent of two full stamina wheels total) to pull out (temporary stamina from meals or other means will not work). If Link does not retrieve the Master Sword before confronting Ganondorf, he will receive the sword from the Light Dragon at the start of the [[Demon Dragon]] fight, regardless of maximum stamina.
==Crossover appearances==
 
The sword is required to deliver the final blow to the [[Demon Dragon]], though other weapons can be used to deal damage up until the final scripted blow.
 
After Ganondorf has been defeated and the Light Dragon transforms back into Zelda, she is relieved to see that Link found the Master Sword, and that her attempt to restore it worked.
 
===Powers and Statistics===
The Master Sword can be [[Fuse|Fused]] like any other weapon, though it cannot be used as a fuse material for something else, due to being impossible to drop from the inventory. Materials fused onto the Master Sword will be irrecoverably lost, as they will be destroyed when the Master Sword runs out of energy and unlike other weapons, [[Pelison]] cannot remove materials fused onto the Master Sword.
 
The Master Sword retains its stats from Breath of the Wild, with base 30 damage and 40 durability. However, in the presence of Gloom, its damage are multiplied by 1.5, including the attack bonus of anything fused onto it. It will get a full durability restore upon entering the Ganondorf fight.
 
A similar sword, called MsgNotFound, is used by Link during the prologue, appearing exactly like the Master Sword, but lacks the Master Sword's name and description, as the player cannot open the equipment menu in the prologue without glitches. It cannot break, and cannot be legitimately used outside of the prologue. If it is somehow glitched into the game proper, then it also cannot have materials fused onto it without the use of additional glitches.
 
==Non-Canon Appearances==
{{Non-Canon|section}}
{{Non-Canon|section}}
===''SoulCalibur II''===
===Super Smash Bros.===
In the fighting game ''[[SoulCalibur II]]'', the Master Sword is [[Link#SoulCalibur II|Link]]'s default weapon. Link starts with this weapon, along with the [[Hylian Shield]], and it is the most well balanced of all his weapons. The Master Sword is also used when combined with the [[Mirror Shield]].
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%.
 
===''Animal Crossing: New Leaf''===
The Master Sword can be obtained from fortune cookies in ''Animal Crossing: New Leaf'' as it appears in ''Skyward Sword''. It is a furniture item that can be displayed in one's house. It is in its pedestal when placed in a house.
 
===''Hyrule Warriors''===
[[File:Hyrule Warriors Artwork Link Master Sword 2.png|200px|thumb|right|Link with the Master Sword in ''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}}
 
In ''[[Hyrule Warriors]]'', the Master Sword is located in a pedestal, deep in the [[Temple of the Sacred Sword]]. The sword keeps a fragment of [[Ganondorf (Hyrule Warriors)|Ganondorf's]] spirit sealed inside the pedestal; if removed, the seal will weaken and eventually break. In [[Legend Mode]], after all three [[Gate of Souls|Gates of Souls]] have been closed, [[Zelda (Hyrule Warriors)|Zelda]] and [[Lana]] decide that they must obtain the Master Sword to defeat [[Cia]], believing that Link is worthy of wielding the sacred weapon - Lana assures the heroes that the seal will only weaken, allowing them a brief period of time to defeat Cia before Ganondorf's spirit fragment escapes. Despite intervention from [[Wizzro (Hyrule Warriors)|Wizzro]] and his forces, Link is able to retrieve the Master Sword from the pedestal.
 
As the [[Hyrulean Army]] confronts Cia's forces at the [[Temple of Souls]], Link begins to grow cocky and reckless due to both the Master Sword's power and [[Proxi]] encouraging him, charging into enemy lines with no regard for his or others' safety. Cia is able to exploit this, cursing Link and summoning an endless army of [[Dark Link|Dark Links]] that deliver a brutal attack on the Hyrulean forces. Link is overwhelmed and nearly killed by the Dark Links, but is saved by Lana and his allies - inspired by their teamwork, he overcomes his hubris, banishing the curse and awakening the Master Sword's true power. While Cia would ultimately be defeated, Link would fail to return the Master Sword to its pedestal in time, and the seal is broken, restoring Ganondorf's power. After Ganon's eventual defeat, Link and Zelda return the Master Sword to its pedestal in the Temple, restoring the seal.
 
The Master Sword is a [[Hyrule Warriors Weapons|weapon]] class used by [[Link (Hyrule Warriors)|Link]] - unlike the other weapons, the sword is one-of-a-kind, and the player cannot obtain additional copies or sell it. It uses the same moveset as the [[Hylian Sword]], and is wielded alongside the [[Hylian Shield]]; however, it is significantly stronger than most obtainable Hylian Swords, and the [[Spin Attack]] becomes faster and wider than the Hylian Sword. After completing "[[A War of Spirit]]", the Master Sword gains the ability to fire Sword Beams after certain special moves, provided Link is at full health.


The Master Sword comes with two [[Weapon Skills]] that cannot be removed or swapped: Evil's Bane and Exorcism - however, both of these Skills are locked by Legendary Seals. To unlock Evil's Bane, the player must obtain every Level 1, 2, and 3 weapon in the game, then accumulate 25,000 KOs with the Master Sword (10,000 in ''[[Hyrule Warriors Legends|Legends]]'' and ''[[Hyrule Warriors: Definitive Edition|Definitive Edition]]''; this Skill increases the Master Sword's attack power by +200. Exorcism, which only appears in ''Legends'' and ''Definitive Edition'', is unlocked by obtaining every weapon, including Level 4+ weapons, in the game, and then getting 15,000 KOs with the Master Sword; this Skill increases the Master Sword's attack power by +400, and will remove all Legendary Seals on other weapons.
===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"
{|class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
!Weapon
!Weapon
!Level
!Cost (Gold)
!style="width:100px"|Elements
!Attributes
!style="width:150px|Strength
!Description
!Location
|-
|[[File:Master-Sword-Soulcalibur-II.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:HW Master Sword.png|140px]]<br/>Master Sword
|[[File:Mirror-Shield-Soulcalibur-II.png|80px]]<br/>[[Mirror Shield]]
|
|2,200
|{{Light}} Light
|Hits taken are counters<br/>33% of damage received is inflicted back onto opponent
|300<br/>(+200 with Evil's Bane)<br/>(+400 with Exorcism)
|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.
|Complete [[The Sacred Sword]].
|}
|}


===''Super Mario Maker 2''===
===The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim===
[[File:Link Sword stab - SMM2.png|right|64px]]
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.
In ''[[Super Mario Maker 2]]'', the Master Sword serves as a power-up in the ''[[Super Mario Bros.]]'' theme which transforms Mario (or the other playable characters) into Link, with a full set of typical Link moves. This includes using the Master Sword to stab, [[Down Thrust|down thrust]] and [[Dash Attack|dash attack]]. The power-up is lost if Link takes damage.
 
===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.


===''The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim''===
===Super Mario Maker 2===
In the Switch release of ''Skyrim'', the player can use [[Amiibo]] for items. The Zelda series Amiibo have a chance of giving the player gear from ''Breath of the Wild''. Among these is the Master Sword, which is essentially just an Elven Sword. Oddly enough, however, the Master Sword never gets blood on it.
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|Silver Arrows]], and create and throw [[Bomb|Bombs]]; 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|Goddess Statues]] 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.


==Gallery==
==Gallery==
;Canon appearances
<gallery caption="A Link to the Past">
<gallery widths="160">
File:Master Sword - LTTP art.png|Official artwork
File:Wp1-1920x1200.jpg|Artwork from ''[[The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past|A Link to the Past]]''
File:Lttp mastersword.jpg|Official artwork of the Master Sword in its pedestal
File:Lttp_mastersword.jpg|Artwork from ''A Link to the Past''
File:Master Sword 25th Anniversary Wallpaper - LTTP.jpg|25th Anniversary artwork
File:Lttp_mastersword_sprite.jpg|Pulling out the Master Sword in ''A Link to the Past''
File:Lttpmaster sword.png|The Master Sword in its pedestal
File:Lttp_zd_108.png|The Master Sword in ''A Link to the Past''
File:Lttp mastersword sprite.jpg|Pulling the Master Sword
File:Lttp_end_sword.png|The Master Sword in the End Credits of ''A Link to the Past''
File:Lttp zd 108.png|Link draws the Master Sword
File:MasterSwordlttp.png|Artwork from ''A Link to the Past''
File:Item mastersword.gif|Pedestal sprite
File:Item_mastersword.gif‎|Sprite from ''A Link to the Past''
File:Master-Sword-Inventory.png|Inventory icon
File:MasterSword.png|Master Sword icon from ''A Link to the Past''
File:Master-Sword-Art.png|Master Sword art from ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time|Ocarina of Time]]''
File:Master-Sword-Art-2.png|Master Sword art from ''Ocarina of Time''
File:Master-Sword-3D.png|Master Sword icon from ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D|Ocarina of Time 3D]]''
File:Master Sword OoT.png|Master Sword within the [[Pedestal of Time]] from ''Ocarina of Time''
File:Master_Sword_OOX.png|Master Sword sprite from ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Seasons|Oracle of Seasons]]'' and ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Ages|Oracle of Ages]]''
File:TWW-Master-Sword.png|Artwork from ''[[The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker|The Wind Waker]]''
File:Master Sword Sacred Grove.jpg|Master Sword within the [[Sacred Grove]] in ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess|Twilight Princess]]''
File:Master Sword - TPHD icon.png|Master Sword icon from ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD|Twilight Princess HD]]''
File:ALBW-MasterSword.jpg|Artwork of the Master Sword from ''[[The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds|A Link Between Worlds]]''
File:BOTW Master Sword happybirthday Zelda - BotW art.jpg|Artwork of the Master Sword in [[Korok Forest]] from ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild|Breath of the Wild]]''
File:Link with Master Sword - HWAoC prerelease screenshot.jpg|Link with the Master Sword from ''[[Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity|Age of Calamity]]''
Master Sword - TotK art.png|Artwork from ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom|Tears of the Kingdom]]''
</gallery>
</gallery>
 
<gallery caption="Ocarina of Time">
;Non-canon appearances
File:Master-Sword-Art.png|N64 promo render
<gallery widths="160">
File:Master Sword OoT.png|The Master Sword in the Pedestal of Time
File:Master Sword - SSB Melee Trophy 174 with text.png|Master Sword trophy from ''[[Super Smash Bros. Melee]]'', with text
File:Oot3ds mastersword.jpg|Link draws the Master Sword (''[[The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D|Ocarina of Time 3D]]'')
File:SC2-MasterSword.png|Master Sword model from ''[[SoulCalibur II]]''
File:Master Sword - OoT N64 Icon.png|N64 icon
File:SC2-Master Sword & Hylian Shield 1.png|Master Sword & [[Hylian Shield]] ''SoulCalibur II'' gallery entry (page 1)
File:Master-Sword-3D.png|3DS icon
File:SC2-Master Sword & Hylian Shield 2.png|Master Sword & Hylian Shield ''SoulCalibur II'' gallery entry (page 2)
</gallery>
File:SC2-Mirror Shield 1.png|[[Mirror Shield]] ''SoulCalibur II'' gallery entry, with Master Sword (page 1)
<gallery caption="Oracle Games">
File:SC2-Mirror Shield 2.png|Mirror Shield ''SoulCalibur II'' gallery entry, with Master Sword (page 2)
File:Oosmastersword.png|Obtaining the Master Sword in ''Seasons'' from the Trading Sequence
File:HW Master Sword.png|[[Master Sword (Hyrule Warriors)|Master Sword]] icon from ''[[Hyrule Warriors]]''
File:King-Zora-Secret-3.png|Obtaining the Master Sword in ''Ages'' with the King Zora Secret
File:Master Sword - SMM2.png|Master Sword power-up sprite from ''[[Super Mario Maker 2]]''.
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>
</gallery>



Revision as of 17:40, May 23, 2024

Spoiler Alert! This article describes a subject that is sensitive to plot development.
This article is about the recurring legendary sword. For the sword's Hyrule Warriors moveset, see Hylian Sword. For The Recovered Memory from Breath of the Wild, see The Master Sword (Memory). For the precursor from The Legend of Zelda and The Adventure of Link, see Magical Sword.
Master Sword
In Other Languages[show]
Language Name
Japan 日本語 マスターソード
?(Master Sword Lv1)
Canada Française Épée de légende
France Française Épée de légende
Latin America Español Espada Maestra
Spain Español Espada Maestra
Germany Deutsch Master-Schwert
Italy Italiana Spada Suprema
Netherlands Nederlands Meesterzwaard
Russia Русский Высший Меч (Supreme Sword)
Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macao 正體字/繁體字 大師之劍
South Korea 한국어 마스터 소드

The Master Sword is a recurring Sword in 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 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 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 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 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 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 Strikes, 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 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

"The hero's triumph on Cataclysm's Eve wins three Symbols of Virtue. The Master Sword he will then retrieve, keeping the knights' line true."

— Engraving on the Master Sword's pedestal, A Link to the Past

In 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, 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 Beams while at full health; It is also required to destroy the magical barrier blocking access to the upper levels of Hyrule Castle, and is used to obtain the Ether Medallion and Bombos Medallion. Finally, the Master Sword's Spin Attacks 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 GBA version, the Master Sword can also break Jars and Skulls. The Master Sword can later be upgraded into the Tempered Sword, and then into the Golden Sword.

Ocarina of Time

In Ocarina of Time, the Master Sword is kept in a hidden chamber in the 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 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 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

"You got the legendary Master Sword!"

In Oracle of Seasons and Oracle of Ages, the Master Sword is an optional sword upgrade that can only be obtained via a Linked Game. To obtain it, 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

"You got the Master Sword! The legendary blade with the power to repel evil...once wielded by the legendary hero himself!"

"The prayers of the Earth Sage have restored the Master Sword's former energy! There is but one last step before it becomes the true Master Sword again!"

"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!"

In The Wind Waker, the Master Sword is kept in a hidden chamber in 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 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.

Link uses the Master Sword during the final battle against Ganondorf, and with the help of 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

"You got the Master Sword! Only the true hero can wield this legendary weapon!"

"Light filled the Master Sword! Its blade glows with a golden light in the Twilight Realm. With it, you can cut through dark fog!"

In Twilight Princess, the Master Sword is kept deep within the Sacred Grove in Faron Woods, inside the ruins of the Temple of Time. When Link is trapped in his wolf form after Zant drives a Shadow Crystal into his forehead, 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 Sols 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 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

"The flames of Din have imbued your blade with a sacred white light that demons revile."

— N/A, Skyward Sword

"The 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, Skyward Sword

In 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 travel to the past at the 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

"You got the Master Sword—a blade for a true hero! It fires a beam when you're at full health."

In 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 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 Master Sword Lv2, and then the Master Sword Lv3, by giving Master Ore to the Blacksmith in both Hyrule and Lorule, respectively.

Breath of the Wild

"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."

"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, Breath of the Wild

In Breath of the Wild, the Master Sword was wielded by 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 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 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 Containers.

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 Ganons, 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

"The legendary sword that seals the darkness. Its sacred power has been diminished after being ravaged by the gloom beneath Hyrule Castle."

— Decayed Master Sword description, Tears of the Kingdom

"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, Tears of the Kingdom

In 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 fused, 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, 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 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 Wheels 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 in the proximity of Gloom (either from Gloom-infected enemies, Gloom Spawn, Phantom Ganon, or Ganondorf), the blade glows blue, increasing its attack power by 15; Its durability, like all other weapons in the game, has also been reduced. 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. 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

This section describes a subject that is or may be outside the core Zelda canon.

Ancient Stone Tablets

In 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

"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 weapon class used by 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 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 Links 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 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 +500, and unlocks all Sealed Skills on other weapons.
Weapon Element Strength Location
HW Master Sword.png
Master Sword
Hyrule Warriors Element Light.png Light 300
(+200 with Evil's Bane)
(+500 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 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

This section describes a subject that is or may be outside the core Zelda canon.

A Link to the Past (Ishinomori)

In the 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 Arrows. 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

This section describes a subject that is or may be outside the core Zelda canon.

Super Smash Bros.

In every Super Smash Bros. game, Link and 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.

Weapon Cost (Gold) Attributes Description
File:Master-Sword-Soulcalibur-II.png
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:Mirror-Shield-Soulcalibur-II.png
Mirror Shield
2,200 Hits taken are counters
33% of damage received is inflicted back onto opponent
A mirror-like shield found in the 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-Nintendo-Land.png

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.

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 Arrows, and create and throw Bombs; 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.
  • 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 Fire Emblem: Thracia 776, where the appearance is closer to the Zelda design. Its also appears in Fire Emblem Heroes as the "Meisterschwert", under the ownership of Reinhardt: Thunder's Sword.
  • The Snake Killer from 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 Statues 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. 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 Arrows, and Light Arrows. 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 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 Stoness, explaining their similar colour and time-based abilities.

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