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Master Sword
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Master Sword
The Legend of Zelda element
A model of the Master Sword as it appears in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Model of the Master Sword in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
PublisherNintendo
First appearanceThe Legend of Zelda:
A Link to the Past
(1991)
Created by
GenreAction-adventure
In-universe information
TypeDivine magic sword
OwnersLink
FunctionUltimate weapon capable of defeating Ganon
Traits and abilitiesRepels evil
Time travel
Emits sword beams

The Master Sword (マスターソード, Masutā Sōdo) is a fictional divine magic sword in Nintendo's The Legend of Zelda series. At times, it is referred to in-universe as the "blade of evil's bane" or the "sword that seals the darkness". It was introduced in the 1991 action-adventure video game The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past and has since appeared in most other games in the series.

The sword is the signature weapon of Link, the series protagonist, and has become an integral part of the character's visual identity and also a core element of Zelda iconography. In the narrative of the series, it is a powerful, sacred weapon that Link repeatedly uses to defeat the main antagonist, Ganon and other forces of evil. Throughout the Zelda series, it is shown to have various magical powers, including the capability to repel evil, alter the flow of time, and emit light beams to attack surrounding enemies.

In addition to The Legend of Zelda series, the Master Sword has also appeared in various other video games, media, and merchandise. These include Super Smash Bros., Mario Kart 8, and Hyrule Warriors. It has been recreated in fan art, cosplay, and weaponry and has become a widely recognizable object in video gaming.

Characteristics

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The Master Sword is a divine, magic sword and the signature weapon of Link, the hero of The Legend of Zelda series. It has become a defining aspect of Link's identity alongside the Hylian Shield and a prominent icon used to market the franchise.[1][2] The majority of The Legend of Zelda video games follow a similar story arc that involves Link embarking on a journey that eventually leads him to recovering the Master Sword. The blade is traditionally found in its stone pedestal and must be pulled from the pedestal by Link to retrieve it.[3] Although it is not always the strongest sword in Zelda games, the Master Sword is superior to other in-game weapons as it is the only weapon in most games that has the capability of defeating Ganon.[4]

The Master Sword has been referred to by various names. In several games, it is named as the "blade of evil's bane".[4] In Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, the Master Sword is referred to as "the sword that seals the darkness".[5] In the mythology of the series, the Master Sword is a divine object—in Skyward Sword, it originates in the Goddess Sword, created by the goddess Hylia, and is inhabited by a humanoid spirit named Fi.[6] Over the course of the game, the Goddess Sword is transformed into the Master Sword, a powerful blade that has the magical ability to repel evil.[7]

The design of the sword has evolved over the course of each Zelda title, but it has become identifiable by its purple and silver design. It is a one-handed longsword blade featuring a blue or purple hilt with green grip, purple spread-winged handguards and a yellow gem inlaid in the centre.[8] A defining feature of the sword is that it displays the Triforce, which is engraved on the blade just above the ricasso.[9]

The sword possesses various magical abilities, such as generating fire attacks and lightning attacks in A Link to the Past. In Ocarina of Time, it acts as a seal that protects the Sacred Realm and the Triforce. It can also alter time by placing it in its pedestal to send Link back to his childhood or by removing it again to travel to the future.[7] In The Wind Waker, the sword blocks the powers of Ganondorf and freezes time around Hyrule Castle, so that removing the blade from its pedestal restores Ganondorf's minions. In Twilight Princess, Link uses it to open a path in time. In Skyward Sword, it can be pointed towards the sky to gather energy from the heavens and launch a light beam known as a Skyward Strike.[10] In A Link Between Worlds, the Master Sword is the only weapon that can break the magical barrier that is placed on Hyrule Castle.[7] In Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity, it emits light beams that deal high damage to surrounding enemies.[11] In Breath of the Wild its superior qualities are indicated by its high durability, as it is the only weapon that is unbreakable and must be recharged before being wielded again.[12] When in close proximity to enemies associated with Calamity Ganon, it glows blue and doubles its attack strength.[13] In Tears of the Kingdom, it possesses similar characteristics and emits higher powered attacks in proximity to enemies associated with Ganondorf.[14]

Development

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Takashi Tezuka, the director of A Link to the Past credited screenwriter Kensuke Tanabe for conceiving the moment in the game when Link obtains the Master Sword. The scene established the mythological importance of the blade within the series as the only sword with the power to repel evil, but also emphasised its symbolic significance. Tezuka noted that in this moment the sword recognises Link as a hero. He explained that "our main aim was to show the birth of a hero in a scene fitting of The Legend Of Zelda, and overlap this with a sense of achievement for the player that they have been recognised as a hero after having overcome many challenges".[15]

In 2011, Nintendo released Skyward Sword, which aimed to develop an early fictional history of Hyrule and create an origin story for the Master Sword. Producer Eiji Aonuma said that the premise was built around the game's motion controls: "This time, the theme is the sword which makes use of the Wii MotionPlus accessory..." The plot suffered from inconsistencies in the pre-existing timeline. Director Hidemaro Fujibayashi explained: "We settled on having the sky and surface world, and on top of that, it was going to tell the story of the creation of Hyrule, with the untold story of the origin of the Master Sword... So, looking back at the series so far, we began knitting together the various elements. And then all sorts of contradictions arose".[16] A television commercial for the game's release prominently featured the Master Sword to advertise the game's motion controls, which involved using the Wii MotionPlus to control the sword's movements on screen.[17]

Appearances

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Artwork of the Master Sword in its pedestal in the Lost Woods
First appearance of the Master Sword in The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past[needs context]

The Legend of Zelda series

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In the original The Legend of Zelda (1986), a fantasy weapon appears without any defining features, but was the precursor for future iterations of the Master Sword.[8] It was not until 1991 that the Master Sword was introduced in the series with the release of A Link to the Past. The game involves Link setting out to rescue Princess Zelda by retrieving the blade from its pedestal in the Lost Woods and using it to defeat the main antagonists, the evil wizard Agahnim and finally, Ganon.[18] Link must obtain three pendants to prove himself worthy of claiming the sword.[19]

The sword reappeared in Ocarina of Time, and was the first iteration of the longsword design in 3D.[8] As well as being the only weapon that is capable of defeating Ganon, it also acts as a seal to protect the Sacred Realm and the Triforce. In this iteration, it is located in the Temple of Time, locked behind the Door of Time. Link must collect three Spiritual Stones to open the Door of Time and claim the Master Sword from its pedestal. Due to his youth, the sword seals him in the Temple of Time for seven years until he is ready to be the Hero of Time. Link can then use the Master Sword to travel back to his childhood by placing it in the pedestal.[18]

In The Wind Waker, Link finds the Master Sword inside the sunken Hyrule Castle. It is once again presented as the only sword capable of defeating Ganondorf. The sword blocks Ganondorf's magical powers and freezes time around the castle. When the blade is removed from its pedestal, it restores Ganondorf's minions and magic and it loses its power to repel evil. Once Link has replenished the Master Sword's power, he is able to destroy Ganondorf by plunging it into his forehead and turning him to stone.[7][20]

When Link seeks out the Master Sword in Twilight Princess, it is located on its pedestal deep in the woods in the Sacred Grove within the ruined Temple of Time. Retrieving the sword is the only way to break the sorcerer Zant's magic, which has turned Link into a wolf. When he returns to the Sacred Grove later in the game, he uses the sword to open a path in time. The sword becomes more powerful when it is infused with the divine power of the Sols. As in previous games, the Master Sword is finally used to kill Ganondorf.[21][7]

In Skyward Sword, the Master Sword plays a central role in Link's journey to defeat the main antagonist, Demon King Demise and prove himself as the hero. The plot charts the weapon's transition from the Goddess Sword, a weapon left by the goddess Hylia, into the Master Sword. Link uses three Sacred Flames to forge the Goddess Sword into the Master Sword and, after defeating Demon King Demise, seals him inside the sword by placing it in its pedestal.[22] In the finale, a humanoid spirit named Fi, who acts as Link's companion throughout the game, is placed in an eternal slumber within the Master Sword.[23]

Link again retrieves the sword from its pedestal in the Lost Woods in A Link Between Worlds, after collecting three Pendants of Virtue and then rescues Seven Sages and Princess Zelda.[24] During the game, the Master Sword is upgraded by blacksmiths in Hyrule and Lorule after Link collects master ore from various locations, making it a more powerful weapon.[25]

Throughout Breath of the Wild, Link can obtain the Master Sword once he is strong enough to pull it from its pedestal. It is located deep in the Lost Woods within Great Hyrule Forest.[26] In this game the sword is heavily damaged and covered in Malice[27] after being used in battle against Calamity Ganon 100 years before the events of the game.[1] After successfully retrieving the Master Sword and purchasing the DLC, the player is given the opportunity to tackle one of the end game challenges named "The Trial of the Sword", which is aimed at advanced players.[26] Upon successfully completing all of the levels, the Master Sword is permanently upgraded to its highest attack level.[28]

In Tears of the Kingdom (2023), the sequel to Breath of the Wild, Link begins the game wielding the Master Sword, only for it to be shattered by Ganondorf's power. After he awakens on the Great Sky Island with the broken sword, he sends it back in time to Zelda, who time-traveled back to the era of Hyrule's founding. To defeat Ganondorf, Zelda chooses to consume a secret stone to transform into a dragon, allowing the Master Sword to regain its sacred energy over millennia. In the present day, Link finds Zelda in her draconified form and pulls the Master Sword from her skull.[29] Like other weapons in the game, the Master Sword can be fused with various materials to make it more powerful in combat.[30]

Other media

[edit]

The Master Sword has made appearances in various other video games. Link appears with the Master Sword as a playable character in the original 1999 Super Smash Bros.[31] In Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Link also appears as a playable character in eight different costumes that include the Master Sword and Hylian Shield.[32] The Master Sword has also made an appearance in Animal Crossing games and Soulcalibur II.[33][34] In Nintendo Land, players can wield the Master Sword as part of The Legend of Zelda: Battle Quest.[35] Link makes a cameo appearance with the Master Sword and the Hylian Shield in Scribblenauts Unlimited.[36] In Bayonetta 2, Bayonetta is able to use the Master Sword after equipping Link's costume.[37] In the racing game Mario Kart 8, the Master Sword was introduced with Link in the first DLC.[38] It also makes an appearance in the Hyrule Circuit as a statue inside the castle.[39] It is also obtainable as gear alongside the Hylian Shield in the Nintendo Switch version of The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim.[40] The Master Sword was also introduced in Super Mario Maker 2 with a Zelda update in 2019. The sword transforms Mario into Link and bestows a range of special abilities.[41] In the hack and slash video game Hyrule Warriors (2014), the Master Sword appears as a prominent weapon. Link can use it in battle alongside the Hylian Shield, and after completing certain tasks, the sword has the capability of emitting the sword beam.[21] In Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity (2020), Link is able to use the Master Sword throughout the game after defeating an antagonist named Astor and retrieving the blade from its pedestal. Once obtained, Link is able to level up the sword by fusing other weapons into it and add unique effects by equipping it with Seals. The fully maxed out Master Sword then unlocks an additional sword beam attack when Link is at full health.[42] The Master Sword has also been featured prominently in Zelda-related media, including books and other merchandise.[43][44]

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The Master Sword features in the lyrics of a single inspired by The Legend of Zelda series titled "Power of the Triforce" by British metal band DragonForce.[45]

Merchandise

[edit]

The Master Sword has been merchandised across a wide variety of official Zelda products. It has been reproduced as a prop and toy replica.[46] It is prominently displayed on official clothing and used in themed products, such as a sword-shaped umbrella and candy.[47][48][49] In 2023, a Japanese toy manufacturer produced a model of the sword in the form of a logic puzzle.[50] A light-up decayed Master Sword was included as a prize in a lottery in Japan.[51] Various amiibo feature Link and Zelda wielding the Master Sword.[52][53] In May 2024, a Lego set of the Great Deku Tree was unveiled, featuring the Master Sword on its pedestal.[54]

Reception

[edit]
A cosplayer dressed as Link holding the Master Sword
A cosplayer dressed as Link holding the Master Sword and the Hylian Shield. These two components have become integral aspects of the character's identity.

Since its introduction in The Legend of Zelda series, the Master Sword has become a recognisable object in video gaming. It has been recreated in the form of fan-made replicas and also used as a functioning weapon.[55][56][57] Critics have observed that the Master Sword and other Zelda plot elements have been heavily influenced by Celtic mythology. Cian Maher of Eurogamer drew comparisons between the Master Sword and a sword in Irish mythology called Claíomh Solais, also known as The Sword of Light. This sword was similar to Cú Chulainn's sword, known as Cruadín Catuchenn, one of the legendary god-killing weapons in Irish mythology. He noted the similarity of the heroes completing three tasks before obtaining the Sword of Light and that the weapon is capable of killing an enemy that is impossible to defeat, which resembles Link's quest and the Master Sword's capability of killing undefeated enemies like Ganon.[58] Aaron Greenbaum, writing for Den of Geek, commented on the contradictory origins of the sword within the series. He noted that the story of who forged the sword has been retconned since A Link to the Past, due to the "confusing" nature of The Legend of Zelda timeline and that Skyward Sword corrected this by introducing the idea that Link forges the sword, providing a "superior in-game explanation".[59]

Nintendo Power described the Master Sword as one of the best weapons in gaming, citing that it is more than just a powerful sword, but also integral to Link's adventures and development as a character.[60] Writing for Paste, Khee Hoon Chan commented on the significance of the Master Sword in the narrative of the Zelda storyline: "There are few scenes in entertainment as iconic as the image of young Link pulling the Master Sword from its pedestal, a virtual, modern retelling of The Sword and the Stone. More than just a weapon, the Master Sword came to be a symbol of Link's destiny".[61] The Master Sword was ranked as one of the coolest swords in gaming by Ron Whitaker for The Escapist magazine, who commented, "the Master Sword doesn't look all that special. It's not that big, it doesn't have flames rising from it, and it doesn't look all that intimidating. But in the hands of the right person, it can save the world".[62] He also listed it as one of the most iconic video game weapons.[63]

In a review of Skyward Sword, GamesRadar described the Master Sword as "the unspoken star of The Legend of Zelda", and praised the game for placing it directly in the hands of the player through the MotionPlus and making the sword a focal point of the game.[64] Jim Norman of Nintendo Life thought that obtaining the Master Sword in Tears of the Kingdom was a "series defining moment" due to the cinematic spectacle of pulling the sword from the Light Dragon's head and the tension involved in performing the act. He also noted that the sword's role as an integral part of the storyline means that finding its location provides a "special melancholic twist".[65] Matthew Byrd, writing for Den of Geek, considered the Master Sword to be "the most important weapon in gaming history", due to the way it is obtained in A Link to the Past. He opined that the moment when the player obtains the sword is significant because it provides the player with a sense of fulfilling their destiny, which had not been achieved by any previous piece of gear in gaming. He commented: "Few weapons in gaming history until that point had been treated with such reverence, and few felt so good to finally acquire".[66] IGN staff consider the Master Sword to be the greatest or most iconic video game weapon of all time,[67][68] and the act of pulling it out in Ocarina of Time the most unforgettable video game moment of all time.[69] Destin Legarie from IGN wrote: "This beautiful sword is an icon to gamers everywhere, as well as an instantly recognizable item of central importance in the Zelda franchise. Sure, there have been plenty of great weapons and items in The Legend of Zelda series, but only the Master Sword has endured since the days of A Link to the Past. Each story since the Super Nintendo entry has been crafted around Link's quest to obtain this legendary blade".[68]

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
The Master Sword is a recurring and iconic weapon in Nintendo's The Legend of Zelda video game series, serving as the signature blade wielded by the protagonist Link to combat evil forces and protect the kingdom of Hyrule. It is renowned for its sacred power, often described as the "Blade of Evil's Bane," which repels darkness and doubles damage against malevolent entities like , the series' primary antagonist. First appearing in The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past in 1991, the sword symbolizes the Chosen Hero's destiny and requires worthiness—typically proven through trials—to be drawn from its pedestal. The Master Sword's origins are established in The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword (2011), where it begins as the Goddess Sword, created by the goddess Hylia and wielded by her chosen hero, Link, to combat the demon king Demise. Link forges it through three sacred flames representing the goddesses Farore, Nayru, and Din, transforming it step-by-step into the Goddess Longsword, Goddess White Sword, and finally the Master Sword, before Zelda blesses it to enhance its holy power. This process imbues the blade with divine energy, allowing it to seal evil, after which it is enshrined in the Temple of Time. Throughout the series, the Master Sword plays a pivotal role in major entries, often acquired in sacred groves or forests and upgraded for greater potency. In Ocarina of Time (1998), Link retrieves it from the Temple of Time to challenge Ganondorf, fracturing the series' timeline into three branches. It reappears in Twilight Princess (2006) to lift a on Link and defeat Ganondorf once more, while in The Wind Waker (2002), a weakened version is restored by sages to petrify the evil king. In Breath of the Wild (2017), it demands 13 hearts to pull free, becomes unbreakable after recharging, and glows when near malice-infused foes. Its abilities include firing sword beams at full health, fusing with items in later titles like Tears of the Kingdom (2023), and regenerating when rested in its pedestal, underscoring its enduring status as Hyrule's ultimate defense against calamity.

Characteristics

Design

The Master Sword is depicted as a one-handed featuring a silver blade etched with sacred markings, a leather-wrapped with a green grip for secure grip, a typically handguard, and a shaped like the winged crest of Hyrule. The pommel prominently displays the emblem, a triangular symbol representing power, wisdom, and courage. These core physical attributes emphasize the sword's elegant yet formidable aesthetic, designed for balance and precision in combat. In terms of size and , the measures approximately 3 to 4 feet in overall , allowing it to be wielded effortlessly one-handed by the Link, whose stature typically aligns with a . Official licensed replicas, scaled to match in-game proportions, confirm a of 41.3 inches from tip to pommel, with the comprising the majority at around 27 inches. The hilt's wrapping provides tactile feedback and prevents slippage, contributing to its practical design for prolonged use. The sword's appearance has varied across the series, beginning with simple 8-bit and 16-bit representations in early titles like The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past (1991), where it was rendered as a basic metallic sprite with minimal detailing. This evolved into sophisticated 3D models starting with The Legend of Zelda: of Time (1998), introducing polished silver textures and subtle sheen effects to convey its divine quality, along with the iconic handguard and grip. Later entries, such as The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (2017), added dynamic visual elements like a beam emission from the blade tip when Link is at full health, enhancing its ethereal presence during swings. Specific artistic choices further distinguish the design in recent games; for instance, in The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom (2023), the sword exhibits corrupting visuals, including a rusted blade and dark, gloom-tainted surfaces when influenced by malevolent forces, contrasting its usual pristine form. These variations maintain the iconic while adapting to each game's and narrative tone.

Abilities

The Master Sword possesses the primary power to repel and seal , earning it the of the "blade of evil's bane," which renders it uniquely effective against corrupted entities such as and other forces of darkness that resist conventional weapons. This sacred attribute stems from its infusion with holy energies, allowing it to vanquish sources that even the Triforce's power cannot fully overcome in certain contexts. In gameplay mechanics, the Master Sword enables the emission of sword beams—a ranged projectile—when wielded by Link at full health, extending its combat reach and providing an alternative to strikes or throws. Unlike standard s, it is unbreakable across multiple titles, instead operating on an reserve that depletes during prolonged combat and requires recharging, a process hastened by proximity to malice sources like those emanating from Calamity Ganon in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. Completing dedicated trials, such as the Trial of the Sword in Breath of the Wild's DLC expansion, permanently activates its full potential, ensuring it remains in a glowing, powered-up form with enhanced attack power whenever drawn. The sword can achieve enhanced states through infusions or modifications that amplify its light-based properties. In The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess, exposure to the light of the Sols transforms it into a radiant form, increasing its efficacy against twilight-infused enemies and enabling one-hit defeats on shadow beasts within the Twilight Realm. Similarly, in The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, fusing it with various materials alters its appearance and boosts its attack capabilities, including potential light-emitting effects depending on the fused item, while its base durability remains intact post-repair. Despite its potency, the Master Sword has notable limitations, foremost among them the requirement for the wielder to prove worthiness through trials or sufficient vitality; for instance, in Breath of the Wild, attempting to claim it without at least 13 hearts results in disorientation within the Lost Woods, preventing successful retrieval. It can also be weakened or corrupted by overwhelming evil, as seen when Calamity Ganon's influence diminishes its power over 10,000 years in Breath of the Wild, reducing its base attack until restored. In recent entries like Tears of the Kingdom, extended use continues to tax its energy reserves, necessitating periodic recovery to avoid temporary unusability.

Role in Hyrulean Lore

Origins and Mythology

In the mythological foundations of Hyrule, the Master Sword traces its origins to The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword (2011), where it emerges as a divine instrument forged to combat primordial evil. Initially manifested as the Goddess Sword, it was crafted by the Goddess Hylia, the deity who protected the ancient inhabitants of the surface world from the Demon King Demise and his forces. This blade, entrusted to her chosen hero, symbolized Hylia's vow to safeguard humanity after she sacrificed her immortality to become the mortal . The transformation into the Master Sword occurs through a ritualistic process involving sacred flames. The hero Link retrieves the Goddess Sword from its resting place in Skyloft and tempers it successively at three springs—Faron, Lanayru, and Eldin—each guarded by a spirit and infused with the flames of the goddesses Farore, Nayru, and Din. These flames, derived from a of Hylia in the Sealed Temple, imbue the sword with escalating power, evolving it from the Goddess Sword to the Goddess Longsword, the Goddess White Sword, and finally the Master Sword, before Zelda blesses it to become the True Master Sword. This culmination grants the blade its legendary ability to repel darkness, directly countering Demise's malevolent essence, which is the ancestral source of and the bearer of unbalanced power akin to the of Power. Ancient Hyrulean prophecies, inscribed in sacred texts and passed down through the line of the , foretell the Master Sword as the pivotal weapon for sealing the Demon King and his incarnations. These legends describe it as the "blade of evil's bane," destined to be wielded by the spirit of the hero in cycles of to restore balance to the —ensuring that no single force of power, , or dominates eternally. After Demise's defeat, the sword is enshrined in a pedestal within the Temple of Time (formerly the Sealed Temple), or later concealed in the Lost Woods, serving as an enduring trial to prove the worthiness of its claimant, much like mythic swords embedded in stone that only the pure-hearted can draw.

Significance in the Timeline

The Master Sword originates in the era depicted in The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword, set at the beginning of the official timeline before its major branches, where it is forged from the Goddess Sword by the hero Link under the guidance of the goddess Hylia to defeat the demon king Demise and seal away ancient evil forces threatening the land that would become Hyrule. This establishes the blade as a pre-split artifact central to the series' foundational mythology, predating the kingdom's formation and serving as the divine instrument tied to the Triforce's protection. Following the timeline's pivotal split in The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, the Master Sword plays a defining role in all three resulting branches: the child timeline, adult timeline, and downfall timeline. In the child timeline, it remains dormant in the Temple of Time after Link pulls it as a child, only to be wielded again in later eras to combat resurgent threats. The adult timeline sees it used to seal within the Sacred Realm, leading to its submersion with a flooded Hyrule, while the downfall timeline features its recovery during the Imprisoning War, as central to events in The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past where it is essential for defeating and restoring balance to a darkened kingdom. Across these branches, the sword symbolizes unyielding hope and the hero's predestined courage, often lying dormant in sacred groves or pedestals until a worthy Link proves himself through trials, awakening its power to break cycles of malice and reincarnation involving and the forces of Demise. The release of Skyward Sword in 2011 addressed earlier timeline ambiguities by retconning the Master Sword's origins to this ancient era, resolving questions about its sudden appearance in prior games like A Link to the Past (1991) and providing a unified lore for its recurring dormancy and activation. In the adult timeline branch, variations such as the Phantom Sword in The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass (2007) emerge as a , forged with sacred metals to parallel the Master Sword's anti-evil properties while the original remains sealed away underwater. The Master Sword's influence extends to broader Hyrulean history, notably in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (2017) and its sequel Tears of the Kingdom (2023), where it is wielded against Calamity , a manifestation of Ganondorf's malice originating from Demise. Ten thousand years prior to Breath of the Wild, the blade was used alongside the ancient Sages to initially seal Calamity during the first Great Calamity, establishing recurring cycles of catastrophe every 10,000 years. In Tears of the Kingdom, the sword is shattered by the resurrected Ganondorf but reforged through the Light Dragon—Zelda in her draconic form—emphasizing themes of sacrifice and renewal in the hero's eternal struggle. This cyclical role underscores its enduring narrative weight, perpetuating themes of heroism and renewal across millennia-spanning lore without altering the timeline's core branches.

Development

Conception

The Master Sword was first conceived during the development of The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past for the , released in 1991. Scriptwriter proposed the pivotal scene in which protagonist Link pulls the blade from its pedestal in a forest sanctuary, symbolizing his awakening as a hero and serving as a magical upgrade from the game's starting sword. To emphasize its status as a superior "master" weapon, the concept incorporated worthiness trials: Link must prove his lineage by inheriting the blood of Hyrule's knightly protectors and collecting three sacred pendants before claiming it. Director highlighted this narrative layer, stating, "In order to draw the sword, one needs to have both inherited the blood of the family of knights who protect , as well as possess the three pendants." The design drew inspiration from Western fantasy tropes, particularly the Arthurian legend of , portraying the Master Sword as a divine blade embedded in stone, extractable only by the chosen. Tezuka further described it as possessing unique properties, noting, "We also decided then that the Master Sword was a sword that alone holds the power to repel evil." This sacred, unbreakable nature was reinforced by producer Shigeru Miyamoto's directive that Link must always equip the sword during , ensuring its centrality to both mechanics and storytelling.

Design Evolution

The Master Sword debuted in The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past (1991) as a pixelated 2D sprite, featuring a simple silver blade with a blue and , designed for top-down on the . This representation emphasized its role as a straightforward upgrade from the starting sword, with for slashing attacks. The transition to 3D began with The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (1998), where the Master Sword received its first polygonal model on the , allowing for more detailed geometry and integration into a third-person perspective. Developers adapted the combat system to leverage the console's capabilities, enabling precise targeting and cinematic pulls from the pedestal, while maintaining the iconic blue hilt and silver blade but with added depth for light reflections and animations. Subsequent titles refined mechanics through technological advancements. In The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword (2011), the sword's design incorporated controls for realistic drawing from the scabbard and directional swings, evolving from button-based inputs to gesture-based interactions that emphasized one-on-one combat precision. This iteration portrayed the sword's origin as an upgraded Goddess Sword, with a sleeker blade form that lengthened progressively through upgrades, tying visual changes to gameplay progression. Artistic styles influenced visual iterations across games. The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker (2002) adopted a cel-shaded aesthetic, rendering the Master Sword in a vibrant silver-blue tone with exaggerated proportions to match the cartoonish art direction, diverging from the realistic metallic sheen of earlier entries. By contrast, The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess (2006) returned to a more grounded, metallic design with a darker silver blade and ornate gold accents on the hilt, reflecting the game's realistic, shadowy art style. Open-world entries introduced and environmental . In The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (2017), high-definition textures and physics simulations allowed the sword to corrode visually when its energy depletes, implementing a system instead of permanent breakage to fit the game's scavenging gameplay loop. This marked a shift from indestructible status symbols to tools affected by world hazards, with the blade showing rust-like degradation during low-power states. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom (2023) built on this with further upgrades, including fusion capabilities for elemental affinities and inherent gloom resistance after full restoration, enhancing durability against the new mechanic while preserving the core HD model from its predecessor. Gameplay tweaks like these reflect ongoing adaptations to balance power with strategic .

Appearances

Mainline Legend of Zelda Games

The Master Sword debuted in The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past (1991), where Link acquires it by pulling the blade from its pedestal in the Lost Woods after completing three pendant trials in the Eastern Palace, Desert Palace, and Tower of Hera. This legendary weapon, known as the blade that repels evil, empowers Link to access the Dark World and ultimately defeat the wizard Agahnim and the demon king . In The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (), the Master Sword serves as the key to opening the Door of Time in the Temple of Time, which Link draws as a child to become an adult and confront Ganondorf. The sword, residing in a sacred pedestal, transports Link between child and adult eras until it is returned, sealing the Sages' power; in the game's timeline, it is later lost when Hyrule is flooded to contain Ganondorf. The Master Sword appears in the Oracle games—Oracle of Seasons and Oracle of Ages (2001)—where Link acquires it after restoring the respective oracles and uses it to defeat the final bosses, Onox and Veran, in a linked quest that culminates against Ganon. In The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker (2002), Link retrieves the Master Sword from its resting place in the sunken Hyrule Castle after navigating the flooded Great Sea, but finds it initially powerless due to Ganondorf's corruption. Restored through sage medallions and empowered by the Triforce, the sword enables Link to strike the final blow against Ganondorf, allowing a wish to flood Hyrule anew and erase his threat. In The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess (2006), Link retrieves the Master Sword from the in Faron Woods after navigating the Twilight Realm and solving a guardian statue puzzle; it lifts the curse transforming him into a wolf and empowers him to defeat Ganondorf. In The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword (2011), the sword's origins are shown starting as the Goddess Sword, which the spirit Fi gives to Link on Skyloft. Link forges it through the sacred flames of the goddesses—Din's Flame to the Goddess Longsword, Nayru's Flame to the Goddess White Sword, and Farore's Flame to the Master Sword with Fi in the hilt—before enshrining it in the Temple of Time to seal Demise and protect Zelda. In The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds (2013), the Master Sword is obtained in Hyrule Castle's sanctum after Link merges with paintings to navigate Lorule's parallel world, using it alongside the game's painting mechanic to confront Yuga's fusion with . The Master Sword in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (2017) lies dormant in Korok Forest within the Lost Woods, weakened by the Calamity ; Link pulls it from its pedestal in the Sacred Ground Grove once he has at least 13 hearts, wielding it as a rechargeable central to defeating the Calamity in Hyrule Castle. Its power can be fully awakened via the Trial of the Sword DLC, enhancing its durability and damage against malice. In The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom (2023), the Master Sword is broken and borne by the Light Dragon due to Ganondorf's corruption; Link obtains it by pulling it from the dragon's head after acquiring sufficient stamina (at least two wheels), using it to confront Ganondorf's forces and strike the decisive blow in the Depths.

Spin-off and Crossover Games

In the spin-off game Hyrule Warriors (2014), the Master Sword serves as a central weapon for Link, enabling powerful combo attacks that incorporate sword beams and spins to defeat hordes of enemies in musou-style battles. Similarly, in Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity (2020), players obtain the Master Sword during the Chapter 3 story battle in Korok Forest, where it functions as a high-damage weapon for Link's combo strings, enhanced by seals that boost attack speed and add light-based effects against malice enemies. In Cadence of Hyrule: Crypt of the NecroDancer Featuring The Legend of Zelda (2019), the Master Sword appears as an optional legendary weapon variant, such as Caladbolg, which Link can equip for rhythm-based combat to perform timed slashes and dashes synchronized to the game's beat. The Master Sword features prominently in crossover titles, where it integrates into Link's moveset for combat mechanics. In the Super Smash Bros. series, starting with Super Smash Bros. (1999) and continuing through Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (2018), Link wields the Master Sword for smash attacks, tilts, and aerials, including sword beams fired from neutral attacks when at zero damage, emphasizing its role as a versatile melee tool in platform fighting. It also appears in Mario Kart 8 (2014) and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe (2017), where Link performs tricks with the Master Sword while riding the Master Cycle, and a statue of the sword in the Hyrule Circuit track activates a boost shortcut after hitting three crystals. In Super Mario Maker 2 (2019), the Master Sword acts as a power-up exclusive to the Super Mario Bros. style, transforming Mario into Link for sword-based platforming, allowing wall climbs and enemy defeats similar to a Super Mushroom variant. Further integrations highlight the sword's adaptability across genres. In (2002), the Master Sword is one of Link's selectable s on the version, paired with the Hylian Shield for balanced sword-and-shield combat in 3D fighting arenas, offering moderate power and magical properties. It appears as a cosmetic furniture item in (2020), obtainable via or trading, which players can place in homes to boost interior ratings without functional gameplay use. As a summonable quest item in Unlimited (2012), typing "Master Sword" creates the blade to solve puzzles or defeat objects and enemies, leveraging its legendary status for creative interactions. In (2014), the Master Sword integrates as a reskinned for the of Hyrule costume, allowing Bayonetta to perform sword strikes on fiery enemies without damage during specific quests. Unique mechanics emphasize interactive elements in select titles. (2012) features motion-controlled pulls of the Master Sword in The Legend of Zelda: Battle Quest minigame, where players swing the to mimic swordplay and shield blocks against monsters in collaborative multiplayer. On the version of (2017), the Master Sword is unlockable via scanning as an enchanted one-handed blade with fire damage and soul trap effects, serving as a powerful weapon against and dragons in the open-world RPG.

Other Media

Literature and Comics

The Master Sword appears prominently in later official comics adaptations of The Legend of Zelda, where it is portrayed as a symbol of heroism and the key weapon against . Manga adaptations published in and later by further expand on the sword's narrative importance. In Akira Himekawa's The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (2001, English edition 2008), the Master Sword is central to Link's trials in the Temple of Time, where pulling it from its pedestal triggers his transformation and sets the stage for time-travel adventures against Ganondorf, with the blade glowing to represent awakened courage. Similarly, the Twilight Princess manga (2016–2020) depicts the sword in climactic boss fights, such as against Armogohma and Stallord, where its purifying light banishes twilight corruption and amplifies Link's resolve in wolf and human forms. Earlier comics, such as the series published from 1990 to 1991 under 's licensing, feature Link's sword (predating the Master Sword's introduction) as an indispensable blade in multi-issue arcs battling Ganon's forces, emphasizing its role in restoring balance to Hyrule through direct confrontations with dark entities like Shadow Link. In literature, the Master Sword holds a foundational place in lore compilations. Hyrule Historia (2011), 's official encyclopedia, chronicles the sword's mythological origins as the Blade of Evil's Bane, forged to seal the Dark World, and maps its pivotal roles across the series timeline, from Skyward Sword's forging to its slumber in the Sacred Realm. The Adventure Book The Shadow Prince (1992) by integrates Link's sword into a choose-your-own-adventure plot, where Link reclaims it from hiding to combat the titular antagonist, fulfilling prophecies of Hyrule's defense against shadowy invasions. Art books in The Art of The Legend of Zelda series showcase the sword's conceptual development, with sketches illustrating early designs influenced by medieval blades and evolving iterations like the ornate hilt in of Time. These volumes highlight how the sword's visual heroism—often with ethereal glows and intricate engravings—symbolizes unyielding courage in print narratives. Across these media, adaptations amplify the sword's legendary status, portraying it not merely as a tool but as a beacon of hope that responds to the wielder's purity.

Film, Music, and Animation

In animated adaptations, the Master Sword—or its conceptual predecessor—appears in early non-game media. The 1989 American animated television series The Legend of Zelda, produced by DIC Enterprises and aired on Friday mornings as part of The Super Mario Bros. Super Show!, depicts Link wielding a magical sword capable of firing energy beams, mirroring the Master Sword's iconic abilities from later games. This sword serves as Link's primary weapon across the 13 episodes, used to battle and protect the of Wisdom, though it is not explicitly named the Master Sword due to the series predating its formal introduction in A Link to the Past. The Philips CD-i titles Link: The Faces of Evil and Zelda: The Wand of Gamelon (both 1993), developed by , incorporate hybrid live-action and animated cutscenes where Link and Zelda wield powerful swords evocative of the Master Sword as heroic artifacts against evil forces, though the games' non-canonical status limits their influence on broader lore. In film portrayals, the Master Sword features prominently in fan-made productions, with no major official live-action adaptation released as of November 2025. The 2009 fan film The Legend of Zelda: The Hero of Time, directed by , centers on Link drawing the Master Sword from the Pedestal of Time, adapting key scenes from of Time to highlight its transformative power and role in awakening the Hero of Time. More recently, the 2025 animated fan short Lost in Time, produced by Innervation Bros., continues the Hero of Time's saga, depicting the sword in battles against temporal threats and inner demons, released to celebrate ongoing fan interest in the franchise. Nintendo's official live-action The Legend of Zelda film, directed by and entering production in in November 2025 with a planned 2027 release, is expected to include the Master Sword given its centrality to the series, though specific details remain undisclosed. Musically, the Master Sword inspires references in rock and orchestral works tied to Zelda's soundtracks. British power metal band DragonForce's song "Power of the Triforce," from their 2023 album Warp Speed Warriors, explicitly lyrics about the blade, including "Now all feel the magic of the Master Sword / Wisdom, courage, and the power unite," framing it as a symbol of heroic unity against darkness. Orchestral concerts amplify its thematic presence; the Symphony of the Goddesses tour (2011–2022), produced by Jason Michael Paul Entertainment in collaboration with , incorporates suites from games like Ocarina of Time and Skyward Sword that underscore the sword's forging and wielding, blending visual projections of its scenes with live performances. At Live 2023 in , a dedicated Legend of Zelda orchestra concert featured arrangements of iconic tracks, including those evoking the Master Sword's legendary pull and battles. Additional animated content from milestone events highlights the sword's origins. For The Legend of Zelda's 30th anniversary in 2016, released promotional animated sequences alongside the Symphony of the Goddesses concerts, including stylized depictions of the Master Sword's forging inspired by Skyward Sword, integrated into celebratory videos and unboxing animations to evoke its mythical creation by the goddess Hylia. Music videos tied to the Skyward Sword soundtrack, such as official uploads of tracks like "Ballad of the Goddess" (which accompanies the sword's early upgrades), use animated visuals of Hyrulean landscapes and swordplay to promote the 2011 game's remastered HD edition in 2021, emphasizing the blade's evolution from a basic Goddess Sword.

Cultural Impact

Merchandise

Official replicas of the Master Sword have been produced by and its licensed partners, including the Master Sword of Resurrection included in the Breath of the Wild Master Edition for in 2017, depicting the sword with a flower emblem from the game's . This was included exclusively in select regional bundles and emphasized the sword's pedestal pull mechanic from the game's lore. In 2024, Spirits released the Proplica Master Sword, a 105 cm (41-inch) plastic replica with vibration feedback and eight embedded Zelda series soundtracks activated by motion sensors, available through official retailers. Toys and collectible figures featuring the Master Sword include from Nintendo, starting with the 2015 Super Smash Bros. series Link amiibo holding the sword, followed by variants in the Breath of the Wild (2017) and Tears of the Kingdom (2023) lines that unlock in-game items such as materials, fabrics, and weapons when scanned. Collectible figures from brands like , such as the Breath of the Wild Link with Master Sword (2017) and Tears of the Kingdom variants (2023), depict the character wielding stylized sword variants, often in chase glow-in-the-dark finishes for collectors. Apparel and accessories incorporate the Master Sword motif through official Zelda lines, with BoxLunch offering t-shirts printed with sword icons and engravings since 2020, including unisex graphic tees in cotton blends for everyday wear. Complementary items like keychains shaped as miniaturized sword hilts and umbrellas designed to resemble the full —featuring a 104 cm diameter canopy and scabbard-style handle—were licensed by in 2018 via Merchoid, providing functional rain protection with thematic detailing. Recent merchandise expansions include the 2024 Lego Ideas The Legend of Zelda: Great Deku Tree 2-in-1 set (product 77092), comprising 2,500 pieces to build either Ocarina of Time or Breath of the Wild versions of the tree, complete with a removable Master Sword pedestal for recreating the iconic pull scene, aimed at adult builders aged 18+. In 2023, Hanayama released the Huzzle Master Sword cast metal disentanglement puzzle, a level-6 difficulty brain teaser replicating the sword embedded in stone, requiring rotational maneuvers to "free" it, as a limited-edition crossover product. Themed edibles, such as Boston America Corp.'s Link Master Swords sour orange hard candies in 8-bit retro tins (ongoing since 2015), and jewelry like sterling silver Master Sword pendants from licensed makers such as Fandom Regalia (2020s), offer bite-sized or wearable tributes with engraved Hylian crests. Collectible variants highlight game-specific aesthetics, such as the 2017 Breath of the Wild Master Sword of statue, depicting the blade with a flower emblem, bundled in premium collector's sets. For Tears of the Kingdom, 2023 replicas from custom fabricators like Swords of Northshire introduced modular designs with attachment points for "fusion" accessories, allowing users to affix prop elements like eyes or materials to emulate the game's weapon customization mechanic, often in high-carbon steel for durability.

Reception and Legacy

The Master Sword has garnered significant critical acclaim for its symbolic depth and emotional resonance within the Legend of Zelda series. In 2012, IGN ranked it as the top of all time, highlighting its rich lore, array of abilities, and inherent personality that elevates it beyond a mere tool of combat. Reviews of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom in 2023 particularly praised the Master Sword's reclamation quest for its narrative depth, emphasizing the emotional fulfillment of earning the blade through player-driven exploration and challenges that underscore themes of heroism and redemption. Among fans, the Master Sword endures as a potent of heroism, prominently featured in at conventions and as a staple in memes that capture its iconic status across . Fan analyses, such as those on Zelda Universe in the 2020s, frequently compare it to mythological artifacts like the Celtic —known as the Sword of Light for its purifying properties—or the Arthurian , noting parallels in themes of divine selection and destiny that enrich the sword's legendary allure. Culturally, the Master Sword embodies perseverance, serving as a narrative device that drives player investment in tales of overcoming adversity, as explored in academic discussions on video game design and storytelling. Its popularity surged following the 2017 release of Breath of the Wild, amplified by media coverage and adaptations through 2025 that reinforced its role in modern gaming discourse, including the live-action film adaptation of The Legend of Zelda released in 2025, where it plays a central role in the narrative of heroism and destiny. Post-2020 analyses have increasingly addressed inclusivity in the sword's worthiness trials, critiquing traditional Zelda tropes through feminist lenses to highlight evolving representations of heroism and agency.

References

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