The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom (Switch 2) Complete Walkthrough & Guide
“The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom (Switch 2 edition)” delivers a massive, richly detailed Hyrule with countless quests, dungeons, and hidden surprises. Whether you’re a veteran Zelda player or new to the series, this full walkthrough and guide will provide every step to complete the game efficiently, uncover all secrets, and maximize your gameplay experience.
Step 1: Initial Setup & Early Exploration
- Starting in the Great Plateau: Complete the introductory tutorial quests to familiarize yourself with Link’s abilities. Collect basic weapons (swords, shields) and materials (fruits, herbs, small ores). Locate the first shrine for initial stamina upgrades.
- First Shrine Puzzle: Use magnetism, moving blocks, and simple combat mechanics to reach the shrine pedestal. Rewards: 1 Spirit Orb (can be exchanged for stamina or heart container).
- Exploration Tips: Climb the plateau to unlock the first map tower for area overview. Use the paraglider to travel safely to distant locations. Check every cave or forest nook—early resources like apples, mushrooms, and ores are crucial.
Step 2: Main Quest – Chapter 1: Awakening of Hyrule
- Quest Objective: Investigate the first major disturbance in Hyrule Castle grounds.
- Key Steps: Travel to Hyrule Castle outskirts, avoiding patrolling enemies. Collect basic arrows and upgrade bow for ranged combat. Solve environmental puzzles to access hidden passages under the castle.
- Tips: Use stealth to bypass groups of enemies. Equip shield when traversing narrow bridges or exposed areas. Always check walls and floor markings—often hint to hidden passages.
Step 3: Main Quest – Chapter 2: The Lost Artifacts
- Objective: Recover sacred artifacts from four shrines scattered across Hyrule.
- Shrine Walkthrough: Shrine 1 – Skyview Cavern: Use movable blocks and magnetic metal objects to reach the altar. Shrine 2 – Forest Heart: Solve light reflection puzzle with mirrors and crystals. Shrine 3 – Lava Grotto: Equip fire-resistant armor or potions; navigate timed platforms. Shrine 4 – Mountain Peak: Climbing-focused puzzle; conserve stamina with food boosts.
- Tips for Shrine Completion: Always upgrade stamina early; climbing-heavy shrines require multiple bars. Elemental effects help with puzzles: fire for ice melting, bombs for destructible obstacles.
Step 4: Side Quests & Exploration
Completing side quests ensures you’re well-prepared for tougher enemies.
- Side Quest Examples: Merchant’s Request: Collect rare fruits and ores for Hyrule merchants; rewards include rupees and special armor. The Lost Child: Find a missing NPC in the woods; rewards: unique shield. Hidden Treasure Hunt: Follow environmental clues to secret chests across Hyrule.
- Exploration Strategy: Always climb towers to reveal the map. Track NPCs offering hints; many side quests unlock only after main quest milestones. Use paragliding to discover hard-to-reach areas with hidden loot.
Step 5: Main Quest – Chapter 3: Shadow Over Hyrule
- Objective: Investigate dark creatures spreading corruption across Hyrule.
- Steps: Travel to affected regions; defeat mini-bosses to cleanse corrupted zones. Solve environmental puzzles to access hidden temples. Collect rare weapons and artifacts that increase Link’s abilities.
- Boss Battle Tips: Observe attack patterns first; use dodge and shield timing. Elemental weaknesses are key—ice enemies vulnerable to fire, lightning enemies to metal-based attacks. Keep healing items ready; prioritize ranged attacks when possible.
Step 6: Dungeons & Key Challenges
- Dungeon Walkthrough: Dungeon 1 – Crystal Cavern: Puzzle-heavy with reflective crystals; careful platforming required. Dungeon 2 – Inferno Depths: Use fire-resistant gear; timed switches open doors. Dungeon 3 – Sky Fortress: Flying and gliding sections; airborne enemies require strategic bow use.
- Dungeon Rewards: Spirit Orbs, unique weapons, and rare crafting materials. Unlock new abilities such as double jump, dash, or elemental control.
Step 7: Final Chapters & Endgame
- Objective: Confront the source of corruption threatening Hyrule.
- Preparation: Fully upgrade weapons and armor; collect max health and stamina boosts. Complete all remaining side quests for additional weapons and rare materials. Stockpile potions for health, stamina, and elemental resistances.
- Final Boss Fight: Multi-stage fight with phases; use terrain for cover and strategic attacks. Target weak points highlighted by glowing areas or attack patterns. Keep mobility high—use climbing, gliding, and dodging to avoid damage.
Step 8: Post-Game Content & Secrets
- Hidden Bosses: Some optional bosses appear only after completing main quests.
- Rare Weapons & Armor: Found in secret caves or after defeating powerful enemies.
- Exploration Rewards: Fully explore Hyrule to unlock secret mini-games, lore books, and rare materials for crafting.
Expert Tips for Mastery
- Always combine elemental effects with puzzles and combat for efficiency.
- Regularly upgrade armor and weapons; don’t rely on a single favorite weapon.
- Use shrines to maximize stamina before attempting climbing-heavy challenges.
- Keep an eye on NPC hints—they often reveal hidden secrets or shortcuts.
- Experiment with cooking recipes for health, stamina, or elemental resistance boosts.
Conclusion
This full walkthrough for The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom (Switch 2 edition) covers everything from the opening tutorial to post-game content. By following this guide, players can efficiently complete the main quest, discover every shrine, master combat against bosses, and uncover Hyrule’s deepest secrets.
Whether you’re searching for rare weapons, hidden side quests, or puzzle solutions, this Zelda Switch 2 walkthrough is your ultimate roadmap to conquer Hyrule and fully enjoy all the features of this epic Switch 2 title.
