Why Does the Master Sword KILL Link? (Zelda Fan Theory)

[@BanditGames]

I hope you guys were okay with the "storybook style" of this video :) What's your favorite weapon to use in a Zelda game? If you want to stick around for future competitions like this one, join me humble lil' discord server here: discord.gg/ZVDyQmm

[@akaCrayZ]

nice

[@idksomerandomguyontheinter2875]

The grappling hook from wind waker

[@travisscottburber5719]

My favorite weapon is probably the one hit obliterator. Everytime I use it I feel like a god.

[@ssizzlee14]

Twilight Princess: Spinner, it’s epic! But also in botw specifically I really like the bow :D

[@Cliffordlonghead]

Awesome Video

[@iamspringtrap223]

Well done, although, Jacko, you missed the fact that all Zeldas have the blood of Hylia running through their veins, which can nullify Demise's possession entirely, while doing nothing against Twilight possession, as seen in Twilight Princess

[@baguetteslippers1930]

Yess that's a perfect explanation for it 👀👀

[@Amara87387]

Not exactly, Zelda has been shown to be possessed on two occasions: twilight princess and spirit tracks. You mention Twilight princess’s case as using twilight magic, but that is not the case. Gannondorf doesn’t use twilight magic, he uses his own sorcery (why would he give Zant some of his power, which Zant shows is more powerful than twilight magic by crushing the fused shadow, but use the weaker twilight magic to posses Zelda). In fact, her having the blood of the goddess would actually be a detriment as it’s what girahim used as a catalyst to resurrect demise in the first place

[@jacintacapelety9600]

@@Amara87387 Correction, Girahim used the *soul* of the goddess, not the blood. No Zelda after the first has the soul of the goddess. And in the case of spirit tracks, Zelda's soul had been evicted from her body. It's possible that the sacred power inherited by Zeldas protects the soul, not the body. There's also the possibility that the protection granted by having the blood of the goddess is weaker when a Zelda's sacred powers are dormant and/or not fully awakened. BotW's Zelda only holds the master sword after her powers activated, and while Zelda from Twilight Princess does seem to have some degree of sacred power, it's possible that the full extent of those powers (cough cough, sealing powers, cough cough) weren't FULLY awaked. As for whether or not Ganon used his own magic or twilight magic there, it definitely had the look of twilight magic (note that he dissolves into those black pixel-y things Link and various objects get turned into every time Midna warps him, and we KNOW that's twilight magic). Just cause twilight magic is weaker, doesn't mean it doesn't have some niche uses. It's also possible that twilight magic doesn't register as inherently evil/dangerous to any protection granted by having the blood of the goddess, and therefor isn't defended against. Edit: Actually, come to think of it, it's debatable whether or not Zelda's soul was in her body at the time of possession in twilight princess (because of the whole giving Midna her power thing), adding extra credence to the idea that her protective bloodline protects the soul, not so much the body.

[@savageboy22]

@@jacintacapelety9600 I like your idea

[@Dark_Wolf0626]

@@Amara87387 remember Zelda Wiki's "Gannon Banned"? Because you spelled Ganondorf as Gannondorf, which came about because of the typo from Legend of Zelda on NES.

[@FlareBattle]

It’s Fi’s way of saying “Git Gud Scrub”.

[@niklasleitner496]

Yeah,i mean imagine its legit just Fi trying to kill off an unworthy Link so a new one could incarnate or smt like that.Not only annoying af but also picky XD

[@averageelmolover9358]

It do be true doe

[@CaptainMangles]

Fi Fee

[@byronlyons3548]

Well, she does end up questioning if whether or not you really are Hylia's chosen hero, if you fail the Silent Realm trials enough times. So yeah, I can see her being this sassy.

[@andyq524]

I think you mean, "Git Gud Deku Scrub" 🥁

[@Proximius]

Counter-theory: this is simply another trial Fi can press upon the Hero and, after falling and being so close to death (and not triggering the reincarnation cycle), Fi had to ensure Link was STILL the Hero AND prepared after 100 years of healing.

[@SarukiKnight]

Makes sense. Hell another franchise did something similar with their main weapon.

[@Bestroyer348]

@@SarukiKnight what franchise

[@SarukiKnight]

@@Bestroyer348 Castlevania in the Era of No Belmont

[@IONATVS]

Choosy magical artifacts are a CLASSIC trope for exactly this reason. If the magic is strong enough that the sword can be said to have a spirit, it ought also to have a will. A will that wants to be ABSOLUTELY SURE that it’s wielder isn’t going to go dying on them and thereby fail in their magical purpose. If this hero isn’t up to Fi’s challenge, how can she expect him to defeat the Calamity that absolutely wrecked him before? Better to start off fresh with a new reincarnation of the hero at that point.

[@Dreamheart101]

@@IONATVS Fi: Alright you passed the trial, now go kick some ganon but! OOT Link: *Dies in Fallen Timeline*

[@cosmoblender]

This is cool, I like that a fan wrote this theory and I like that you gave them full credit for it. That just goes to show that you actually care about your fans and the subject :D

[@treyowen9213]

Amen to that.

[@arthurkane5434]

@A B You got quiet real quick

[@GSEleven]

I really appreciate this as a concept, using a fan theory and fully crediting them; so much so that you read it IN the doc over music. Well done, to you both!

[@Ladle_Lover]

Another theory, It could be a safety net so that only someone as powerful as link can wield it, This is supported by the fact that in the time-line link died there is another link that takes his place and wields the master sword.

[@Kobolds_in_a_trenchcoat]

Could also explain the smith's and Zelda being able to handle it too. The smith's have Link's permission and Fi respects that enough to go with it. Zelda ostensibly created Fi and either made Fi in a way that allows descendants to work with Fi or Fi just willingly works with reincarnations of Zelda like Fi works with Link. Doubly good with another theory that some links weren't so much destined for greatness because of the triforce but just earned by feats of bravery/skill.

[@lazyryan3766]

@@Kobolds_in_a_trenchcoat im pretty sure all descents of hylia are just that--descendants, not reincarnations. The link in the wind waker is heavily implied to not even be the same soul as before

[@UltimateTobi]

@@Kobolds_in_a_trenchcoat Zelda is always a bloodline descendant, Link's an incarnation (and as LazyRyan said, the Wind Waker Link probably isn't even a reincarnation in soul as was implied by the King and the Gods themselves (incl Jabun). Other than that it makes sense Fi would allow chosen entities, either by descendance or reincarnation, to work with her and the MS.

[@ErenYeager-oi6hu]

@@lazyryan3766 Not implied. It’s literally impossible for WW Link to be an incarnation. According to the gods, he just defied all odds and embodied the spirit of the hero without actually having the spirit of the hero.

[@laharlkent]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/rXy2hqFqeKadlac&ab_channel=GameSpot

[@kiahnte]

I really like this theory. As a small addition, it makes me wonder if Link was getting the pendants/jewels/pearls to protect him when Zelda was visiting the pools in the BOTW flashbacks. Perhaps being in stasis for a hundred years or just losing them in the battle is why he has to risk taking the sword via will in BOTW.

[@Kobolds_in_a_trenchcoat]

I always just headcanoned it that precalamity link was actually strong enough to pull it (but possibly not at as full a strength as endgame link) and that link literally died before being placed in the shrine of resurrection. Hence both why it took 100 years and link possibly being weaker than before he was put in, his injuries were just too severe to fully heal.

[@lucielm]

@@Kobolds_in_a_trenchcoat I think Link in Breath of the Wild before he gains the Master Sword was of pure heart and well trained. He was much MUUCH stronger then he is in the start of Breath of the Wild obviously. He's able to fell whole armies while taking just a scratch in memory with nothing but the standard champion's tunic. Strong enough to handle scores of armies. I think the battle at Hyrule castle was just so much more intense then Link was able to handle and Zelda had to be protected. She was unable to actually do anything and help stop Ganon especially as it swarmed and destroyed Hyrule City. By the time they arrived, they would be coming into a burning city with the remainder of the Royal Guard already fallen or near falling. That would permit the Guardians to swarm Link and Zelda in Mass. Then they where forced to run. Run they did halfway across Hyrule while fighting Guardians the whole time with nothing but the Master Sword in his hand and keeping Zelda from harm.

[@notavailable8201]

@@lucielm Yeah basically Link fought and carried Zelda to the point he reached his limit pulling her weight with his since she never unlocked her power in time

[@G0nZ4Low]

Wasn't there a theory that Wind Waker's Master Sword is not "the" Master Sword? Even Ganondorf mentions something along those lines, so that could explain why the weak requirements

[@UltimateTobi]

Ganondorf acknowledges that it is the Master Sword, but that it lost its "touch" so to speak (paraphrasing). It lost its power (because he killed the two sages that kept the MS going).

[@G0nZ4Low]

@@UltimateTobi I mean you're probably right, but he did a video about that theory kzbin.info/www/bejne/qYCkpn2kqMmbhrM

[@kreiskhaos8516]

@@G0nZ4Low It is likely the actual Master Sword, but it could be that the power being lost also put Demise's soul into stasis.

[@sheevp.3733]

I think that Wind Waker fits pretty well into this theory! The Master Sword wasn’t active when Link pulled it, as Ganondorf was also unfazed by it! Perhaps the praying of the two sages were not only returning the sword to its power, but also granting link passage to wield it. Or, alternatively, Wind Waker Link is just built different.

[@pennysantana247]

Wind Waker Link wasn't chosen by destiny, he just proved himself to be worthy through his actions. So he's literally just built different and I wouldn't doubt that being able to pull the Master Sword while not being the Hero of Winds yet is part of that, even if it was inactive at the time.

[@extravirginoliveoil44]

That’s a cool theory! I’ve never thought really deeply about this topic. (The Fee/Fi thing never gets old!)

[@TheMike2784]

Yeah the fee/fi thing kills me

[@RobbWes]

They really should have named ghirahim "foe".

[@voxelfusion9894]

In the original Japanese the name is pronounced Fai, simple as.

[@TheMike2784]

@@voxelfusion9894 man I bet you are a blast at parties

[@MaxWelton]

My thought was that the Bringer of Demise’s remnants can actually possess anyone who touches the sword, so Fi kills them in order to spare them and Hyrule from the return of the Bringer of Demise.

[@soupcancaptain6907]

Since OoT is the first time someone has tried using the Master Sword it would make sense that there was no protections prepared beforehand and Link was put in danger. After that the sages must of prepared magical items to protect future heroes from the same fate.

[@Golghrom]

That Link was the most protected of all WTF xD

[@dig1taltoaster]

I feel that even if BotW Zelda didn’t hold the triforce of wisdom she could still have been protected by the fact she’s a reincarnation of Hylia as for wind waker your theory on there being a second master sword made by the sages power I think could explain it

[@lazyryan3766]

Hylia speaks to link from the statues, not implying she is Zelda herself. But if hylia and link are the founders of hyrule, then all the princesses probably have the blood of the goddess protecting them

[@Agent-Ig]

Malladas actually needed ST Zelda’s spirit to be removed from her body before he could possess it. Therefore, it’s likely that it Is the light force/Hylia’s power which protects BoTW Zelda from demise’s curse, and as an extension from being killed when absorbed into Calamity Ganon. The light force is also shown to be this golden glow when used by ST Zelda, and she didn’t have the Triforce of Wisdom either since it was presumably scattered after the ending of WW.

[@Diamond_Aura]

10:26 I think the most interesting outlier is the Wind Waker, because it gives us a decent amount of lore about how the Sword tends to work, beyond just the moment it is pulled out. Firstly, it is notable that Ganondorf places a curse on the ENTIRE MAP that keeps it in stormy night up until the moment that Link unites the Three Pearls, not even in their statues, but just on his person. Iirc, the King of Red Lions says that the reason the curse is broken is because Link has now obtained the final Pearl, which goes to show just how long distance the effects of the Pearls can reach, as Ganondorf assumedly cast the curse from his place in the Forsaken Fortress, and it affected all the way to the bottom of the map from the top where he was, as well as obviously everywhere closer in between the places or such as Windfall, where the pirates awaited the morning that never came. Therefore, because of how Ganondorf’s curse interacts with Link obtaining the Pearls, let alone before placing them in their sacred holding places, we have good evidence that the Pearls have far reaching power to counter dark magical powers. Plus, the statues not only are much closer to the resting place of the Sword, they likely act as amplifiers for the Pearls power, which could already reach all across the map, and also invokes the symbol of the Triforce prior to raising the Tower, even though the physical relic was not gather at that location yet. This implies that the Triforce perhaps has blessed both the Pearls and the Statues, and just as one who wields all pieces is stronger than one who wields one, the power of Three Blessed Pearls can overcome the power of one Triforce of Power, as well as any attempts Demise may have made to possess the Hero of Winds. The statues power can likely amplify the Pearls energy, which was already very far reaching, and worked as a sort of mini Triforce in its power, and therefore it is no stretch to say they can reach beneath the sea. Theoretically, this also explains why although all the physical manifestations of the Triforce had departed in the final scenes before fighting Ganondorf, where Zelda picks up the Blade, she too was protected in a similar manner to how Link was when he first pulled the blade. She, and perhaps the Zelda of BotW, also possess blessings of light akin to the Triforce, which like mentioned with the Pearls, can invoke the symbol of their power even when the relic is absent; Zelda’s sealing magic at the end of BotW may follow similar rules: her bloodline is blessed, and thus often possesses a fraction of that power, even without holding the physical relic of the Triforce, in any part. Perhaps the alarming implication is, regarding the Pearls however, is that the Pearls do not discriminate who benefits from their protection. Although Link’s will could overcome Gabon’s when he held the Pearls, once placed in their pedestals, they were effectively now the entire Great Sea’s Pearls, and not his, meaning their protection could be offered to potentially ANYONE across the Great Sea. This means that theoretically, anyone who obtains artifacts like the Pearls or the Pendants, that don’t seem to discriminate against their bearers, could in theory wield the Sword; or if their effects were widespread such as with the Pearls, anyone could use it without issue, including one such as Ganondorf. The concept of what happens if Ganondorf holds the Master Sword has not yet been explored yet, although there is a chance it could be in BotW 2. In addition to all of that, it is worth noting the “Demise degrades the Sword’s power” theory you’ve talked about before. This is likely true, and means that he is at least passively holding a lock on it in several games. However, why is he unable to take a more active attempt at resealing it’s power? Although dormant, does he remain ever in power, requiring monks or prayers from sages such as Medli and Makar to keep him at bay? If that is so then, this shows that though the Pearls or other things can protect the bearer from death, it does not actually affect the sword itself, which in many cases must be formally attended to, resheathing it at least in the ground for a prayerful music ceremony in order to unlock its power. Thus, Demise often has at least passive effect on the blade if given enough time to corrupt it, which thus begs the question: why wouldn’t he try to possess the Hero again, at any given moment when he isn’t protected? Again, most of the artifacts including the Triforce, Pearls, Pendants, or perhaps even people accompanying him such as Midna or even Navi, can explain why this never occurs. But imagine, the theoretical scenario where all such artifacts and people are absent: in this scenario, could not Demise once again attempt a more active possession of Link, or any bearer of the Blade? Although not currently backed up fully, this may actually be a key plot point of the sequel of BotW 2 based on what we have seen so far. The fact that his arm was affected up from where he was holding the sword, as well as externally attacked by Malice, shows that things both outside and in may have been affecting the blade, and therefore Demise/Link. And, so deep in the earth, far from the potential residual effects of remaining Sheikah influence or other artifacts, Link may be for the first time in the series, fully unprotected from Demise’s magic when he goes and finds Ganondorf’s corpse in the trailer. The closest other call would be in the theoretical Ocarina of Time scene, which Link may have forgotten as a result of the attempted possession, and was wiped from his memory as a side effect of his long sleep (which according to BotW, could very well happen). In other words, this theory makes a lot of sense, has a lot of explanations that Jako didn’t think of originally but still exist, and can even have lore implications for what will be happening in BotW 2.

[@Diamond_Aura]

@Jako oh! You’re the guy who helped make it originally! I appreciate your kind words. Sometimes I just start writing things out because I find that easier than making videos lol, even if I sometimes have enough content that I could turn them into some XD It’s good to be all working together as a wider community as BotW2 slowly approaches!

[@andrewchapman2039]

Honestly big respect for always taking the extra couple of minutes to give both pronunciation options whenever Fi (Fi?) comes up in a video.

[@user-zu3mn7gt2g]

Ikr makes me laugh every time

[@isaackracoff1021]

First off, I hope this becomes a recurring series. Giving a platform like this to theories from people who don't have their own KZbin channels is an awesome idea! Second... Fee, Fi, Fo, Fum, I always assumed it was Fi, not Fee :)

[@dr.trousers6101]

Well imagine Japanese vowels

[@isaackracoff1021]

@@dr.trousers6101 Oh cool, thanks!

[@stabby7194]

Wi-FI

[@isaackracoff1021]

@@stabby7194 lol

[@angeldude101]

My understanding is that her name is based on Phi/Φ. Even outside of Zelda contexts, I've heard the letter pronounced as both "Fee" and "Fai".

[@SoulsOfWisdom]

I wanna propose a shorter, but also feasible theory. (Just for fun) The Master Sword drains power from all the unworthy people trying to pull it and stores it for later use. Pretty efficient way to keep the batteries charged. lol The Deku Tree just prevents the grounds being filled up with corpses by telling them to stop.

[@aboogala4678]

Considering the natural magic properties of the lost woods, it's possible that anyone who died trying to pull the sword just became food for the trees, or maybe the laughing when you get lost in the fog is someone who died pulling the Master Sword mocking you for trying to do it. IDK I'm half asleep writing this

[@kreiskhaos8516]

@@aboogala4678 pretty sure the laughter is the Koroks. Remember, both Koroks and their ancestors (Kokiri) are tricksters. Also, could be Skull Children laughing if we really wanna get nitpicky.

[@aboogala4678]

@@kreiskhaos8516 Yeah, i agree that it's most likely a Korok laughing, but since it hasn't been confirmed we can't truly say anything. For all we know it's a Goron sitting on a rock watching you fail the puzzle

[@kreiskhaos8516]

@@aboogala4678 okay, that would be hilarious

[@aboogala4678]

@@kreiskhaos8516 Well, the lost woods is near Death Mountain

[@onimusha095]

For Wind Waker, let's just say that this is the Second Master Sword, since it has an entirly new design

[@swigglyforce5215]

I think it was designed like that just so it could fit the toony theme of the game

[@onimusha095]

What i mean is since Wind Waker is in the adult timeline, the original Master Sword does not exist since Link from OoT brought it with him to the past and created the child timeline. Since the Master Sword did not exist in the adult timeline, It can be explained that The Master Sword we see in Wind Waker is a second Master Sword

[@onimusha095]

See this link for what i mean: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qYCkpn2kqMmbhrM&feature=share

[@swigglyforce5215]

@@onimusha095 oh yeah I guess that makes sense

[@jarrodnisly3333]

Came here to mention this! I love how well it fits with this theory, and helps to explain that problem in a way that makes sense.

[@micheltrottier-mcdonald7961]

I always thought the phrasing of Demise “decaying” inside the Master Sword was interesting, but never thought to make a connection with the life-stealing effects of pulling the sword out in BotW. Well done!

[@bedwablackburn]

Windwaker: The reason the sword needs repowered is likely because of all the sword's power going internal to hold Demise at bay and thus is why it is unable to damage Ganon till it is further recharged.

[@ttvspringsolution_sith527]

I like this theory but fi states that the remenants of his conciousness will rot in the sword. It has been potentially thousands of years since demise's defeat so it is pretty safe to say that it rotted away fully.

[@TheLadyLiddell]

@@ttvspringsolution_sith527 Breath of the Wild takes place thousands of years after each potential timeline, so this theory relies on the idea that it has not completely faded even all that time later.

[@bedwablackburn]

@Jako teamwork good sir

[@hatti...]

The Master Sword in Wind Waker is powered down because the sages whose duty is to keep divine light imbued in the sword were killed by Ganondorf

[@kreiskhaos8516]

@@hatti... could be that the Sages enhanced the Master Sword's existing power, and without them, it could ONLY keep Demise's soul in stasis

[@prestonbyrd8443]

Cool theory. The only issue I can possibly see with this is that Midna carries all of the relics. When she wields them, she becomes monstrous too. Great job man!

[@RikkiJVelez]

I love that MaskedNintendoBandit uses his youtube platform to give voice to other theorists who don’t have yt channels or as large of an audience. It’s a good way to help good theories spread and strengthens the community as a whole when we lift each other up.

[@HyruleGamer]

An especially *special* video today! 👀 I really like the contest concept behind making this video. Really cool idea man!

[@Yety245]

The Master Sword Sure doesn't like me having only 12 hearts

[@jerotoro2021]

Awesome theory! I'm surprised there was no mention of dark Link. This theory could mean that dark Link is a reflection of the part of Link that IS possessed by Demise, or that Demise does indeed possess Link, but he remains sealed inside Link thanks to the protection/power he has. The hero needs strength, not to resist the possession, but to accept Demise into their soul and contain him.

[@Hovane5]

The changes in music with each corresponding game was AMAZING…

[@harrisonwhaley7872]

This was awesome! I would’ve never known I wanted to hear this theory if they hadn’t been so diligent in writing it and good on you Bandit for making it into a video! Good job to everyone else who didn’t place first in the contest too! I’m sure you all had some great ideas seeing this is the caliber of submission that won out on top

[@miaswapp]

11:38 maybe the unpowered sword wasn’t a good enough transmitter for Demises spirit IDK it would depend on if the sword upgrades before or after link gets the triforce of courage (I’ve never played wind waker but I really want to)

[@morphstarchangeling8024]

I like to believe that it's a replica of the real thing and because of that it lacks Denise's influence while also being unable to seal darkness without the prayers of sages to fill in the void that was Hylia's magic.

[@ssizzlee14]

Shnice, really exited for future videos, cuz they are always epic :D!

[@hazzard_destroyer]

Halloween is over and next is Christmas! Thanksgiving never heard of her. Can’t wait for the somewhat Christmas themed vids

[@TheSpeedfoever]

Well Thanksgiving is important too! turkey, ham, mashed potatoes and gravy and mostly biscuits!

[@cosmoblender]

@@TheSpeedfoever only in America (and maybe Canada?) Europe doesn’t celebrate it at all

[@Jewbacca9000]

*Sad Hanukkah noises*

[@westenplatt179]

*Clapping* well done Jako I love this theory. I actually had an idea of how the hero of the winds could resist these effects. The songs of the wind Walker can be gained via a god or some other method, thus it could be said that the wind waker could be the source of the pertection, often reenforced by the great fairy or any damage that happens to be healed by the lesser fairy's that are practically everywhere.

[@sakurawitch1303]

plus, the Wind Waker is a powerful tool that can LITERALLY control the wind (Hyrule's weather has gotta be messed up because of that lol), so that may be what is protecting Link. He does receive it from The King of Red Lions when they first get to Dragon Roost Island. And since Link always has the WW baton on him at all times, it would protect him to the ends of the Great Sea

[@thepacifier]

Always love it when bandit comes out with especially special videos

[@Gochen86]

That theory... actually puts a rather significant portion of the franchise into a new perspective for me. Although I would like to add one thing to it, if you'll hear me out. BoTW's Link suffers from amnesia at the start of the game, seemingly knowing only his name at the time we gain control of him. This amnesia seems to me to be permanent, as even though you do regain his memories (required to actually *find* the Master Sword in the first place in normal play) and Link regains his purpose and drive, he doesn't remember *everything* about his past. There's certain spots where you encounter someone he'd known in the past, but after regaining his memory, he doesn't show any new interactions. Take Purah for instance. In the past, as shown by the events of Age of Calamity, Purah was roughly the same age as Link and the others. After the century-long healing coma, though, Link doesn't know who she is when you first meet her due to not having his memories. But after you get his memory back, if you talk to Purah, Link doesn't show ANY reaction to her being a little kid. You could argue that this is because of her diary explaining that it was the result of an experiment that worked a little *too* well, but if you never read that diary, Link has no knowledge of his friend's sudden reversion into an adorable tyke. The same could be said about Robbie and Impa. Once his memory has been regained, Link shows no signs of recognizing his friends. This, among other instances, leads me to believe Link's memory may be permanently damaged, leaving an opening for Demise's remnant to try and take control. But by gathering the Spirit Orbs to bolster Link's life essence itself, he gains a Goddess-powered protection against such soul corruption, as mentioned in Jako's theory.

[@tanandalynch9441]

Memories aren't required to find the mastersword. you just gain them via story or by finding glowing spots. you need a memory not unlocked via the story to get the Champion's Tunic. but the Master sword only requires one memory and that's the one of Zelda leaving it in the care of the Great Deku Tree. also it's implied Link doesn't recall Purah as you haven't found that memory. (there's no memories showing Purah at all) and thus he has no reaction cus he didn't know who she was from the start. Even if he does recall her, he knows that she's in a child like state and why. So why would he react differently to her current appearance after regaining his memory of her despite already knowing who she is and why she looks like that?

[@pettyblood_]

i love this theory! i’m also of the opinion that botw zelda doesn’t hold the triforce of wisdom and possibly doesn’t hold the triforce at all, but her sacred bloodline and the abilities that come with it could protect her just as easily imo

[@Syl518]

"Rauru takes care of him in the Sacred Realm" Now I'm thinking of, when Link pulls the sword, Rauru being like, "Yeah, if I had not locked you in here you'd be possessed by a demon king... Anyway, I just made some tea earlier, care to join?"

[@oliviamcgriff9625]

Me and my sister found a theory you might be interested in, by Hyrule Gamer called who is the mysterious hand in breath of the wild 2. The thing about the theory that the hand is Zeldas mothers spirit is that we have 2 things to add to it. Well think that the hand might have grabbed hold of links arm that he wields the master sword with so that he can use the power given to him through the sword to make the ability and how link uses it more personalized. Also can you really imagine link using the power in the same way as Zelda? Yeah I didn’t think so. The second thing we have to add is the way that it’s only an arm and bits and pieces are slowly fading away and why? In the video it states that zeldas mother’s spirit is trying to prevent Genondorfs corpse from being possessed By the malice. We also think that She has been there slowly fading away until link and Zelda finally arrive so that they can take over and she can make link a little more useful with the whole sealing powers thing. But during that time she might have also lost pieces of her spirit, meaning that the used to fully be there and if the time travel theory is correct, then Zelda just might get to see her mother one last time!

[@shellofcel]

Jacko did an amazing job. I thought on the Wind Waker theory but I think I can actually help determine the major reason Wind was protected despite it not being clear. To start out, this is the first Ganon in the timeline to have been fully sealed by the previous Link of Time, and escape. When he did so and no hero appeared to stop him, the Goddesses themselves were moved to act, covering the entire land of Hyrule in water. This is seen to have weakened Ganon quite extensively as most of his minions now appear only in the dark and underground. Ganon is desperately trying to find Zelda and seems exhausted of fighting, just wanting restoration. It is possible that during the sealing process, Ganon saw Demise and even took a part with him originally, more fracturing the corruption on the Sword. The Master sword had to be purified twice to restore it. Also, notice that Wind Waker hardly has any real minions in the Great Sea. This is because the water was created by the Goddesses. I think that when Link stepped into the Sea, not only did it help protect him, but the spirit of the King also had an underhand in this as he was always nearby and watching over Link. He might not of had the courage piece he needed, in fact even the Red Lion King doubted that Wind Link could possibly be ready, but the power of the Wind and Sea protected him.

[@DragonKnightDragonborn]

That sounds like true great theory and what also explains a lot with this new era of the master sword. GG and that is still awesome! :) hope to see more theories like this.

[@greenerin5062]

Amazing theory. Unique, definitely not one I've heard before. Very well supported and well written. Great job!

[@pwyllwilliams4611]

it's a cool theory and I loved it. If I recall didn't Midna carry the fused shadow and mirror pieces so Link wouldn't get corrupted and wasn't it implied that Link had the Triforce of Courage due to the mark on his hand.

[@cristianvandenbosse8989]

Can you do a theory on why the skulltula family is cursed?

[@brandons2099]

Wow I'm only 4 minutes in and It just keeps getting better. I kinda need a minute to take all this in. I'm really invested in this now.

[@brandons2099]

I just finished it and very much enjoyed that theory. 👏👏👏

[@theninjabird9510]

Jako is amazing at Zelda theorys he should make more 100%

[@theninjabird9510]

Yeah I know I spelt theories wrong sue me

[@theninjabird9510]

@@oli.the.oddball twittermomment

[@malachichampion]

This is exceptional. Well researched, well written, well realized. Bravo!

[@Gurps228]

Wonder why whoever didn’t just let the great Deku tree give it to link after a test of strength that doesn’t kill him

[@Dmrgamingdoesgames]

Cause fi is the one who decides whos worthy

[@alchemysaga3745]

Sword wanted to go back in the pedestal to heal, because it got damaged when Link nearly kicked the bucket early.

[@ADHD_and_Crayons]

If Jako is reading this.....I have some add-ons for your theory & the end paragraph is a new idea to explain the state of the Master Sword's issue in BOTW....... 1. Hyrule Princesses can always handle the Master Sword as Hylia's power is what initially created it in SS (plus Fi can sense her Goddess). Therefore, Zelda will never be harmed by the sword. 2. Why others can handle it & not die..... To add in your theory, I believe the Master Sword has 2 variables for determining/judging "who" can wield it.... (A) All of the Goddess powers (including those gifted from a Sage) are responsible for judging the "strength" & "Triforce balance" of each potential wielder. Those found with unbalance (i.e.: too weak) are unworthy & will die. BUT.....we ONLY see other handle the Sword AFTER Zelda has held it OR... after Link has "reclaimed" ownership. So by then, the Sword is NO LONGER "searching" for its Master & won't cause harm when Link or Zelda hands it to another. (B) Fi is responsible for judging the "heart" or "intent" of each wielder. Fi is also the one that can override the "death" piece, if a wielder has not fully reached their potential, but has "begun" their journey (which is how Link was sent to Sacred Realm). *** New thoughts (2 Parts)*** PART 1 In BOTW, we see some "behind the curtain" Sword mechanics. We MUST have 13 hearts to pull it. But here's the interesting question......where is our health going??? Hearts leave slowly, as we start (as tho the Sword is "waking up" by receiving our lifeforce). Then it speeds up, as if awakened....... PART 2 Now what if the Sword is more intimately tied to Link's life than we believe??? As in, during the BOTW battle, Zelda's power NEVER HIT LINK.......the Master Sword, being used all these eras.... & without a significant power boost for thousands of years, latches on to the PURE POWER OF HYLIA & pulls it in. The power boost was too much for Link at one time.....it was too much for the Sword too (bcuz it needs a "balance" of POWERS...not just from 1 Goddess, but ALL 4). So the entire BOTW game we have an unbalanced Master Sword that has to rest after prolonged use (bcuz the balance of power is off so the other Goddess powers cannot maintain it). If the Master Sword is to continue to detain Demise......then we will need to balance or "temper" the Sword yet again, in BOTW2.

[@bokoblinprincess7391]

Truly a well thought out theory. Well done

[@mrgreatbigmoose]

Jako! Well done! I have one addendum: you stated that the pearls effects mess up the theory just a bit... HOWEVER if the Windwaker Master Sword is a duplicate (as stated in another fan theory) then your free of any mess! I can see already in the comments that others agree. Excellent job!

[@mrgreatbigmoose]

@Jako, wow! Straight from the horse's mouth, so to speak! Where are these other workarounds? In the comments of this video?

[@jaredr1621]

What if Dark Link in Ocarina of Time is actually the part of Link's spirit that was possessed by Demise during the 7 year slumber

[@josephhuggins5394]

oooh i like that idea. would explain the mystery of the water temple mini boss. always seemed out of place.

[@anthonibrookshire3704]

Mr. Bandit, my friend, you truly are a rare, kindhearted person to let your viewers have the spotlight. Even if you had the contest, you could've read a summary or you could have even just made your own video based on the winning theory, but to just read it as is and let Jako have the moment...that's why we love your channel.

[@thelegendoflink9140]

Read another theory a few years ago. about Fi actually being the mastermind behind every age. Fi putting Link to slumber in OOT to actually split the timeline, since he was going to loose she made him wait until he was adult to split the timeline, so at least one would have life and good go on. Fi in every age either sealing evil away or waking up the different heroes to conquer Demises curse so he doesnt come back. it was alot more detailed, but quite interesting read. since the sword (FI) is alive and has unkown powers AND was sent by the gods or whatever, it actually holds some logic to it.

[@wintermute7378]

Dude...I've been a zelda fan for literally decades and your channel is gold

[@richardvalencia7640]

Jako and MNB: for BOTW Zelda, she had the protection of Fi since she heard the voice before having Link taken to the Shrine of Resurrection. There was no need for the Triforce power/protection at that time.

[@Keijo_]

I think a simpler and more straightforward explanation for the sword killing people in BoTW but not seeming to do so in other games is that it is a defense mechanism to prevent the sword from being disturbed while recovering from the damage it took during the hero's defeat before the game. As to why it wouldn't immediately recognize Link and allow him to take the sword, this could be explained in different ways, but I think it could be that since Link no longer has his memories and experiences, he isn't the same person he was before the calamity and needs to prove his worthiness again by completing a number of shrines and increasing his health. The theory is very well thought out but feels like it requires too many assumptions and reinterpretations of things that happen throughout the series imo.

[@dachking6657]

This is a wholesome channel

[@brienmiller5129]

Heck, with this theory and the analysis he put in to it, he very well could have potential to be the next great Zelda theorist on KZbin. Very well done.

[@brienmiller5129]

@Jako It's still a very well done analysis.

[@staceyjordan2001]

jako's theory was really great especially the part about the master ore. it actually makes a lot more sense about needing protecive items before getting the sword because it's a way of link proving his worthyness

[@amanderps970]

*Standing Ovation* DAAANG!!!!! That's an impressive essay. Well done, Jacko!

[@mauricewhite7209]

Enjoyed how the slight background music corresponded with the game being discussed! Very nostalgic

[@Gensolink]

thinking about it the master sword has Vampire Killer energy now with the weapon killing anyone that's not intended to use it

[@Lost_idiot223]

Only allowing a strong willed Belmont to wield it and in ninja gaiden with the dragon sword to a strong willed Hayabusa.

[@AlexandraStubbs]

Woohoo that was so awesome, love the great theory from our boi Jako!

[@jonah6667]

Me: sees a content creator giving a chance to emerging theorists *smiles* The theory is good *smiles more* content creator talks about why the theory is good and congratulates the theorist *starts freaking out because of happiness cause it's nice to see a good community*

[@alygatorstereo]

Great theory Jako, and thanks Bandit for reading it to us. May this theory travel far and wide to all corners of Hyrule.

[@chrispysaid]

Saying "deekoo" instead of Deku is like saying "Saper Morio Brithers"

[@saxtonhale6029]

Itsa me Laweegee

[@DrDolan2000]

Jako has done something great. His theory is well-written, clearly researched, and interesting

[@gamerloverandanimelover222]

I think that was a really good theory Jacko, but I think Wind Waker Link can be explained in three ways 1. The Wind Waker and possibly it’s songs protect him, he gets the Wind Waker form the King of Red Lions also know as the King of Hyrule who was left drowned under the kingdom. It is more or likely that he knew about the curse and asked the gods to help him thus they bestowed upon him the Wind Waker. The other part is that the songs protected him, Link if I’m remembering correctly had 4 story songs and 3 optional songs at that point so the gods that gifted him the songs are the ones protecting him from Demises Curse. 2. The fact that he summoned the god tower at all, Link showed so much Courage during this events that Hylia knowing the curse existed made him the hero then and there even without the tri-force to protect him or maybe even the golden Goddess themselves but this one is highly unlikely. 3. This goes into another theory that the master sword link picks up in the drowned kingdom wasn’t the true Master Sword at all and was a fake created by the kingdom, meaning the Demises Curse didn’t exist in the Master Sword

[@Waster_War_Boss]

Absolutely killed it with this jako theory well done

[@zoroastorium2835]

Mentioned in another kingdom with it's own legend: "Thou must be worthy to pull Excalibur."

[@rairai471]

I've been wondering about this.

[@JimAbooGames]

That was one hell of an awesome theory great job Jako.

[@songoku9348]

7:31 I have a mini fan theory that the reason Link is sealed away is not just because he wasn’t ready to wield the sword but also because Fi wanted a hero that reminded her of her original master and to be of a similar age.

[@Mrdata711]

Same

[@samuelpaulitos4059]

MaskedNintendoBandit did a similar theory about the topic; he spokes about the reason why link sleeped for seven years after pulling the Master Sword in OoT. Here's the link: kzbin.info/www/bejne/j5mcg52GZ7eMeKc

[@TheRealRidley12]

One thing to note is that we don't actually know if Zelda in Ocarina of Time puts the Master Sword back since Link doesn't give it to her (in addition to the Ocarina of Time), and it doesn't drop where Link stands when he warps back in time. And with The Wind Waker, the Goddess Pearls might just act differently than the Pendants of Virtue in A Link to the Past/A Link Between Worlds.

[@TheLadyLiddell]

To add a little to the theory (which is a great theory, kudos to Jako): The Princesses might not necessarily be protected by the Triforce of Wisdom each time they pick up the sword, but rather by the blood of the goddess that flows through them. So Hylia's divine blood and their own spiritual powers are what keep them from being possessed? As for Wind Waker Link, when you pull the Master Sword it's powered down until Link is able to awaken it's full potential, so maybe that has something to do with it? That one is still unclear.

[@casparfang]

Does this mean anybody holding any piece of the triforce is free to hold the sword. Could this mean Ganondorf could wield the sword?

[@raaili1954]

Jako that was fantastic. Love this and very well written!

[@poimandres777]

This is a really good theory! I think that maybe the thing protecting link in WW was the wind waker itself: The wind waker is clearly a powerful magical object and it was used to help the sages restore the power of the master sword. Not only that but it's implied to have a connection to the wind gods; so maybe they were the ones who actually created it in the first place. If this is the case it would certainly be imbued with sacred magic that might be able to protect someone from the harmful effects of trying to hold the master sword.

[@unknownmystery5373]

I'm never getting over how funny the pronunciation of fi is.

[@blitsriderfield4099]

I heard another theory that could explain the hero of winds situation. It's a different master sword. At the end of oot, Zelda sends link back, but link is still holding the master sword, essentially removing it from the child timeline. The ww master sword is also shown to behave differently than the one in oot

[@blitsriderfield4099]

Couple this with the fact that the master sword was altered in the downfall timeline tells me that botw sits squarely in the child timeline

[@michealtheevilhero2340]

1- My guy turned into MatPat 2- Damn that sounded like an audio book 3- Demise through the whole thing be like: *God f_cking damnit*

[@uncledrew2399]

I like this it's very interesting and can actually be real and what's even better is knowing that the creators of Zelda have left blank spaces for us to fill in throughout our adventures of playing the games

[@fatalwaffle1715]

This is a very interesting and impressive theory.

[@charleschamp9826]

I like to think the protection against Demise offered by the Triforce of Wisdom is not some magical force or anything like that. It's something as simple as Demise: "Let me out and I promise you power and/or the world!" Triforce of Wisdom: "How the heck he gonna give you what he don't own?"

[@stabby7194]

Wow, that’s an amazing theory, very well thought out. Props to the creator👍🏻

[@scmontgomery]

Hell. Yes. Go jako and thanks for sharing this with us

[@UltimateTobi]

I like that theory. I also like the scientific way he approached it (as most of you Zelda theorists do), not being too steadfast in their theory and pointing out potentially nullifying or contradictory evidence, which increases believability IMO.

[@JasmineOdora]

Tell me you understood the assignment without telling me you understood the assignment!!! Fantastic job to both parties!!! I really, really enjoyed this and will definitely be listening to this a couple more times!!

[@mistahl5350]

This is a great theory, and I only want to add to it! Hero of Winds. While he doesn't outwardly possess any physical object that can protect him (the Wind Waker is powerful, but idk if it's that strong), my theory is that he is similar to the Hero of Twilight, in that he just has a powerful enough will that he can fight Demise's influence on his own. At the point when he gets the sword, his sister is still held captive, and he's seen what Ganon has done. His sheer Determination can overpower Demise's influence, though he isn't free of pain. I see his struggle to pull the sword from the pedestal as the fight between his will and Demise. When the pedestal gives up the sword, the Hero of Winds has won that battle. Expanding on this further, when the Master Sword starts receiving the blessings of the sages and transforms, Demise lashes out in pain, causing the hero a flash of pain, explaining the look on his face as the blade reawakens to its powers. The other explanation for the HoW, is that he bested the Trial of the Gods, so it stands to reason he could have been blessed by the gods and that blessing could be protection from Demise. My thoughts on Zelda in BotW, is that she is also chosen by the gods to fight against evil. A mix of her own magical power (as she's typically seen wielding), and the power of the goddesses protecting her allow her to resist as well.

[@dairhat]

This is almost like a podcast! I loved listening to this while doing work!

[@bw9071]

JAKO, THAT WAS GREAT, THANK YOU FOR SHARING THAT!

[@christopherzapata4970]

I like how well thought out this is! For the Hero of Winds, though, what if Link wasn't in danger because Demise possessed Ganondorf instead? I admit Wind Waker is the only game with the Master Sword I never played (also not done with Skyward Sword, but I at least started it), so I don't know how much "unfrozen" time Ganondorf spent touching the sword, but if possession could start as quickly as you say in Ocarina of Time, why couldn't Demise jump to Ganondorf in that sort period? Thoughts, anyone?

[@Timberwolf69]

A really good therory. Well founded and makes a lot of sense. Regarding those few people that handled the sword in some instances, there are a few possible explanations besides those found in this theory. 1) Zelda is said to be the reincarnation of the goddes Hylia and bearer of the triforce of wisdom, both assets that could easily shield her from the harmful side effects of the sword. 2) There is also the probability that the soul inside the sword is only able to access those that want to wield it.

[@OtherMomo]

always enjoy the "FEE(FAI)/FAI(FEE)" running gag

[@1b3d5]

Not a bad theory some of the points were a bit iffy but is was still a well made theory good job Jako

[@FinalSeraphLeo]

As an add-on for the Wind Waker point: maybe when Ganondorf killed the sages, Denise's essence escaped into the world inhabiting the nearest portion of actual land (the one from Spirit Tracks) and became Malladus. Or his essence is still free in that timeline.

[@BhodiSoft]

It makes sense that Demise is still around in some form, since his curse continues to have power.

[@gruffen2595]

wow. amazing theory

[@tgh1466]

Wow, Jako, so thought out! This was so interesting. Windwaker Link is so interesting, since the game does not confirm or deny if this Link is a reincarnation a few centuries late, or truly just an island boy caught up by fate. A theory to add to yours as to why WW!Link is not corrupted: 1) He’s too adorable 2) He pulls the Master Sword when it is not at full power. He has to restore its power with the new Sages. When Link grabs the sword again, he has not only strengthened himself again by awakening and protecting a Sage, there’s so much divine energy summoned by the ritual song that Link is, for a time, strong enough to resist Demise. He then collects the Triforce shards, making his immunity permanent.

[@jonathanbollschweiler7165]

Interesting theory and i think it makes sense. However in Wind Waker i think Link didn't need any protection from the Master Sword. When he first drew it out of the pedestal it was inactive and link had to go to shrines to reawaken the power of the sword. The Master Sword slowly regained it's power as he took the sages to the shrines. I can see 2 possibilities: 1. because the Master Swords power was dormant the life draining ability of it wasn't active either. The Deku Tree says "anyone who isn't strong enough to DRAW the sword will die". Because the Master Sword is inactive when Link drew it from the pedestal he didn't have to worry about the life draining effects. and 2: The powers of the sword were inactive when he drew it so the life draining abilities weren't there, but as the sword regained power Demise' spirit could have also slowly regained it's power as well. The slow introduction of Demise' power could have given Link time to adjust to the power. By the time The master Sword had regained it's power Link could have adjusted to the amount of Demise' power flowing through the sword, and because of the slow introduction it made possession impossible.

[@codexana2112]

Amazing theory from Jakco I love the idea. I've always had thoughts on that about if any of Demise's essence or power was somehow being channled in the Master Sword and that right there is a brilliant idea as well.