The Mystery of the TRIFORCE in Breath of the Wild - Zelda Theory

[@kattheneeko]

Still reeling from the knowledge that you can see the triforce when looking into the waking water. My favourite Link and game just got infinitely cooler.

[@MonsterMaze]

Skyward Sword has so many cool details! It's crazy how it went from my most hated in the series, to one of the best!

[@nworder4life]

@@MonsterMaze I'd like to see a video about that.

[@leonardomartinez6887]

@@MonsterMaze I've never noticed about seeing the triforce on the silent realm water lol

[@MonsterMaze]

@@leonardomartinez6887 It's very subtle! I don't even know how they thought to include it honestly. Someone had to program this :O

[@dargossss]

It's crazy that they added that detail. The implications are huge!

[@bdhuffman42]

I don't think it's the Triforce that has limits. I think it's Zelda's body. She can only be expected to do so much.

[@DCBiscuit]

As weird as that would be to explain in-universe, it makes sense. That whole “she can only do so much” is kind of Zelda’s entire arc in BOTW’s memories.

[@UltimateTobi]

Agreed. Why would a divine artifact, basically the essence of godhood, have limits? I think an individual can only endure so much Force; wielding it or having it course through you.

[@cajunseasoning1846]

Perhaps this is the real tragedy of Hylia. Powerful as a goddess but not enough to overcome her enemies, yet still not powerful enough as a mortal to wield the triforce against them completely. Either she gravely overestimated her plan or mortal capabilities, or this is all a part of the 'divine prank' in which the existence of the triforce demands an eternal balance between good and evil, exacted as a constant war between the two.

[@amirhosseinmaghsoodi388]

She seriously deserves a vacation. Having been holding Ganon for a century.

[@chuckmann7127]

Yeah the Trifrorce has exhibited far greater feats of strength than what we see in BOTW like the flooding of Hyrule in the Wind Waker and the complete transformation of the Sacred Realm in A Link to the Past.

[@warpio]

That detail about the reflection in the waking water BLEW MY MIND. That is some genius design.

[@MonsterMaze]

Right?! Someone had to actively program that reflection to occur in that way ^^

[@_TheDoctor]

@@MonsterMaze Small correction, it still occurs when viewing it in third-person. The distortion of the water is just too large on that zoom-scale to make it out clearly.

[@gluedtogames]

How do I see this?

[@_TheDoctor]

@@gluedtogames the video shows you how

[@Stinkyremy]

@@MonsterMaze That looks like complicated work too especially for Wii hardware, so there was clearly a real meaning why they did that, something so difficult and obscure that most players wont even see it. Plus it actually being mirrored too tales its own story. I honestly think you hit the point in this vid, that was what the entire silent realm was meant to be. From a game development perspective though, it was still lazy work and padding.

[@yanaabananaa4595]

I agree that it was Zelda finding her courage at the end of BOTW that unlocked her power. It was at and after that point that she showed major acts of courage, especially when she went to the castle alone to face Ganon like that. And we can see her stoic resolve in the final confrontation too, she showed no fear as she finally sealed him, which contrasts with her reaction after Ganon first appeared. I really loved that about her arc in BOTW!

[@MonsterMaze]

Indeed! I think they also purposely showed her praying at the Spring of Courage specifically, as opposed to the other 2 springs. Maybe I'm ready to deep into it, but it does feel like a subliminal message. Very poetic!

[@stephenaulin8298]

ok buts thats lame.. 😒 even though you are totally right..

[@doloresgronenberg5882]

Well, finding her courage was not what awakened her powers, that came after that, although she was already very corageous, and also after awakening her powers

[@dominicmoisant8393]

Courage need not be remembered, for it is never forgotten

[@rohanrodrigues7115]

@@MonsterMaze the game never showed her praying at the spring of courage explicitly though. And while her scholarly nature does fit with wisdom, and her strong resolve to save Link and then face Ganon alone fits courage, I don't see power fitting her at all, even with the "she's just powerful"

[@judaiyuki5597]

that scene where zelda unlocks her sealing power never fails to make me cry despite seeing it at least 20 times

[@catdownthestreet]

that happens to me a lot with many zelda scenes lol

[@realMG420]

I don’t want to overstate it or blow things out of proportion or anything, but I genuinely believe this is one of the most thorough, well thought-out, and groundbreaking Zelda theories/discoveries of all time. Can’t believe the answers were sitting right in front of our face for all these years. Also have a feeling that by following up on the lore established in Skyward Sword/Breath of the Wild and bringing the entire Zelda timeline full circle, Tears of the Kingdom might fully confirm this analysis. Congrats on figuring all of this out! I can’t wait to see how the story develops even deeper in two months

[@jaggedjaws1586]

Your English was definitely accurate to your feelings and thoughts- you explained yourself quite well! And I agree with you! I wouldn't be surprised if the discoveries made in this theory video, actually helped us to predict what may happen in Tears of the Kingdom!

[@Stinkyremy]

I kind of agree, but you have to keep in mind that SS and the subsequent timeline that was in the historia was an attempt for the devs to conjoin ideas from various zelda games made by various devs over decades into one deeper intertwining narrative. Basically when they created the idea of the triforce, none of what this video talks about was their actual idea (I assume) this was retconned in later. As well as different devs may have had different overarching ideas on the more esoteric nature of the zelda games lore. The triforce was originally just supposed to be a powerful artefact, just a lose plot device to give the villain a motive. Then they added the three goddesses of creation to the mix and triforce is spread amongst 3 people of the greatest of the 3 powers in OoT It is years later when they at least publicly tried to make it all a deeper meaning and cyclical plot device where the triforce is some meta level spiritual tool. Still it is quite evident from what he said about the silent realm stuff in SS that they did intend the entire ordeals of SS to be a training of links spirit and his bloodline/incarnations and that one triforce reflection in the water, something that is so obscure that players may never even see it, and something that was probably difficult to do especially on wii hardware is a clear indication that there was a more deeper reason they did it and a deeper meaning beyond what to me and many of us just seemed like lazily developed busy work to pad the game out. SS does have a lot of IRL religious/spiritual iconography and ideas too. Maybe the development plan of SS was to turn zelda games more towards spiritual outlook and continuous coherent plot.

[@KittysCat-j7x]

It doesn’t help that we Western players are interpreting this through a different philosophical system. People who were brought up with Zen and other Eastern philosophies would find these concepts much more intuitive and not shrouded in symbolism. The more we look at Skyward Sword, the more drastic its retconning becomes. The Triforce was much more material in earlier games.

[@KittysCat-j7x]

If you take this theory (amazing by the way) and start making predictions with it… It can answer the $1 million question of WHY the old gods created the Triforce in the first place. This theory’s answer would be that they created it unintentionally, as a byproduct of their intentional act to create the Human Spirit. One could not be created without the other also existing.

[@JustAWildSkullKid]

I really like the idea of the silent realms being mental trial for the hero, and by extention, the player. It also explains why my brain would absolutely freak out. They were the most stressful thing I've ever had to go through in a videogame 😂

[@JesseDeShazo]

Now go and try killing an E.M.M.I. in Metroid: Dread. That’ll take the lead. Lol

[@JustAWildSkullKid]

@Jesse DeShazo I did kill them, I even played Fusion. Still not as stressful ahaah. EMMI zones are much shorter, and you don't have a time limit, and you actually know where you need to go, kind of. And you can also get lucky and punch them in the face if you're fast enough ahah.

[@masteredk2919]

something interesting I want to point out is in botw there are trials by the monks that refer to the challenge taking place in a world made from links fears memory's and subconscious that he has to overcome but that it is also not just an illusion.

[@WorldTree33]

You’re right about it being the most stressful! I was never as stressed in a video game to my memory! I remember finishing Din’s Silent Realm and saying, “Oh thank God, I never have to do this again!” Then almost crying in frustration when I realized I had to do another one! Then when I finished Skyloft’s Silent Realm I remember this intense feeling of disbelief and elation! I had never felt more accomplished! I actually felt like a Hero. And after that Silent Realms became my favorite part of the game! There’s nothing scary or stressful about it anymore! It’s like the mental hoops for Link are yours too!

[@flabort]

This also links in with the mental realm of the BotW Master Sword trials.

[@kNOwYouAndMe]

I believe Zelda had the Triforce in BOTW and when she used it to erase Calamity Ganon at the end it split up with the pieces going to Link, Zelda, and then the "corpse" of Ganondorf! Thus causing Link and Zelda to be drawn to that cave in TOTK!

[@totkcrazy]

I am Absolutely adding that to my Mega Mash-up Theory!

[@eren985]

That's actually a pretty interesting thought

[@S1syph_s]

Kinda a wild take twizzy

[@peingores9611]

Yeah…

[@carlosochoa9735]

I like your theory, if that's what's happening it could also be the reason Ganondorf is able to release himself from the magic hand with the extra power

[@stuffz1757]

This is one of the best Zelda theory videos in a long long time. The Triforce mirroring thing in the Silent Realm is almost irrefutable.

[@lasercraft32]

Key word _almost..._ Its possible that its just a result of how the reflection texture is rendered that causes it to only be seen when the camera is looking directly into it up close... But you can't deny its so much cooler to think of it as an intentional metaphor lol XD

[@microft4692]

absolutely mindblowing. This is one if not the most complete video about the triforce I've ever seen. Not only the edition is magnificent, but just how the story is narrated its just gorgeous. Please keep doing vids like these 'cause yhey are amazing and so well structured. ❤

[@MonsterMaze]

That means a lot to hear!

[@pit4807]

I can’t believe how well this was put together. Seriously, the quality that goes into these is unbelievable. Awesome job!! I’ve never even thought about this, but it’s such a believable theory that I completely ascribe to it.

[@michaellane5381]

It's also possible Link held a piece of the triforce of courage she lacked until that scene, if she was born with say 75% of the triforce but not "all" of it, it could be reasoned her friends were inheritors of lesser fragments that she and link earned throughout their adventures, and when Link fell, he willed his courage to assist her however it could, so when she reached back and touched him, it transferred to her and she had all of it to unleash as she needed.

[@jZamora87]

75% it's only 3 pieces so if she held 2 from birth it would be 66.66

[@gabrielmarcos6923]

@@jZamora87 You're the heart of the party, aren't you?

[@gorgio9060]

i thought about similar thing, Link is literally a synonim of courage and when Zelda showed her courage too be greater than Links the triforce kind of awekaned, i mean it's kind off the same it just depends on how the triforce really works and how is it passed on or shared

[@ZHibiki]

​@@gabrielmarcos6923 ah yes downplaying anyone who corrects another person because you need to always be an asshole

[@bread-bz3zh]

@@gabrielmarcos6923i mean i kinda agree 75% is 3/4

[@johnbone0115]

I was already starting to buy your theory about Skyward Sword’s Silent Realm, but then that part about seeing the reflection of the Triforce in the waking water completely blew my mind! I also support the idea that Zelda’s display of courage in BOTW is what unlocked her power.

[@NickStrothers]

Her power awoke in order to protect link as he was about to be killed.

[@donovanfaust3227]

I like how you disagreed about Zelda's love for Link awakening her power yet agreed in a more round about way. Like yeah her love for Link allowed her to courageously stand and fight in order to protect him. That's always how I interpreted it, not the actual love but how loving someone can cause an increase in courage in order to protect them. I don't think that means she loved her friends and family less only that once there was no one else to step in besides her did she finally find the courage to do so in order to protect. Maybe there are some who think the actual act of love awakened the power but pretty sure plenty of people understood it was her courage derived from her love that did it.

[@moonlitxangel5771]

Agreed. And I think that's something most people can get behind - regardless of what stance one takes on the status of Link and Zelda's relationship. Because you can see it as loving him like family or a very close friend and it still works. Traveling with someone the way she did with Link and getting to know him as a person (and on a much deeper level then he'd likely let anyone else know him) would have forged a bond between the two whether romantic or not. I only point it out because so many people seem to think it HAD to be romantic love that made her courageous enough to save him.

[@monicacrisanoli]

This makes so much sense! I never thought about it this way, she unlocking her courage, thus, her power, but it makes way more sense than “her love for Link unlocked her power” theory. Great video!!

[@GreyVictory1510]

Well, her love was the reason she found her courage I would say. Her love for Link didn't activate the Tri Force by itself, but it was the trigger, so it still works for both interpretations.

[@cajunseasoning1846]

@@GreyVictory1510 i guess it could be described as the catalyst for her finally finding her courage

[@doloresgronenberg5882]

I think the "her love for Link unlocked her power" makes way more sense because it's even stated and insinuated in the game, it's not a theory, it's a fact, this doesn't mean that she didn't find her courage, but I don't know how one could block or prevent the other, when in this case they go together, and Zelda was always already corageous

[@rmsgrey]

I would say it was Link's need that sparked her power - unlike the others she loved who fell to Calamity, Link was right in front of her, with no-one else around. Either she helped him, or she let him die. Whether you describe it as love, or as her making an act of great courage, or as sheer desperation, once she manifested the power once, that filled the hole in her self image. After that moment, she has confidence in herself - and it's that confidence (not courage) that shows when she takes command and goes to contain Calamity Ganon for a hundred years so Link and Fi can heal and play their part in defeating Demise's Malice for what may be the final time.

[@angelmendez-rivera351]

@@cajunseasoning1846 Yup. And it's pretty clear from other evidence that this was the intent too.

[@thegreatmajora5089]

I can't believe how well this all fits together, I'm completely sold on this

[@flakefish2391]

This is such a great video, really. It feels like so much passion went into this theory. I personally think that Skyward Sword, Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom will be a weird kind of trilogy, but fitting together nonetheless. Breath of the Wild felt like the Inverse of Skyward Sword in the story-department, so having zelda inherit the whole triforce instead of link and unlocking it throughout her story feels so fitting. Really great video, if not one of your best! Loved all the evidence for misunderstanding Skyward Sword, especially everything about the silent realm and the reflecting Triforce. Fantastic work as always!

[@MonsterMaze]

It really does feel like a trilogy of sorts! Which makes sense, considering that these games were made after Fujibayashi became the main story writer for the series

[@haileeraestout5567]

@@MonsterMaze She Received It From The Hero Of The Sky Who Had The Triforce And What If We Were WRONG About The Chosen Hero And The Fierce Deity Was The ORIGINAL LINK While The Battle Between Link And Demise Was Happening There Was ANOTHER Battle Taking Place In Termina As The Hero And Demise Fought SO Too Did Majora And The Fierce Deity And I Believe He Was SHIELDING Zelda As These Two Great Battles Took Place And When Link Won Over Demise Majora Seals Fierce Deity In A Mask At The Same Time During Demise's Sealing Hence No Memories

[@greysonkeanu]

Does this mean that in Tears of the Kingdom Ganondorf will have the complete Triforce? Is that why it’ll be the darkest game yet?

[@tdl487]

Holy heck! This is an absolute masterpiece! Literally the most well put together and cohesive Triforce video I've seen that actually makes sense! Not only that but the Triforce being in Link in SS is brilliant. With this theory Hylia didn't just make Link her chosen hero but also a vessel with a purpose. In order for her to use it as a mortal(Zelda) she had to put it some where that Demise or anyone else couldn't reach it's physical form so it lay dormant in Link. Also for the people of Skyloft to have a knighting ceremony that are basic instructions to her pre-reincaration plans shows that Hylia gave actual instructions to the humans in the past, who later turned them into folklore traditions. Almost like a failsafe. Fascinating. Now the other questions we have to figure out is who created or discovered the Sarced Realm and also who were exactly the Sheikah people before SS? Impa is just kinda there waiting in the past and it's not like she's the first Sheikah either.

[@rmsgrey]

The game where we see the Sacred Realm the most is Link to the Past (where it's been corrupted by Ganon's presence into the Dark World). It's said in, I think Ocarina, that the Triforce was left where the Three Goddesses left Hyrule and that that place became the Sacred Realm, but how that translates into the Sacred Realm we know from later games is an interesting question. Off the top of my head, my first thought is that someone (quite possibly the sage Rauru) wished on the Triforce to remove it from easy reach, creating a mirror dimension accessible only through certain portals (initially through the Temple of Time, sealed with the Master Sword behind the Door of Time, but by LttP there were many places where you could use a suitable mirror to access the, by then dark, reflection of Hyrule) - it couldn't be removed from all connection, as discussed in the video (see the fate of Lorule) but limiting the connection and sealing it with Fi and stones representing the three virtues of the Triforce seems like it kept the Triforce out of everyone's hands for ages.

[@vshuffler4274]

This is truly one of the best, well thought out, emotional, and most impactful theories I have seen for the Zelda franchise I have ever encountered, and definitely the best one I have in a long while. A theory that fully enbraces the moral lessons and themes and inspirations. Thank you.

[@Mido-128]

Excellent theory. The Skyward Sword section was one of those “of course, why didn’t I see that before!” moments.

[@poogy42]

I think this is your best video yet. I'm so happy to see you and the other Zeldatubers consistently putting out videos that surpass the last. It's inspiring to know you all come together so often to gather information on this series and really get down into the mud and bloom like the lotus. Cheesy? Maybe. True? Very. We love you guys!

[@MonsterMaze]

Thanks Poogy! That means a lot!

[@hujhujsson]

Big agree!!!❤️

[@bravecereza]

Ever since it came out, I knew Zelda had to have the full triforce within her, but I never could've been able to explain it like you did, amazing work

[@magsol13]

IMO this is one of the most mindblowing theories I've seen in a long time. A complete shift in how to interpret events that have already been scrutinized in great detail, revealing something incredible that I would never have otherwise even thought of, let alone considered. Fantastic job, really really great stuff!

[@asherbasher09]

I actually really like this theory in combination with age of calamity. It’s easy to believe that she was wishing that she could save the people who she loved, but most of them were already dead. So the triforce awakened terraco

[@InterestngFax]

this is hands down one of the best theory videos I've ever seen. blown away. i am just as excited to play TotK as i am to see your new content when it comes out.

[@MonsterMaze]

Thank you! I am extremely hopefull that TotK will gives us more answers about the lore

[@jacobweeks777]

I love this theory so much! I really like the idea that it was Zelda's bravery that unlocked her sealing ability, rather than the cliche or tropey 'power of love', which isn't really a force we've seen in the series before. It still works for the Zelink shippers though, as you can argue it was Zelda's love for Link that gave her the _courage_ to stand up to the possessed guardians at Fort Hateno, and realise the full capabilities of the sacred power within her. I also like the point you bring up about Zelda's prayers at the Springs, that she is disconnected from the meaning of her words due to a lack of spiritual guidance from her mother. She is putting in the time and the effort, but is unable to progress since she hasn't had the process explained to her - sort of like the concept of practicing the wrong way, or that practice makes permanent, but not necessarily perfect. Rather than it being a moral failing on Zelda's part, it's more unfortunate circumstance (i.e. insecurity stemming from lack of a proper mentor, and the stifling pressure from Rhoam and the kingdom at large) that results in her latent abilities being stunted.

[@samuelarendac4896]

Watching this after Tears of the Kingdom, I LOVED your theories , they all connected and made sense, however it is sad that TotK didn't add on the the Triforce, and also to add on to why Zelda couldn't unlock her power is also because she possessed time power more then light, this combined with her doubting herself and not being courage's enough makes total sense. Thank you for this video and continue the great work!

[@sunbbun]

I love the way this video was put together. I also believe that Zelda found her courage on her own, through these multiple moments where she didn't have it in her to stand up and face things head on, until she was fed up with not standing up for herself or the ones she cares so deeply about and *that* is when it is awoken from inside her. You can really see her shift in personality and stature in both the end of BOTW and the moment is happens in Age of Calamity. She finally shows her confidence, power, resilience, and lack of fear in the face of dread. Zelda is such a powerful force to be reckoned with, I'm very glad that when they did show the Triforce, it was with her. I would have liked to see more of the Triforce outside of the broken down and tattered details in Hyrule, but I hope TotK will show it more with the revival of Ganon.

[@HyruleGamer]

Your videos never fail to entertain! This was a brilliant watch, sentential content as always Don! I also wanna show my appreciation for the incredibly cool transition at 00:12 😍

[@seebas89]

I thought about you at 6:17 lol!

[@MonsterMaze]

Thanks Adam! I actually made that transition after delaying the video haha. I thought I might as well do something with the extra time I was given, haha ^^

[@stevenhicks7613]

​@@seebas89 for sure! I had the same reaction. Clearly a HG parody :)

[@losthylian]

The Light Force was passed down through generations. While the Triforce is more significant, it still seems plausible it could be used in a similar way! Well done video!

[@GonKillua85]

Great theory. One Ive also subscribed to ever since BOTW was released. A couple things: 1) The Adventure of Link features an instance of Link with the Triforce symbol on the back of his hand. In a scroll written by the ancient King of Hyrule, the King states that he cast a spell on all of Hyrule, so that a crest appeared on someone who was raised correctly, gained experienced, and came of age. However, the scroll doesn't say that Link had to be in possession of the Triforce (whole or part). This description is VERY similar to Skyward Sword Link and his unbreakable spirit: SS: "Among the countless souls in this world, only a select few (those with an unbreakable spirit) can wield (the Triforce's) might." TAOL: "Not everybody can use the Triforce. It requires a strong character with no evil thoughts. But an inborn special quality is also necessary." SS: "But spirit alone wasn't enough. You had to overcome many trials and awaken the hero within yourself so that you could wield that supreme power." TAOL: "A crest will appear on a person with those qualities who has been raised correctly, picked up various experiences, and is of a certain age." It can be argued that the crest appeared on TOAL Link because he obtained the Triforce of Power and Wisdom in Zelda 1, but again, the scroll doesn't say that is a prerequisite for the crest. The three pieces were not inside Link or his ancestors when the King's spell was made. So that's a curious case. ================================= 2) A Link to the Past JP manual states that each part of the Triforce "carried a crest" or "is represented by a crest". It then states that the Triforce would shine in the Sacred Realm until someone worthy of its power appeared. So it once again separates the crests from the physical Triforce. It can be argued that the crests could mean the three Pendants of Virtue. I believe the three pendants are just like the Sacred Flames in SS: -Colored Red, blue and green -Tied to Din, Nayru and Farore (As seen on the pendants in ALBW) -When all three are obtained, they awakens the Master Sword. The Sacred Flames also bestow the Triforce crests. So they are tied to the Triforce, just like the Pendants. ================================= So SS, TAOL, ALTTP*, and even the Oracle games all draw distinctions between the "Triforce crests", and the "physical Triforce", in different ways. But regardless of this, one thing is consistent: *The person who bears the crest of the Triforce is chosen by destiny to wield the true force.* And in every instance, that person ends up with the real Triforce anyway. So does Zelda have the real Triforce? Maybe. I think she does. But if history is any indicator, Zelda is definitely the one chosen by the gods to wield that power. If she doesnt have it already, she will obtain it eventually (in TotK).

[@MonsterMaze]

Zelda is definitely the chosen one of this age. Which makes her possible "death" in TotK all the more relevant. I can't wait to find out where this is going! Thanks for the info ^^

[@cajunseasoning1846]

This was such a beautiful watch. From the visuals to the music choice, the narration, writing, detail and overall fluidity, it was absolutely perfect. Probably my favourite video on the topic or just the Zelda games ever.

[@lujayt3157]

Wow, wow, wow! This has to be my favourite video you’ve done so far. A fascinating theory that really made me change my perspective, especially of how Zelda’s sealing power was unlocked in BOTW. I know many people don’t take AoC into account but this reminded me also of the scene where she unlocks her sealing power and she says “I must act!” She finally finds the courage in that moment to fight back, rather than run. Anyway, thanks for always making such amazing content! :)

[@claudeernestbarcelona2465]

The way you described the Triforce in the beginning made me think of it as a Zohar counterpart. The Triforce is a single triangle, with the inverted triangle hole in the middle being the “eye” of the Zohar.

[@raoullupin5412]

Oh yeah, the Zohar AKA The Conduit and the Triforce have many similarities! Although the two key differences (aside from the Triforce''s requirements to be used at it's full might) I can see are that unlike the Zohar, the Triforce is NECCESSARY to keep the world at minimum and an entire universe at most from succumbing to decay and rot while the Zohar can just safely be booted into another universe if you know how (like at the end of Xenoblade Chronicles 2) and that... well as big a mystery as some aspects of the Triforce are, we and the people who deal with it in the games know a good deal, enough regarding it's rules and the like to have a good idea on what it's capable of and more importantly how to safely use it while the Zohar/Conduit... (looks at Deus in Xenogears going rampant, Earth in Xenosaga having to be hidden and sealed to keep the Gnosis from multiplying by killing enough people with them becoming Gnosis to tear apart the Collective Unconscious which would tear apart all connected dimensions in that universe... and we ALL know about Klaus and how badly he screwed up with the experiment and saw the aftermath of said experiment that he tried said hard to fix on Alrest at Morytha!) yeah, we just don't know enough how to safely use the damn thing. Hell, the only two I can think of that CAN use the Zohar's power safely to some extent and reliably akin to using the full Triforce are Rex and both halves of Pneuma: Pyra and Mythra and that likely involved a piece of Pneuma's Core Crystal being Rex's life support that may or may not have come from the Zohar/Conduit!

[@MonsterMaze]

Oooh yeah I love me some Zohar! It's such a cool concept ^^ Im not entire caught up on Xenoblade lore, but... has it been confirmed yet wether or not the Zohar and the Conduit from XB2 are the same?

[@triplek-dysongamingwithdan7771]

@Monster Maze Sorry for the late/out of nowhere response, but I think it the Conduit is intended to be the Zohar, but they can't confirm it or state it officially, since MonolithSoft does not own the rights to Xenogears or Xenosaga. Interestingly, in the Xenoblade 3 Artbook, in the concept art for the final boss area, there are actual Zohars drawn, whereas in the finished game, there are just blue cubes floating around the area (most likely representing core crystal-type things holding a person's memory, it's a bit hard to explain). So they have actively considered their past work and maybe thought about tying it in or trying to directly reference the Zohar, but ultimately, due to copyright, they can't confirm anything. But it's more like "Who Jon Snow's parents are" from Game of Thrones, where it hasn't been confirmed (in the books) but if you look at it it's obvious what it's supposed to be.

[@Mia_or_Mika]

I didn't know that the triforce was even a physical object until I started watching Zelda theories. Before I just thought it was a symbol that represented the golden goddesses

[@hoo7797]

Stellar video! When you mentioned that the Silent Realms were most likely mind trials instead of parallel worlds or something of the sort, it reminded me of the name that they're given in the Spanish localization, "Hypneas". There's nothing to that detail in terms of evidence, I just think it's rad nomenclature. Also, there is something weirdly funny about how Demise began acting up before Hylia had anticipated, considering she reincarnated into a mortal in order to use the Triforce. Like the Golden Goddesses saw her give up on her divinity and went, "You think we're not seeing what you're doing?"

[@MonsterMaze]

Oh wow! Hypneas, huh? As in, Hypnoticed?

[@thebarelyfunnyguy]

Thats stellar

[@hoo7797]

Yes! I think it may have been to imply that the Silent Realms were like a weird kind of dream, like a divinely-induced dream; they're also called "Spirit Trials" in some cases, but "Hypneas" would make more sense because you can also access them through Lanayru (the dragon), who gives you the option to either relive a Spirit Trial or relive a boss fight, which in other games you can do by getting Link to sleep.

[@AngelofGrace96]

This makes so much sense! I love the idea of Hero of the skies, one of the kindest, most stable Links, to be the one hosting the entire Triforce, and then pass it down to his lineage of daughters (which would probably explain why all zeldas have such high amounts of Force to begin with too). And BotW Zelda finding her Courage to unlock the Triforce makes so much sense, now you've said it out loud. You're right, the power of love is romantic, but this way is just so much more logical from a lore perspective!

[@angelmendez-rivera351]

Well, I think the point is: she was only able to amass enough courage to be willing to sacrifice herself *because* she loved Link that much.

[@cheesykatie]

Awesome video. I think you are exactly right. I had had similar thoughts/suspicions about Link during Skyward Sword when we saw the crest on his hand, but I never really put it all together this way. I really like the idea about Link's spirit trials and the sort of similarity that had with BotW Zelda's power awakening. (Also the detail about looking into the pools of waking water... really cool, I never noticed that.) The effort you put into this really shows, super well done.

[@GreyVictory1510]

I think many had the idea that Link max have the Tri Force or aquire it when the signs show up. Till they reach the end of the game and find the three pieces. Our brain just goes: Oh, we found it! So we could have not been in possession before.

[@BruceBoyde]

Your theories are always so novel and in-depth, it genuinely amazes me. I've done some theorizing on the triforce in my day, mostly about whether it has allowed Ganondorf's spirit to be essentially immortal, but this was a totally new idea to me.

[@addy_animates484]

This is definitely the most solid and reasonable theories about the triforce, and before this I never even thought about BotW Zelda not being able to unlock the power because of the lack of courage, which makes a lot of sense. You are right with how it's not because of Zelda's love for Link but rather how she finally had courage; but I am confused as to whether you meant that her love for the knight had nothing at all to do with it. Because that's a really cool theory and I like it a lot, but I also think that her love and adoration for Link did influence it, and that from observing him and being around him she was inspired to take up courage and be stronger than she was. As Link is supposed to be the representation of courage in the triforce (and seeing as he does show that a lot in AoC, BoTw, and TotK, by never backing down from a challenge), maybe the love between the princess and knight made Link's courage rub off on Zelda. Not sure how much sense this makes but I hope it is partially sensible.

[@Klay1997]

This is amazingly done. Holy shit. My mind is reeling. You’ve explained a mystery I’ve just accepted as “I guess it’s mysterious” for YEARS. I’ve never seen someone touch on this theory to this extent before, and you’ve laid it out like it’s just duh- here’s why. Wow man. Wow.

[@inkybrush6442]

This fits together so seamlessly! Major props for tying up all those ends we though were loose

[@makisushi3275]

Congrats to this amazing video! It is near perfect. Your theories reach a depth many others will never be able to reach. Please continue your work and share your immense knowledge with us!

[@TheYashakami]

I've wondered about the triforce in breath of the wild for a long time. This video is very enlightening on the history of the triforce and I think you put forward a wonderful and well spoken argument for its whereabouts. Thanks!

[@BradleyGodlyGovt]

Thanks for the live premiere! Awesome video, very thought-provoking and, if true, quite the game-changing realization.

[@NegativeGPA]

I involuntarily said out loud, "Oh my god" when you pointed out that the reflection only appears when using the Link-POV-specific view

[@Erojing12467]

I gotta say this theory is probably one of the best I’ve seen, It give’s new symbolism to the Triforce, opens up our eyes with Skyward Swords story even more, and more into Botw in general and Zelda’s character! This has gotta be my new favorite Zelda theory of all time.

[@mrhumanman6138]

Before link uses the Triforce in skyward sword it comes out of him I think which means he probably did possess the entire Triforce

[@user-ws8uw2jy2w]

This video was amazing, it made me a little emotional at times haha. You put a lot of passion into this, and the way you exude that through your words, music choice and imagery was really well done

[@MonsterMaze]

Merci M!

[@TheBitishDragon]

Tears of the Kindom has a massive amount of questions to answer, Im really looking forward to hunting for those answers myself and later hearing all the zeldatubers thoughts on them.

[@blackglurakx2409]

I could’ve watched this for another 2 hours easily. Such a good video and so much answered questions. Releasing SS HD like that between BotW and ToK may also have some indication about this to remind everyone about this story and not only just because it was time for that remake to come out.

[@Raycloud]

An interesting note about the Triforce is that it doesn't just grant your wish instantly; it seems to rely at least on part on your own virtues to manifest. For example, Ganonnondorf grasped the Trirforce and wished to rule the world. Thus the Golden Land became the Dark World, but from there it upon his own ability to "complete his wish" by conquering the Light World.

[@dargossss]

To me it was obvious that she was using the Triforce in BotW. However, I never stopped to think how or why that was the case. Thanks for the insightful video!

[@kristinapalmer3731]

This was a beautifully made video, captivating from start to finish! You truly do some exceptional work! 😄

[@legomaster2538]

Here's my theory about the Triforce in the Era of the Wild. Sometime after Ganondorf's defeat and sealing in the distant past, the royal family of Hyrule collected all three peices of the Triforce in order to pass it down through the royal bloodline. By the time of Breath of the Wild's calamity, Zelda needed to reach a certain requirement in order to harness the full power of the Triforce. Though she possessed great *wisdon* and knowledge about the Sheikah's ancient technology, she wasn't able to awaken the sacred power. It was only by gathering the *courage* to protect Link from a near-death experience that she was now worthy to wield such *power.*

[@commansersar7989]

I just want to say, wow. MonsterMaze never fails to make an informative and simultaneously beautiful video. Between the flow of ideas and the amazing video editing, every theory is just so amazing to watch.

[@SenkaLunette]

I always felt that Zelda had the full triforce. There wasn’t ever a doubt in my mind about that. She really became worthy of the games name sake in Botw.

[@Alarm26]

Been hooked on your channel for a little while now, and I gotta say your videos keep improving! Easily one of your best videos. One of the things I really like that all your theories are cohesive, using as much evidence from the series as possible. Unrelated side note, the Regal Ancestor Spirit theme from Elden Ring fits so incredibly well with the Silent Realm

[@andrealair6192]

Gosh you never dissapoint. I thought I had a pretty good grasp of the triforce mechanisms but you dug into angles I never considered. The detail of support with the silent realm, ss link, and the physical metaphysical manifestations weave together to make a surefire theory. I love this!

[@genquin]

29:04 FINALLY SOMEONE GETS 😩for Zelda to unlock her power it’s not love but courage, I blame her father for not understanding the power

[@Romalac]

"No one knows why the gods left the Triforce behind" - It seems to me, based on it holding the world together, that that's why it's there. I've long headcanoned that its wish-granting properties are a side effect of this reality-ordering function. Anyway, to the main subject matter: I don't buy that SS Link had the pieces the whole time. You get the Dragon Scale, Clawshots, Fireshield Earrings, and Stone of Trials via the Silent Realm, and Link self-evidently doesn't have these relics until undergoing the trials. Same deal with Dusk Relics. So clearly you can take actual things from it. I'm still partial to the Silent Realm being the Sacred Realm, personally. Yes, Fi calls it "the domain of the spirit," and Link can only get in in spirit form, but that in and of itself does not mean the realm is only accessible this way. As far as the crests- in TAoL, Link gets the Mark of the Hero, a Triforce crest signifying he's worthy to break the seal on Princess Zelda I and enter the Great Palace. So Triforce crests are not strictly tied to having physical pieces. Also- this is essentially an error message for hackers, so its exact canonicity is questionable, but if you hack BotW to give yourself max Heart Containers and Stamina Vessels, then try to give more Spirit Orbs to Hylia, she refuses to give you more, worrying that doing so "may destroy [Link]." This implies that holding too much Force is indeed dangerous for people, in which case holding the most powerful (Tri)Force in the universe in one's body seems like a recipe to be destroyed. In all, I just find it much more likely that Zelda is using her hereditary bloodline magic, and her mark is similar to SS Link's Mark of the Hero in that it reflects her ties to Hylia. (Hylia's power would be signified by such a sigil due to her role as the Triforce's guardian.)

[@nworder4life]

Nice counter points👍

[@MonsterMaze]

The fact that link obtains items from the Silent realm doesn't disprove that it is inside his own spirit in my opinion. The Silent Trails, while bound to Link, are made manifest through Hylia's magic. There are plenty of examples of physical items somehow being brought back from illusory realms. The Trial of the Sword was specifically mentioned to be an illusory realm, yet somehow the Master Sword can be found there being prayed upon by Sheikah Monks. After which it is restored to its full potential. Another great example that comes to mind is the Dream Shrine from Link's Awakening. Which is where he finds the legendary Ocarina. Another physical object, somehow pulled from a dream... within a dream 😅. There's a fantastical, magical property to this universe that can explain these kinds of discrepancies. As for the Crest, yes. The Adventure of Link is the exception. However, and this may sounds lazy... but the lore wasn't well established yet by that point. There are many things in that game don't fit well with later installments. Im oftentimes willing to consider all the games, but I also don't want to sacrifice a theory because of that one game from the 80s that did things very differently. Hence why I rarely use Zelda 2 as evidence, even when it supports my theories. As for your last point, that is very interesting! Hack or not, it is still an interesting find.

[@Romalac]

@Monster Maze Regarding the Silent Realms- fair enough, I guess, but if the argument is that Link always had the Triforce pieces in him, and that going through the Silent Realms is just a process to draw out and activate them, this would imply that the other relics we pick up (up to and including the Dusk Relics) were also sealed inside him, and that just seems like a bridge too far for me. And indeed, if all these items are sealed inside Link himself, at that point I question the exact necessity and specific placements of the Trial Gates- the Silent Realms themselves and the various temples are the actual trials here, so why is the process of accessing Link's inner mindscape so convoluted? (Indeed, if we are drawing on series precedent here, the Hero of the Force Era in TMC could access his dreamscape via a bed in a carnival attraction, so Hylia would seem to have gone unnecessarily extra.) Regarding the crest- that's a fair enough philosophy, I guess, but personally my stance is "if it's in canon material, particularly the mainline games, then it counts and needs to be factored in somehow." The alternative gets a bit too cherry pick-y for my liking and gets dangerously close to disregarding the franchise's formative entries purely due to inconvenience. Again, a fair enough stance that I won't begrudge one taking, but a bridge too far for me. Regarding the last point- I certainly like it, I just wish it was a firmer data point accessible in regular gameplay. XD But it does still make sense- we've seen in PH (and arguably hear in TMC) that sucking out enough Life Force will turn one to stone, so it makes intuitive sense to me that adding too much could be equally damaging.

[@donadavs]

wow, zelda lore and theories are so much better than i imagined

[@eren985]

It always is a special moment when a new monster maze video comes out. Espacially when it's as long as this one

[@MegaTitan64]

I was once a believer that the Silent Realm and the Sacred Realm were one in the same, not only because Link finds the Triforce in the Silent Realm, but also because the Silent Realm becomes golden once Link collects all three pieces of the Triforce (possibly alluding to the Sacred Realm's alternate name, the Golden Land). That said... You've thoroughly convinced me otherwise. This is such a good theory and it brings so much more depth to SS Link and BotW Zelda. Excellent video!! You should feel proud! :)

[@crimsonninja4097]

Alright but if you think they are separate you still have to answer the question of why it wasn't in the sacred land and said sacred land wasn't spoiled by evil.

[@MonsterMaze]

@@crimsonninja4097 I think the Sacred Realm is just a name given to wherever the Triforce risides at a certian moment in tiime. Hence why it looks so different every time, and why Hyrule itself has been called the Sacred Realm on some ocassions (like in twilight Princess).

[@crimsonninja4097]

@@MonsterMazeit's stated in Ocarina of Time that the Sacred Land is where the three Golden Goddesses left the world though and before they left they placed the Triforce in it.

[@MegaTitan64]

@@MonsterMaze That would explain the quote from Lanayru in Twilight Princess, but I think the Sacred Realm must be a separate world distinct from Hyrule, otherwise how could the Dark World exist in parallel with the Light World in A Link to the Past? Additionally, wasn't it also established in Ocarina of Time that the Temple of Light acts as the Sacred Realm's mirror image of Hyrule's Temple of Time, or something to that effect?

[@Anastasis1610]

I am so glad I watched this video. Skyward Sword is my favorite game of all time and that’s mainly because of the story. Finding out now, 11 years later, that Link had the Triforce all along and that the point of his story arc was to awaken spiritually blew my mind. I had played this game several times and I thought I knew everything about it. Apparently not… Thank you Maze!

[@RealRomplayer]

24:58 - Now *that* transition was SMOOTH!

[@passerby5735]

I think the idea that Zelda acquired the Triforce by praying at each of the wellsprings is the most likely reason she has it. Though nothing notable happened at each spring to indicate she had received a piece, it was the fact she did that earned her the whole thing once she needed it. I may also argue there's a good chance she lost it immediately after using it at the end of BotW.

[@TheGeekApprentice]

This video is EXCELLENT! I actually was listening to it on my 7 hour drive home from my grandparents', but was only just now able to comment. There was so much to consider in this video and it was great!

[@Pyhatpietarit]

I hadn't thought about this at all (i like to leave theorising for you guys) but i immediately accepted this into my canon. Amazing video, very well put together. Wish I could like it more than once

[@AppleJackSix]

You are blowing my mind with the observations in SS where the Triforce is hidden in Link. It makes SO much sense, it is canon.

[@lasercraft32]

What if the reason the Triforce doesn't appear in Botw and Totk is because the Koroks ate it and pooped out the pieces as Korok Seeds? XD

[@hallwaerd]

Sorry I’m really tired so I don’t have anything super eloquent to add but I just have to say that I Iove every part of this theory and that this video is so well made

[@QuestWithAaron]

Absolutely incredible video Don! It was both an honour and great fun to discuss things with you. Seeing it all put together with your production quality was truly an amazing experience!

[@MonsterMaze]

Merci Aaron! And thanks again for our fun discussion about the lore. It was great!

[@LunaP1]

YES!! I was wondering when someone would get to this theory! I had a similar theory to this where Hylia was the one who installed the Triforce into her bloodline. The Zelda who fought against the first Calamity Ganon was able to exhibit all three virtues and Hylia had planned to give her the Triforce to boost her divine powers. The three goddesses were opposed to this idea at first, but reluctantly let her go through with her plan. During the planning stages, Zelda informed the soldiers to evacuate the citizens from Central Hyrule so that if things go south, they can escape the kingdom to safety (Wisdom). When it came to her using her powers to deal the finishing blow, Zelda would be at the back on standby. Zelda rebutdtaled this plan and wanted to join on the battlefield, much to the dismay of everyone else in the room. She tells them that by the time she gets within range of Calamity Ganon, he might break free and cause more damages and casualties (Courage). During the battle as things were getting hectic, the Divine Beasts were still not ready to fire on the monster. Zelda’s powers were not strong enough to keep the beast at bey and she was struggling to protect Link and everyone else. In her thoughts she screamed “I need push my powers to their limit! I can’t fail or everything we fought for will be for not! I don’t care what it takes, I need more power!” And the final virtue was accomplished (Power). Hylia, visiting Zelda in a separate mindscape tells her that she proved that she can wield the ultimate power that exists beyond what normal mortals can handle. She was given the Triforce but told to carry its secret to the grave, for there will be those with evil hearts that may seek it out. After the battle and Calamity Ganon was sealed away for a time, Zelda told the king that she used the Triforce to win but that it’s power is now gone forever. It’s was both the truth and a lie, a lie she will forever keep. Afterwards, she secretly got rid of documents pertaining to the Triforce and used it as part of the royal symbol but never letting on reason for such. The truth about the Triforce would forever fall from the annuls of history and be past down within the bloodline for ages to come.

[@Boushi]

This was great and I loved it all. Thank you for this vid, it really gave me thoughts on the characters and how their arcs are in the story.

[@Diamond_Aura]

Edit: alright, you convinced me lol, I was on the other side, with a “No, it doesn’t work that way”, but seeing the evidence from Skyward Sword especially, but also the other games like Wind Waker, Twilight Princess, and (surprisingly a lot of) Link Between Worlds. You concocted the theory very well. You addressed every counterpoint I originally had as well. So well done! Great video!

[@MonsterMaze]

Thanks Diamond! Of course it will remain a theory until proven otherwise, but I hope Tears of the Kingdom will shed more light on it! That would be amazing. I just want to know the truth, haha

[@MoxieWatts]

Great minds think alike. Really beautiful breakdown, super in-depth. Amazing writing and editing as always. ❤

[@MonsterMaze]

Thanks again Moxie!

[@Skyeshadow3408]

The "spirit of the hero" could be the reason why Link is silent in nearly every title. He is devoid of unnecessary emotions and the like and is only there to serve his purpose.

[@randomdude2026]

I alway thought that the Sealing Power was the Triforce since I saw the tapestry in Impa's house. I mean the Triforce is depicted to be with the princess in that tapestry. But the explanation of the Silent Realm is mindblowing. And I think the reflections in the water confirm it to be true. If the Triforce rests inside Link's soul then, yeah, that is what he will see when his soul sees the reflections. Also I always wondered why Link gets the Triforce marks on his hand in Skyward Sword after gaining the sacred flames. This theory explains it perfectly. Really I don't see anything that contradicts these conclusions. I think this theory reeally is the canon intend of the writers.

[@ariwl1]

I had no idea about the mirrored Triforce in the water of the Silent Realms of Skyward Sword. Such an awesome detail that I have a hard time believing the devs didn't spend the time programing it to signify something. Excellent video!

[@tutiiis98]

This was just ✨amazing✨ Congrats Don for doing this huuuge theory video and making my day a little bit better!🙌🏻

[@MonsterMaze]

Thanks Cata! Glad you enjoyed it. I can't wait to talk about the Sacred Realm!

[@LinksLeftEarring]

I keep rewatching this video. It’s so intelligent, influential, and revealing. As fellow Zelda fans have also stated, this is one of the best theories in fandom-to date-and a favourite of mine. The bit about Zelda finally finding her own courage and discovering the Triforce within her soul is so inspiringly emotional; how powerful one can be once an equilibrium of the soul is established. Also, that discovery of the reflected Triforce in Link’s personal Spirit Realm is completely irrefutable and genius, I’ll have to get SS HD to personally check it out (haven’t played it in a good while). For years, I’ve rewatched yours and other Zelda theorists’ videos and this is one I’ll probably rewatch time and time again. Thank you for always sharing high quality content with us Mr.Maze

[@phosarius]

This is so absolutely well done. Bravo!

[@no1guy825]

I've seen the Triforce on seals, as a projection in magic, and glow as a sigil mark in many places throughout the series. A prime thing people forget is that the Triforce is not just a tangible artifact...it's a symbol. A symbol of the gods. This is why you see it present in magic from Yuga, in the Mirror portal to the Twilight Realm, over the Door of Time, on the slabs guarding the sage temples in Wind Waker and on the Gates of Time in Skyward. It is a sigil in spells and magics and can appear where the actual artifact...isn't. As for Zelda's "power level" here.....creative license I'm afraid. With each game, her power shines in a different way. In truth, it's implied THIS is what she was trying to learn all along. Her mother and grandmother were all part of a lineage meant to pass on the secret of unlocking this very thing. Here, it's seen on a grander scale, but...we don't have many examples to begin with...especially on the long mysterious BOTW timeline. For all we know it's just a reinterpretation of what Zelda does with a simple column of light in Ocarina of Time. I believe the Triforce, which seems a mere mystic symbol that bursts from her hand then the relic itself, to be a mere indicator of "the power of the gods" that she and every other Zelda has called on. It's more or less absent from this current story, much as it was in others, albeit rarely in a Hyrule setting.

[@jediofhyrule1218]

There is no way this can't be true. That detail of the reflection of the Triforce in the Waking Waters absolutely sold it to me, and you brought up many other strong points. I originally was in the camp that Zelda did not possess the entire Triforce, but you have successfully converted me. Amazing video!

[@kit76149]

I mean, the game tells us it was her love for Link, so it's really not just a theory if the game itself is telling the player that (and twice, both the Kass song and what Mipha was going to tell Zelda) Not even fully disagreeing with your take, but well, that dialogue is there for a reason. I think love was the developer's intent

[@prestonbyrd8443]

After over 10 years, I'm still learning things about Skyward Sword.

[@MonsterMaze]

Same here!

[@ryanmatthews2068]

It could be the love for Link but not because Zelda loved everyone less, but Hylia loves her chosen hero and for once in BOTW Zelda and Hylia worked together as one.

[@Luca-ls2xk]

I can't stress enough how jaw dropping the quality of your videos actually is! I cannot even fathom how good the animation, structure, selection of music and the theory part itself actually is!! I am amazed again every time :O and with such frequency? Just wow. But make sure not to overwork yourself :○

[@MonsterMaze]

I will be taking a break until after PAX East, so I will be good ^^ Thank you!

[@JamesJNothingIsTooSensitive]

Dude, when you get the master sword you see a vision of Zelda with the triforce on her hand in TotK! Spot on!!!

[@joekelly9332]

I love it when videos like this kinda open my eyes to the hidden story telling in games. This is the first time it’s hit me this hard since Good Blood’s Ocarina of Time video. I love BOTW, but wasn’t a fan of the story. This video changed that. Thank you, @Monster Maze

[@MonsterMaze]

Im humbled that you would compare my video to Good Blood's, which is still one of the best Zelda lore videos EVER made in my opinion!

[@rtyuik7]

12:06 - i love how you kept the super-serious calm voice through this line

[@SwedenTheHedgehog]

Best 30 minutes ever spent!! Seriously though MonsterMaze, your videos are incredible! The theory about Link in SS always having had the TriForce within him is pretty crazy to think about but, for the reasons you laid out, makes perfect sense in hind-sight! TotK Speculation: WHAT IF: the reason that Zelda has ‘The Sealing Power’ a.k.a. the TriForce in BotW is because of time-travel shenanigans that take place in TotK? It wouldn’t be as fun of an answer as yours, but maybe it could be the case!

[@MonsterMaze]

I can't wait to find out! ^^

[@conp9349]

Amazingly done video! So much research went into it, and all of your points had some sort of backing behind them. It's nice to watch a video like this while there's so much wild speculation going on about TOTK. Great job!

[@KryyssTV]

That sir, is absolute genius! The Triforce reflection is pretty much a huge clue that Link had the Triforce all along. While I did figure that Zelda was wielding the full power of the Triforce in BotW I actually thought this was a new feature to the lore but this now established that its actually an obscure detail that has been part of the series for a very long time. It's also worth adding that BotW and TotK have evidence supporting that idea that Zelda has the Triforce. We see that Ganondorf has been reduced to a dissicated husk and the game continually refers to Ganon attempting ressurection. Given that nobody has been able to defeat, let alone kill, Ganondorf while he was in possession of the Triforce of Power we can see that his state proves he no longer has that piece. One final detail though. Given that Link is an orphen and his reflection shows the Triforce it is entirely possible that Link is a manifestation of the Triforce itself. Skyward Sword does introduce the notion that the Master Sword has a guardian spirit so it isn't a stretch to believe that the Spirit of the Hero is actually the guardian of the Triforce and is given physical form time and time again. There's certainly numerous times where Link seemingly has no parents or family and some lone individual has been raising them. The "mother" of Link in OoT may not have been Link's biological mother at all either.

[@duckerdoo]

4:38 In Skyward Sword, it's explained that the symbol on the back of the hand isn't the Triforce itself, but rather the connection to the Triforce or something like that.

[@jgodden8022]

Yeah, this was pretty much established all the way back in the Zelda 2 manual. Surprised notable Zelda content makers are unaware of this.

[@MonsterMaze]

@@jgodden8022 I disagree in this particular case. One game written in the late 80s does not outweigh the dozens of other games that have come out since then that tell a different story about how the Triforce works. Some lore aspects have clearly evolved over time, and this is clearly one of them. From what I remember, the king cast a spell on the triforce or something. There was also a second Zelda, different from the one from the previous game, alive in that era who was asleep for millenia. It's a mess.

[@jgodden8022]

@@MonsterMaze My friend, the entire lore and mythology of the Zelda franchise is a mess, as it's always a secondary of even tertiary consideration to the developers. Cherry picking what is canonical based on what you think doesn't fit isn't as accurate or authentic an approach as you'd like to believe.

[@MonsterMaze]

​@@jgodden8022 Cherrypicking Zelda lore is extremely common and even necessary on occasion. Some games contradict each other, and you'll have to choose what makes the most sense in context of the larger mythology. It's as simple as that. In this particular case we have about 8 games that say that the those who have the mark of the triforce, have the triforce piece. And 1 game from the late 80s who claims otherwise. In my opinion, those 8 games (most of which written much later) outweigh the 1 game that did things differently. Im not going to throw a theory by the wasteside based on one contradiction. Because then we might as well collectively stop trying to make sense of this universe altogether. There's always going to be things that don't fit with each other.

[@pegmay7209]

…..It’s…still not…mentioned….This is getting weird for the Zelda fandom.

[@Wolffman109]

17:35 If Link made the Silent Realms up in his mind, how would he put stuff like Guardians and Waking Water in there, when Fi has to explain what those things are to him?

[@MonsterMaze]

Hi Brendon! From what I understand, Link didn't make up the Silent Realm(s), but rather, the Goddess granted him access to his own spirit through her magic. The tests are spiritual, but there is definitely an aspect to it that links back to Hylia. She created the trial gates that lead him to the Silent Realm after all ^^

[@Wolffman109]

@@MonsterMaze Ah, okay. Thank you for clarifying that.

[@Chris-gx1ei]

Zelda having the Triforce is kinda making not much sense, if you have the Triforce then you are basically Allmighty unless there are some Limitations put into it by the previous Users, if she does have that, how does she struggle against Calamity Ganon in both Breath of the Wild AND Age of Calamity? This would only be possible if that thing that can even be harmed with a stick would be more than Allmighty

[@myggmastaren3365]

There is a limitation, it's stated in Skyward sword that royalty aren't meant to use the triforce IIRC

[@holloworacle635]

​@@myggmastaren3365 no the limitation is that only mortals can use it

[@erikabutler6893]

The series has been so inconsistent about it that it's unclear. If Zelda does have the complete Triforce, I think ALTTP's explanation may actually make the most sense. At the end of the game, after winning the complete Triforce from Ganon, the "Essence of the Triforce" speaks to Link. It explains, "The stronger the wish, the more powerful the Triforce's expression of that wish." If you look at Zelda in the BOTW memories, you can see she didn't really have much motivation to try to use her power until Link was in danger, and then the explosion of power was enormous. It seems that seeing Link in danger made her firm in her convictions and she finally could draw upon that power. Again, this is assuming she has it.

[@nworder4life]

@@erikabutler6893 Light force makes much more sense.

[@randomcatname7792]

Gods can't wish on it, and she's a god, so she likely simply used the power in it to amp her own magic

[@ricekrispies1917]

I really like this take. I'm a sucker for the romantic angle, but this is so well thought out and offers a real plausible explanation to where that triforce went. This was an amazing video!