One of the most iconic items in The Legend of Zelda is the Hylian Shield, something Link nearly always ends up wielding by a game’s end. Often it’s something you’ve had all along, or given to you as part of the game’s progression, but not always. Sometimes you have to put in some work to earn that shield, as is the case in The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword.
Now that Link’s Wii era adventure is available on Switch in HD (complete with matching Joy-Con), players might be wondering how they can get their hands on the series’ signature defense. Read on to learn where to find the Hylian Shield, how to unlock it, and why you’ll absolutely want to take it up yourself.
Where is the Hylian Shield in The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD?
You’ll find Skyward Sword’s Hylian Shield in Lanayru Gorge. Though you’ll be able to access Lanayru Province itself relatively early on, it won’t be until near the game’s end that you can access this particular area.
How do you unlock the Hylian Shield in The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD?
Once you’ve progressed through the section of Skyward Sword’s story centered on the Song of the Hero, specifically once you’ve completed Lanayru Gorge, you’ll be able to unlock the Hylian Shield. Doing so will require you to speak with Lanayru and take on the Thunder Dragon’s Lightning Round.
More specifically, you’ll be taking on Skyward Sword’s boss rush. Selecting this option from the Lightning Round’s menu will put Link against each of the game’s bosses one after the other. You’ll have to face them with only the gear you would have had when encountering them, though you will be able to use your currently equipped shield. No other items are allowed, though any potions you’ve drunk before starting the boss battles will still imbue their effects until they run out normally.
You can select your first foe, but bosses after that are determined by Lanayru instead. Healing will also be limited to what you can manage in each boss arena (like from breakable pots), so be sure to replenish when you can. Depending on how many bosses you defeat, you’ll earn a set reward. Many of these are rupees, but one is the coveted Hylian Shield.
To earn the Hylian Shield, you’ll need to defeat eight bosses total. Once you’ve done so, you can end your challenge and Lanayru will grant you your prize! Also of note, you can earn a Piece of Heart for beating four bosses. If you haven’t already done so, consider that the perfect test run for your shiny new Hylian Shield.
Can the Hylian Shield break in The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD?
Nope! The Hylian Shield can never break. Unlike other shields in the game, the Hylian Shield is indestructible, and you’ll never have to replenish it or repair it at the Bazaar.
Why should I unlock the Hylian Shield in The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD?
Well, for one, it’s the Hylian Shield!
Aesthetics and tradition aside, like we mentioned above, the Hylian Shield will never break. Its durability is infinite, meaning you’ll never need to replenish it or build a new shield to replace it once earned. It also resists elemental damage, meaning you no longer need to worry about fire or electric based attacks depending on what shield you have.
Considering when you are able to unlock it, having the Hylian Shield for Skyward Sword’s finale is definitely worth the effort. If you’re the type to hold off on doing sidequests, or are interested in using it in further matches of Thunder Dragon’s Lightning Round, it’ll make its considerable worth known there as well.
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Written by Ricky Berg
When he isn’t writing for Nintendo Wire, Ricky’s anticipating the next Kirby, Fire Emblem, or if the stars ever align, Mother 3 to be released. Till then he’ll have the warm comfort of Super Smash Bros. to keep him going.
