Introduction
As a collaboration title between Koei Tecmo’s Dynasty Warriors series and Nintendo’s The Legend of Zelda series, Hyrule Warriors boasts plenty of content that is sure to please fans of both franchises. The gameplay is primarily based on that of Dynasty Warriors, a hack-and-slash game pitting the player against hordes of enemies while conquering enemy bases and fulfilling multiple missions, while the characters, weapons, scenario and some gameplay elements are borrowed from the Zelda series. In short, it’s a Warriors game set in the Zelda universe.
Omega Force and Team Ninja developed the game with supervision from Nintendo’s Eiji Aonuma, the producer of the Zelda series since Majora’s Mask. Omega Force is the primary developer of all Dynasty Warriors games, including spin-offs like Samurai Warriors, Warriors Orochi, as well as other collaboration titles with other Japanese media franchises, including One Piece, Mobile Suit Gundam, Fist of the North Star, The Heroic Legend of Arslan, Dragon Quest and, more recently, Berserk. Team Ninja is best known for developing Ninja Gaiden and Dead or Alive, the former also being a hack-and-slash game and previously collaborated with Nintendo in Metroid: Other M. Hyrule Warriors was the first Warriors game to have development assistance from another studio besides Omega Force.
The game was ported for the Nintendo 3DS under the title of Hyrule Warriors Legends, including some new content such as characters and new missions, some of it also made available for the Wii U game via DLC or by using the code included with a purchase of the 3DS game. Similarly, some of the content found in the Wii U game isn’t present in the 3DS game.
This article aims to cover the history and inspiration behind the plethora of elements found in the game related to the Zelda series. At the same time this game allows fans of the Warriors series to become familiarized with the Zelda universe, the game pays attention to many aspects only those familiar with the Zelda series can appreciate to the fullest.
Considering the overlap in content between both versions of the game, this article will cover the exclusive content found in each version as well.
This is the first part of the article, covering the playable warriors found by default in the Wii U version, as well as Cia, Volga and Wizzro, which were added alongside the Master Quest DLC pack. In addition, weapons introduced through DLC and Hyrule Warriors Legends to the characters covered by this part will also be included.
Note: be aware that this article contains spoilers for the Zelda series and Hyrule Warriors.
Playable Warriors
Similar to other Warriors games, Hyrule Warriors features a wide range of playable characters. Being a collaboration with The Legend of Zelda series, the playable warriors previously appeared in those games, with the exception of a handful of original characters created by Omega Force who still draw inspiration from Nintendo’s series. While most characters only have a single weapon type, a few of them possess multiple weapon types of choice, each with their own set of moves, different elements and play style. All weapon types have three levels, some of them also having 8-bit versions exclusively in the Wii U version. The 3DS version feature level 4 and level 4+ weapons that share the same designs as the level 3 ones, which in the latter’s case are recolored and have an extra element. Another option for playable warriors are outfits which change their appearance. Both weapons and outfits are also inspired by the Zelda series.
Due to the lack of specific move names and how players can customize the controls, the following terminology will be used:
Nn – nth press of the normal attack button
Cn – strong attack button press after n-1 normal attacks (C1 is strong attack, C2, C3, etc. are combo attacks)
WPS – Weak Point Smash, the move used after depleting a foe’s weak point gauge.
S – The move used by pressing the special move button.
FS – Focus Spirit attack, assuming the player lets the magic meter be depleted.
FSS – Focus Spirit special move, activated by pressing the special button during Focus Spirit.
Link
The main protagonist of the Zelda franchise, having appeared in every game to date. He’s the sole character to be playable at the start of the game and the story told in Legend Mode is mostly centered on him. He can use 6 weapon types, the most out of the entire character roster.
Link’s weapons:
Hylian Sword – The basic sword and shield set most associated with the character. Swords and shields have appeared in every The Legend of Zelda game to date. The weapon’s element is light, fitting as the legendary hero’s most iconic weapon.
| Weapon level | Image | Notes |
| Knight’s Sword (Lv. 1) |  |
Original design for Hyrule Warriors. |
| White Sword (Lv. 2) |  |
Based on the White Sword from The Legend of Zelda, the first sword upgrade found in the game. |
| Magical Sword (Lv. 3)
Magical Sword + (Lv. 4) |
 |
Based on the Magical Sword from The Legend of Zelda, the second sword upgrade found in the game. |
| 8-bit Sword |  |
3D rendering of the first sword and shield found in The Legend of Zelda. |
Notable moves:
| Input | Notes |
| C1 | The iconic spin attack first seen in A Link to the Past. Just like the in the Zelda series, it can be charged. Holding the strong attack button after C2, C3 or C4 can also allow Link to use a spin attack, which can be charged while moving. |
| C1 (air) | After using C2 or C4, pressing the strong button while in the air allows Link to use a stabbing move from above, possibly referencing the downwards aerial stab from Zelda II. |
| C3 | Link leaps back and shoots a projectile with the sword, referencing how in The Legend of Zelda, as well as some of the later games, Link can shoot a projectile from the sword at full health. |
| C5 | Link rushes forward bashing enemies with the shield along the way. This might be a reference to how Link can perform a shield bash in Skyward Sword to better defend against enemy attacks or reflect projectiles, but he would stand still while doing so. |
Magic Rod – A recurring type of weapon found in the Zelda series, usually in the form of the Fire Rod, but others also exist such as the Ice Rod and Magical Rod. True to the source material, this weapon is of the fire element.
| Weapon level | Image | Notes |
| Fire Rod (Lv. 1) |  |
Resembles the recurring Fire Rod, which made its debut in A Link to the Past. |
| Prism Rod (Lv. 2) |  |
A more elaborate-looking Fire Rod original to Hyrule Warriors. |
| Magical Rod (Lv. 3)
Magical Rod + (Lv. 4) |
 |
Based on the Magical Rod from The Legend of Zelda, which originally didn’t shoot fire, but magic beams instead. However, obtaining the Magic Book item would allow the Magic Rod to shoot fire. |
| Crackling Rod (Lv. 4+) | |
Adds lightning element to the weapon. |
| 8-bit Candle |  |
This weapon’s tip is 3D rendering of the Candle item found in The Legend of Zelda, which allows Link to shoot fire. |
Notable moves:
| Input | Notes |
| N1~… | True to the usage of the Fire Rod in the Zelda series, most attacks have Link shooting fire projectiles. Overall, many of the moves performed with this weapon are original to Hyrule Warriors for the sake of a full moveset. |
Great Fairy – Something of a gag weapon in which the player takes control of a Great Fairy while Link is stuck in a bottle. This is in reference to how Link keeps fairies in bottles in the Zelda games, in which he can rely upon them to cure his health anytime or when defeated, thus avoiding a game over.
| Weapon level | Image | Notes |
| Great Fountain Fairy (Lv. 1) |  |
The Great Fairy as she appears in Ocarina of Time and Majora’s Mask. |
| Great Forest Fairy (Lv. 2) |  |
The Great Fairy dons a bee costume. Bees recurrently appear in the Zelda series starting with A Link to the Past, where they can randomly pop up from cut grass. In some games, they’re found in forest areas such as the Lost Woods in Four Swords Adventures or the Faron Woods in Skyward Sword. |
| Great Sky Fairy (Lv. 3)
Great Sky Fairy + (Lv. 4) |
 |
The Great Fairy dons a costume inspired by Link’s crimson Loftwing from Skyward Sword. Loftwings come in various colors and are used by the people in Skyloft as rides. |
| 8-bit Fairy |  |
3D rendering of a fairy as seen in The Legend of Zelda. The bottle has a sprite of Link from the same game as well. |
Notable moves:
| Input | Notes |
| C3 | The Great Fairy releases Link and shoots a magic ball at him, who deflects it back. The two continue deflecting the ball back and forth (damaging enemies along the way) until the Great Fairy shoots it into the ground to create a shock wave around her. This is a reference to multiple boss fights (especially against Ganon) in multiple games, in which the boss shoots a projectile and Link must keep deflecting it until the boss is unable to deflect it back. This recurring element is also known as Dead Man’s Volley, in reference to the Cubus Sisters boss in Phantom Hourglass. |
| C4 | The Great Fairy showers the battlefield with giant bombs. Similar to how in Hyrule Warriors, bombs can be upgraded to giant bombs, in several Zelda games, this is also the case and is an upgrade often obtained at Fairy Fountains. |
| C5 | The Great Fairy whips up a whirlpool that transforms into a Fairy Fountain, from which she comes out of and unleashes a magic attack around her. The way the Great Fairy comes out of the fountain is reminiscent of how she does in Ocarina of Time. |
| C6 | The Great Fairy summons Levias, the Sky Spirit from Skyward Sword, who whips up a thunderstorm that causes damage in a wide area. A reference to Skyward Sword, in which Levias gets possessed by a Bilocyte, becoming hostile and causing a thunderstorm in a certain area of the sky. |
| S | The Great Fairy summons the Moon from Majora’s Mask and sends it crashing down for a powerful attack. |
| FSS | The Great Fairy spawns a Fairy Fountain and calls upon fairies to attack foes. In the Zelda series, some Fairy Fountains have multiple fairies that Link can catch in a bottle for healing purposes. |
Gauntlets – Commonly found in the Zelda games are items allowing Link to lift heavier objects like huge boulders that block certain passageways. This weapon combines those with the Ball and Chain found in Twilight Princess, allowing Link to use the latter item with more ease.
| Weapon level | Image | Notes |
| Silver Gauntlets (Lv. 1) |  |
The Silver Gauntlets first appear in Ocarina of Time, allowing Link to lift certain heavy boulders. In addition, Link uses the Ball and Chain from Twilight Princess, a powerful but slow item that deals heavy damage to enemies and can break through certain obstacles like thick ice. |
| Golden Gauntlets (Lv. 2) |  |
The Golden Gauntlets appear as an upgrade to the Silver Gauntlets in Ocarina of Time, allowing the lifting of even heavier objects. The Ball and Chain is changed to a golden and spikier version of the item found in Twilight Princess. |
| Power Gloves (Lv. 3)
Power Gloves + (Lv. 4) |
 |
The Power Gloves first appeared in A Link to the Past with the purpose of allowing Link to lift heavier objects. For this weapon level, instead of using a Ball and Chain, Link uses a Chain Chomp from the Super Mario Bros. series. Chain Chomps make several cameos in the Zelda series starting with A Link to the Past, usually appearing as enemies. |
| Burning Gloves (Lv. 4+) | |
Adds fire element to the weapon. |
| 8-bit Power Bracelet |  |
Link wears two 3D renderings of the Power Bracelet as seen in The Legend of Zelda. The ball and chain is replaced by a 3D rendering of the Raft item from The Legend of Zelda. |
Notable moves:
| Input | Notes |
| N1~… | Link swings the Ball and Chain to attack foes. The attacks are much faster than the item in Twilight Princess, presumably as a result of wearing the Gauntlets. |
| C1 | Link attempts to grab an enemy using the Gauntlets. If successful, the enemy is thrown afterwards and damage is dealt. This is essentially a weaponized version of the Gauntlets’ main purpose. |
| C4 | Link grabs a towering stone block from Ocarina of Time, which originally require the Golden Gauntlets to lift. By pressing the strong attack button more times, Link can spin the block around and then throw it into the ground. |
Master Sword – The legendary sword known to be one of the few weapons able to vanquish Ganon. It made its first appearance in A Link to the Past and has since then been a recurring element of the Zelda series, appearing in Ocarina of Time, Oracle of Ages, Oracle of Seasons, The Wind Waker, Twilight Princess, Skyward Sword and A Link Between Worlds. It’s also set to appear in Breath of the Wild. The idea of obtaining a legendary weapon to defeat evil is also repeated in several other games.
In Hyrule Warriors, the Master Sword plays a similar role as the Zelda series, in which Link must obtain it to triumph over the evil forces of Cia and Ganondorf. True to source material, it’s a more powerful version of the initial sword and, like in A Link to the Past, the sword can fire beams if the player’s health is at maximum. Despite being classed as a different weapon type, the gameplay is identical to the Hylian Sword.
Horse – In Ocarina of Time, Majora’s Mask and Twilight Princess, Link can ride his horse Epona for faster mobility, allowing usage of the bow to hit distant enemies and, in Twilight Princess, Link can also use his sword. In addition, the horse can also stomp on enemies when running fast enough, as well as jump through obstacles. It goes without saying that this weapon isn’t really a weapon, but more like an option to allow Link to ride Epona on the battlefield.
| Weapon level | Image | Notes |
| Epona (Lv. 1) |  |
Link’s faithful steed in a new design made for Hyrule Warriors. |
| Twilight Epona (Lv. 2) |  |
Epona as she appears in Twilight Princess. |
| Epona of Time (Lv. 3)
Epona of Time + (Lv. 4) |
 |
Epona as she appears in Ocarina of Time. |
Notable moves:
| Input | Notes |
| N1~… | Similar to Twilight Princess, Link swings the sword atop Epona to attack foes.. |
| C1 | Uses a carrot from the carrot gauge to gallop and start running, damaging enemies along the way. |
| C2 | After Epona kicks foes into the air, further pressing the strong attack button allows Link to fire arrows from horseback. In Ocarina of Time, the bow is the only form of attack while riding Epona besides running through enemies. |
Spinner – A unique item found in Twilight Princess, in which Link rides it and can allow passing through certain walls and activating certain switches. While riding it, Link can use it to attack at a close range and that is the basis for this weapon in Hyrule Warriors. In addition to melee attacks, Link can shoot or spawn additional Spinners in longer ranged attacks.
| Weapon level | Image | Notes |
| Ancient Spinner (Lv. 1) |  |
The Spinner as seen in Twilight Princess. |
| Enhanced Spinner (Lv. 2) |  |
A Spinner with a more elaborate design made up for Hyrule Warriors. |
| Triforce Spinner (Lv. 3)
Triforce Spinner + (Lv. 4) |
 |
This Spinner’s design is based on the recurring Triforce from the Zelda series. |
Notable moves:
| Input | Notes |
| N1 | Based on the Spinner’s only attack move in Twilight Princess. |
| FS | A pillar appears and Link climbs it with the Spinner, before unleashing a blast of electricity. This pillar is the same seen in the Arbiter’s Grounds in Twilight Princess, where Link must climb to its top with the Spinner. It is where the Mirror of Twilight is found. |
| WPS | Multiple pillars appear and Link smashes them with the Spinner. These are the same pillars seen in the mini-boss Ook’s room in the Forest Temple in Twilight Princess. |
Impa
The second character in the roster is Impa, Sheikah warrior and Zelda’s caretaker. While she only made her debut in a game in Ocarina of Time, she has been part of the series since the very beginning, appearing in the game manuals of the first two The Legend of Zelda games, in which her role in these games’ stories is explained.
Regardless of game and appearance, her role is usually same. She is Zelda’s caretaker and is tasked with raising and protecting her. While in some games she appears as an old lady, in Ocarina of Time and Skyward Sword, she is a member of the Sheikah, a mysterious tribe who protects the Hyrulean Royal Family from the shadows.
Her appearance in Hyrule Warriors is based on her portrayal as a Sheikah warrior and wields either a Giant Blade or a Naginata. Alongside her traditional role as Zelda’s caretaker, she is also the commander of the Hyrulean army and leads it against the dark forces threatening the kingdom.
Impa’s weapons:
Giant Blade – A large and slightly curved sword. Impa may have never used such a huge sword in the Zelda series, but this weapon is based on the two handed swords found in Ocarina of Time and as such the moveset mostly consists of strong but slow swings, though water elemental magic moves were added to the mix.
| Weapon level | Image | Notes |
| Giant’s Knife (Lv. 1) |  |
Despite using a new design for Hyrule Warriors, the Giant’s Knife originates from Ocarina of Time as a two handed sword crafted by a Goron smith. It originally was a strong but fragile weapon that would break after some use, thus needing to be repaired from time to time. |
| Biggoron’s Knife (Lv. 2) |  |
This weapon was made up for Hyrule Warriors. |
| Biggoron’s Sword (Lv. 3)
Biggoron’s Sword + (Lv. 4) |
 |
Shape of the blade aside, this weapon’s design is taken from the Giant’s Knife and the Biggoron’s Sword in Ocarina of Time. Originally, the Biggoron’s Sword is a blade crafted by Biggoron and, while looking the same as the Giant’s Knife, it had the benefit of not breaking with use while retaining the enhanced strength. |
| 8-bit Boomerang |  |
A 3D rendering of the Boomerang item from |
Notable moves:
| Input | Notes |
| C5 | Impa jumps a summons a rain of kunai made of water. Sheikah have always been portrayed similarly to ninjas, which may be the inspiration behind this move. |
Naginata – Keeping with Japanese thematic typically associated with the Sheikah, Impa can use a naginata (a type of spear often used by samurai) in battle for agile and multiple hitting attack combos as well as fire attacks. This is completely made up for Hyrule Warriors but offers a possible insight on what kind of weaponry the mysterious Sheikah tribe use.
| Weapon level | Image | Notes |
| Guardian Naginata (Lv. 1) |  |
Original weapon for Hyrule Warriors. |
| Scorching Naginata (Lv. 2) |  |
A naginata designed with a flame motif, fitting the weapon class’s element. |
| Sheikah Naginata (Lv. 3)
Sheikah Naginata + (Lv. 4) |
 |
A naginata with a design inspired by the Sheikah tribe, containing the Sheikah eye between the blade and the rest of the pole. |
| Crackling Naginata (Lv. 4+) | |
Adds lightning element to the weapon. |
| 8-bit Magical Sword |  |
The blade is a 3D rendering of the Magical Sword from The Legend of Zelda. |
Notable moves:
| Input | Notes |
| S | Giant naginata blades in a circle and explode into fire. The Sheikah eye, the symbol most associated with the tribe, can be seen during this move. |
Sheik
In Ocarina of Time, a mysterious Sheikah warrior meets Link after his seven year slumber upon taking the Master Sword from its pedestal. Zelda’s whereabouts being unknown, Sheik assures of her safety and guides Link in finding Sages’ temples scattered in Hyrule. Using her harp, she would also teach melodies that allowed Link to teleport to each of the temples. After awakening all the Sages, Sheik reveals to be Princess Zelda herself, the holder of the Triforce of Wisdom and the seventh Sage destined to lead the other six, who disguised herself to avoid being captured by Ganondorf.
Notorious for the plot twist, Zelda’s alter ego has a similar role in Hyrule Warriors, appearing after Zelda goes missing and only revealing her true identity later on. Sheik can only use a single weapon, the Harp.
Sheik’s weapon:
Harp – The harp Sheik uses to teach melodies to Link which allow her to play different songs, some of which she can also play alongside other songs. Her basic attacks consist of agile attacks aided by ninja weapons like kunai.
| Weapon level | Image | Notes |
| Goddess Harp (Lv. 1) |  |
The harp used by Sheik in Ocarina of Time to teach Link certain songs. It also appears in Skyward Sword, belonging to Zelda. Zelda eventually gives it to Link so that he can play songs with it, allowing him to progress in his quest. According to Hyrule Historia, this harp was passed down through the generations of the Hyrulean Royal Family. |
| Typhoon Harp (Lv. 2) |  |
A harp with a design inspired by its weapon element in Hyrule Warriors. |
| Triforce Harp (Lv. 3)
Triforce Harp + (Lv. 4) |
 |
A harp with a design inspired by the royal crest of Hyrule, thus including the Triforce as well. |
| Shining Harp (Lv. 4+) | |
Adds light element to the weapon. |
| 8-bit Ladder |  |
3D rendering of the Ladder item from The Legend of Zelda. |
Notable moves:
| Input | Notes |
| N4 | Sheik does a spinning kick move reminiscent of her down Smash from the Super Smash Bros. games. |
| C1 | If Sheik has previously used a combo attack (denoted by a musical note near the special move gauge), she can play a song corresponding to the element of the combo attack used. They are as follows:
Serenade of Water – Surrounds Sheik with a whirlpool of water that protects her from damage, but can only sustain a certain amount of damage. In Ocarina of Time, this song teleported Link to Lake Hylia, near the Water Temple. Bolero of Fire – Causes an explosion of flame in front of Sheik, dealing damage to enemies in the affected area. In Ocarina of Time, this song transports Link to the Death Mountain Crater, near the entrance to the Fire Temple. Song of Storms – Temporarily surrounds Sheik with a thunderstorm that deals continuous damage to enemies around her. In Ocarina of Time, this song causes the weather to change so it becomes stormy. Nocturne of Shadow – Dark magic is cast over an area in front of Sheik, drawing enemies to its center and dealing continuous damage. In Ocarina of Time, the song teleported Link to the Kakariko Village graveyard, near the entrance to the Shadow Temple. Prelude of Light – Casts an area of light around Sheik allowing her to gradually fill the special move gauge as long as she stands there. It disappears after some time. In Ocarina of Time, this song teleported Link to the Temple of Time. |
| C2 | Sheik spawns a whirlpool of water that lifts enemies. She can play the Serenade of Water after using this move. |
| C3 | Sheik causes a burning rock to fall in front of her. After using this move, she can play the Bolero of Fire. |
| C4 | Sheik sends lightning in front of her. She can play the Song of Storms after using this move. |
| C5 | Sheik vanishes and attacks from above, causing a dark effect upon landing. She can play the Nocturne of Shadow afterwards. |
| C6 | Sheik causes a blast of light around her. She can play the Prelude of Light after using this move. |
| FSS | Sheik plays Saria’s Song to make trees grow, attacking foes in an area. In Ocarina of Time, Saria’s Song allowed Link to communicate with Saria anywhere. |
Lana
An original character created for Hyrule Warriors, Lana is known as the White Sorceress and joins the Hyrulean forces to aid them against the dark forces. Later in the story, it is revealed that she is the personification of Cia’s light side, expelled after her corruption. She can use three different weapons and possesses several sorts of magical powers.
Lana’s weapons:
Book of Sorcery – A spell book that allows Lana to use magic. Being a lightning elemental weapon, its spells mainly focus on lightning attacks but it can also spawn magic blocks. This spell book might be made up for Hyrule Warriors, but spell books aren’t alien to the Zelda franchise, with the Magic Book item from The Legend of Zelda that allows the Magic Rod to shoot fire.
| Weapon level | Image | Notes |
| Spirit’s Tome (Lv. 1) |  |
Lana’s spell book. Its red coloring may be based on the Magic Book from The Legend of Zelda. |
| Sealing Tome (Lv. 2) |  |
May be loosely based on the Book of Seals from Oracle of Ages, which allowed Link to obtain Fairy Powder. Its green cover resembles both the Book of Mudora from A Link to the Past and the aforementioned Book of Seals. |
| Sorceress Tome (Lv. 3)
Sorceress Tome + (Lv. 4) |
 |
This tome’s elaborate design is similar to Lana’s outfit. |
| 8-bit Magic Book |  |
A 3D rendering of the Magic Book from The Legend of Zelda. |
Notable moves:
Lana’s moveset is completely original to Hyrule Warriors, although magic, in this particular case being lightning, has been a recurring element of the Zelda series.
Spear – A water elemental weapon original toHyrule Warriors. Heavily inspired by the forests seen in the Zelda series, this weapon can summon vegetation in addition to shooting water, abundantly found in the Faron Province in Skyward Sword.
| Weapon level | Image | Notes |
| Deku Spear (Lv. 1) |  |
Shaped similar to a Deku Stick from Ocarina of Time and Majora’s Mask. |
| Kokiri Spear (Lv. 2) |  |
The weapon’s name refers to the Kokiri, a race of beings that resemble human children seen in Ocarina of Time. The shiny green orb in the tip of the weapon may be a reference to the Kokiri Emerald from the same game, one of the three stones required to open the Gate of Time. |
| Faron Spear (Lv. 3)
Faron Spear + (Lv. 4) |
 |
The name refers to Faron, the being that watches over the Faron Province. In Twilight Princess, Faron is one of the Light Spirits that protect Hyrule from darkness. In Skyward Sword, Faron is the Water Dragon and the guardian of the Faron Woods. On the tip of the weapon, there’s a miniature of the Deku Tree as seen in Ocarina of Time. |
| Sun Faron Spear (Lv. 4+) | |
Adds light element to the weapon. |
| 8-bit Magical Rod |  |
A 3D rendering of the Magical Rod from The Legend of Zelda. |
Notable moves:
| Input | Notes |
| C1 | Plants a tree. It can be a normal tree, but sometimes, the Deku Tree sprout from Ocarina of Time can appear and walk on its own, damaging enemies it touches. |
| C2 | Wind is blown from below and Lana jumps and takes out the Deku Leaf from The Wind Waker to glide like in said game. |
| C3 | Using a giant slingshot, Lana throws a Deku Nut. This attack can be aimed. Slingshot is an item in Ocarina of Time, Oracle of Seasons, Four Swords Adventures, Twilight Princess and Skyward Sword, allowing Link to shoot seeds at a distance. Deku Nuts appear in Ocarina of Time and Majora’s Mask and are thrown to stun enemies. |
| C5 | Lana uses the Deku Leaf to shoot a whirlwind, similar to how Link uses the same item when in the ground. Unlike The Wind Waker, Lana is blown by the wind and is able to glide afterwards. |
| C6 | Lana spawns three Deku Tree Sprouts that use one of several possible movement patterns, damaging enemies upon touching them. |
| S | Lana spawns several trees followed by the Deku Tree as seen in Ocarina of Time. |
| FSS | Lana rides on a Deku Tree Sprout, going forward, hitting enemies on the way. |
Summoning Gate – An original weapon of fire element that centers on summoning bosses and borrow their moves. The bosses able to be summoned are King Dodongo, Gohma, Manhandla and Argorok. Combination attacks change depending on the boss summoned using a strong attack: if the combo attack summons a boss that matches the one summoned using the strong attack, the attack will be different.
| Weapon level | Image | Notes |
| Gate of Time (Lv. 1) |  |
Based on the Gate of Time from Skyward Sword, which allowed Link and Zelda to travel between the past and present time throughout the story. |
| Guardian’s Gate (Lv. 2) |  |
Resembles the portals used by Cia to spawn Dark Links in her movesets. |
| Gate of Souls (Lv. 3)
Gate of Souls + (Lv. 4) |
 |
Gates of Souls are featured in the story of Hyrule Warriors, used by Cia to merge different eras of Hyrule with the present. |
| Gate of Tides (Lv. 4+) | |
A Gate of Souls with an added water elemental attribute. |
| 8-bit Compass |  |
A 3D rendering of the Compass item as seen in The Legend of Zelda. |
Notable moves:
| Input | Notes |
| C1 | Randomly summons one of four bosses: King Dodongo, Mandhandla, Gohma and Argorok. The first three come from The Legend of Zelda, also appearing in several other Zelda games while Argorok comes from Twilight Princess.
Upon being summoned, they’ll each attack. King Dodongo breathes fire continuously, Manhandla creates a field of poison to attack enemies around it, Gohma fires a laser in a wide area, and Argorok breathes fire around it, protecting Lana. |
| C2 | Summons King Dodongo. If it has been summoned before with C1, two King Dodongos will fire a fireball each. Otherwise, King Dodongo will use its rolling attack to strike foes in its way. |
| C3 | Summons Manhandla. If it has been summoned before with C1, two Manhandlas will appear to continuously fire seeds in a wide area. Otherwise, Manhandla will hit foes physically and then launch a barrage of seeds. |
| C4 | Summons Gohma. If it has been summoned before with C1, two Gohmas will appear and fire multiple projectiles to attack enemies in a wide area. Otherwise, Gohma will jump high and strike enemies in front of Lana. |
| C5 | Summons Argorok. If it has been summoned before with C1, Lana will ride on Argorok’s back as it breathes fire on the battlefield. Players can control its path. Otherwise, Lana won’t ride Argorok and it only attacks in straight path in Lana’s sight. |
| S | Summons a giant Cucco to attack enemies in a wide area. Cuccos are a recurring chicken-like animal in The Legend of Zelda series, first appearing in A Link to the Past. Giant Cuccos appear in some games such as Four Swords Adventures. |
| FSS | Lana uses the gate to fire a continuous barrage of projectile attacks from King Dodongo, Manhandla and Gohma. |
Zelda
The titular princess of The Legend of Zelda series, usually playing an important role in each game’s story. Holder of the Triforce of Wisdom, she has magical powers and is the rightful heir to the Hyrulean throne. In Skyward Sword, Zelda is the reincarnation of the goddess Hylia, granting her and her bloodline magical powers. She can use 3 different weapons, all of them possessing some kind of magical powers.
Zelda’s weapons:
Rapier – A light, but regal looking, sword. In Twilight Princess, Zelda is seen wielding this weapon when Zant’s forces invade. When she gets possessed by Ganondorf, she fights Link using it and light magic. In Hyrule Warriors, she can light magic and light arrows alongside the rapier. She can store up to three uses of light magic by using a strong attack to fill them completely or doing a complete combo with the neutral attack button to fill one. With light magic, her combo attacks are different and consume one use.
| Weapon level | Image | Notes |
| Polished Rapier (Lv. 1) |  |
Original design for Hyrule Warriors. |
| Glittering Rapier (Lv. 2) |  |
Original design for Hyrule Warriors. |
| Gleaming Rapier (Lv. 3)
Gleaming Rapier + (Lv. 4) |
 |
The design, original to Hyrule Warriors, has the handle modelled after the royal crest of the Hyrulean Royal Family. |
| 8-bit White Sword |  |
A 3D rendering of the White Sword as seen in The Legend of Zelda. |
Notable moves:
| Input | Notes |
| C2 | If used while having light magic charges, Zelda can throw a light magic ball to the ground, similar to how Ganondorf does while possessing her in Twilight Princess. |
| C4 | If used while having light magic charges, Zelda will fire multiple Light Arrows into the air and barrage a large area with falling arrows. |
| C5 | When used with light magic, Zelda will cast a large area of light around her and damage enemies within it. This is similar to one of Ganondorf’s attacks in Twilight Princess while possessing Zelda. |
| S | Zelda fires a powerful Light Arrow in a straight line. |
| FSS | Zelda casts what appears to be Nayru’s Love, Din’s Fire and Farore’s Wind. A possible reference to how she uses these spells from Ocarina of Time in Smash Bros. Originally, Link is the user of those spells |
Baton – A magical baton that can control the wind. In fact, the weapon’s first level is the titular Wind Waker from The Wind Waker (called Baton of Wind in Japanese). A lightning element weapon, Zelda can conduct music to control the wind and send enemies away.
| Weapon level | Image | Notes |
| Wind Waker (Lv. 1) |  |
The titular item from The Wind Waker. A magical baton once used by the ancient Sages of Hyrule, it has the power to control the wind. |
| Sacred Baton (Lv. 2) |  |
A baton with a more elaborate design compared to the Wind Waker. It is original to Hyrule Warriors. |
| Glorious Baton (Lv. 3)
Glorious Baton + (Lv. 4) |
 |
A baton with a rose design original to Hyrule Warriors. |
| Liquid Glorious Baton (Lv. 4+) | |
Adds water element to the weapon. |
| 8-bit Recorder |  |
A 3D rendering of the Recorder item as seen in The Legend of Zelda. |
Notable moves:
| Input | Notes |
| N1~4 | Zelda uses the baton to create wind slashes that damage foes. The wind is stylized after the wind effects from The Wind Waker. |
| N5~7, C1, C5 | In all these moves, Zelda conjures one or more tornadoes. A reference to the Ballad of Gales in The Wind Waker, which allows Link to control cyclones to transport to several areas. |
| C2, C6 | These moves have Zelda make musical scores made of wind and/or electricity, referring to the Wind Waker’s musical purposes. They also resemble the scores appearing in Ocarina of Time and Majora’s Mask when using an ocarina item. |
| S | This move spawns multiple tornadoes to attack foes. Zelda actually plays several melodies from the Zelda series, those being Saria’s Song, Song of Time and Song of Healing from Ocarina of Time and Majora’s Mask. |
Dominion Rod – A magic item that allows to control certain statues. Originating from Twilight Princess, this item served to control certain types of ancient statues for multiple purposes like uncovering hidden passages or hitting certain objects, depending on the statue’s shape. In Hyrule Warriors, Zelda uses this darkness element weapon to spawn statues, control them and wreak havoc in the battlefield.
| Weapon level | Image | Notes |
| Old Dominion Rod (Lv. 1) |  |
The Dominion Rod as it appears in Twilight Princess. Said to be an ancient item. |
| High Dominion Rod (Lv. 2) |  |
A slightly more elaborate Dominion Rod with a blue and silver color scheme. |
| Royal Dominion Rod (Lv. 3)
Royal Dominion Rod + (Lv. 4) |
 |
A Dominion Rod with a red color scheme and a design inspired by the Royal Crest of Hyrule. |
Notable moves:
| Input | Notes |
| C1 | Spawns one of two statues to be summoned in normal attacks. It can either be a owl statue or an axe wielding statue. Originally, the owl statue couldn’t be used for any attack purposes. |
| N1~… (axe statue), C3, C4, C6, S | Similar to Twilight Princess, the statue uses its weapon to deliver powerful blows. |
Ganondorf
Said to be the sole man born to the Gerudo tribe in the desert, Ganondorf was destined to be their king. Growing in the harsh desert and envying Hyrule’s green lands and prosperity, Ganondorf sought to conquer it and obtain the Triforce for himself. A manifestation of Demon King Demise’s hatred, Ganondorf is fated to oppose Link and Zelda. Powerful, cunning and manipulative, Ganondorf managed to obtain the Triforce of Power, granting him nearly god-like power and become the beast Ganon. In Hyrule Warriors, he is the mastermind behind Cia’s corruption, so she can unwittingly break his seal so he attempts to conquer Hyrule once more. Ganondorf can use 2 different weapons and brutally sow destruction throughout the battlefield.
Ganondorf’s weapons:
Great Swords – A pair of humongous swords that Ganondorf can swing with relative ease. A darkness element weapon, Ganondorf can also make use of his dark magic to attack from afar. When using this weapon, Ganondorf has a dark magic gauge that can be charged by holding down the strong attack button after using a combo move, except for C2. C2’s duration can be extended by repeated presses of the strong attack button, slowly filling the gauge. Although Ganondorf have used swords in the Zelda series, none of the designs match any of them.
| Weapon level | Image | Notes |
| Swords of Despair (Lv. 1) |  |
Two evil-looking black blades. Might be loosely inspired by the giant blades used by Ganon in Ocarina of Time and the sword used by Ganondorf in the SpaceWorld 2000 demo (also seen in Super Smash Bros. Melee). |
| Swords of Darkness (Lv. 2) |  |
Sinister looking swords with a purple color scheme. |
| Swords of Demise (Lv. 3)
Swords of Demise + (Lv. 4) |
 |
The name refers to the Demon King Demise seen in Skyward Sword. The design of one the swords also resembles Demise’s weapon. |
| 8-bit Magical Key |  |
3D renderings of the Key and Magical Key items as seen in The Legend of Zelda. |
Notable moves:
| Input | Notes |
| C1 | Using the dark magic gauge, Ganondorf levitates and hits the ground with a magic blast. The more filled the gauge is prior to this move’s usage, the stronger the move is. This move is similar to one of the attacks Ganondorf does in Ocarina of Time. |
| C3 | Charges a magic ball from the tip of one of the swords and shoots it. Ganondorf does a similar move in Twilight Princess, during the horseback duel. |
| C4 | After swinging the blades multiple times, Ganondorf casts a blast around him with his entire body. The animation for this part is similar to when he transforms into Ganon in Ocarina of Time, as well as one of his taunt animations in the Super Smash Bros. games. |
| C5 | Ganondorf charges a large magic ball, placing it on the floor. He then punches the ball, splitting it into smaller projectiles that go in multiple directions. The punching animation is heavily similar to the Warlock Punch from the Super Smash Bros. series, specifically as seen in Brawl onwards. |
| C6 | Ganondorf invokes a shadow form of his beast form Ganon that attacks at a large range. Might be a reference to his ability to create copies of himself like Phantom Ganon or perhaps the Nightmare from Link’s Awakening, which has a shadow version of Ganon as one of its forms. |
| S | Ganondorf points one of the swords skyward and after lightning strikes it, he shoots lightning from the sword forward. A possible reference to the Demise boss fight in Skyward Sword, in which both Link and Demise can charge their swords with the falling lightning bolts and shoot them afterwards. |
| FS | After Focus Spirit is over, Ganondorf floats with two magic balls in his hands and strikes the ground with a powerful blast of darkness. Likely inspired by Ocarina of Time, similar to C1. |
| FSS | Similar to C6, Ganondorf summons a shadow version of his beast form to attack. |
Trident – Ganon’s traditional weapon seen since A Link to the Past, often associated with lightning, the same element it has in Hyrule Warriors. A faster weapon than the Great Swords, though not as strong, it’s still a force to be reckoned with.
| Weapon level | Image | Notes |
| Thief’s Trident (Lv. 1) |  |
A trident with a design inspired by Gerudo motifs. |
| King of Evil Trident (Lv. 2) |  |
The trident used by Yuga-Ganon in A Link Between Worlds. |
| Trident of Demise (Lv. 3)
Trident of Demise + (Lv. 4) |
 |
A trident inspired by Demise. The blades on the weapon’s tip even resemble the blade of Demise’s sword. |
| Burning Trident (Lv. 4+) | |
Adds fire element to the weapon. |
Notable moves:
| Input | Notes |
| C1 | Throws the trident forward, then charges and rushes forward with a punch, grabbing the trident in the process. The rushing animation heavily resembles his Flame Choke move in the Super Smash Bros. series. |
| C4 | Ganondorf throws the trident in a circular motion, damaging enemies around him. This is similar to a move used by Ganon in Four Swords Adventures. |
| S | After throwing the trident, Ganondorf floats into the air and throws a ball of electricity to the trident’s place. This resembles his projectile used in the boss battle against him in Ocarina of Time. |
Darunia
The proud Goron chief from Ocarina of Time. After Link rids the Dodongo’s Cavern of dangerous Dodongos so that Gorons can find edible rocks there, Darunia grants Link the Goron’s Ruby, one of the three stones required to open the Door of Time. Seven years later, Darunia attempts to defeat the ancient dragon Volvagia in the Fire Temple, where other Gorons were imprisoned by Ganondorf as well. After Link defeats the dragon, Darunia awakens as the Sage of Fire.
Darunia’s weapon:
Hammer – A large hammer with the symbol of the Goron tribe engraved. Hammers overall have been a recurring item throughout the Zelda series, starting with Zelda II. In Ocarina of Time, it’s said that a legendary Goron hero defeated the dragon Volvagia with the Megaton Hammer, which remains a prized treasure of the Gorons. Fitting for the Sage of Fire, this weapon is of the fire element and also allows Darunia to make the ground erupt with lava.
| Weapon level | Image | Notes |
| Magic Hammer (Lv. 1) |  |
Resembles the Megaton Hammer from Ocarina of Time. Shares the name with the hammer item found in A Link to the Past. |
| Igneous Hammer (Lv. 2) |  |
This hammer resembles a volcano, being made with rock and having lava cracks spread throughout. Likely a reference to the Goron tribe’s usual residence in volcanic areas such as Death Mountain. |
| Megaton Hammer (Lv. 3)
Megaton Hammer + (Lv. 4) |
 |
Shares the same name as the hammer found in Ocarina of Time. Its design is similar to its namesake, but with a red color and the Goron insignia engraved in it.. |
| Darkfire Hammer (Lv. 4+) | |
Adds darkness element to the weapon. |
| 8-bit Food |  |
The hammerhead becomes a 3D rendering of the Food item found in The Legend of Zelda. |
Notable moves:
| Input | Notes |
| N1~2 | Similar to the Zelda series overall, the hammer is used by hitting with it on the ground for strong attacks. |
| N7, C2, C4, C5, S | All these moves have Darunia using the hammer and create eruptions or fire. This is likely a reference to his status as the Sage of Fire, but as well as Death Mountain, the home of the Goron Tribe and a volcanic place. |
| C1 | Darunia curls and begins rolling, attacking anything in the way. This is an ability common to all Gorons. |
| C6 | Darunia takes a large volcanic boulder and throws it, exploding when hitting the ground. The Goron tribe is said to have exceptional strength, something this move showcases. |
Ruto
The Zora princess from Ocarina of Time. She ventures inside Lord Jabu-Jabu’s belly after it swallowed the Zora’s Sapphire, one of the three stones required to open the Door of Time. Link meets her and helps her in the journey, earning her trust. Seven years later, she ventures into the Water Temple to find the source of the curse behind the drying Lake Hylia and awakens as the Sage of Water after Link defeats the beast within the temple.
Ruto’s weapon:
Zora Scale – A scale of the Zora species. A water elemental weapon, Ruto uses water based moves to attack foes in the battlefield. In the Zelda series, this recurring item often allows Link to dive underwater or improve his diving ability. In Phantom Hourglass, the Zora Scale item is a valuable treasure instead.
| Weapon level | Image | Notes |
| Silver Scale (Lv. 1) |  |
From Ocarina of Time, this item originally improved Link’s diving capabilities, allowing him to dive further. |
| Golden Scale (Lv. 2) |  |
Also from Ocarina of Time, this served as an upgrade to the Silver Scale, improving Link’s diving even further. |
| Water Dragon Scale (Lv. 3)
Water Dragon Scale + (Lv. 4) |
 |
A scale of Lanayru, the Water Dragon from Skyward Sword, that allows Link to dive underwater. |
| Sun Dragon Scale (Lv. 4+) | |
Adds light element to the weapon. |
| 8-bit Clock |  |
A 3D rendering of the Clock item seen in The Legend of Zelda. |
Notable moves:
| Input | Notes |
| FSS | Ruto attacks foes with a shower of fish-shaped water drops, possibly a reference to the recurring fishing mini-games found throughout the Zelda series, notably in Ocarina of Time in the Fishing Pond in Lake Hylia. |
Agitha
An eccentric girl found in Hyrule Castle Town in Twilight Princess. Believing she’s a princess of insects, Agitha asks Link to find several golden bugs scattered through Hyrule in exchange of rewards.
Agitha’s weapon:
Parasol – A parasol Agitha carries. She can hit foes with the basket she also carries, release bugs from her collection or even spawn giant golden bugs to attack foes. This weapon is of the light element.
| Weapon level | Image | Notes |
| Butterfly Parasol (Lv. 1) |  |
Agitha’s parasol, as seen in Twilight Princess. |
| Luna Parasol (Lv. 2) |  |
An original design to Hyrule Warriors with a lunar motif. |
| Princess Parasol (Lv. 3)
Princess Parasol + (Lv. 4) |
 |
A pink design with elements taken from Agitha’s dress, such as ribbons and butterflies. |
| Incandescent Parasol (Lv. 4+) | |
Adds a fire element to the weapon. |
| 8-bit Rupee |  |
The parasol becomes a 3D rendering of a Rupee as seen in The Legend of Zelda. The contents of the basket also change to 8-bit Rupees. |
Notable moves:
| Input | Notes |
| C1 | Agitha hops on a giant golden butterfly and rides it to fly around. The butterfly is one of the golden bugs Link can find in Twilight Princess. |
| C2 | Agitha releases multiple butterflies from her basket. |
| C3 | Agitha spawns a giant golden beetle to attack foes in an area. Beetles are also one of the golden bugs Link finds in Twilight Princess. |
Midna
A mysterious imp whom Link finds in Twilight Princess. She helps Link to escape Hyrule Castle covered in twilight and helps him in restoring the land of Hyrule to normal. Cursed by Zant, the usurper king of Twilight, she aims to defeat him to earn her place back as the Twilight Princess, the true ruler of the Twilight Realm.
Midna’s weapon:
Shackle – Midna’s hair shackle, a darkness element weapon that allows her to summon wolves to attack foes. In addition, she can use her hair to grab foes.
| Weapon level | Image | Notes |
| Cursed Shackle (Lv. 1) |  |
The shackle she wears in Twilight Princess. |
| Twilight Shackle (Lv. 2) |  |
A shackle inspired by the aesthetics of the Palace of Twilight. |
| Sol Shackle (Lv. 3)
Sol Shackle + (Lv. 4) |
 |
A shackle shaped like the Sols, said to be the only sources of light in the Twilight Realm. |
| Thunderhead Shackle (Lv. 4+) | |
Adds lightning element to the weapon. |
| 8-bit Red Ring |  |
A 3D rendering of the Red Ring item as seen in The Legend of Zelda. |
Notable moves:
| Input | Notes |
| Running | For her running animation, Midna rides on a twilight wolf to go faster. This is a reference to how Midna would ride on Wolf Link’s. |
| N1~3 | The wolf bites foes similar to how Wolf Link attacks foes in Twilight Princess. |
| FSS | Using the Fused Shadows, Midna transforms into an abomination and unleashes a powerful move. In Twilight Princess, Midna makes use of the Fused Shadows to defeat Zant, to destroy the barrier surrounding Hyrule Castle and against Ganondorf. |
Zant
The Usurper King of Twilight, he used to serve the royal family of the Twilight Realm. Ambitious, he desired to become king and conquer the land of Hyrule. As Ganondorf was sealed in the Twilight Princess, Zant was given great magical powers by the Evil King and, after cursing Midna and the Twili, he set out on conquering Hyrule and covering it with twilight. Beneath his calm demeanor lies a mentally unstable man who’s prone to violent outbursts of anger.
Zant’s weapon:
Scimitars – Zant’s weapons. In addition to using this darkness element weapon for physical blows, Zant also uses dark magic to either attack foes or spawn objects. This weapon has a special gauge that can be filled by extending combo attacks by pressing strong attack button while using them. If this gauge is full, attempting to extend strong attacks will tire Zant and deplete it. Using a strong attack allows Zant to activate a special mode of attacking.
| Weapon level | Image | Notes |
| Usurper’s Scimitars (Lv. 1) |  |
The scimitars Zant uses in Twilight Princess. |
| Shadow Scimitars (Lv. 2) |  |
An original design for Hyrule Warriors that takes inspiration from several motifs related to the Twilight Realm. |
| Scimitars of Twilight (Lv. 3)
Scimitars of Twilight + (Lv. 4) |
 |
These scimitars are identical to the magic sword used by Zant to revive Stallord, the boss of the Arbiter’s Grounds. |
| Darkwater Scimitars (Lv. 4+) | |
Adds water element to the weapon. |
| 8-bit Magical Boomerangs |  |
3D renderings of the Magical Boomerang as seen in The Legend of Zelda. |
Notable moves:
| Input | Notes |
| C1 | Activates a special mode. The gauge below the life meter starts depleting and, while this mode is active, pressing the normal attack button allows Zant to do a continuous spin attack, while pressing the strong attack button allows Zant to shoot magic balls. Both are attacks taken from his boss battle in Twilight Princess. |
| C2 | Summons a Zant’s Mask, which spins around shooting projectiles. Repeatedly pressing the strong attack button extends this move’s duration. Zant’s Masks appear as enemies in Twilight Princess and shoot projectiles. |
| C3 | Spawns a totem in which Zant stands on top and shoots magic balls from above. Repeatedly pressing the strong attack button extends this move’s duration. This is one of the moves Zant uses in his boss battle in Twilight Princess, specifically when he alters the room to become identical to the room where the mini-boss Ook is fought. |
| C4 | Zant comes crashing down with a body slam. Repeatedly pressing the strong attack button extends this move’s duration. Afterwards, Zant shoots a magic ball. This is one of the attacks he can use in the boss battle in Twilight Princess. |
| C5 | Zant summons a Zant’s Hand and has it slam the ground. Repeatedly pressing the strong attack button extends this move’s duration. Afterwards, the Zant’s Hand begins striking the foes in mid-air, lifted by the ground slams. Zant’s Hands appear as enemies in Twilight Princess and attempt to prevent Link from taking the Sols to the outside area of the Twilight Realm. |
| C6 | Zant grows gigantic and stomps the ground, causing shockwaves. Repeatedly pressing the strong attack button extends this move’s duration. This is a reference to when Zant mimics the boss Blizzetta, by growing huge and attempting to attack Link from above. |
| FS | Zant grows gigantic and does a body slam to attack foes in a large area. |
| FSS | Zant spawns a Zant’s Head to attack foes in front of him. |
Fi
Fi made her debut in Skyward Sword as the sword spirit of the Goddess Sword, whose role is to guide the chosen hero of the goddess to fulfill his destiny of vanquishing evil. Stoic and emotionless, she comes off as robotic and remain completely focused on her mission.
Fi’s weapon:
Goddess Blade – Link’s sword in Skyward Sword. Fi is the sword spirit residing in it. After several trials, it becomes the Master Sword. In Hyrule Warriors, Fi can transform into the sword at will to attack enemies on her own.
| Weapon level | Image | Notes |
| Goddess Sword (Lv. 1) |  |
The first form of the Goddess Sword seen in Skyward Sword. |
| Goddess Longsword (Lv. 2) |  |
The second form of the Goddess Sword seen in Skyward Sword. |
| True Goddess Blade (Lv. 3)
True Goddess Blade + (Lv. 4) |
 |
The third form of the Goddess Sword seen in Skyward Sword, where it’s originally named Goddess White Sword. |
| Liquid Goddess Blade (Lv. 4+) | |
Adds water element to the weapon. |
| 8-bit Silver Arrow |  |
A 3D rendering of a Silver Arrow as seen in The Legend of Zelda. |
Notable moves:
| Input | Notes |
| N1~… | Fi attacks by dancing, her legs cutting through as if they were blades. When obtaining the flames of the goddesses to empower the Goddess Sword in Skyward Sword, Fi performs several dance moves while Link plays the Goddess Harp. |
| C3 | Fi generates a flower-like light ring that hits foes multiple times. It is based on the same light ring that appears when Link is playing the harp to enter or exit a Silent Realm. |
| C4 | Fi charges ahead with light shaped like the Goddess Crest appearing and hitting enemies along the way. |
| C6 | Gathering the three flames of the Goddesses (Din, Nayru and Farore), she transforms into her sword form and strikes enemies in a wide area. |
| S | In her sword form, Fi circles around then stabs the floor, causing The Imprisoned’s seal to appear, made of light. This is a reference to when Link and Fi seal The Imprisoned back into its seal. |
| FSS | A Goddess Crest appears and Fi strikes it, making it spin and attacking enemies with light. Goddess Crests appear throughout the world of Skyward Sword and Link must activate hit them with a Skyward Strike to activate them. |
Ghirahim
Ghirahim is the demon lord ruling the surface world in Skyward Sword. A subordinate of the ancient demon king Demise, he seeks to free his master from the seal placed on him by the goddess Hylia. Vain and conceited, he carries off an air of dignity, preferring to be addressed as “Lord Ghirahim”. Upon multiple defeats by Link, he loses his calm demeanor in favor of bloodthirsty rage. Similar to Fi, he’s the sword spirit of Demise’s sword and returns to his blade form once Demise is broken free. This form resembles an evil-looking counterpart to the Master Sword.
Ghirahim’s weapon:
Demon Blade – Ghirahim’s weapon is a slightly curved blade which he uses to duel against Link in Skyward Sword. In Hyrule Warriors, he can also spawn more blades, use magic and even attack enemies in his sword form while wielding this darkness element weapon.
| Weapon level | Image | Notes |
| Demon Tribe Sword (Lv. 1) |  |
The sword Ghirahim mostly wields throughout Skyward Sword. |
| Demon Longsword (Lv. 2) |  |
A more elaborate version of the sword Ghirahim uses in Skyward Sword. |
| True Demon Blade (Lv. 3)
True Demon Blade + (Lv. 4) |
 |
An even more elaborate version of the sword used by Ghirahim in Skyward Sword, possibly inspired by Ghirahim’s true form as Demise’s sword. |
| Darkfire Demon Blade (Lv. 4+) | |
Adds fire element to the weapon. |
| 8-bit Arrow |  |
A 3D rendering of an Arrow as seen in The Legend of Zelda. |
Notable moves:
| Input | Notes |
| N2~3 | Ghirahim throws knifes in lines, referring to one of his several moves from his several boss battles in Skyward Sword. |
| N4 | Ghirahim attacks with two sword, a reference to the second boss battle in Skyward Sword. |
| N6, WPS | In those attacks, Ghirahim uses a large sword to attack. In Skyward Sword, this one of the swords Ghirahim attacks Link with during the final battle against him. |
| C1 | Binds the enemy with a red string. This is likely a reference to Ghirahim’s speech before fighting with Link for the second time in Skyward Sword, in which he comments that their many successive encounters are a result of destiny and how they’re bound by a red string of fate. |
| C2 | After lifting foes into the air, Ghirahim stabs foes with two swords, once again a reference to his second boss battle in Skyward Sword, and then dances while humming his theme song, sending foes upward with a magical platform. This is a reference to the scenes before his third and final boss battle in Skyward Sword: the dancing and humming comes from when he is performing the ritual to summon Demise, while the platform is the same as the one spawns to lift himself and Link for their final duel. |
| C3 | Ghirahim spawns knives in a circular motion, one of his many moves from his boss battles in Skyward Sword, and then disappears to attack from above while transformed into his true sword form. |
| C4 | Ghirahim shoots a sword beam, one of his moves from his third boss battle in Skyward Sword, spawns multiple of Demise’s sword blades in a wide area and then spawns Bokoblins that recklessly attack enemies in whichever direction the player inputs. In Skyward Sword, Ghirahim summons a horde of Bokoblins in an attempt to avoid Link interrupt the ritual to revive Demise. |
| C5 | Ghirahim spawns a platform to raise enemies into the air alongside himself, then comes crashing down into the floor, creating a shockwave. This is another reference to his third and last boss battle, in which Link and Ghirahim duel on top of a magic platform and attempt to take each other out of it. |
| FS | When Focus Spirit is active, Ghirahim assumes his form from the final boss battle against him in Skyward Sword. |
Cia
An original character created for Hyrule Warriors that serves as the game’s antagonist. Originally a protector of the Triforce, her romantic feelings for Link led to her corruption thanks to Ganondorf. Attempting to conquer Hyrule with her forces, she’s outwitted by Ganondorf and eventually falls. In Hyrule Warriors Legends, it’s revealed that she survived and now aids Link and Tetra in defeating a new threat.
Cia’s weapon:
Scepter – Cia’s weapon is a sinister looking magic scepter that doubles as whip. She can use all sorts of dark magic spells and summon Dark Links to do her bidding in combat.
| Weapon level | Image | Notes |
| Scepter of Time (Lv. 1) |  |
|
| Guardian’s Scepter (Lv. 2) |  |
The head of the scepter loosely resembles the portals she uses to summon Dark Links. |
| Scepter of Souls (Lv. 3)
Scepter of Souls + (Lv. 4) |
 |
The head of the scepter slightly resembles the Gates of Souls she opens. |
| Crackling Scepter (Lv. 4+) | |
Adds lightning element to the weapon. |
Notable moves:
| Input | Notes |
| C3, C5 | Cia summons Dark Links. Dark Link is a shadow copy of Link that appears in multiple Zelda titles, starting with Zelda II: The Adventure of Link. |
Volga
An original character for Hyrule Warriors, inspired by the boss Volvagia that appears in Zelda II and Ocarina of Time. The dragon knight is one of Cia’s servants and has a bloodthirsty streak, seeing the war as a means to fight strong opponents and put his skills to test. Originally the ruler of an isolated tribe of Lizalfos and Dinolfos in the Eldin Caves, he’s defeated by Cia and corrupted by her in her attempts to raise her army to invade Hyrule. His design may also be inspired by Lü Bu from Dynasty Warriors.
Volga’s weapon:
Dragon Spear – A flame element weapon that Volga carries in combat. In addition to his mastery of the spear, Volga makes use of his draconic abilities as well, being able to shift from humanoid and dragon forms at will.
| Weapon level | Image | Notes |
| Dragonbone Pike (Lv. 1) |  |
An original weapon created for Hyrule Warriors. |
| Stonecleaver Claw (Lv. 2) |  |
A more elaborate design of the weapon. |
| Flesh-Render Fang (Lv. 3)
Flesh-Render Fang + (Lv. 4) |
 |
An even more elaborate design of the weapon. |
| Darkfire Fang (Lv. 4+) | |
Adds darkness element to the weapon. |
Notable moves:
| Input | Notes |
| C4 | Volga breathes fire similar to how Volvagia does in Ocarina of Time. |
| C5 | Volga transforms into a dragon reminiscent of Volvagia as seen in Ocarina of Time and attacks foes by crashing down into the ground, making an explosion upon impact. |
Wizzro
An original character for Hyrule Warriors, heavily inspired by both Wizzrobes and Poes from The Legend of Zelda series, also bearing a resemblance to the Poe collector from Ocarina of Time. A manifestation of evil spirits trapped in a ring, he becomes one of Cia’s followers, seeking as much destructions as he can.
Wizzro’s weapon:
Ring – Although rings originally serve as upgrades for Link in the Zelda series, Wizzro’s darkness elemental weapon allows him to use all sorts of dark magic and has a moveset mainly based on projectiles.
| Weapon level | Image | Notes |
| Blue Ring (Lv. 1) |  |
Based on the Blue Ring, an item that first appears in The Legend of Zelda and originally upgraded Link’s defensive capabilities by halving damage taken. |
| Red Ring (Lv. 2) |  |
Based on the Red Ring that first appears in The Legend of Zelda. Originally, it served as an upgrade to the Blue Ring, further reducing damage taken from enemy attacks. In Oracle of Seasons, however, it upgrades Link’s attack power. |
| Magical Ring (Lv. 3)
Magical Ring + (Lv. 4) |
 |
Magical Rings appear in Oracle of Ages and Oracle of Seasons, which can be appraised into several different kinds of rings, with multiple effects. Like in those games, the Magical Ring is green in color. |
| Darkwater Ring (Lv. 4+) | |
Adds water element to the weapon. |
Notable moves:
| Input | Notes |
| N1~… | Unusual in that the main attacks consist of projectiles, similar to how Wizzrobes mainly attack with magic spells. |
| C1 | Wizzro attempts to grab a foe with a giant hand. The hand closely resembles the recurring Zelda enemy Wallmaster, specifically its Ocarina of Time incarnation. Originally, those enemies only appear in dungeon and would grab Link and transport him elsewhere in the dungeon. |
| FSS | Wizzo disappears and a giant hand falls from above, attacking foes in an area. The hand resembles the Wallmaster enemy and, just like in Ocarina of Time, it falls from above at a high speed. |
And so wraps up this first part. Next time, I will be covering the rest of the characters and weapons, including characters introduced through Hyrule Warriors Legends as well as DLC packs for both games. Please look forward to it!
