How do I solve the ice pillar puzzle in the Dunba Taag Shrine in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild?

The Dunba Taag Shrine, also known as "Dunba Taag's Blessing," is one of the many shrines in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. This shrine is located in the Eldin region, specifically in the Goron City area. The shrine itself does not contain a traditional puzzle but instead rewards you with a chest and a Spirit Orb after you complete the trial outside the shrine. However, if you are referring to the ice pillar puzzle that appears in other shrines, such as the Keh Namut Shrine or the Sha Gehma Shrine, I can provide a detailed explanation of how to solve such puzzles.

Ice pillar puzzles typically involve using Cryonis, one of the Runes granted by the Sheikah Slate, to create ice blocks from water surfaces. Cryonis is essential for solving these puzzles, as it allows you to manipulate the environment by creating ice pillars that can be used as platforms, barriers, or tools to interact with other elements in the shrine. Here is a detailed breakdown of how to approach and solve ice pillar puzzles in general.

First, ensure that you have unlocked the Cryonis Rune. This is done early in the game during the "The Isolated Plateau" quest, where you visit the Oman Au Shrine. Once you have Cryonis, you can use it to create ice pillars by targeting a body of water and pressing the corresponding button. The ice pillars can be created, destroyed, and recreated as needed, which is crucial for solving puzzles.

When you encounter an ice pillar puzzle, the first step is to assess the environment. Look for bodies of water, switches, moving platforms, or obstacles that may require you to use Cryonis. For example, in the Keh Namut Shrine, you may need to create ice pillars to block a stream of water or to create a path to reach a higher platform. In the Sha Gehma Shrine, you might need to use ice pillars to stop a rolling ball or to create a bridge.

One common strategy is to create ice pillars in a sequence that allows you to progress through the shrine. For instance, if you need to cross a body of water, you can create a series of ice pillars to serve as stepping stones. If you need to reach a high platform, you can create an ice pillar beneath you to lift yourself up. Additionally, ice pillars can be used to block mechanisms, such as water jets or rolling balls, that may be hindering your progress.

It is important to note that ice pillars can be destroyed by certain attacks or environmental hazards. For example, if a rolling ball collides with an ice pillar, it will shatter. Therefore, you must carefully time the creation and destruction of ice pillars to avoid losing progress. In some cases, you may need to create multiple ice pillars in quick succession to block a rolling ball or to redirect its path.

Another important consideration is the placement of ice pillars. Sometimes, the puzzle requires you to create ice pillars in specific locations to trigger switches or to interact with other elements. For example, in the Keh Namut Shrine, you may need to create an ice pillar to block a water jet, which in turn activates a mechanism that opens a door. Pay close attention to the environment and look for clues that indicate where ice pillars should be placed.

Common mistakes to avoid include creating ice pillars in the wrong locations, failing to time the creation of ice pillars correctly, and not paying attention to environmental hazards. For example, if you create an ice pillar too close to a rolling ball, it may shatter before it can serve its purpose. Similarly, if you do not create an ice pillar in the correct location to block a water jet, the mechanism may not activate.

Advanced techniques for solving ice pillar puzzles include using Cryonis in combination with other Runes, such as Magnesis or Stasis. For example, you can use Magnesis to move metal objects onto ice pillars, or you can use Stasis to freeze a rolling ball and create an ice pillar to block its path. Additionally, you can use Cryonis to create ice pillars that serve as platforms for launching yourself with the Paraglider, allowing you to reach otherwise inaccessible areas.

Preparation for ice pillar puzzles is relatively straightforward. Ensure that you have the Cryonis Rune unlocked and that you are familiar with its controls. There are no specific items required for these puzzles, but having a good understanding of the environment and the mechanics of Cryonis will greatly aid in solving them.

Alternative approaches to ice pillar puzzles may involve using other Runes or environmental elements to achieve the same goal. For example, if you are unable to create an ice pillar in a specific location, you may be able to use a metal object with Magnesis to block a water jet or to redirect a rolling ball. Additionally, some puzzles may have multiple solutions, so experimenting with different approaches can lead to success.

In summary, solving ice pillar puzzles in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild requires a good understanding of the Cryonis Rune and its applications. By carefully assessing the environment, timing the creation and destruction of ice pillars, and using advanced techniques, you can successfully navigate these puzzles and progress through the shrines. Pay attention to the placement of ice pillars, avoid common mistakes, and consider alternative approaches to achieve the best results. With practice and patience, you will become adept at solving ice pillar puzzles and unlocking the secrets of the shrines.