How do I activate the Divine Beast Vah Ruta in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild?

To activate the Divine Beast Vah Ruta in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, you must first complete the Zora questline, which begins in Zora's Domain. This questline is essential for gaining access to the Divine Beast and involves several steps, including solving puzzles, battling enemies, and preparing for the challenges ahead. Here is a detailed guide on how to activate and complete the Divine Beast Vah Ruta quest.

First, you need to reach Zora's Domain. This area is located in the Lanayru region, northeast of Hyrule Castle. The journey to Zora's Domain can be challenging due to the constant rain, which makes climbing difficult. To make your way there, follow the path along the Zora River, which is marked by glowing lanterns. Along the way, you will encounter Zora NPCs who will guide you and provide context for the quest. One of the first Zora you will meet is Sidon, Prince of the Zora, who will ask for your help in calming Vah Ruta.

Once you arrive in Zora's Domain, speak with King Dorephan to learn more about the situation. Vah Ruta, the Divine Beast, has been corrupted by Calamity Ganon and is causing heavy rainfall, threatening to flood the region. To calm Vah Ruta, you need to stop the water flowing from its trunk. Sidon will suggest using Shock Arrows to disable the water spouts on Vah Ruta's body. However, obtaining Shock Arrows is the next challenge.

Sidon will direct you to Ploymus Mountain, where you can find Shock Arrows. This area is guarded by a Lynel, a powerful enemy that you should avoid if you are not prepared for a tough fight. Instead of engaging the Lynel, you can stealthily collect the Shock Arrows scattered around the area. There are about 20 Shock Arrows to collect, and you only need a few to complete the quest. Once you have enough Shock Arrows, return to Sidon at East Reservoir Lake.

At the lake, Sidon will take you to Vah Ruta on a raft. During this journey, you will need to use your bow and Shock Arrows to hit the glowing targets on Vah Ruta's body. These targets are located on the four water spouts. Aim carefully, as the raft will be moving, and the rain can affect your aim. Once all four targets are hit, Vah Ruta will stop spraying water, and you can board the Divine Beast.

Inside Vah Ruta, you will need to solve a series of puzzles to gain control of the Divine Beast. The main mechanic involves manipulating the trunk of Vah Ruta to change the flow of water, which is used to activate switches and move platforms. Pay attention to the map of Vah Ruta, as it will help you navigate and understand how the trunk's movements affect the interior. There are five terminals you need to activate to regain control of Vah Ruta. Each terminal requires solving a unique puzzle, often involving the trunk's water flow.

One of the key terminals is located in the main control room, which is accessed by using the trunk to fill a chamber with water, allowing you to float up to a higher level. Another terminal requires you to use Cryonis to create ice blocks in the water, which can be used as stepping stones or to block water flow. Take your time to explore and experiment with the trunk's mechanics, as this will help you solve the puzzles more efficiently.

After activating all five terminals, you will face Waterblight Ganon, the boss of Vah Ruta. This boss has two phases. In the first phase, it uses a spear to attack and will throw ice blocks at you. Use Cryonis to destroy the ice blocks and create openings to attack. In the second phase, Waterblight Ganon will teleport around the arena and shoot energy orbs. Use your bow to hit its eye and stun it, then attack with your strongest weapons. Be sure to have plenty of healing items and arrows, as this fight can be challenging.

Once Waterblight Ganon is defeated, you will regain control of Vah Ruta, and it will become a ally in the fight against Calamity Ganon. You will also receive Mipha's Grace, a powerful ability that revives you with full health when you fall in battle. This ability has a cooldown, so use it wisely.

In summary, activating Divine Beast Vah Ruta involves completing the Zora questline, collecting Shock Arrows, solving puzzles inside the Divine Beast, and defeating Waterblight Ganon. Preparation is key, so make sure you have enough arrows, weapons, and healing items before starting the quest. Take your time to understand the mechanics of Vah Ruta's trunk, as this will help you solve the puzzles more efficiently. Avoid unnecessary fights, especially with the Lynel, unless you are well-prepared. By following these steps, you will successfully activate Vah Ruta and gain a powerful ally in your journey to defeat Calamity Ganon.