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

To unlock the Divine Beast Vah Ruta quest in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, you need to follow a series of steps that involve interacting with key NPCs, completing specific tasks, and preparing for the challenges ahead. This quest is one of the four main Divine Beast quests and is tied to the Zora race and their domain in the Lanayru region. Below is a detailed explanation of how to unlock and prepare for this quest.

First, you need to make your way to the Zora Domain. The Zora Domain is located in the northeastern part of Hyrule, near the Lanayru Tower. As you approach the area, you will encounter Zora NPCs who will guide you toward the domain. One of the first Zora you will meet is Sidon, the prince of the Zora. He will explain that Divine Beast Vah Ruta is causing trouble by creating endless rain and flooding the region. Sidon will ask for your help to calm the beast.

To proceed, you need to speak with King Dorephan in the Zora Domain. He will provide more context about the situation and explain that Vah Ruta has been corrupted by Ganon. The king will also mention that the Zora have been trying to stop the beast but have been unsuccessful. He will then formally request your assistance in calming Vah Ruta.

Before you can approach Vah Ruta, you need to complete a preparatory task. Sidon will ask you to collect Shock Arrows, which are essential for the upcoming battle. These arrows can be found on Ploymus Mountain, near the Zora Domain. However, this area is guarded by a Lynel, a powerful enemy. You can either fight the Lynel to collect the arrows or sneak around to gather them without engaging in combat. Collecting at least 20 Shock Arrows is recommended, as you will need them to disable Vah Ruta's water spouts.

Once you have the Shock Arrows, Sidon will accompany you to East Reservoir Lake, where Vah Ruta is located. Here, you will need to use the Shock Arrows to disable the water spouts on the Divine Beast. Sidon will swim around the lake, creating opportunities for you to shoot the spouts. Aim carefully, as you only have a limited number of arrows. After disabling all the spouts, Vah Ruta will lower its defenses, allowing you to board the Divine Beast.

Inside Vah Ruta, you will face a series of puzzles and enemies. The puzzles involve manipulating the Divine Beast's internal mechanisms to unlock new areas and progress toward the main control unit. One of the key mechanics involves using the Cryonis rune to create ice blocks in water, which can be used to reach higher platforms or block water flows. Pay attention to the map of Vah Ruta, as it will help you navigate the complex interior.

The final challenge inside Vah Ruta is the boss battle against Waterblight Ganon. This boss has two phases. In the first phase, it uses a spear and creates ice blocks that you can destroy with Cryonis or arrows. In the second phase, it will summon floating platforms and attack with energy orbs. Use your Shock Arrows and melee weapons to defeat it. After the battle, you will gain control of Vah Ruta and receive Mipha's Grace, a powerful ability that revives you with extra hearts when you fall in battle.

Preparation is key for this quest. Make sure you have enough weapons, shields, and healing items. Cooking meals that provide extra hearts, stamina, or resistance to electricity can be very helpful, especially when dealing with the Lynel or Waterblight Ganon. Additionally, upgrading your armor at fairy fountains can provide extra defense, making the battles easier.

Common mistakes to avoid include not collecting enough Shock Arrows, underestimating the Lynel, and not managing your resources effectively. Advanced techniques include using stealth to avoid the Lynel and mastering the timing of your attacks during the boss battle. Alternative approaches involve completing other Divine Beasts first to gain their abilities, which can make the Vah Ruta quest easier.

In summary, unlocking the Divine Beast Vah Ruta quest involves interacting with Sidon and King Dorephan, collecting Shock Arrows, and navigating the challenges inside the Divine Beast. Proper preparation, resource management, and puzzle-solving skills are essential for success. By following these steps and tips, you can successfully complete the quest and gain control of Vah Ruta.