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

To free Divine Beast Vah Ruta in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, you must complete a series of tasks that involve both combat and puzzle-solving. This quest is one of the four main Divine Beast quests and is essential for progressing the story. Here is a detailed guide on how to complete it.

First, you need to start the quest by speaking with Prince Sidon in Zora's Domain. He will explain that Vah Ruta is causing heavy rainfall and flooding in the area, and he needs your help to stop it. To begin, you must follow Sidon to the East Reservoir Lake, where Vah Ruta is located. Along the way, you will encounter enemies like Lizalfos and Octoroks, so be prepared for combat.

Once you reach the lake, Sidon will explain that you need to stop the water flowing from Vah Ruta by shooting arrows into its water spouts. These spouts are located on the Divine Beast's back and sides. You will need to use Cryonis, a Sheikah Slate ability, to create ice blocks in the water to reach higher vantage points. From these vantage points, you can shoot arrows into the spouts to stop the water flow. It is important to aim carefully, as the spouts are moving targets.

After stopping the water flow, you will need to board Vah Ruta. To do this, Sidon will swim alongside the Divine Beast, and you must use him as a platform to jump onto Vah Ruta. Once on board, you will need to navigate the interior of the Divine Beast, solving puzzles and defeating enemies to gain control of it.

Inside Vah Ruta, you will encounter several terminals that need to be activated. These terminals are controlled by manipulating the Divine Beast's trunk and other mechanisms. For example, you may need to rotate the trunk to create a path or use Cryonis to block water flow and create platforms. Each terminal requires a different approach, so be prepared to think creatively.

One of the key puzzles involves using the trunk to fill a room with water, allowing you to swim to a higher level. Another puzzle requires you to use Cryonis to create ice blocks that block water flow and create a path to a terminal. Pay attention to the environment and look for clues on how to solve each puzzle.

Once all terminals are activated, you will face the boss of Vah Ruta, Waterblight Ganon. This boss has two phases. In the first phase, it will attack you with a spear and create ice blocks that it will throw 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 at you. Use arrows to hit its eye and stun it, then attack with melee weapons.

After defeating Waterblight Ganon, you will gain control of Vah Ruta and receive Mipha's Grace, a powerful ability that revives you with full health when you die. This ability is invaluable for the rest of the game.

Some important tips and considerations include bringing plenty of arrows, especially shock arrows, as they are effective against Waterblight Ganon. Also, make sure to have a good supply of healing items, as the battles can be challenging. It is also helpful to have armor with high defense or resistance to water-based attacks.

Common mistakes to avoid include not preparing enough arrows or healing items, which can make the battles more difficult. Also, be careful not to fall off Vah Ruta while navigating its interior, as this will require you to start over from the last checkpoint.

Advanced techniques include using the environment to your advantage, such as using Cryonis to create cover or platforms during the boss fight. You can also use the Divine Beast's mechanisms to trap or damage enemies.

Required items and preparation include a good bow, plenty of arrows, healing items, and armor with high defense. It is also helpful to have the Cryonis ability fully upgraded.

Alternative approaches include using different weapons or strategies for the boss fight, such as using bombs or other Sheikah Slate abilities. However, the key to success is careful planning and resource management.

In summary, freeing Divine Beast Vah Ruta involves a combination of combat, puzzle-solving, and careful preparation. By following these steps and tips, you can successfully complete the quest and gain a powerful ability to aid you in your journey.