How do I solve the "The Eye of the Sandstorm" shrine quest in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild?

The "Eye of the Sandstorm" shrine quest in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is a unique and challenging quest that requires careful observation and problem-solving. This quest is located in the Gerudo Desert, and it involves finding a hidden shrine by following a specific set of clues. Here is a detailed guide to help you complete this quest successfully.

To begin the quest, you need to speak to Rotana, a Gerudo scholar who can be found in Gerudo Town. She will tell you about a shrine hidden somewhere in the desert, but the location is obscured by a sandstorm. The key to finding the shrine lies in observing the patterns of the sandstorm and using them to your advantage.

The first step is to head to the southwestern part of the Gerudo Desert, near the Kara Kara Bazaar. You will notice a large sandstorm in this area, which makes visibility extremely poor. The sandstorm is not just a visual effect; it also affects your ability to use the map and compass, making navigation difficult. This is where careful observation comes into play.

The sandstorm in this area has a unique pattern. It swirls around a central point, and if you pay close attention, you will notice that the eye of the storm is always in the same location. This eye is the key to finding the hidden shrine. To locate the eye, you need to move towards the center of the sandstorm. As you get closer, the storm will start to clear, and you will be able to see more clearly.

Once you reach the eye of the sandstorm, you will find a large stone structure with a pedestal. This is the entrance to the hidden shrine. However, the shrine is not immediately accessible. You need to solve a puzzle to reveal it. The puzzle involves placing a specific object on the pedestal. The object you need is a Gerudo Shield, which can be found in various locations throughout Gerudo Town or purchased from the local shops.

After placing the Gerudo Shield on the pedestal, the shrine will rise from the sand, and you can enter it to complete the quest. Inside the shrine, you will face a series of challenges that test your combat and puzzle-solving skills. Be prepared for enemies and traps, and make sure you have enough weapons and healing items to handle the challenges.

One important tip for this quest is to bring a Sand Seal. These creatures can be rented from the Kara Kara Bazaar and are essential for navigating the desert quickly. Without a Sand Seal, moving through the sandstorm can be slow and tedious. Additionally, make sure you have plenty of food and elixirs to restore your health and stamina, as the desert environment can be harsh.

A common mistake players make is trying to rush through the sandstorm without paying attention to the patterns. The sandstorm is not just an obstacle; it is a clue. By observing the way the storm moves, you can find the eye and the hidden shrine more easily. Another mistake is not bringing a Gerudo Shield, which is required to solve the puzzle and reveal the shrine. Make sure you have one before heading into the desert.

For advanced players, there is an alternative approach to this quest. Instead of using a Sand Seal, you can use the Paraglider to navigate the desert more quickly. This requires precise timing and control, but it can save you a lot of time. Additionally, if you have the Sheikah Sensor upgraded, you can use it to detect the shrine once you are close to the eye of the sandstorm.

In conclusion, the "Eye of the Sandstorm" shrine quest is a challenging but rewarding task that requires careful observation and problem-solving. By following the patterns of the sandstorm, using the right items, and being prepared for the challenges ahead, you can successfully complete this quest and uncover the hidden shrine. Remember to take your time, observe the environment, and use the tools at your disposal to overcome the obstacles in your path.