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 challenge that requires careful observation and precise timing. This quest is located in the Gerudo Desert, and it leads to the discovery of the Korsh O'hu Shrine. Here is a detailed guide to help you complete this quest successfully.

To begin the quest, you need to speak with 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 the environment 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 low. The sandstorm is not just a visual effect; it also affects your ability to navigate and use your map. This means you will need to rely on landmarks and environmental cues to find your way.

One of the most important mechanics in this quest is the use of the sun. The sandstorm clears briefly at certain times of the day, revealing the location of the shrine. Specifically, the sandstorm dissipates around noon, when the sun is directly overhead. During this brief window, you can see the shrine's location marked by a glowing light. This is your opportunity to move quickly and reach the shrine before the sandstorm returns.

To make the most of this time, it is crucial to position yourself correctly before the sandstorm clears. Start by heading to the area near the southwestern edge of the desert, close to the Gerudo Canyon. Use the large rock formations and the shape of the dunes as landmarks to guide you. Once you are in the general area, wait for the sandstorm to clear. When it does, you will see the shrine's light in the distance. Mark this location on your map immediately, as the sandstorm will return shortly, and you will lose sight of the shrine.

Once you have marked the shrine's location, you can proceed to it. Be prepared for some resistance along the way, as the desert is home to various enemies, including Lizalfos and Molduga. It is a good idea to bring weapons and armor that are effective against these enemies. Additionally, having a few elixirs or meals that provide heat resistance can be helpful, as the desert can be harsh on your health.

When you reach the shrine, you will find the Korsh O'hu Shrine. The puzzle inside involves using the Magnesis rune to manipulate metal objects and create a path to the shrine's altar. This part of the quest is relatively straightforward, but it requires careful use of the Magnesis ability to move the metal blocks into the correct positions. Take your time to observe the environment and plan your moves before acting.

One common mistake players make is not waiting for the sandstorm to clear completely before moving. If you try to navigate the desert while the sandstorm is still active, you may lose your way and waste valuable time. Another mistake is not marking the shrine's location on the map as soon as it becomes visible. This can lead to confusion and frustration if the sandstorm returns before you have a clear path to the shrine.

For advanced players, there are a few optimizations you can use to make this quest easier. One strategy is to use a sand seal to traverse the desert more quickly. Sand seals can be rented from the Kara Kara Bazaar, and they allow you to move across the sand at a much faster pace. This can be especially useful if you need to cover a lot of ground in a short amount of time. Another optimization is to use the Sheikah Sensor to detect the shrine once you are in the general area. This can help you pinpoint the shrine's location more accurately, even if the sandstorm is still active.

In terms of preparation, it is important to bring the right items for this quest. Heat-resistant armor or elixirs are essential, as the desert can quickly drain your health. Weapons with high durability are also recommended, as you may encounter several enemies along the way. Additionally, having a few stamina-restoring items can be helpful, especially if you need to climb or run for extended periods.

An alternative approach to this quest is to use the Vah Naboris Divine Beast to your advantage. If you have already completed the Divine Beast quest, you can use the ability granted by Vah Naboris to create an updraft, which can help you reach higher vantage points and get a better view of the desert. This can make it easier to spot the shrine's location when the sandstorm clears.

In conclusion, the "Eye of the Sandstorm" shrine quest is a challenging but rewarding experience that requires careful observation and precise timing. By following the steps outlined above, you can successfully navigate the Gerudo Desert, find the Korsh O'hu Shrine, and complete the quest. Remember to prepare adequately, use the environment to your advantage, and avoid common mistakes to make the most of this unique challenge.