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

The "The Water Guides" shrine quest in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is a unique and engaging challenge that requires players to solve an environmental puzzle to reveal a hidden shrine. This quest is located in the Zora's Domain region, specifically near the East Reservoir Lake. To begin the quest, you must speak with an NPC named Ledo, who can be found near the lake. Ledo will explain that the shrine is hidden and can only be revealed by manipulating the water flow in the area. Here is a detailed guide on how to complete this quest.

First, let's discuss the mechanics involved. The key to solving this shrine quest is understanding how water flow works in the game. The East Reservoir Lake has a series of water channels and gates that control the water level. By interacting with these gates, you can raise or lower the water level, which in turn affects the environment and reveals the hidden shrine. The shrine, named Sho Dantu Shrine, is submerged underwater and can only be accessed when the water level is lowered.

To start the quest, head to the East Reservoir Lake and locate Ledo. He will be standing near the water channels, and he will explain that the shrine is hidden underwater. He will also mention that the water level needs to be lowered to reveal the shrine. To do this, you need to interact with the water gates. There are three gates in total, and each one controls a different section of the water flow. Your goal is to lower the water level by opening these gates in the correct sequence.

The first gate is located near Ledo. Interact with it to open it, which will allow water to flow out of the lake. This will lower the water level slightly, but not enough to reveal the shrine. Next, head to the second gate, which is located further down the water channel. Open this gate as well, and you will notice that the water level drops even more. Finally, locate the third gate, which is the farthest from Ledo. Open this gate, and the water level will drop significantly, revealing the Sho Dantu Shrine.

Once the shrine is revealed, you can enter it and complete the shrine's challenge. The shrine itself is relatively straightforward, with a few puzzles that involve manipulating water flow and using the Cryonis rune to create ice blocks. The main challenge is to navigate through the shrine and reach the end, where you will be rewarded with a Spirit Orb.

Now, let's discuss some important tips and considerations. First, make sure you have the Cryonis rune unlocked, as it will be essential for solving the puzzles inside the shrine. Additionally, it's a good idea to have some stamina-restoring food or elixirs, as you may need to swim or climb to reach certain areas. When interacting with the water gates, be patient and take your time to ensure that you open them in the correct sequence. Opening the gates out of order can cause the water level to rise again, making it more difficult to reveal the shrine.

Common mistakes to avoid include opening the gates too quickly or in the wrong order. This can lead to the water level rising instead of lowering, which will make it harder to reveal the shrine. Another mistake is not having the Cryonis rune ready, as it is essential for solving the shrine's puzzles. Make sure to prepare adequately before starting the quest.

Advanced techniques or optimizations include using the Cryonis rune to create ice blocks that can be used as platforms to reach higher areas or to block water flow temporarily. This can help you navigate the shrine more efficiently and solve puzzles more quickly. Additionally, if you have the Zora Armor set, it can be useful for swimming faster and climbing waterfalls, which can save time and stamina.

Required items and preparation include having the Cryonis rune unlocked and possibly the Zora Armor set. It's also a good idea to have some stamina-restoring food or elixirs, as well as any weapons or shields you may need for combat inside the shrine.

Alternative approaches include using the Magnesis rune to manipulate metal objects in the shrine, which can help you solve puzzles more creatively. Additionally, if you have the Revali's Gale ability, you can use it to reach higher areas more quickly, although this is not necessary for completing the shrine.

In conclusion, "The Water Guides" shrine quest is a fun and challenging puzzle that requires careful manipulation of water flow and the use of the Cryonis rune. By following the steps outlined above and keeping the tips and considerations in mind, you should be able to complete the quest and reveal the Sho Dantu Shrine. Good luck, and enjoy your adventure in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.