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. The quest is given by 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 following the guidance of the water. This quest involves manipulating the water flow in the area to uncover the shrine, and it requires careful observation and problem-solving skills.

To begin the quest, you must first speak with Ledo, who is standing near the East Reservoir Lake. He will mention that the shrine is hidden and can only be revealed by following the water's guidance. The key to solving this puzzle lies in the water channels and the mechanisms that control the water flow in the area. There are several water gates that can be opened or closed to redirect the water, and your goal is to manipulate these gates in such a way that the water flows into the correct channels to reveal the shrine.

The first step is to locate the water gates. There are three main gates that control the water flow in the area. These gates are operated by switches that can be activated using Cryonis, a rune ability that allows you to create ice pillars. To start, head to the first gate, which is located near the entrance to the reservoir. Use Cryonis to create an ice pillar under the gate switch to open it. This will allow water to flow into the first channel.

Next, move to the second gate, which is located further along the channel. Again, use Cryonis to create an ice pillar under the switch to open the gate. This will redirect the water into the second channel. Finally, head to the third gate, which is located near the end of the channel. Use Cryonis once more to create an ice pillar under the switch to open the gate. This will allow the water to flow into the final channel, which will reveal the hidden shrine.

It is important to note that the order in which you open the gates matters. If you open the gates in the wrong order, the water may not flow correctly, and the shrine will not be revealed. Therefore, it is crucial to follow the sequence of opening the gates as described above. Additionally, make sure to position your ice pillars correctly under the switches to ensure that the gates open fully and the water flows smoothly.

One common mistake players make is not paying attention to the water flow after opening each gate. It is essential to observe the water flow after each gate is opened to ensure that it is moving in the correct direction. If the water is not flowing as expected, double-check the position of your ice pillars and make sure the gates are fully open. Another mistake is rushing through the puzzle without taking the time to understand the mechanics. Take your time to observe the environment and plan your actions carefully.

Advanced techniques for this quest include using Cryonis to create multiple ice pillars at once to speed up the process. For example, you can create an ice pillar under one switch and quickly move to the next switch to create another ice pillar before the first one melts. This can save time and make the puzzle-solving process more efficient. Additionally, you can use the environment to your advantage by climbing on nearby structures to get a better view of the water channels and plan your actions accordingly.

Preparation for this quest is relatively straightforward. Make sure you have the Cryonis rune unlocked and ready to use. It is also a good idea to have a few stamina-restoring items on hand, as you may need to climb or swim to reach certain areas. Other than that, no special items or equipment are required for this quest.

An alternative approach to solving this puzzle is to use the Magnesis rune to manipulate metal objects in the area. While this is not necessary for the quest, it can be used to move certain objects out of the way or to create additional pathways for the water to flow. However, this approach is more complex and may not be as efficient as using Cryonis.

In conclusion, "The Water Guides" shrine quest is a challenging but rewarding puzzle that requires careful observation and problem-solving skills. By following the steps outlined above and paying attention to the water flow, you can successfully reveal the hidden shrine and complete the quest. Remember to take your time, plan your actions carefully, and use the Cryonis rune effectively to manipulate the water flow. With patience and persistence, you will be able to solve the puzzle and uncover the shrine.