In the vast and enchanting world of Zelda, horses play a crucial role in helping players navigate the expansive landscapes faster and more efficiently. Whether you’re journeying across Hyrule or seeking to explore every hidden corner of the kingdom, capturing a horse in Zelda is essential. But how do you successfully tame and keep a horse in the game? In this guide, we will unveil the elusive technique to capture a horse in Zelda, providing step-by-step instructions, troubleshooting tips, and useful insights.
Mastering the Art of Capturing a Horse in Zelda
The Zelda series has always been known for its vast open-world exploration and deep gameplay mechanics. One of the key features that has evolved through the different iterations of Zelda games is the use of horses. These magnificent creatures not only serve as companions during your journey but also help with faster movement and increased mobility in various parts of the game world. However, capturing a horse isn’t as simple as it seems. Here, we’ll break down the steps to successfully tame and keep a horse in Zelda.
Step 1: Find the Right Location
Before you can capture a horse, you first need to know where to find them. Horses are typically found in the following locations:
- Open Plains: Look for wide open fields like the ones found near the Great Hyrule Plain or the Taobab Grasslands.
- Stables: Many stables around Hyrule will have horses available for you to purchase or borrow. The most famous ones are located near the main towns.
- Wild Areas: Horses can also be found in the wild roaming freely, usually near forests or high plains.
Once you’ve identified a location, approach the area carefully. Horses are skittish creatures and will run away if they sense danger or hear you approaching too quickly.
Step 2: Stealth Is Key
To successfully capture a horse, you need to approach it without startling it. Move slowly and carefully, crouching to reduce the noise you make. If the horse gets spooked, it will run away, and you’ll have to track it down again.
- Use Stealth Gear: If you have stealth-enhancing armor or elixirs, now is the time to use them. These will reduce the sound of your footsteps.
- Wait for the Right Moment: Don’t rush—wait for the horse to turn its back to you or get distracted before making your move.
Timing your approach is crucial, as horses will flee if they see you coming too fast. Once you are close enough, you’re ready to mount!
Step 3: Mount the Horse
Once you’re in close proximity, it’s time to mount the horse. This part of the process requires a bit of precision:
- Press the appropriate button to mount (this will vary depending on your platform). For example, on the Nintendo Switch, it’s usually the A button.
- The horse will initially try to buck you off. Quickly press the corresponding button to hold onto the reins and avoid falling.
If the horse manages to buck you off, don’t worry. Just approach it again and try mounting it once more. It may take a few tries, but with patience, you’ll eventually succeed.
Step 4: Calm the Horse
After successfully mounting the horse, it’s time to calm it. Horses in Zelda are known for being unruly at first, and they will try to shake you off. You can calm the horse by pressing the appropriate button when the horse bucks. The more you press the button, the calmer the horse will become. After a few successful presses, the horse will eventually stop trying to throw you off and accept you as its rider.
Step 5: Register the Horse
Once the horse is calm and under your control, head to a nearby stable to register it. This is where you can name your new companion and make sure it’s safe from harm. Stables are scattered throughout the world of Zelda, and you’ll find one near almost every major location.
To register your horse:
- Visit the stable and talk to the stablekeeper.
- Select the “register horse” option.
- Pay the required fee (usually a small amount of rupees).
Once registered, the horse will be available for use anytime you need it. You can summon it at any stable by speaking to the stablekeeper or by using a whistle.
Troubleshooting Tips for Capturing a Horse
While capturing a horse may seem straightforward, there are a few common issues players encounter. Here are some troubleshooting tips to help you out:
- Horse Runs Away Immediately: If the horse runs away as soon as you get close, try waiting for a moment when it’s distracted or not facing you. Alternatively, use stealth gear or crouch to move quietly.
- Can’t Mount the Horse: Ensure you’re pressing the correct button to mount. If the horse keeps bucking you off, wait until it’s fully calm before attempting again.
- Horse Isn’t Staying Calm: If your horse is still bucking, make sure you’re pressing the correct button to calm it. You may need to hold the button down for longer periods to calm it completely.
Advanced Tips for Horse Training and Care
Once you’ve successfully captured and registered a horse in Zelda, you’ll want to ensure it stays healthy and strong. Here are some advanced tips to help you get the most out of your horse:
- Increase Stamina: Horses in Zelda have stamina bars. If you ride them too much without rest, they’ll tire out. Resting at a stable or feeding them will help increase their stamina.
- Bond with Your Horse: You can increase your horse’s trust by taking good care of it. Feed it apples or other treats to boost its bond with you, which will help it stay calm during intense moments.
- Upgrade Your Horse’s Gear: As you progress through the game, you can upgrade your horse’s equipment, such as saddles and saddlebags, to improve its performance and carry more items.
Taking proper care of your horse will ensure that it’s always ready to travel across Hyrule, whether you’re embarking on a main quest or exploring side missions.
Conclusion: The Joy of Horseback Riding in Zelda
Capturing and taming a horse in Zelda may seem daunting at first, but with the right approach and a little patience, it becomes an incredibly rewarding experience. Horses not only provide faster travel but also enhance your connection to the world of Zelda, offering a sense of companionship as you explore the vast landscapes.
Remember, capturing a horse isn’t just about following the steps outlined here—it’s also about taking your time to enjoy the journey. Whether you’re charging into battle or simply galloping across the fields, horses in Zelda bring a new level of excitement to your adventure.
For more information on how to enhance your gameplay and capture additional creatures, check out our detailed guides and tips.
For more updates on the Zelda series, be sure to visit the official Zelda website for the latest news and insights.
This article is in the category Guides & Tutorials and created by GameMasterHub Team