Nestled amidst the crisp mountain air and surrounded by the glistening waters of Lake Totori lies Rito Village, a unique settlement featured in the beloved Legend of Zelda series. This village serves as the home to the Rito, a race of proud bird people known for their soaring abilities and rich culture.
Whether you’re a seasoned Zelda veteran or a curious newcomer, this comprehensive guide dives into the heart of Rito Village, exploring its history, inhabitants, significance, and intriguing tidbits.
A Village Built for Flight: Location and Design
Rito Village stands out for its unconventional design. Unlike the typical settlements found on solid ground, it adheres to the aerial lifestyle of the Rito. The village is built on a colossal, central pillar jutting out from Lake Totori in the Tabantha Frontier region (Hebra region in Tears of the Kingdom) [1, 2]. This pillar serves as the foundation for a network of wooden platforms, walkways, and airy abodes that spiral upwards. The entire structure is connected by a cleverly designed, ascending staircase, allowing the Rito to navigate their home with ease.
This vertical layout offers several advantages for Rito. It provides ample space for take-off and landing, crucial for a race that takes to the skies for transportation and hunting. Additionally, the elevation offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Hebra Mountains and Lake Totori, adding to the village’s serene charm. However, this unique design also presents challenges for visitors from other races. The climbing required to navigate the village can be cumbersome for those not accustomed to heights.
The Rito People: Soaring Through the Skies
The Rito are a fascinating race with a rich history intertwined with the fate of Hyrule. They are depicted as avian humanoids with distinctive features like feathered wings, sharp beaks, and keen eyesight. Their close connection to the skies is reflected in their clothing, often incorporating feathers and aerodynamic designs.
Throughout the Zelda timeline, the Rito have played various roles. In “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild” and “Tears of the Kingdom,” they are depicted as a proud and resilient tribe, facing the harsh Hebra climate with determination. They maintain a strong sense of community, working together to ensure the village’s prosperity [1, 3].
A Look Inside the Village: Shops, Shrines, and Local Lore
As you explore Rito Village, you’ll encounter various shops and locations that cater to the needs of its inhabitants. Here’s a glimpse into some key points of interest:
- Shops: The Swallow’s Roost serves as the village’s general store, offering essential supplies and equipment. The Brazen Beak is a must-visit for adventurers seeking sturdy Rito armor that can withstand the harsh Hebra winds [2].
- Shrines: No Zelda game is complete without hidden secrets, and Rito Village is no exception. Gatakis Shrine, located at the base of the central pillar, offers a challenging trial that rewards worthy adventurers. In “Tears of the Kingdom,” rumors suggest a hidden chasm beneath the village that may hold secrets waiting to be unearthed [3, 4].
- Regional Phenomena: Keep an eye out for weather-related events specific to Rito Village. In “Tears of the Kingdom,” a relentless blizzard disrupts the village upon your arrival. Helping the Rito navigate this challenge becomes a central quest, offering a glimpse into their struggles and resilience [3].
Beyond these locations, take time to interact with the Rito themselves. Inhabiting the village are various characters with their own stories and personalities. Kaneli, the elder in “Breath of the Wild,” is a wise and respected leader who oversees the village with a watchful eye. Teba, introduced in “Tears of the Kingdom,” takes over the role of elder and offers a more stoic demeanour [2, 3].
The Legend of Vah Medoh: A Divine Beast and Scars of the Past
A looming shadow hangs over Rito Village โ the imposing Divine Beast Vah Medoh. This mechanical marvel, once a protector of Hyrule, was corrupted by Ganon’s malice and turned against the Rito. In “Breath of the Wild,” a key aspect of your journey involves helping the Rito reclaim Vah Medoh and restore its former glory [2]. This quest not only aids Link in his fight against Ganon but also signifies a turning point for the Rito village, allowing them to move forward from a period of fear and uncertainty.
FAQs
Q. What is Rito Village?
Rito Village is a settlement featured in the popular video game series The Legend of Zelda. It appears in both Breath of the Wild and its sequel, Tears of the Kingdom. The village serves as the home of the Rito people, a bird-like race with the ability to fly.
Q. Where is Rito Village located?
The location of Rito Village differs slightly between the two games:
- Breath of the Wild: Situated in the Tabantha Frontier region of Hyrule, specifically on the largest island plateau in the centre of Lake Totori.
- Tears of the Kingdom: Found in the Hebra Mountains, again in the centre of Lake Totori. It remains the only major settlement in the region.
Q. How do I get to Rito Village?
- Breath of the Wild: There’s a bridge leading to the village from the east. However, you might need to progress through the main story to see the bridge repaired. Alternatively, you can use your paraglider to reach the village from a high point.
- Tears of the Kingdom: The bridge is initially broken. You can access the village by paragliding from the Rospro Pass Skyview Tower or by creating a wind gust with a Hylian Pine Cone to propel yourself across the gap.
Q. What’s in Rito Village?
Rito Village offers various shops and services essential for adventurers:
- Inn: Rest up and recover your health.
- General Store: Stock up on supplies and gear.
- Armor Shop: Upgrade your armour for better protection.
- Shrine (Tears of the Kingdom): The Gatakis Shrine provides a fast travel point.
Q. What can I do in Rito Village?
- Interact with the Rito people and learn about their culture and struggles.
- Complete quests for the villagers to earn rewards.
- Explore the unique architecture of the village, built on a vertical frame spiralling around a central pillar.
- Seek out hidden treasures like Korok seeds and special equipment.
Q. What’s new in Rito Village for Tears of the Kingdom?
- The village faces a harsh blizzard upon your arrival, impacting the villagers’ lives.
- A new elder named Teba takes charge.
- There’s a new quest involving the strange weather plaguing the region.
- The village holds a “Regional Phenomenon,” potentially impacting gameplay.
Q. Who are some important characters in Rito Village?
- Breath of the Wild: Revali, is a champion archer with a prideful personality.
- Tears of the Kingdom: Teba, the new village elder, and Tulin, who provides the main quest to address the abnormal weather. You might also encounter Kaneli, the previous elder, who now manages the Flight Range.
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