Discover the Top 7 Must-Visit Sky Islands in Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom

Tears of the Kingdom takes players to a whole new realm of gameplay right from the beginning, with floating islands scattered throughout the sky above Hyrule. These islands have appeared as a result of the mysterious Upheaval event and offer endless opportunities for exploration and plunder. While players will come across shrines, Device Dispensers, and Korok Seeds, they will also discover other treasures and activities that are well worth the time spent traversing the skies. From scaling Skyview Towers to reversing the descent of a falling piece of land, there is an abundance of sights and experiences waiting to be discovered on these sky islands. Here are the top recommended islands that players should prioritize exploring as soon as possible.

7 Starview Island

The island is a world unto itself, reminiscent of a Death Star when viewed from a distance. But exploring its unique terrain offers a much more exciting experience than any space station could provide. As Link approaches Starview Island, the gravitational pull begins to change, making him feel lighter and more buoyant. Scaling the floating landscape to reach the sphere and complete the Shrine Quest is a thrilling exercise in physics.

6 North Hyrule Sky Archipelago

At the start of the game on the Great Sky Island, Device Dispensers are introduced to players. These dispensers require Zonai Charges to provide one-time use capsules containing Zonai Devices that are used for constructing machines or vehicles. There are different selections of devices available at each dispenser, typically ranging from three to five options. Of particular interest to players early on are the two dispensers located in the North Hyrule Sky Archipelago. These dispensers contain Control Sticks, Homing Carts, Construct Heads, and Flame and Shock Emitters. Control Sticks offer more precise control over player-created vehicles, while Homing Carts and Construct Heads enable the creation of autonomous allies to assist Link in battles.

5 Bravery, Valor And Courage Island

On the North Hyrule Sky Archipelago, lies Bravery Island, which is part of a cluster of islands. Along with Courage and Valor Island, Bravery Island offers a diving challenge that comes with a valuable reward. On each of these islands, there is a Steward Construct who challenges Link to jump from the highest point on the island and fall through the rings that appear in the pond below. Once Link completes this challenge, the Steward will offer a reward and an additional challenge to complete the same feat within a set time limit.

The reward for beating each time is a new piece of the Glide Armor set which raises Link's mobility when free-falling. A form of travel players will find themselves using a lot.

4 Lomei Labyrinths

Fans of science fiction may notice a familiar sight in the skies of Hyrule, as ominous floating cubes can be spotted alongside the Death Star-like sky islands. Despite their intimidating appearance, these cubes are mostly harmless. However, veterans of Breath of the Wild may recognize the labyrinths that were scattered throughout the game's vast world. In this new adventure, these challenges have been taken to new heights, quite literally.

3 Rising Island Chain

Traversing through these intricate mazes can yield valuable rewards such as a shrine or Korok Seeds. However, the true prize lies in discovering the Mighty Zonai weapons concealed within. These weapons can be wielded independently or used as a foundation for creating even more powerful fused weapons.

Upon starting the game, players are tasked with investigating the "regional phenomena" taking place in each of Hyrule's four regions. They have the freedom to choose which region to explore first, but the characters they encounter may sway them towards investigating the intense blizzards of the Hebra region. If they decide to heed this advice, players will embark on an exhilarating challenge as they explore Tears of the Kingdom's temples, which share a similar design with Breath of the Wild's Divine Beasts.

2 Zonaite Forge Island

Ascending to this temple feels like embarking on a journey to the clouds. The climb is a thrilling experience as you scale a ladder of levitating terrain that seems to stretch on forever. The level design is a testament to the game's mastery of platforming challenges.

Zonaite Forge Island, situated high up in the sky, is one of the most fascinating sky islands that Tears of the Kingdom has to offer. It is located at a considerable distance from other islands, making it a bit challenging to access. However, with Link's new abilities in the game, reaching this magnificent structure in the sky has become more accessible and convenient.

Upon arrival at the island, players will be amazed by the sheer size of it, especially when they activate the towering chimneys of the forge which allow them to glide up to the very top. Some of the more abandoned chimneys are adorned with Korok Seeds, while the central tower houses a combat shrine, device dispenser, and a secret chest waiting to be discovered. It is advisable to have some hydrant devices on hand before embarking on this adventure.

1 Sky Mine

Despite the lack of significant mining activities in the area, Sky Mine boasts a variety of attractions and activities scattered across a cluster of small islands. Among these islands is a unique deposit of luminous stones, adding to the distinctiveness of the location.

Upon reaching the cross shaped island, players will undoubtedly be lured towards the panel that triggers three vertical launchers. Once activated, these launchers will enable Link to reach the floating sphere nearby. Here, players will be presented with the task of using the final launcher to shoot scattered blocks into the sphere, almost like a peculiar version of basketball, in order to unlock the chest within.