The Unbeatable Link: Exploring the Majesty of Zelda's Master Cycle Zero

Highlights

Although The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom doesn't feature the iconic Master Cycle Zero or advanced Sheikah technology, the resourcefulness of players has resulted in the emergence of a beloved Zonai contraption called the "Hover Bike."

The Hover Bike, with its sleek design, efficient battery, and ability to traverse any terrain, quickly became an essential vehicle for players in Tears of the Kingdom, evoking the joy of freely exploring Hyrule in an expansive open world.

While the Beam Cycle in Tears of the Kingdom aims to honor the Master Cycle Zero, it falls behind in terms of its design, maneuverability, and practicality when compared to the player-crafted Hover Bike. The Hover Bike truly captures the essence and excitement of the original vehicle, reigniting the freedom and excitement that players crave.

While there are no plans for The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom to incorporate Sheikah technology or DLC like its predecessor, the game's sequel has reintroduced the popular concept of the Master Cycle Zero through player ingenuity and Zonai devices. Initially, fans were excited about the possibility of the Master Cycle Zero making a return in Tears of the Kingdom when the new Zonai vehicles were revealed. However, it was later revealed that the Master Cycle Zero and most Sheikah technology would not be included in the sequel.

Nevertheless, the idea of the Master Cycle Zero lives on within the mechanics of Tears of the Kingdom, with one Zonai vehicle in particular standing out among players. Dubbed the "Hover Bike," this player-created vehicle became a favorite due to its simple design, long battery life, and ability to traverse all types of terrain. While there are differences between the Hover Bike and the Master Cycle Zero, both vehicles embody the concept of freely exploring the vast world of Hyrule and making the most of its open-world environment.

The Missed Potential of Zelda: Breath of the Wild's Master Cycle Zero

The Master Cycle Zero, a DLC reward for Breath of the Wild, initially had the concept of Link riding a motorcycle around Hyrule. Despite the team's initial uncertainty, it ultimately proved to be a fitting addition to the game's departure from traditional design. Alongside The Champions' Ballad's success, the Master Cycle Zero has become a beloved aspect of Breath of the Wild.

However, while the Master Cycle Zero was well-liked for its integration with Sheikah technology and the open world, it fell short of reaching its full potential. Released as DLC six months after the game's official launch, most players had already made significant progress in the game. As a result, by the time they obtained the Master Cycle Zero through completing The Champions' Ballad, it no longer had much purpose beyond aimlessly driving around Hyrule. This left players wishing that it had been included as part of the base game for a more fulfilling experience.

How Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Channels the Master Cycle Zero

The inclusion of the Master Cycle Zero in the game "The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom" was uncertain due to various reasons such as its popularity, connection to Sheikah technology, and its status as DLC. As more details about the Breath of the Wild sequel emerged and new trailers were released, the possibility of the Master Cycle Zero being added seemed unlikely, despite its potential usefulness and enjoyment for players. In response to this, Nintendo seems to have taken a different approach by introducing Zonai devices, instead of including the Master Cycle Zero.

However, the attempt to pay homage to the Master Cycle Zero through the inclusion of Zonai schematics for the Beam Cycle, found in the Shrine of Resurrection, falls short in comparison. The Beam Cycle's complicated design, lack of maneuverability, and limited utility become apparent when compared to player-created alternatives like the Hover Bike. The Hover Bike, made from just three common Zonai devices and requiring minimal battery, successfully recaptures the sense of freedom and excitement that the Master Cycle Zero offered, allowing players to effortlessly glide through the air at high speeds.

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is available now on Nintendo Switch.