Complete guide to finding Epona in Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom with Amiibo and save file methods
The Legendary Return of Link’s Trusted Steed
Discovering Epona’s whereabouts represents a crucial objective for dedicated players exploring the vast landscapes of Hyrule in The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. This comprehensive guide reveals the precise methods to reunite Link with his most celebrated equine partner.
The return of Link’s legendary horse Epona stands among the most anticipated features in Tears of the Kingdom. Mastering the acquisition process ensures you gain this invaluable travel companion early in your adventure.
Epona made her debut galloping across the fields of Hyrule in Ocarina of Time and has since become synonymous with the Zelda franchise. Her reappearance continues this tradition through both Breath of the Wild and its ambitious successor, Tears of the Kingdom.
This iconic steed rightfully claims her position among gaming’s most revered animal companions, sharing prestige with legendary mounts like The Witcher’s Roach and Skyrim’s Shadowmere. Her reliability proves indispensable when traversing the perilous terrain and confronting threats throughout the expanded world of Hyrule.
For adventurers determined to reestablish the bond between Link and his faithful horse within Tears of the Kingdom, the following sections detail every essential step to secure Epona’s companionship.
Acquiring Epona Through Amiibo Figures
Securing Epona through Amiibo functionality remains exclusive to owners of either the Super Smash Bros. Link Amibo or the Twilight Princess Link Amiibo. Properly scanning either figure triggers Epona’s appearance in your game world.
Execute the scanning process by gently tapping your compatible Amiibo against the NFC detection point located on the Right Joy-Con controller or the Pro Controller’s designated touchpoint. Successful recognition will immediately summon Epona to your location.
Attempting this procedure during initial gameplay proves impossible. You must first complete the comprehensive Sky Island Tutorial section and successfully descend to the surface of Hyrule. Only after reaching the mainland does the game enable Amiibo functionality for Epona summoning.
Pro Tip: Amiibo scanning operates once per calendar day. If Epona doesn’t appear initially, wait 24 hours and attempt again. Ensure you have adequate space around your character, as cramped locations may prevent successful spawning.
Advanced Strategy: For players owning multiple compatible Amiibo, the Super Smash Bros. Link variant typically offers higher success rates according to community testing. Always scan from flat, open terrain to avoid spawning issues.
Alternative Method: Breath of the Wild Save File
Community verification confirms that possessing a saved game file from The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild provides an alternative pathway to obtaining Epona. This method bypasses the Amiibo requirement entirely.
With an existing Breath of the Wild save file, journey to the New Serenne Stable, strategically positioned between Hyrule Ridge and Lookout Landing. This location serves as the exclusive access point for save file claimants.
Approach the stable proprietor directly and engage in conversation regarding available horses. The dialogue options will present Epona as a retrievable companion, unmistakably identified by her distinctive appearance and registered name.
Navigation Advice: New Serenne Stable sits northwest of Lookout Landing, easily identifiable by its windmill structures and proximity to the main road. The location becomes accessible early in your surface exploration, making this the fastest method for players with qualifying save data.
Verification Check: Ensure your Breath of the Wild save file exists on the same Nintendo Switch profile and console. System transfers or profile changes may disrupt recognition. The game automatically scans for save data upon stable approach.
Advanced Strategies and Common Pitfalls
Immediate Registration Protocol: Upon acquiring Epona through either method, promptly visit any stable to officially register her. Registration costs 20 rupees but guarantees permanent access and prevents accidental loss. Unregistered horses may disappear if abandoned.
Statistical Superiority: Epona possesses perfect attributes across all horse metrics: maximum strength, speed, stamina, and temperament. She cannot be spooked easily and responds instantly to commands, outperforming every wild-caught horse in Hyrule.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Attempting Amiibo scans before completing Sky Island Tutorial (wastes daily attempt)
- Neglecting to register Epona immediately after acquisition
- Scanning Amiibo in confined spaces causing spawn failures
- Assuming Breath of the Wild save file transfers between Nintendo accounts
Optimization Strategies:
- Complete Sky Island Tutorial efficiently to unlock Amiibo functionality within 2-3 hours
- Use towers and gliding to reach New Serenne Stable quickly for save file method
- Keep Epona registered but use specialized horses for specific terrain when needed
- Utilize Epona’s perfect stats for combat situations and long-distance travel
Technical Considerations: Amiibo functionality requires console internet connection for verification. Physical damage to Amiibo figures may impair scanning reliability. Digital Amiibo through compatible apps may work but exhibit lower consistency rates according to player reports.
No reproduction without permission：SeeYouSoon Game Club » How to get Epona in Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Complete guide to finding Epona in Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom with Amiibo and save file methods