Zelda Tears of the Kingdom - 100% Completion Guide: Shrines, Quests, and More

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom continues the legacy of its predecessor, Breath of the Wild, by expanding the gameplay universe with new mechanics, deeper lore, and more customization. One of the more intriguing aspects explored by fans is the concept of collectible and functional items often likened to "cards" — a gameplay metaphor used to describe special abilities, Zonai device blueprints, and artifact-like objects that function similarly to cards in RPG or strategy-based systems. In this guide, we’ll explore these elements and provide insights for players looking to uncover all the secrets, tactics, and frequently asked questions about this epic Nintendo title.

Understanding the "Card-Like" Elements in Tears of the Kingdom

While Tears of the Kingdom does not include a literal card deck system, many players refer to the Zonai devices, Sage abilities, and schematic blueprints as "cards" due to their collectible and tactical nature. These elements allow Link to build vehicles, power up with allies, and access environmental manipulation tools that feel strategic and modular, much like playing a deck in a card game. Here's a breakdown of what you should know:

• Zonai Devices: Found throughout the world and stored in your inventory like consumable cards, used to construct vehicles and mechanisms.
• Sage Abilities: Permanent buffs that resemble active cards once obtained by defeating main bosses, each corresponding to an ally.
• Schematics: Blueprints that automatically build multi-device creations. Once unlocked, they feel like “playing a pre-built card.”
• Champion’s Leathers and Upgrades: Special outfits and armor enhancements work similarly to equippable "cards" offering strategic advantages.

All these systems contribute to giving players strategic agency, offering puzzle-solving, combat tactics, and exploration depth in a format that resembles a card-based system in spirit.

FAQ

What are Zonai devices in Tears of the Kingdom?

Zonai devices are ancient mechanical tools that Link can use to build contraptions such as vehicles, weapons, and traps throughout the game.

How do I collect more Zonai devices?

You can collect Zonai devices from capsules, dispensers located in the sky islands, or by defeating certain enemies and looting their remains.

Are there actual cards in Tears of the Kingdom?

No, there are no literal cards in the game, but elements like schematics, sage abilities, and Zonai devices function similarly to a card system in strategy games.

What are Sage abilities?

Sage abilities are powers granted to Link after completing major story arcs, allowing him to summon allies or perform unique actions in battle and puzzles.

Can I upgrade Sage abilities?

Yes, some Sage abilities can be enhanced through side quests and main story progress, making them more powerful or versatile.

Where do I find blueprints or schematics?

Blueprints can be found in Yiga Clan bases, given as quest rewards, or found in specific ruins and labs across Hyrule and the sky islands.

What’s the use of the Autobuild feature?

Autobuild lets you quickly reconstruct any structure you’ve previously created or discovered via schematic, saving time and resources.

How do Zonai batteries work?

Zonai batteries power your machines. You can expand battery capacity with Zonaite, which you mine in the Depths or get as rewards.

Is there a card collection aspect similar to other RPGs?

No formal card collection system exists, but the game’s vast range of collectible gear, devices, and recipes functions similarly to collectible mechanics.

Can you trade Zonai devices or schematics?

No, Zonai devices and schematics are single-player assets and cannot be traded or shared with other players.

What are the most useful Zonai devices?

Fans agree that fans, rockets, wheels, steering sticks, and flame emitters are among the most versatile and widely used Zonai tools.

Are there limitations to what I can build with Zonai tech?

While there are limits based on battery capacity and available components, players have built everything from tanks to flying ships.

Is there a way to organize my Zonai inventory?

Yes, the inventory is automatically sorted, and frequently used devices are accessible faster. You can also pin favorite schematics.

Can I lose my Zonai devices?

Devices consumed during building are removed from your inventory, but you can collect more or use Autobuild to restore them using Zonaite.

How do I unlock all Sage abilities?

You must complete the four major regional quests in Hebra, Eldin, Gerudo, and Lanayru to unlock each Sage and their respective abilities.

Are there any hidden "card-like" items players miss?

Yes, certain blueprints and outfits are hidden in remote areas or behind puzzle shrines and often missed without a guide.

Do Zonai devices respawn?

No, but you can always get more from capsule machines or by visiting certain mining areas that consistently provide Zonaite.

Are there armor sets that work like special cards?

Yes, some armor sets grant unique buffs or resistances, making them functionally similar to equippable strategy cards in RPGs.

What’s the best way to unlock schematics quickly?

Joining the Yiga Clan disguise side questline early will unlock various schematics hidden across their bases and give you early access to powerful builds.

Is there any in-game way to track collected devices?

Yes, your inventory shows every Zonai device capsule you own and how many. For schematics, you can browse them in the Autobuild menu.