Zelda Lore Explained: Who Is Null In Echoes Of Wisdom?

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Despite being a pretty major character in , Null’s identity remains somewhat of a mystery. Likely taking place on the Zelda timeline sometime bef, tells a story that, in many ways, subverts typical series tropes. This time, it's Link who's in trouble, and Zelda who has to save him with the help of the mysterious, otherworldly being Tri, and a staff that allows her to clone objects throughout the world.

[Warning: This article contains spoilers for the ending of .]

In another subversion of the typical formula, doesn't feature Ganon or Vaati, but has a unique villain: the mysterious Null. While much of Null's background is explained in-game, it's easy to miss the deeper implications of its lore. But with ties to other, more arcane parts of the canon, Null is worth a deeper look.

First and foremost, Null serves as the final boss of . Once Zelda ha rescued Link, the two learn of Null's existence, and discover it's the true source of all the rifts opening up around Hyrule. It acted intentionally in separating Zelda and Link, as it knew the two heroes together would pose the greatest threat to its ongoing plan. Of course, it underestimated Zelda's strength immensely, which proved its downfall.

Echoes of Wisdom has been well-loved by Zelda fans, but this repeated UI feature from TotK has proven a bit annoying.

Zelda and Link first face Null together, using the Tri Rod's power and the Master Sword's might in order to tear off its arms. Eventually, Zelda must face Null on her own, using all the echoes and powers she's gained throughout the game to pursue it through rough waters. Eventually, the two heroes reunite, and fight through hordes of monsters before finally defeating Null itself and collecting the final piece of the Triforce from it. Zelda and Link then reforge the Triforce, sealing Null away.

What follows is a bittersweet ending: everyone returns from the rifts to Hyrule, and Zelda is celebrated for her heroism. She is distraught at having to part with her ally Tri,