Hero Mode and extras

what unlocks after you finish the game

Unlockables

Hero Mode

Beat the game once. Available as a new save: hearts no longer drop from enemies and damage taken is doubled.

Swift Sail

Beat the game once. The King of Red Lions always sails at max speed without holding any button down.

Extra credits content

Finish the game to see additional artwork and scenes during the closing credits.

1

Clear the main dungeon before chasing hearts

Each dungeon usually unlocks a new tool (Grappling Hook, Hookshot, Mirror Shield) that opens up parts of the Great Sea you couldn't reach before — don't get stuck on a Piece of Heart that seems out of reach yet.
2

Get the Wallet+ as soon as you can

With a 200-rupee cap you can't even afford one Triforce Chart. Visit Tingle on Rock Spire Isle the moment you have rupees to spare.
3

Buy the Cannon early

Many Pieces of Heart and Charts depend on sinking warships or hitting distant switches — the Cannon pays for itself.
4

Save the Savage Labyrinth for last

With the Master Sword at full power and hearts maxed out, all 50 floors go a lot faster.
5

Save the Triforce Charts for the second stretch

You can't enter Ganon's Tower without all eight — but you don't have to decipher every one before the Earth and Wind Temples either; let the story and the charts progress together.
6

Chase 100% on a Hero Mode replay

The second playthrough is the best time to go for full completion: you already know every island and every chart, so you can focus on the challenge instead.