How do I upgrade the Korok Mask in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild?

The Korok Mask is a unique piece of equipment in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild that helps players locate Korok Seeds, which are essential for expanding Link's inventory. However, unlike many other armor pieces in the game, the Korok Mask cannot be upgraded. This is a common point of confusion for players, as most armor sets can be enhanced at Great Fairy Fountains to increase their defense or unlock special set bonuses. The Korok Mask, however, is an exception to this rule. It is designed solely to assist in finding Korok Seeds and does not provide any defensive benefits or set bonuses, which is why it cannot be upgraded.

To obtain the Korok Mask, players must first purchase the "The Master Trials" DLC pack, which is part of the game's Expansion Pass. Once the DLC is installed, the Korok Mask can be found in a chest located in the Lost Woods. Specifically, the chest is hidden in a hollow tree stump near the entrance to the Korok Forest. The mask is part of the "EX Treasure: Korok Mask" side quest, which is automatically added to your quest log when you enter the Lost Woods area. The mask's primary function is to shake and make a sound when you are near a hidden Korok, making it easier to locate these elusive creatures and collect their seeds.

Since the Korok Mask cannot be upgraded, its utility is limited to its base function. However, there are several strategies and tips to maximize its effectiveness. First, always wear the Korok Mask when exploring new areas, especially in regions with dense foliage, rocky terrain, or bodies of water, as these are common locations for Korok puzzles. The mask will alert you to nearby Koroks, allowing you to investigate and solve the puzzles to collect seeds. Second, pay attention to the mask's shaking and sound cues. The intensity of the shaking and the volume of the sound increase as you get closer to a Korok, so use these cues to narrow down the location. Third, combine the use of the Korok Mask with other exploration tools, such as the Sheikah Sensor set to detect treasure chests or the Hero's Path mode on the map, to ensure you don't miss any hidden Koroks.

One common mistake players make is assuming that the Korok Mask will lead them directly to Koroks. While it does provide a helpful alert, it does not pinpoint the exact location of the Korok or the puzzle you need to solve. You will still need to search the area and use your problem-solving skills to uncover the Korok. Another mistake is neglecting to wear the mask in areas where Koroks are less obvious, such as in towns or near stables. Koroks can be found in almost every part of Hyrule, so it's important to keep the mask equipped as much as possible.

In terms of advanced techniques, players can optimize their Korok hunting by planning efficient routes through the game world. Use the interactive map available online to mark areas where Koroks are commonly found, and prioritize these locations during your exploration. Additionally, consider using the mask in conjunction with other exploration-enhancing gear, such as the Climber's Set or the Zora Armor, to access hard-to-reach areas where Koroks might be hiding. For example, some Koroks are located on high cliffs or in the middle of lakes, so having the right equipment to traverse these environments can save time and effort.

While the Korok Mask cannot be upgraded, its value lies in its ability to streamline the process of collecting Korok Seeds, which are crucial for expanding your inventory. By wearing the mask and following the tips outlined above, you can significantly reduce the time and effort required to find all 900 Koroks in the game. Remember that patience and thorough exploration are key, as some Koroks are hidden in cleverly disguised puzzles or require specific actions to reveal. With the Korok Mask as your guide, you'll be well-equipped to uncover the secrets of Hyrule and fully upgrade your inventory.