Overview
The King of Red Lions is a pivotal character in The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, serving as both Link’s primary mode of transportation across the Great Sea and a wise guide throughout his journey. This sentient red sailboat is later revealed to be the physical manifestation of Daphnes Nohansen Hyrule, the last King of Hyrule, who aids Link in his quest to thwart Ganondorf and restore peace to the world.
Role in The Wind Waker
After Link is cast into the sea by the Helmaroc King, he regains consciousness on Windfall Island, where he encounters the King of Red Lions. The boat introduces himself and offers assistance, explaining the threat posed by Ganondorf and the necessity of gathering the three Goddess Pearls. To traverse the vast ocean, Link must first procure a sail, initiating his seafaring adventure.
Throughout the game, the King of Red Lions provides invaluable guidance, often communicating with Link via the Pirate’s Charm. He facilitates Link’s exploration of various islands, the acquisition of essential items like the Wind Waker baton, and the eventual discovery of the submerged Hyrule Castle. It is here that the King reveals his true identity as Daphnes Nohansen Hyrule.
In the game’s climax, the King chooses to remain in the sinking Hyrule, ensuring Ganondorf’s defeat and the kingdom’s final rest beneath the waves, while Link and Tetra set sail to forge a new future.
Abilities & Features
- Sentience: Unlike ordinary vessels, the King of Red Lions can speak and reason, offering counsel and information throughout Link’s journey.
- Ancient Language Proficiency: He can comprehend and communicate in ancient Hylian, acting as a translator during critical interactions with deities like Valoo and Jabun.
- Equipment Integration:
- Sail: Essential for navigation; obtained early in the game.
- Swift Sail: An upgrade available in The Wind Waker HD, allowing for faster travel and automatic wind direction adjustment.
- Grappling Hook: Used to retrieve submerged treasures.
- Cannon: Activated upon acquiring bombs, enabling offensive capabilities against sea-based threats.
Appearances in Other Titles
- Hyrule Warriors: King Daphnes transforms into the King of Red Lions as part of his moveset, showcasing his dual nature.
- Super Smash Bros. Series:
- Brawl: Appears as a background element in the Pirate Ship stage and as a collectible trophy and sticker.
- Wii U & Ultimate: Returns in the Pirate Ship stage and as a trophy/spirit, highlighting his enduring legacy.
Trivia
- The design of the King of Red Lions draws inspiration from traditional Asian dragon boats, emphasizing its regal and mythical qualities.
- Despite being a boat, he exhibits human-like behaviors, such as expressing discomfort when attacked and yawning when idle.
- In the Japanese version, he is known as “Aka Jishi no Ō,” translating to “Red Lion King.”