In The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds, fairies play a crucial role in supporting Link’s health and enhancing his gameplay experience through healing. The game introduces two primary types of healing fairies: Small Fairies and Great Fairies, each serving distinct functions.

Types of Fairies and Their Effects

1. Small Fairies
– Healing Effect: Each Small Fairy restores 5 hearts to Link’s health when released.
– Capture and Use: Players have the option to capture these fairies in empty bottles. This strategic feature allows players to store fairies for later use, providing flexibility during tougher battles or exploration.
– Auto-Revive: If Link falls in battle while holding a Small Fairy in a bottle, that fairy will automatically revive him, fully restoring his health. This mechanic adds an extra layer of strategy, as managing fairies effectively can save Link from defeat.

2. Great Fairies
– Healing Effect: A visit to a Great Fairy Fountain will fully restore all of Link’s hearts, providing a significant advantage by ensuring Link is at full health at critical moments in his adventure.
– Location: Great Fairies are found in Great Fairy Fountains scattered throughout Hyrule and Lorule. These locations are often key checkpoints that players can use strategically.
– Functionality: Unlike Small Fairies, Great Fairies are not captured in bottles. Instead, they serve as guardians, welcoming players with instant full healing upon each visit, making them vital for a quick turnaround during exploration.

Comparison of the Healing Properties

| Fairy Type | Healing Effect | Availability |
|——————-|——————————————|———————————————–|
| Small Fairies | Restores 5 hearts per fairy | Found in Fairy Fountains; can be bottled |
| Great Fairies | Fully restore all hearts on each visit | Located in Great Fairy Fountains; instant full heal |

Gameplay Implications

The placement of these fairy fountains—both types—across Hyrule and Lorule transforms them into essential healing spots. Players are encouraged to explore their environments to locate these fountains, enhancing the adventure’s exploration element. Finding a Great Fairy Fountain can serve as a critical strategy point, especially before entering challenging boss battles or areas with high damage potential.

Summary

In summary, the healing system in A Link Between Worlds focuses on two main types of fairies that assist Link:

– Small Fairies: Heal 5 hearts, can be captured for future use, and can auto-revive Link if he falls in battle.
– Great Fairies: Instantly refill all hearts when visited, providing a powerful full heal option.

This dual-system of healing allows for both immediate health restoration through exploration and strategic health management using captured fairies, highlighting the versatility of gameplay in Link’s quest to save Hyrule and Lorule.