Introduction

Welcome, intrepid adventurer, to the world of The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass! This guide will navigate you through the treacherous seas and mysterious islands of the Great Sea, helping Link rescue Tetra and defeat the dreaded Bellum. Prepare your stylus, for the Nintendo DS's unique controls are central to mastering this epic journey.

Getting Started: The Opening Sequence

Your adventure begins immediately after the events of The Wind Waker. Link, Tetra, and her pirate crew are sailing the seas when a mysterious ghost ship appears. Tetra, ever the brave captain, boards it, only to cry for help before vanishing. Link, attempting a rescue, falls into the ocean and washes ashore on a strange island.

Awakening on Mercay Island: You'll find Link unconscious on the beach. An old man named Oshus will discover you.
Initial Controls Tutorial: Oshus will guide you through the basic movement controls. Tap the screen to move Link, and tap enemies to attack. Practice these movements as you follow Oshus.
Meeting Ciela: As you explore Oshus's house, you'll encounter a small, fairy-like creature named Ciela. She has lost her memory but will become your invaluable companion throughout the quest.

First Steps: Mercay Island Exploration

Before you can set sail, there are a few crucial tasks to complete on Mercay Island. This section will get you acquainted with the island and its inhabitants.

Oshus's House and the Village

After your initial conversation with Oshus and Ciela, take some time to familiarize yourself with your surroundings.

Explore Oshus's House: Check every corner. While there aren't many hidden items here initially, it's good practice.
Head to the Village: Follow the path leading north from Oshus's house. You'll encounter the friendly residents of Mercay Island.
Speak to Villagers: Engage with everyone you meet. They often provide valuable hints, gossip, or even side quests. Pay particular attention to the man near the docks who talks about the ghost ship and the Temple of the Ocean King.

The Temple of the Ocean King - First Visit

Your path will inevitably lead you to the imposing Temple of the Ocean King, located in the northern part of Mercay Island. This will be your first taste of the game's central dungeon mechanic.

Locate the Temple Entrance: It's hard to miss, a large, ominous structure.
Enter the Temple: Upon entering, you'll be introduced to the game's unique time-based dungeon system and the Phantom Hourglass itself.
Retrieve the Sword: Your primary objective in this initial visit is to retrieve the Sword. Navigate the first few rooms, avoiding the patrolling Phantoms. Remember, you cannot defeat them yet. Use the environment to your advantage, hiding behind pillars or in safe zones.
Learn the Map Mechanic: The game's map system is crucial. You'll draw paths for Link and mark points of interest. Practice drawing a path to the Sword's location.
Obtain the Sword: Once you reach the pedestal, claim the Sword. This will allow you to defend yourself against weaker enemies.
Exit the Temple: With the Sword in hand, retrace your steps and exit the Temple. You'll find that the Phantoms are still a threat, but now you can dispatch some of the smaller, less armored foes.

Preparing for the Open Sea

With the Sword acquired, Oshus will reveal more about the ghost ship and the need for a vessel to pursue it. This leads to your encounter with the eccentric Captain Linebeck.

Return to Oshus: He will explain the importance of the Phantom Hourglass and the need for a ship.
Meet Linebeck: Head back to the docks. You'll find Linebeck, a boastful but ultimately helpful captain, and his ship, the S.S. Linebeck.
The Quest for the Chart: Linebeck will agree to help, but only if you retrieve a special sea chart from the Temple of the Ocean King. This sets the stage for your next major objective.

You are now ready to delve deeper into the mysteries of the Great Sea. Good luck, Link!