
Sword of the Sea, much like Giant Squid’s earlier release Abzu, invites players to ride a variety of aquatic animals, enhancing gameplay with breathtaking moments perfect for capturing in screenshots. While it may not showcase as many creatures as Abzu, the thrill of interacting with these majestic beings remains a key highlight.
In Sword of the Sea, seven unique creatures provide not just a visual treat but also the opportunity to earn trophies upon dismounting. This feature is particularly appealing for trophy hunters and marine life enthusiasts. Below, you’ll find a guide detailing how to locate each of these trophy-related creatures. Note that while other rideable animals exist, such as sea turtles and manta rays, they do not grant trophies.
Most of these animals become accessible through the main storyline, with one notable exception. As you progress, make sure to explore and ride any creatures you find to collect all available trophies. For the hidden rideable animal, skip ahead to #4, the Elasmosaur.
#1 – Orca – Veiled Sea
You’ll encounter orcas first in the Veiled Sea level. As you navigate this area, you will eventually face a fork in the path marked by a locked gate and two enormous chains leading left and right.
Head left to find a circular structure with a mossy roof. Inside, lighting the lanterns will create a path of jellyfish that can be used to reach a platform with a large blue orb. Interacting with this orb will summon the orcas. Simply jump onto one to receive your first trophy.
#2 – Archelon – Lost Grotto
The Archelon, another creature along the critical path, can be found in the Lost Grotto level. Look for a majestic dolphin statue as you progress. Interacting with the blue orb near this statue will spawn a group of Archelon back at the towers you earlier navigated.
Once the Archelon appears, you can ride the chain back to their location—another rideable creature crossed off your trophy list. Be mindful that while this level has regular sea turtles, only the Archelon will contribute to your trophy count.
#3 – Humpback Whale – Shadow Tundra
Next, you’ll find the Humpback Whale after completing specific story segments. This level introduces a chilling, snowy environment. As you make your way through the blizzard, follow the path marked by colossal statues of warriors guiding you forward.
Climb inside the largest statue’s arm and interact at the top to reveal several Humpback Whales, alongside kelp stalks that help you ascend. Simply backtrack and climb using the kelp to hop onto your new whale friend.
#4 – Elasmosaur – Shadow Tundra
The Elasmosaur is special; it’s the only rideable creature that requires extra effort to find. Located in the Shadow Tundra, keep an eye out for a steep, icy mountain. After navigating natural progressions and gaining boost abilities, ascend the mountain to spot a hidden stone pathway leading you backward.
Surf to this elevated path and traverse it to access a giant gateway. Here, you’ll uncover a massive skeleton that lets you grind onto its spine and into its jaw, where another interactive orb awaits. Engaging with it will summon the Elasmosaur, allowing you to take a memorable ride.
#5 – Sperm Whale – Sacred River
Near impossible to miss, the Sperm Whale is the first among several rideables in the Sacred River area. Post-church segment, you’ll arrive at a circular arena with a gate in front of you. Interact with the platform orb at the center to unlock the gate, which will also summon a pod of Sperm Whales for your riding pleasure.
#6 – Whale Shark – Sacred River
One of my personal favorites, this next creature is also found in the Sacred River. Continuing along the main path, discover small boats positioned on elevated platforms. By lighting the lanterns around the boats and interacting with the gems, you’ll raise a sunken ship from the depths.
Utilize the newly formed jellyfish to board this vessel, where a halfpipe offers two interactable beacons on opposite ends. Activate them to generate boosters that propel you to the ship’s central section. Once there, interacting with another blue orb will summon the Whale Sharks. Enjoy the ride!
#7 – Blue Whale – Sacred River
The final creature to ride for your trophy collection is the Blue Whale, which is hard to miss if you pursue the main storyline. You will arrive at the trailing end of the Sacred River, distinctly marked by shooting stars showering the area.
Within one of the three towers, a locked gate linked to a halfpipe moat will become visible. Use your skills to reach this area, which connects to a kelp chandelier. Climb and engage with the blue orb to prompt a school of Blue Whales to appear. Be prepared for a challenge as you leap onto one—approaching from the ground may ease your ascent.
Leave a Reply