26/12/2011
Ah, the elusive Orbs! For any budding dragon embarking on the grand adventure of Spyro the Dragon, collecting these shimmering prizes is paramount. Two particular Orbs, often found in close proximity to the formidable castle walls, can pose a bit of a challenge for newcomers. This guide is dedicated to helping you conquer those walls and secure these valuable collectibles. We'll break down the most efficient methods, explain the crucial abilities you'll need, and ensure you're well on your way to becoming a master of the castle grounds.
Understanding the Core Mechanics: Climbing and Gliding
Before we delve into the specifics of reaching those Orbs, it's vital to understand the fundamental abilities Spyro acquires. The most crucial for our current objective are Climbing and Gliding. Initially, Spyro can only perform basic jumps. However, with a little investment, he can learn the art of Climbing from Moneybags, a rather portly and persistent character who pops up throughout the game. This ability allows Spyro to ascend ladders and ledges, opening up new pathways. Gliding, on the other hand, is an innate ability that allows Spyro to soar through the air for extended periods, crucial for bridging gaps and reaching distant platforms. Mastering the interplay between these two abilities is the key to unlocking many of the game's secrets, including the Orbs we're focusing on today.
Orb #1: The End of the Wall
This particular Orb is located at the very end of the castle's perimeter wall. Reaching it requires a degree of precision and the aforementioned Climbing ability. There are several routes to success, but we'll focus on the most straightforward and the one that often complements the acquisition of Orb #2.
Method 1: The Intended Path
This is the route most likely designed by the game developers, requiring the use of your newly acquired Climbing skill. Start by heading towards the ladder that leads up into the castle. If you haven't already, seek out Moneybags and pay him the 500 Gems needed to learn Climbing. Once you've mastered this, ascend the ladder and proceed through the long hallway within the castle. Continue until you pass a lookout point. From this lookout, you'll notice an island situated to your right, accessible via gliding. This island houses the Portal to Icy Speedway. Continue past this, stopping at the top of the steps that descend towards Gulp's Overlook. On your left, you should spot a section of the wall that appears cracked. This is your target! Unleash a Charge attack on this cracked wall to break through it. This will reveal a pathway leading to a Whirlwind. Ride this Whirlwind upwards to a rooftop field. From this field, take the second Whirlwind you encounter. This will launch you into the air, allowing you to Glide towards the top of a tower. Once atop the tower, you'll have a clear line of sight to the castle wall itself. Glide from the tower's apex directly onto the wall. From here, simply walk clockwise along the top of the wall. Your destination is the very end, directly above the Portal to Breeze Harbor. At this extremity, you'll find another cracked wall. Charge it to reveal a hidden room containing Orb #1!
Method 2: A Gliding Masterclass
For those who prefer a more aerial approach, this method leverages Spyro's gliding prowess. Locate the Whirlwind situated near the building that contains the Zephyr Portal. Ride this Whirlwind upwards to a room where you'll find the Metro Speedway Portal. If Elora is present in this room, and you've collected at least six Orbs, speak to her to activate the portal. Once you're on the balcony overlooking the exterior, turn to your left. The manoeuvre required here is a swift Charge-Jump-to-Glide-and-Hover sequence. Execute this carefully around the corner, and you should be able to land directly onto the castle wall.
Method 3: The Direct Glide (If Orb #2 is secured first)
If you happen to have already secured Orb #2, you might be in a position to use the island where it's located as a launching point. From this island, you can directly Glide to the top of the castle wall. This is a more opportunistic method and depends on your prior Orb acquisition.
Orb #2: Long Glide!
This Orb, as its name suggests, requires a significant Glide. Conveniently, its location is often accessible using similar pathways to Orb #1, making it efficient to collect both in one excursion. In fact, if you haven't obtained either Orb yet, it's generally recommended to secure Orb #2 before tackling Orb #1.
The Recommended Approach
Begin by making your way to the ladder that ascends into the castle. As mentioned previously, ensure you have learned the Climbing ability from Moneybags (500 Gems). Climb the ladder and enter the castle, proceeding through the lengthy hallway. Continue until you pass the lookout point offering a glide opportunity to an island housing the Icy Speedway Portal. Just beyond this point, position yourself at the top of the steps leading down to Gulp's Overlook. On your left, you'll find the familiar cracked wall. Charge it to break it open. Ride the subsequent Whirlwind to the rooftop field, and then take the second Whirlwind. This second Whirlwind is your ticket to the tower. Once you've landed atop this tower, look out into the distance. You should be able to spot a small, green island. This is your target! Take a brave leap and Glide all the way to this island. Upon landing, you'll discover Orb #2 waiting for you.
Why Collect These Orbs?
Beyond the sheer satisfaction of collection, Orbs serve a vital purpose in Spyro the Dragon. They are the primary currency for unlocking new areas and progressing through the game. Obtaining these Orbs allows you to access further levels, encounter new challenges, and ultimately advance the story. Mastering the castle walls is a rite of passage, equipping you with the skills necessary for many of the game's more intricate platforming sections.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Problem: I can't seem to reach the island with Orb #2.
Solution: Ensure you are using the second Whirlwind after landing on the rooftop field. The timing and direction of your glide are crucial. Aim slightly ahead of the island to account for any drift.
Problem: The cracked wall won't break.
Solution: You must use Spyro's Charge ability. Simply running into it won't suffice. Make sure you initiate the charge animation before impact.
Problem: I don't have enough Gems for Climbing.
Solution: Explore the areas you have access to and defeat enemies. Gems are dropped by defeated foes and are often found scattered throughout the levels. Replaying previous sections can help you accumulate the necessary amount.
Comparative Table: Orb Acquisition Routes
| Orb | Primary Method | Key Ability | Estimated Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Orb #1 (End of Wall) | Climb, Charge, Whirlwinds, Glide | Climbing, Gliding, Charging | Moderate |
| Orb #2 (Long Glide!) | Climb, Whirlwinds, Glide | Climbing, Gliding | Moderate |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Do I need to collect Orb #1 before Orb #2?
A1: No, it's often more efficient to collect Orb #2 first as the pathways often lead you towards the general area of Orb #1. However, both are accessible independently.
Q2: What are Whirlwinds used for?
A2: Whirlwinds are updrafts that propel Spyro into the air, allowing him to glide further or reach higher platforms.
Q3: How do I get more Gems?
A3: Defeat enemies, break open chests, and explore thoroughly. Gems are essential for learning new abilities from Moneybags.
Q4: Is there any other way to get onto the castle wall?
A4: While the methods described are the most reliable, skilled players might discover other niche gliding or charging techniques. However, the described routes are the intended and most accessible.
By following these detailed instructions, you should be well-equipped to conquer the castle walls and add Orbs #1 and #2 to your burgeoning collection. Happy dragoning!
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