Whether exploring the great sea or hiking the mountains of Hyrule, Koroks are one of the cutest elements of The Legend of Zelda series. More than once I have found myself mimicking their “Ya-ha-ha” voice clips while smiling in awe. The musical spirits of the forest have been around since we first set sail in 2002’s The Wind Waker and despite the hunt for over 900 of them across Breath of the Wild’s vast world, their cuteness overrides any negative energy that may be harbored. Something about their wholesome nature and small size draws you into the mystical tribe of the Lost Woods, calling you to explore just how cute the Koroks can be. I didn’t think they could possibly get any cuter until I saw Outset Emporium’s Champion Koroks.
Linktober brings out artists of many kinds, all creating various fan art inspired by The Legend of Zelda series. On the twenty-third day of Linktober, Outset Emporium gave life to a band of Koroks cosplaying as the champions from Breath of the Wild, inspired by the very fitting prompt “Champions.” When I first saw them, I couldn’t help but squeal at the sheer adorableness of the artist’s designs. Each Korok has been gifted a blue sash complete with the Divine Beast symbols and worn in a way that matches how their champion counterparts adorn their sensational status: Just like a real cosplayer would! Of course, the design wouldn’t be complete without the champion’s signature weapons. These Koroks all wield their own miniature weapons, grasped in their hand and ready to fight.
Not only was time put into how the Koroks wore their cosplay, but Outset Emporium’s choice of Koroks underneath the costume matches the essence of the Champions they embody. Each Korok design from their leaf to their body shape captures the personalities of each champion. From the friendliness of Daruk’s Protection, the gentle nature of Mipha’s Grace, the fierceness of Urbosa’s Fury, and to the confidence of Revali’s Gale, this artist turned the lovable and adorable Koroks into little Champions ready to fight. Outset Emporium has put detailed thought into every component for these Koroks, shaping them into little guardians of the forest.
Outset Emporium didn’t stop at the drawings. Known for their Korok ornaments and pot plant decorations, the artist has taken their designs one step further and has created little figurines of each Champion Korok. With the sculptures, they added a few more details that bring the Champion Koroks alive. I will warn you, that once you see them, you’ll be dying to own a little Korok Champion of your own.
Deep in the Lost Woods, little Divine Beasts stand at the edge of the forest. One in the South, North, East, and West. They stand ready to defend their home from the malice of Calamity Ganon. Fog crawls around them, the magic of the forest at their side. Don’t worry Deku Tree. Your champions are ready to lay down their life for all creatures great and small.
