Echoes of a Sunken World: How to Find All Stele Messages in Sword of the Sea

In the breathtaking, ever-shifting world of Sword of the Sea, exploration is not just a gameplay mechanic; it is the core of the experience. As you surf through vast, flooded landscapes on your board, you will encounter a variety of collectibles that are essential to both the game’s progression and its deep, mournful lore. One of the most important of these collectibles are the Stele Messages, ancient tablets that contain the “Wisdom of the Ancients.” These messages are crucial for unlocking the game’s full narrative and for earning the “Wisdom of the Ancients” trophy or achievement. Finding all of them can be a challenge, as they are often hidden in hard-to-reach places. Here is a comprehensive, area-by-area guide to finding every single Stele Message in the game.

The game is divided into several major biomes, and each biome contains a set of Stele Messages. The key to finding them is to explore every nook and cranny, as they are often tucked away in secret alcoves, behind waterfalls, or at the end of a hidden path. The messages are also part of a larger, interconnected narrative, with each one providing a new piece of the story of the sunken world and its inhabitants. Pay close attention to the environment, as the game often provides subtle clues that a secret is nearby.

Veiled Sea Stele Locations

The Veiled Sea is the first major biome you will encounter, and it serves as a tutorial for the game’s core mechanics. The Stele here introduce you to the game’s lore and the story of the ancient civilization that once inhabited this world.

• Stele 1: The Sea Remembers: This is one of the first Stele you will encounter. It is located to the left of the very first vendor you meet. You’ll find it on a plateau overlooking the area.
• Stele 2: The Necropolis: After you learn the trick from the vendor, hug the left wall and you’ll see some pillars. The Stele is on a pillar above the waterfall.
• Stele 3: The Blade: This one is a bit trickier. After restoring the water on the left side of the main area, follow the wall run. The Stele is located on a pillar near a doorway, to the right of a mural that you cleanse.
• Stele 4: The Fish Swim in the Sky: Upon restoring the water on the left side of the main area, near the top among the jellyfish platforms, there is an open window you can jump into. The Stele will be waiting for you inside.
• Stele 5: The Cycle Is Broken: This one is located to the right of the main area, near the chain that leads to the right.
• Stele 6: Aluma: After restoring the right chain’s water, head to the building that is raised by the sand. Behind it are some kelp trails that lead up a waterfall. Float through the kelp to reveal a hidden area with the Stele.

Lost Grotto Stele Locations

The Lost Grotto is a beautiful area with a lot of hidden alcoves and secrets. The Stele here continue to expand on the game’s lore and the stories of its ancient inhabitants.

• Stele 1: The Lost Grotto: After cleansing the area through the double doors, float up the kelp and ride the rooftops on the right until you see a building with a red flag. The Stele is located here.
• Stele 2: The Champion: Through the four-switch doors, head to the right and you’ll find a small room with a Stele.
• Stele 3: The Great Dolphin: To the left of the double doors with the water switches, head along the end of a long bridge to find this Stele.
• Stele 4: Not All Wars Have Victors: On the right side of the vendor, just before the double doors, you’ll find this Stele.

Frozen Tundra Stele Locations

The Frozen Tundra is a cold, unforgiving biome with a lot of verticality. The Stele here can be difficult to find due to the lack of visibility from the snowstorms.

• Stele 1: The Great Shark: As you enter the area with the giant stone statue, head behind it and down the hill. You’ll find a shark statue, and the Stele is located directly behind it.
• Stele 2: The Wind Blows Cold: Located after the loop-de-loop tunnel, you’ll enter an area with pillars. Look to your right along the icy cave path, and you’ll find the Stele in a small crevice in the wall.
• Stele 3: The Silent One: This one is located in the large open area where you can use boosts to clear huge gaps. Look for a series of three broken bridge parts above. The Stele is on one of these platforms.

Boiling Cavern Stele Locations

The Boiling Cavern is a dangerous, volcanic area that requires precise movement. The Stele here are often located in areas surrounded by dangerous hot spots.

• Stele 1: The Fires Below: As you enter the area, look for a hidden path to the left. The Stele is located in a small cavern.
• Stele 2: The Army of Red Fire: After restoring the water in a small area, look for a hidden wall run that leads to a small platform with the Stele.
• Stele 3: When Water Battles Fire: After a tricky puzzle that involves using your water bubble to put out a fire, you’ll find the Stele on a platform that becomes accessible.

Sacred River Stele Locations

The Sacred River is a peaceful, winding biome with a lot of hidden secrets. The Stele here are often hidden along the riverbeds or behind waterfalls.

• Stele 1: The Minder’s Wisdom: After crossing the first bridge, head to the right and look for a small, hidden path that leads to the Stele.
• Stele 2: The Tower: Located on the right side of a large, circular tower in the middle of the river. You will need to ride a kelp trail up to it.

By finding all of these Stele Messages, you will not only unlock the achievement but also gain a deeper understanding of the world of Sword of the Sea and the tragic history that led to its current state.