In the summer of 2014, the world lost a legend. But for the gaming community, it felt personal. Robin Williams wasn't just a movie star; he was a massive nerd who actually walked the walk. He didn't just play games; he named his daughter Zelda after the princess of Hyrule. That's commitment. After he passed, over 100,000 fans signed a petition asking Nintendo to put him in the next game. They wanted him immortalized where he belonged.
Nintendo's response was respectful but quiet. They said they'd hold their memories of Robin close. They didn't promise anything.
Then, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild launched in 2017.
Almost immediately, players started seeing a familiar face. No, there wasn't a character named "Robin" or a statue of the Genie. Instead, people found an NPC named Dayto. He looks... well, he looks exactly like him.
Who Exactly is Dayto?
If you're looking for him, you'll find him near the Foothill Stable. He’s usually wandering the path leading toward Death Mountain. Honestly, the resemblance is wild. He’s got the signature beard, the hair, and even that gentle, slightly mischievous look in his eyes that Williams was known for.
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Dayto is a traveler. He carries a Hunter's Shield and a Traveler's Sword. But what makes people really lean into the theory isn't just the face. It's the personality. Dayto is incredibly indecisive. He spends his time debating whether to go east or west, or whether he should check his map or trust his gut.
He talks about the world being bleak but finds joy when it rains. He's nervous about monsters but grateful when Link saves him. It feels like a subtle nod to the duality of Robin’s own life—the brilliance and the struggle.
The Evidence for the Tribute
Nintendo has never officially confirmed that Dayto is Robin Williams. They're funny like that. They rarely acknowledge real-world references in such a direct way. But look at the facts:
- The Appearance: Compare a screenshot of Dayto to Robin Williams in his later years, particularly from the Ocarina of Time 3D commercials. The nose and chin are nearly identical.
- The Proximity to "Death" Mountain: Some fans think the location is a bit dark, but others see it as a metaphor for the uphill battles Robin fought.
- The Community Response: When fans first found him, the internet basically exploded. For many, it was the "official" answer to that 100,000-signature petition.
There are other theories, of course. Some think Robbie, the ancient tech researcher at the Akkala Lab, is the tribute because of the name. But Robbie is a high-energy, "rock and roll" scientist. Dayto feels more like the man himself.
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He’s Back in Tears of the Kingdom
If you thought Dayto was a one-off for Breath of the Wild, think again. He shows up in the sequel, Tears of the Kingdom, too. This time, he's actually moved up in the world. You won't find him wandering the road anymore.
Instead, he’s working at the YunoboCo HQ north of Goron City. He’s the guy behind the counter selling fire-resistant gear. He’s still a bit anxious, sure, but he’s got a job. He’s safe. There's something really sweet about seeing him settled in and helping the player out.
Why It Matters
Robin Williams was one of the first "big" celebrities to be open about his love for gaming. Back when it was still seen as a hobby for kids, he was talking about World of Warcraft and Zelda on talk shows. He and his daughter Zelda even filmed commercials together for the franchise.
For many players, finding Dayto isn't just about an Easter egg. It’s a way to say goodbye. It’s a small, quiet memorial in a world that is all about memory and legacy.
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Whether Nintendo meant it or not, Dayto has become the de facto Robin Williams memorial. In a game that's literally about exploring a beautiful, ruined world and finding pieces of the past, it fits perfectly.
How to Find Him Yourself
If you want to pay your respects, here is the quickest way to get there:
- Fast travel to the Mo'a Keet Shrine.
- Walk over to the Foothill Stable (it's right there in the Eldin region).
- Look for a Hylian with a beard and a backpack wandering the Mountain Road.
- Wait until night or rain; he stays around the stable area then.
Don't expect a big quest or a special item. He's just a guy. But sometimes, just being there is enough.
Actionable Next Steps
To experience this tribute for yourself, head to the Foothill Stable in the northeastern part of the map. If you've already moved on to Tears of the Kingdom, travel to the YunoboCo Headquarters in the Eldin Canyon to see his new shop. Take a moment to talk to him; even if it's just digital code, it's a nice way to remember a man who gave so much to the world of entertainment.