Tales of Kenzera: Zau marks Surgent Studios' debut Metroidvania game. While it tries to tell a unique narrative within the genre, its homage to the Ori series is obvious. A striking similarity between both games lies in the use of abilities. Throughout the campaign, players will encounter a total of six unique abilities, also referred to as Hadithi Abilities.

Each ability is obtainable by interacting with a Shaman Shrine. Some focus on improving combat, while others reward you with new traversal moves. While all abilities are unmissable and essential for completing the game, many players may find themselves momentarily stuck. The guide below details everything you need to know about these abilities and how to unlock them.

Bamba's Stone Ability Location

Bamba’s Stone is the first Hadithi ability you'll unlock in Tales of Kenzera: Zau. Found within the Buluu Caverns during Act 1, players must head to the lower-left area of this region, as indicated on the map above. Upon reaching the statue, interacting with it will grant you the desired skill.

Bamba’s Stone can only be used when the Moon Mask is equipped. It enables you to freeze enemies, both terrestrial and airborne. Moreover, it proves vital for traversal by allowing you to freeze running water, enabling you to run on ice.

When using a controller, aim with the left trigger and activate the ability with the right trigger.

Akida's Spear Ability Location

The next ability on your list is Akida’s Spear, which can be found in Ikakaramba, the location you visit after The Great Cliffs. The story will automatically guide you to the second Shrine location, typically located in the upper right corner of the region. If you're having trouble locating it, refer to the map above for help.

Akida’s Spear is only accessible when you have the Sun Mask equipped. It enables you to throw a fire-covered spear at your enemies. This is especially effective against foes with red shields. Additionally, it can be used to unlock certain doors and pathways.

Using Akida’s Spear is similar to utilizing Bamba's Stone Ability. Players can aim with the left trigger and execute the ability with the right trigger.

Zawadi's Hook Ability Location

It’s going to take a while before you acquire your third ability, as Zawadi’s Hook only becomes available in Act 2. You'll need to head to Nature’s Crown in the leftmost corner, to be precise. Fortunately, the quest assigned by Sabulana will naturally guide you there.

Upon reaching the location, interact with the statue to obtain Zawadi’s Hook. Unlike previous abilities, this one is compatible with both the Sun and Moon masks. Rather than being used for combat, the hook enhances traversal. It allows players to swing across an area using purple-colored hook points, which are suspended in the air. You have likely encountered them before.

Tawa's Heart Ability Location

The next ability up for grabs is the Tawa’s Heart Ability. You'll encounter this ability while being chased by the game’s second boss, Kikiyaon. Simply continue straight ahead, and the Shaman Shrine holding the ability should be right in front of you — you can't miss it. Just keep in mind that once you obtain the ability, you'll need to flee again. After navigating through some platforming sections, the boss fight against Kikiyaon will begin.

Unlike Zawadi's Hook, Tawa’s Heart function depends on the mask you are wearing. When used with the Moon Mask, the ability will transform broken blue structures into climbable constructs. However, when used with the Sun mask, it will destroy the red doors that you should have encountered before.

Kabili's Wings Ability Location

The second-to-last ability, Kabili’s Wings, becomes accessible in Act 3. You can find it in the Searing Sands region, specifically in the rightmost corner. During the quest "Follow the Fireflies," you'll fall through the floor in front of a giant skull. Head to the right, defeat the enemies in your path, and continue moving right. Eventually, you'll come across the Shaman Shrine you're looking for. Interact with it to acquire the ability.

Kabili's Wings is another traversal-focused ability. It gives you wings, meaning it slows your descent and enables you to glide across long distances. If you encounter an area with an updraft, using this ability will allow the air to lift you upwards.

Tshukudu's Might Ability Location

The last (but certainly not the least) ability in Tales of Kenzera: Zau is Tshukudu's Might. It proves useful for both combat and platforming. Located in the second-to-last region, also known as Mount Itshoka, simply follow the main story path, and it will naturally lead you to the final Shaman Shrine. It's situated in the middle leftmost portion of the region, but players should refer to the image above if they are struggling to find it.

Tshukudu's Might enhances your dash move significantly. It allows you to use the dash to demolish the purple stone structures that may have blocked your path previously. Furthermore, it can be employed to deal heavy damage and push enemies into traps during combat.

Acquiring all six abilities will unlock the “Honour the Ancestors” achievement/ trophy.