Totem

Totems are formations that the Links and enemies can assume in.

Overview
Totems can be formed by the Links by approaching another Link and pressing the A button. Totems can be formed as either stacks of two or three, the latter of which being capable through picking up an existing Totem of two Links. Totems are necessary in progressing throughout the land, through completing puzzles that require a certain height to be met or accessing higher elevations. When a Totem is formed, only the highest Link can use items, though each subordinate Link is capable of tossing the Link(s) above him. In a Totem, only the bottom Link is able to navigate, and thus the others are dependent upon him to move around while in stable position.

When it is necessary to form a Totem, "Totem time!" text will scroll across the screen. Certain enemies, such as Totem Dekus and Moblins tend to mimic the Links' ability to form a Totem. Totem Armos are frequently utilized by enemies for this purpose. If a Link is hurt while atop a Totem, he will fall down, breaking the formation.

Trivia

 * A similar mechanic is present in, wherein Link must ride atop Phantom Zelda in order to traverse the landscape of the Tower of Spirits and fight against enemies, such as Miniblins mounted atop Armos within it.
 * The director of, Hiromasa Shikata, stated that because a Totem size of four was too tall to display, the number of Links was shortened from the traditional four to three.