In 4 Swords, you can only use one item at a time. You always start the level with the Shield, and must find an Item Pedestal before you can use another item. When you find a Pedestal, you can switch the item on the pedestal with the item you are currently holding. When going on to the next stage of a level, you keep the item from the previous stage.

Bombs

Bombs can be used to blast open weak walls and destroy cracked blocks. They are also a powerful method of attack. After a bomb lands, you can press A to cause it to detonate prematurely.

Boomerang

This weapon can be used to retrieve faraway rupees and hearts, and flick switches from a distance. It will stun most enemies.

Gnat Hat

This item causes you to shrink to a tiny dot on the screen, allowing you to access areas that were previously unavailable. You can walk through tiny holes, and stand on the smallest of moving tiles. However, you are still vulnerable, and you do not walk as quickly.

Roc's Cape

This item gives you the ability to jump, allowing you to cross gaps easily. Either press once to jump and again to glide, or hold it down to jump and glide across. If you jump and immediately hold B, you will execute a powerful downward thrust.

Bow and Arrows

Press A to prepare an arrow and release it to shoot. The longer you hold down A, the more powerful the arrow is. Use it to hit faraway eye switches and destroy enemies. There are some enemies that can only be defeated with the Bow.

Magnetic Glove

This item allows you to pull or repel yourself to or from a nearby magnetic block, crossing gaps and spikes. Each time you press A, it switches between attracting and repelling. You can use this item to attract other players, but not push them away.

Pegasus Shoes

Using this item makes you run forward with your sword held out. You can use it to run up slopes, dash into objects, and damage enemies. If you stand behind someone and use this item, they will get pushed along with you.

Shield

This is the default item you start every level with. It protects you from enemy attacks, and is necessary to defeat certain enemies.

---