9. Dynamic, Interactive NPCs
NintendoIn recent titles, namely Skyward Sword, the NPC interaction in Zelda games has been spotty at best; but with a new sandbox-style game, this could be opened up and explored to its full potential - think Majoras Mask, only better. With the freedom to tackle parts of the world in any way they choose, players should also have this extended freedom with the diverse, vibrant residents of Hyrule. Rather than just a slew of people with specific side-quests, this game should make Hyrule feel even more like a living, breathing place, with side characters living their own separate lives that the player can stumble into and become involved in with interactions that reflect these distinctive existences of non-player characters and that of Links, as well as the coincidence of the two. While Zelda has been good about this in the past, theres always room to expand with NPC interaction that is more dynamic than just several stock lines. Their actions and associated quests could change based on how far you are in the game and the events of the main narrative, what items or upgrades you have, and even what time of day it is (Anju and Kafei, anyone?) think Skyrims Amulet of Mara, with which you're able to marry an eligible NPC. Although we all obviously love our Link single and ready to mingle, a vibrant and dynamic world of characters could only make Hyrule feel even more deliciously alive.