8. Exploratory, Impactful Side Quests
NintendoFollowing the previous point, an open-world Legend of Zelda means non-linear gameplay, which could pave the way for better, more open side quests. What weve known Zelda to be in the past is a main, linear narrative with little tributaries in the form of side quests and mini-games. In an open-world game wherein the player is not shoehorned into the main narrative, side quests could become far more than just fetch quests rather, they could become legitimate pathways that one could follow, that are as rich, character-driven, and fun as the major storyline. An interesting way to go about this would be to have side quests with impact on the overall world. The best part of an open world is that the world is dynamic and subject to change at the push of the buttons on your controller. Side quests that are as simple as helping rebuild places that have been ravaged by the enemy show a player the direct effect they are having on this world. These should also give high rewards in the long-term; a side quest that opens up a particular village can act as a trading hub, or can lead to further side quests, mini games and game exploration. Things like this are rewarding in themselves, but they also breathe life into virtual worlds. Overall, to have side quests that are engaging, character-driven, and impacted by the core narrative would make us feel involved in all the goings-on of the vast world rather than just as some delivery boy (although, monetary compensation is always gratifying rolling in them rupees, and all).