Sidequest

Sidequests are elements of a game, for example: minigames, scavenger hunts, mazes, etc., that don't depend on the outcome of the game itself. Sidequests are included within games to:


 * create extra interest in the game after it has been completed
 * prolong the "life" of the game
 * to give the player something to do when stuck
 * to improve the player's status, experience or life

Within the Zelda series, there are several sidequests that are prevalent within subsequent games.
 * Heart Pieces
 * Quiver Upgrades
 * Wallet Upgrades
 * Tunic Upgrades
 * Extra Weaponry
 * Hidden Skills

Usually, sidequests do not effect the game's path, but can enhance or strengthen the player's status while on such a path. In every Zelda game, it is possible to beat the entire story without the aid of extra heart pieces, more arrows in one's quiver, and more money, but the game is better fulfilled when it is beaten with these elements included.

In recent games, such as Twilight Princess, the sidequest element of the game has become more challenging to the player, making it harder to achieve the reward one is after. Multi-layered sidequests, or those with subsequent parts are also prevelant in this game, especially when on the quest to find every last Heart Piece.