Gameplay Elements of The Legend of Zelda Series

The major gameplay elements of all games in The Legend of Zelda series are exploration of the in-game world, utilization of various items, and the fulfillment of quests.

Exploration
Exploration in The Legend of Zelda series consists of the overworld and dungeons or temples.

Overworld
The overworld is most vast area that Link must explore in each game of the series. It is through the overworld that he can access other areas of the game. Usually, from the start of Link's adventure, the range of places he can explore is very isolated. By advancing the story, he can explore more areas. The only way to advance the story is to explore the available region.

Of course, Link must know where to go to advance the story, and knowing how to find where to go next can come in handy. The most obvious solution is to view the surrounding areas. If Link only has one path to follow, he should take it. It would also be wise to use the Map if Link is in the possession of one. This especially useful if there is a destination marked upon the Map. It's also helpful to listen to the words of people that Link may be on his adventure. Their speech may contain vague hints and keywords related what he should do; since Ocarina of Time, keyword have regularly been emphasized with red text. Not only should Link speak with common people, but he should also listen to his partners. Companions like Navi and Ezlo often give good advice when called upon.

Then, there is the matter of getting from place to place. Link can usually walk, but it is not always necessary or possible. Conveniently, he may have a form of transportation, like his horse, Epona. In games like The Wind Waker and Spirit Tracks, transportation is crucial for traversing the land. He may do this with the aid of the King of Red Lions or the Spirit Train, respectively. Transportation may even come in the unique form of Warping. Using items or magical shortcuts like the Recorder or Twilight Portals, Link can get to where he needs to be in an instant. In some cases, there are times when he must use items to access new areas.

Dungeons/Temples
1.	Dungeon items a.	Map, compass, keys, quest item b.	Inventory items found in dungeon 2.	Dungeon puzzles a.	Simple puzzles (using Link’s abilities) b.	Utilizing items 3.	Dungeon boss

Types of items
1.	Equipped (Sword, Shield, Tunic) 2.	Inventory (Some with upgrades) 3.	Key items (Quest items, trade items) 4.	Pick-ups (Heart pieces, bombs, keys)

Combat
1.	Sword and shield a.	Offense b.	Defense 2.	Inventory items for attacking

Utilizing items for their purposes
(Bombs destroy walls, boomerangs hits and picks up faraway objects)

Main quest
1.	Collect quest items (Triforce Shards, Pendants, Spiritual Gems) 2.	Defeat evil force (Ganon, Vaati, Malladus) 3.	Save princess, world, etc.

Side-quests
1.	Mini-games 2.	Trading sequences 3.	Secret areas