Overworld

from Zeldapedia, the Legend of Zelda wiki

The Overworld in the Legend of Zelda series is essentially the outdoor, or world map part of the game. As opposed to the Underworld, in which the dungeons, temples, and levels are found, the Overworld is more freelance, with more options. The Overworld fundamentally serves as the journeying part of the game, and is filled with quests, and interactions with other characters.

In most games, the Overworld is based on land, either on a large field or on a variety of land routes between locations. The only exceptions are in The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker and in The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass, where the Overworld is the Great Sea, caused by Hyrule's Great Flood.

The Overworld usually branches off to many caves and towns helpful or necessary to Link's quest. There, other characters can be found. They either continue the storyline, provide a mini-game, or pertain to a side-quest. Some characters and side-quests are integral to the plot and therefore to progressing the game, whereas others are there as extra challenges. In other locations, hidden secrets, such as Pieces of Heart and Rupees, can be found.

In several games, time passes when Link is in the Overworld. During the day, the usual enemies roam the area, but at night, additional nocturnal foes attack Link. Most games will pause time while Link is in towns or dungeons; however, the towns and their inhabitants are often different depending on the time of day Link enters. In The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask, time constantly flows, even while in the Underworld.