How do you feel about the balance between the main storyline and side activities in Nintendo games?

[killamch89]

Nintendo titles often blend tight story beats with optional exploration - think Breath of the Wild’s shrines or Animal Crossing’s daily tasks. Do you prefer a structured narrative or more open-ended side quests? Which game nails this balance, providing meaningful side content without distracting from the main plot? Conversely, have you encountered titles where side activities felt like filler?

[Scorpion]

I think Nintendo generally strikes a good balance between the main storyline and side activities. The side quests add fun variety and depth without overshadowing the main plot, enhancing the overall experience and keeping players engaged and immersed in the game world.

[Shortie]

I feel that Nintendo strikes a great balance when it comes to storyline and side activities. Neither one seems to be overdone and I have never felt like there was never enough story compared to side activities and vice versa. 

[killamch89]

Breath of the Wild nailed the perfect balance by making exploration feel meaningful rather than obligatory, where every shrine and side quest contributed to character progression without feeling like filler content.