In “The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds,” the Maiamais provide a captivating side quest that enhances gameplay and exploration. Here’s a detailed guide on how to effectively locate and return the Maiamais, along with the accompanying benefits.

Overview of Maiamais and Their Quest

– What are Maiamais?
Maiamais are small, anemone-like creatures scattered throughout Hyrule and Lorule. They are often cleverly hidden in various environments, including under rocks, in trees, stuck to walls, and even in bodies of water. A distinctive high-pitched cry alerts players to their proximity, making it easier to seek them out.

Initiating the Maiamai Quest

1. Find Mother Maiamai:
To kick off this quest, first locate Mother Maiamai, who can be found in a cave situated southeast of Link’s house in Hyrule. This cave is sealed at first.

2. Accessing the Cave:
Use a bomb (which can be acquired from Ravio) to break the seal and enter the cave. Inside, Mother Maiamai will explain that she has lost all 100 of her children throughout Hyrule and Lorule and will ask Link to collect and return them.

Collecting the Maiamais

– Total Count:
There are 100 Maiamais to find across both realms.

– Search Techniques:
– Employ Link’s unique merge ability, which allows him to turn into a flat drawing and merge with walls, facilitating access to hidden areas.
– Utilize items like the hammer and Pegasus Boots which may be crucial in revealing or reaching certain Maiamais.
– Listen for their cries. Keeping the game’s sound activated is advantageous as the distinctive sounds can guide players to their locations.

Upgrades and Rewards

– Returning Maiamais:
For every 10 Maiamais returned to Mother Maiamai, an upgrade is rewarded.
– Item Upgrades: Upgrades enhance the capabilities of items purchased from Ravio (note: rented items are excluded from upgrades).

– Special Reward:
Successfully returning all 100 Maiamais grants Link an enhanced spin attack, significantly increasing the effectiveness of his combat capabilities.

Summary of Steps

1. Locate Mother Maiamai’s cave and use a bomb to access it.
2. Collect all 100 Maiamais, utilizing Link’s abilities and listening for their cries.
3. Return every 10 Maiamais to Mother Maiamai for item upgrades.
4. Achieve a special reward for collecting all Maiamais, enhancing Link’s spin attack.

Conclusion

The Maiamai quest is an optional but rewarding facet of “A Link Between Worlds.” Not only does it encourage thorough exploration of Hyrule and Lorule, but it also provides significant gameplay enhancements that make navigating the game world more enjoyable. Collecting all Maiamais ultimately enriches the player experience, rewarding both patience and curiosity.