How to Get Every Item Upgrade in Zelda Ocarina of Time Remake
Item upgrades are some of the most valuable collectibles in Zelda Ocarina of Time Remake. While many players focus entirely on dungeons, boss fights, and story progression, expanding Link's carrying capacity can dramatically improve the adventure. More Deku Sticks, Deku Nuts, bombs, arrows, seeds, and enhanced swimming abilities mean less time backtracking and more time exploring Hyrule.
Several upgrades are hidden behind mini-games, secret vendors, Lost Woods puzzles, and fishing challenges. Some can be obtained as Child Link, while others require returning later in the game. Missing these rewards often leaves players underprepared for difficult encounters and lengthier dungeon sequences.
This guide covers every major item upgrade available throughout the game, where to find them, how to unlock them, and why each upgrade is worth collecting.
Why Item Upgrades Matter
Every inventory expansion provides a direct advantage.
A larger bomb bag means more explosives for combat and puzzle-solving. Larger quivers increase arrow capacity during lengthy dungeon runs. Deku Stick and Deku Nut upgrades improve versatility in the early portions of the game.
While individual upgrades may seem small, collecting all upgrades transforms Link into a significantly stronger hero capable of handling virtually every challenge Hyrule presents.
All Item Upgrades Overview
| Upgrade | Reward | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Bullet Bag Upgrade 1 | Increased Deku Seed Capacity | Lost Woods Target Challenge |
| Bullet Bag Upgrade 2 | Maximum Deku Seed Increase | Market Shooting Gallery |
| Deku Stick Upgrade | Additional Stick Capacity | Lost Woods Vendor |
| Deku Nut Upgrade 1 | Increased Nut Capacity | Lost Woods Skull Mask Secret |
| Deku Nut Upgrade 2 | Additional Nut Capacity | Lost Woods Vendor |
| Bomb Bag Upgrade 1 | Increased Bomb Capacity | Bombchu Bowling |
| Bomb Bag Upgrade 2 | Maximum Bomb Capacity Increase | Goron City |
| Silver Scale | Improved Diving Ability | Fishing Pond |
| Golden Scale | Maximum Diving Ability | Fishing Pond |
| Quiver Upgrade 1 | Increased Arrow Capacity | Kakariko Shooting Gallery |
| Quiver Upgrade 2 | Maximum Arrow Capacity Increase | Gerudo Archery Range |
Bullet Bag Upgrade From the Lost Woods
The first slingshot upgrade is one of the easiest to obtain early in the game.
Travel into the Lost Woods from Kokiri Forest. Immediately take the path to the right. You'll enter an area containing a hanging target suspended from a tree branch.
This mini-game is straightforward but requires consistency.
Hit the target three times in a row and earn a perfect score on all attempts. Each successful hit awards maximum points, and completing the challenge rewards the first Bullet Bag upgrade.
The increased ammunition capacity is particularly useful before entering later child-era dungeons where enemies frequently require ranged attacks.
| Bullet Bag Level | Capacity |
|---|---|
| Starting Capacity | 30 Seeds |
| First Upgrade | 40 Seeds |
| Final Upgrade | 50 Seeds |
The upgrade allows more freedom when exploring large areas without worrying about running out of Deku Seeds.
Market Shooting Gallery Bullet Bag Upgrade
The second Bullet Bag expansion comes from one of the more challenging mini-games available to Child Link.
The Market Town Shooting Gallery tests reaction speed and precision.
Moving targets appear rapidly, requiring accurate shots before disappearing. Missing multiple targets can quickly result in failure.
Players should bring a healthy supply of rupees before attempting the challenge because it often takes multiple tries.
A few helpful tips include:
- Focus on target patterns.
- Avoid rushing shots.
- Stay centered on the screen.
- Learn the timing of repeating target appearances.
Completing the mini-game successfully rewards the final Bullet Bag upgrade and grants maximum Deku Seed carrying capacity.
Deku Stick Upgrade Location
Deku Sticks remain surprisingly useful throughout much of the adventure.
Their damage output exceeds many early-game weapons, making them excellent against tougher enemies encountered before obtaining stronger swords.
To acquire the upgrade, enter the Lost Woods and follow these directions:
Take two left turns after entering the area.
Eventually, you'll reach a location beneath the bridge connecting Hyrule Field and Kokiri Forest.
A hidden Deku Business Scrub vendor resides here.
After interacting with the vendor, you'll have the opportunity to purchase the Deku Stick upgrade for 40 Rupees.
The investment is absolutely worthwhile since sticks are commonly used for puzzle solving, lighting torches, and defeating specific enemies.
| Deku Stick Capacity | Amount |
|---|---|
| Starting Capacity | 10 |
| Upgraded Capacity | 20 |
| Final Capacity | 30 |
Lost Woods Deku Nut Upgrade
The first major Deku Nut capacity increase requires participation in the Happy Mask side quest.
Before beginning, obtain the Skull Mask.
Return to the Lost Woods and locate the secret room filled with friendly Deku Scrubs.
Wear the Skull Mask and stand near the edge overlooking the area.
After a short interaction sequence, the Deku Scrubs become fascinated by the mask and reward Link with a Deku Nut upgrade.
This is one of the easiest inventory expansions to miss because many players never revisit the Lost Woods after acquiring masks.
Deku Nuts may seem situational, but they become invaluable during difficult fights due to their ability to stun enemies and create openings.
Mask of Truth Bonus Reward
Players who complete the full Happy Mask quest gain access to another hidden reward.
Return once again to the same Lost Woods area.
This time equip the Mask of Truth.
The Deku Scrubs respond differently and provide an additional reward for completing the lengthy side quest.
Because the Happy Mask sequence takes players throughout Hyrule, many adventurers overlook the fact that the Lost Woods contains follow-up interactions tied to progression.
Always revisit areas after receiving new masks because additional secrets frequently become available.
Secret Deku Nut Upgrade Vendor
A second Deku Nut upgrade can be purchased from another Business Scrub hidden deep within Hyrule.
This vendor resides near the entrance to the Sacred Forest Meadow.
Look for a suspicious rock formation nearby.
Using bombs will reveal a secret opening containing another Deku Business Scrub. Speak to the merchant and purchase the capacity upgrade for 40 Rupees.
Although this requires bomb access, the reward significantly increases the number of Deku Nuts Link can carry.
| Deku Nut Capacity | Amount |
|---|---|
| Starting Capacity | 20 |
| First Upgrade | 30 |
| Final Upgrade | 40 |
With maximum capacity, players rarely run out during difficult dungeon sections.
Bomb Bag Upgrade From Bombchu Bowling
Bombs are among the most versatile items in the entire game.
They destroy obstacles, reveal hidden passages, eliminate enemies, and solve countless puzzles.
The first Bomb Bag expansion comes from the famous Bombchu Bowling Alley in Market Town.
This mini-game challenges players to guide Bombchus toward targets while navigating obstacles and moving hazards.
Successful completion can reward various prizes, but one of the most valuable rewards is a Bomb Bag upgrade.
Patience is important here.
The course includes moving cuccos and rotating barriers capable of disrupting even well-aimed attempts.
Players who stick with the challenge will eventually walk away with increased bomb capacity.
Goron City Bomb Bag Upgrade
The second Bomb Bag expansion is hidden inside Goron City.
Descend one level and observe the large Goron rolling around the chamber.
He never stops moving unless interrupted.
Place a bomb directly in his path.
With proper timing, the explosion forces him to stop rolling.
After speaking with him, he rewards Link for the impressive feat.
This reward upgrades bomb storage even further and significantly improves dungeon efficiency.
| Bomb Bag Level | Capacity |
|---|---|
| Starting Bomb Bag | 20 |
| Upgrade One | 30 |
| Upgrade Two | 40 |
Carrying 40 bombs allows extensive exploration without repeatedly visiting shops.
Silver Scale and Golden Scale
Swimming upgrades offer a different type of advantage.
Instead of increasing inventory space, these items improve Link's diving depth.
The fishing pond at Lake Hylia holds the key to obtaining them.
Fishing is often viewed as an optional distraction, but the rewards make participation worthwhile.
The Silver Scale enables access to deeper underwater secrets early in the adventure.
Later, players can earn the Golden Scale by catching an especially large fish.
The challenge requires patience because fish behavior changes based on lure placement and environmental positioning.
Once obtained, the Golden Scale dramatically expands underwater exploration opportunities.
| Scale Type | Diving Distance |
|---|---|
| No Scale | Basic Dive |
| Silver Scale | Increased Dive Depth |
| Golden Scale | Maximum Dive Depth |
Several collectibles and hidden pathways throughout Hyrule become easier to access with enhanced diving capabilities.
Kakariko Village Quiver Upgrade
After obtaining the Fairy Bow, players can begin collecting quiver expansions.
The first quiver upgrade comes from the Kakariko Village Shooting Gallery.
Like the child version in Market Town, this challenge focuses on precision and timing.
Targets appear rapidly from various locations.
Success requires memorizing spawn patterns and maintaining steady aim.
Fortunately, the challenge is generally considered easier than the Gerudo version later in the game.
Upon victory, Link receives the first Quiver enhancement.
Gerudo Archery Range Quiver Upgrade
The ultimate quiver upgrade represents one of the most demanding accuracy challenges in the game.
Travel to Gerudo Fortress and participate in horseback archery.
Scoring well requires:
- Precise aim
- Fast reactions
- Consistent movement control
- Knowledge of target locations
A score of 1,500 points unlocks the top reward.
Because horseback archery combines movement and ranged combat, many players require several attempts before succeeding.
The reward, however, is well worth the effort.
| Quiver Level | Arrow Capacity |
|---|---|
| Base Quiver | 30 |
| First Upgrade | 40 |
| Final Upgrade | 50 |
With maximum arrow storage, Link gains tremendous flexibility during dungeons and boss encounters.
Best Upgrades to Prioritize Early
Not all upgrades provide equal immediate value.
For early-game progression, prioritize the following:
Bomb Bag Upgrades
Bombs unlock secrets throughout nearly every region.
Bullet Bag Upgrades
Additional Deku Seeds make child-era exploration far easier.
Deku Stick Upgrade
The early damage boost remains surprisingly effective.
Silver Scale
Accessing deeper water areas can reveal useful shortcuts and collectibles.
These four upgrades deliver the greatest impact relative to the effort required.
Child Link Upgrade Route
Players seeking efficient progression should collect upgrades in the following order:
| Recommended Order | Upgrade |
|---|---|
| First | Lost Woods Bullet Bag |
| Second | Deku Stick Capacity |
| Third | Lost Woods Deku Nut Upgrade |
| Fourth | Bombchu Bowling Bomb Bag |
| Fifth | Market Shooting Gallery |
| Sixth | Sacred Forest Meadow Nut Upgrade |
| Seventh | Fishing Rewards |
This route minimizes unnecessary travel while providing consistent power improvements.
Adult Link Upgrade Route
When playing as Adult Link, focus on:
| Priority | Upgrade |
|---|---|
| High | Kakariko Quiver |
| High | Golden Scale |
| High | Goron Bomb Bag |
| Medium | Gerudo Quiver |
| Medium | Remaining Fishing Rewards |
Adult Link gains access to the strongest capacity increases and can complete the most rewarding mini-games.
Common Mistakes Players Make
One of the most frequent mistakes is ignoring mini-games.
Many upgrades are tied directly to side activities rather than dungeon progression.
Another common error is never revisiting Lost Woods after obtaining masks. Several hidden rewards rely on mask interactions that are easy to overlook.
Players also tend to underestimate fishing. While it appears optional, swimming upgrades unlock useful exploration opportunities and hidden treasures.
Finally, many adventurers forget to carry enough rupees. Several upgrades require direct purchases, making wallet management important.
FAQ
What is the most useful item upgrade in Zelda Ocarina of Time Remake?
The Bomb Bag upgrades are generally the most valuable because bombs are used constantly for combat, puzzles, and discovering hidden areas.
How many Bomb Bag upgrades are there?
There are two major Bomb Bag expansions beyond the default capacity.
Can all upgrades be obtained before finishing the game?
Yes. Every item upgrade can be earned before the final battle against Ganondorf.
Is the Golden Scale worth getting?
Absolutely. The Golden Scale expands underwater exploration and provides access to deeper areas around Hyrule.
Which shooting gallery is harder?
Most players consider the Gerudo horseback archery challenge significantly more difficult than the Kakariko or Market shooting galleries.
Do Deku Stick upgrades matter later in the game?
While less important during the late game, larger Deku Stick capacity remains helpful for puzzles and specialized encounters.
Are fishing rewards required to complete the game?
No. However, fishing rewards provide useful exploration advantages and contribute to a fully upgraded save file.
Final Thoughts
Collecting every item upgrade in Zelda Ocarina of Time Remake transforms Link into a far more capable hero. Larger quivers, expanded bomb bags, enhanced diving abilities, and increased Deku capacities reduce resource management concerns and make exploration significantly smoother.
Whether you're pursuing 100% completion or simply preparing for the final showdown with Ganondorf, every upgrade offers a meaningful advantage. Take time to revisit the Lost Woods, conquer Hyrule's mini-games, dominate the fishing pond, and uncover every hidden merchant. By the time your adventure reaches its conclusion, you'll possess every inventory enhancement available and be ready for anything Hyrule can throw your way.
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