@kekaro
You know, I loved how items were also relevant in the overworld when it comes to games like OOT, WW or MM (especially AlttP) but yes, they did become too gated when it comes to Zelda games like TP and SS. However, I truly enjoy using items to unlock paths in the overworld which you couldn't explore before. The same formula is also used for dungeons. That gives a cool Metroidvania vibe when you're slowly progression through the world with each new item you get.
In BotW, they got rid of the whole thing but you're left with 3 - 4 "main runes" which are used for the whole overworld but that's the thing. There's no extra satisfaction in getting newer items which can highly extent your skillset when it comes to exploration. I really hate that. The Divine Beasts are also "dungeons" which are pretty weak in comparison to other Zelda games.
TotK even took it further by implementing Ultrahand - the most broken ability in Zelda series. You solve nearly 90% of all puzzles. Isn't this kinda boring? Also, you can nearly skip many puzzles in dungeons due to the Zonai devices.
Thus, I prefer traditional items significantly more than the current formula with the runes. On the other hand, I do agree with you that they sure can be implemented more into the overworld instead of acting like "special keys" in specific situations.