Top Side Quests Outshine Main Story

As I embarked on my journey through “The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt,” I found myself drawn into the haunting tale of the Bloody Baron. This quest is not merely a side story; it is a profound exploration of loss, guilt, and the complexities of human relationships. The Baron, a once-feared warlord, now finds himself in a state of despair, grappling with the disappearance of his wife and daughter.

As I navigated through the muddy paths of Velen, I felt the weight of his sorrow pressing down on me, compelling me to uncover the truth behind his family’s tragic fate. The narrative intricacies of this quest captivated me. I was not just a passive observer; I became an active participant in the Baron’s life.

Each decision I made had consequences that rippled through the story, affecting not only the Baron but also the people around him. The moral ambiguity of my choices left me questioning my own values. Should I help him find his wife, or should I confront him about his past misdeeds?

The emotional depth of this quest resonated with me long after I had completed it, reminding me that even in a world filled with monsters and magic, the real struggles often lie within the human heart.

Key Takeaways

• The Bloody Baron quest in The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is a complex and morally ambiguous storyline that delves into the consequences of war and personal choices.
• Red Dead Redemption 2’s “The Strange Statues” quest is a mysterious and intriguing puzzle that rewards players with valuable treasure for solving it.
• Skyrim’s “The Dark Brotherhood” questline offers players the opportunity to join a secretive and deadly assassin’s guild, with multiple branching storylines and choices.
• Fallout 4’s “The Silver Shroud” quest is a fun and nostalgic homage to classic superhero comics, allowing players to become a vigilante in the post-apocalyptic wasteland.
• Horizon Zero Dawn’s “The Forgotten” quest sheds light on the tragic history of the Old Ones and the origins of the robotic creatures that now roam the world.

Red Dead Redemption 2 – “The Strange Statues”

In “Red Dead Redemption 2,” I stumbled upon one of the game’s most intriguing mysteries: “The Strange Statues.” This quest took me on an unexpected journey through the vast landscapes of the American frontier, where I encountered bizarre stone figures that seemed to whisper secrets of a forgotten past. As I pieced together clues scattered throughout the world, I felt a sense of excitement and curiosity that drove me deeper into the lore of the game. The thrill of discovery was palpable as I uncovered the connection between these statues and the enigmatic cult that worshipped them.

Each statue told a story, and as I deciphered their meanings, I found myself immersed in a narrative that blended folklore with the harsh realities of life in the Wild West. The quest not only enriched my understanding of the game’s world but also highlighted the themes of belief and devotion that permeate “Red Dead Redemption 2.” It was a reminder that even in a lawless land, people seek meaning and connection, often in the most unexpected places.

Skyrim – “The Dark Brotherhood”

Venturing into “Skyrim,” I was immediately drawn to one of its most notorious factions: The Dark Brotherhood. This questline offered me a unique glimpse into the shadowy world of assassins, where loyalty and betrayal danced hand in hand. As I delved deeper into this clandestine organization, I found myself entangled in a web of intrigue and moral dilemmas that challenged my perceptions of right and wrong.

The allure of becoming an assassin was intoxicating. I was tasked with carrying out contracts that often forced me to confront my own ethics. Each assassination was not just a job; it was a story waiting to unfold.

The characters I encountered were richly developed, each with their own motivations and backstories that added layers to the narrative. As I navigated through betrayal and loyalty within the Brotherhood, I realized that this questline was not merely about killing; it was about understanding the complexities of human nature and the choices we make in pursuit of our desires.

Fallout 4 – “The Silver Shroud”

In “Fallout 4,” I found myself captivated by “The Silver Shroud” quest, which transported me back to a time when superheroes were larger than life. As I donned the iconic costume of The Silver Shroud, I felt an exhilarating rush of nostalgia mixed with purpose. This quest allowed me to step into the shoes of a vigilante, fighting against crime in a post-apocalyptic Boston that desperately needed a hero.

What struck me most about this quest was its playful homage to classic comic book tropes while simultaneously addressing serious themes such as justice and morality. As I navigated through the streets, taking down villains and delivering justice in true superhero fashion, I was reminded of the power of storytelling in shaping our understanding of right and wrong. The choices I made as The Silver Shroud had real consequences for the characters involved, forcing me to grapple with the implications of my actions in a world where survival often trumps morality.

In “Horizon Zero Dawn,” I was drawn into “The Forgotten,” a quest that delved into the rich history of a world dominated by robotic creatures. As Aloy, I sought to uncover the secrets of my past while navigating through lush landscapes filled with danger and wonder. This quest was not just about uncovering lost technology; it was about understanding my identity and place within this beautifully crafted universe.

As I pieced together fragments of history, I felt a deep connection to the characters who had come before me. Their struggles and triumphs echoed through time, reminding me that our past shapes our present. The emotional weight of discovering lost memories resonated with me on a personal level, as it forced me to reflect on my own journey and the legacies we leave behind.

“The Forgotten” was more than just a quest; it was an exploration of what it means to remember and be remembered in a world that often forgets.

Assassin’s Creed Odyssey – “A Family’s Legacy”

In “Assassin’s Creed Odyssey,” I found myself immersed in “A Family’s Legacy,” a quest that explored themes of heritage and familial bonds against the backdrop of ancient Greece. As I navigated through this beautifully rendered world, I felt an overwhelming sense of connection to my character’s lineage and the weight of their legacy. The choices I made not only affected my character’s fate but also shaped the destinies of those around me.

This questline resonated deeply with me as it highlighted the importance of family ties and the impact they have on our lives. Each encounter with historical figures and family members forced me to confront difficult decisions that tested my loyalty and values. The emotional stakes were high, as I grappled with questions about duty, honor, and sacrifice.

“A Family’s Legacy” became more than just a quest; it was a poignant reminder that our actions echo through generations, shaping not only our own lives but also those who come after us.

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild – “From the Ground Up”

In “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild,” I stumbled upon “From the Ground Up,” a quest that allowed me to engage with Hyrule in a way that felt both refreshing and innovative. This quest challenged me to rebuild a village from scratch, fostering connections with its inhabitants while breathing new life into their community. As I gathered resources and completed tasks for various characters, I felt a sense of accomplishment that transcended mere gameplay mechanics.

What made this quest particularly special was its emphasis on collaboration and community building. Each character had their own dreams and aspirations, and by helping them achieve their goals, I witnessed firsthand how collective efforts could lead to meaningful change. The joy of seeing the village flourish under my guidance was incredibly rewarding, reminding me that even in a fantastical world filled with monsters and magic, human connections are what truly matter.

Mass Effect 2 – “Lair of the Shadow Broker”

In “Mass Effect 2,” one of my most memorable experiences came from “Lair of the Shadow Broker.” This quest plunged me into a world of espionage and intrigue as I sought to uncover secrets hidden within the galaxy’s underbelly. The narrative complexity kept me on my toes, as alliances shifted and betrayals lurked around every corner. As Commander Shepard, I felt an immense responsibility to navigate these treacherous waters while ensuring the safety of my crew.

The emotional stakes were heightened as I delved deeper into Liara’s story and her connection to the Shadow Broker.

This quest not only expanded upon her character but also explored themes of trust and loyalty in relationships forged under pressure. The choices I made had far-reaching consequences, affecting not only my crew but also the fate of entire civilizations.

“Lair of the Shadow Broker” became more than just a mission; it was an exploration of how power dynamics shape our interactions and how trust can be both a weapon and a shield in a galaxy fraught with danger.

Through these diverse quests across various games, I’ve experienced rich narratives that have left lasting impressions on my understanding of storytelling in video games. Each journey has been unique yet interconnected by universal themes that resonate deeply within us all—loss, identity, morality, family, community, and trust.

These experiences have not only entertained me but have also challenged me to reflect on my own values and beliefs in ways that extend beyond the screen.

If you’re a fan of side quests that steal the spotlight, you might also enjoy reading about the top 10 tips for balancing gaming and real life. This article offers valuable advice on how to maintain a healthy balance between your gaming hobby and real-world responsibilities. Check it out here.

FAQs

What are side quests in video games?

Side quests in video games are optional missions or tasks that players can undertake alongside the main storyline. These quests often provide additional content, rewards, and opportunities for exploration and character development.

What makes a side quest better than the main story in a video game?

A side quest may be considered better than the main story in a video game if it offers more engaging gameplay, a more compelling narrative, or more interesting characters and world-building. Additionally, side quests that provide unique rewards or have a significant impact on the game world may also be favored over the main story.

Can side quests in video games affect the main story or game world?

Yes, some side quests in video games can have a direct impact on the main story or the game world. Completing certain side quests may unlock new story elements, change the behavior of non-playable characters, or alter the game world in significant ways.

What are some examples of side quests that were better than the main story in video games?

Some examples of side quests that were better than the main story in video games include “The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt” where the “Bloody Baron” questline is often praised for its emotional depth and storytelling, and “The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim” where the “Dark Brotherhood” questline is considered more engaging than the main storyline by some players.

Do side quests add value to the overall gaming experience?

Yes, side quests can add significant value to the overall gaming experience by providing additional content, opportunities for exploration and discovery, and a deeper immersion into the game world. They also offer players a chance to engage with the game in different ways and can extend the longevity of the gameplay.