The Best RPGs Featuring Side Quests

In the world of role-playing games (RPGs), side quests often unlock unforgettable experiences, foster deep character development, and weave immersive storytelling into the fabric of the game.

This article explores top RPGs with engaging side quests, spotlighting beloved titles like The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt and Persona 5.

You ll discover what makes these quests truly memorable, how they elevate gameplay, and the diverse types that gamers cherish.

Prepare to unveil the magic behind these captivating adventures!

1. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is a monumental achievement in the RPG genre, presenting a vast open-world experience brimming with rich storylines.

With Geralt of Rivia as your guide, every quest main or side is meticulously crafted, offering countless adventures and choices that shape your narrative.

This game exemplifies how engaging side quests can transform your journey, making each decision feel significant in the grand tapestry of its interactive storytelling.

These quests are key moments that unveil the true nature of characters and the world around you.

Take the quest “The Bloody Baron,” for example. It dives deep into themes of loss, guilt, and redemption, offering a profound understanding of the moral complexities faced by the characters.

Similarly, “Ladies of the Wood” intricately weaves into the broader lore, illuminating the dark history of the area.

These stories deepen Geralt’s journey and affect your choices, seamlessly integrating into the main storyline.

2. Fallout: New Vegas

Fallout: New Vegas captivates with its RPG features, vibrant characters, and intricately designed side quests.

These quests invite you to delve into moral complexities and make choices that significantly impact your journey through the Mojave Wasteland.

Quests like “The White Wash” and “Beyond the Beef” challenge your notions of loyalty and justice, allowing you to forge unique alliances or rivalries.

This dynamic interplay enriches storytelling and cultivates a profound sense of ownership over your evolving narrative.

3. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

In The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, you immerse yourself in a sprawling open-world environment filled with epic quests and enchanting lore.

Each side quest lets you explore the rich lore of Tamriel, guiding you to hidden treasures, intriguing character backstories, and unexpected alliances.

Whether discovering a forgotten ruin filled with artifacts or engaging with a rogue’s complex past, these quests deepen your emotional connection to the world.

4. Dragon Age: Inquisition

Dragon Age: Inquisition masterfully combines rich narrative with immersive gameplay, presenting side quests that enhance character development and emotional investment.

Dive into these quests and explore exciting new experiences that reveal character backgrounds and motivations.

For instance, in “What Pride Had Wrought,” delve into the history of the Qunari and Iron Bull, ultimately shaping their relationship with the Inquisitor.

Similarly, “The Forgotten Sophia” showcases the consequences of choice, allowing you to influence a tragic character’s fate.

5. Mass Effect 2

Mass Effect 2 is celebrated for its intricate storytelling and character-driven gameplay. Engaging side quests shape your experience throughout the galaxy.

Take Tali’s quest to retrieve family data; it adds layers to her narrative, showcasing her resilience and ties to Quarian culture.

Investigating Thane’s past uncovers his internal conflicts, allowing you to empathize with his choices.

6. Red Dead Redemption 2

Red Dead Redemption 2 immerses you in a meticulously crafted open-world environment. Rich storytelling intertwines with numerous side quests that elevate your gameplay.

Encounters with characters like Francis Sinclair or Mary Linton unveil profound emotional stories that illuminate themes of loss and redemption.

7. Horizon Zero Dawn

Horizon Zero Dawn draws you in with its breathtaking setting and compelling protagonist, offering a wealth of side quests that enhance gameplay.

These quests invite you to engage with a rich tapestry of cultures and histories woven throughout the game.

8. Dark Souls III

In Dark Souls III, you step into a challenging RPG that weaves intricate gameplay mechanics with a series of enigmatic side quests.

These quests often challenge your sense of right and wrong, enriching the game s lore and character development.

9. Persona 5

Persona 5 offers an extraordinary RPG experience, inviting you to navigate a stylized world with vibrant characters and captivating side quests.

These quests act as pathways to deeper understanding and connection among your group members.

10. Divinity: Original Sin II

Divinity: Original Sin II stands out for its rich narrative and strategic gameplay, where side quests shape your experience and deepen character development.

11. Final Fantasy XV

Final Fantasy XV invites you into an expansive RPG experience filled with side quests that elevate gameplay and deepen emotional ties.

12. Assassin’s Creed Odyssey

Assassin’s Creed Odyssey immerses you in the vibrant world of ancient Greece, where captivating side quests deliver a remarkable RPG experience.

13. Shadow of the Colossus

Shadow of the Colossus offers a unique RPG experience, enhanced by side quests that deepen your connection to the game world.

14. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild redefines the RPG genre with its expansive open-world design and multitude of side quests.

15. World of Warcraft

World of Warcraft stands as a pillar in the RPG landscape, where side quests enhance gameplay and cultivate a vibrant community.

What Makes a Side Quest Memorable?

Memorable side quests combine engaging storylines, rich characters, and rewarding gameplay that leave a lasting impression.

How Do Side Quests Enhance the Overall Gaming Experience?

Side quests elevate your gaming experience by allowing deeper engagement with the game world, characters, and mechanics.

What Are the Different Types of Side Quests?

Side quests can be categorized into various types, each presenting unique experiences, challenges, and rewards.

How Can Side Quests Affect Character Development?

Side quests often play an important role in character development, allowing you to explore your protagonist’s backstory and moral dilemmas.

What Are Some Common Criticisms of Side Quests in RPGs?

Despite their popularity, side quests often face criticisms regarding their repetitive nature and lack of meaningful rewards.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the best RPGs that feature side quests?

Check out these amazing RPGs known for their side quests: The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, Skyrim, Fallout 4, Dragon Age: Inquisition, and Horizon Zero Dawn.

Do side quests add value to RPGs?

Yes, side quests can greatly enhance the overall experience of an RPG by providing additional content, character development, and exploration opportunities.

Can side quests affect the main storyline in an RPG?

It depends on the game. Some RPGs have side quests that directly impact the main storyline, while others feature standalone side quests.

Are there any RPGs with particularly memorable side quests?

Many fans consider The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt to have some of the best side quests in the genre, often as engaging as the main storyline.

Do all RPGs have side quests?

No, not all RPGs have side quests. Some focus primarily on the main storyline with few or no side quests.

Can side quests be completed after finishing the main storyline in an RPG?

It depends on the game. Some allow players to continue quests even after finishing the main storyline, while others have a point of no return.