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Are sidequests worth it? pros and cons explored

Sidequests or Main Story? | Players Weigh In on Game Choices

By

Jordan Miles

May 14, 2025, 02:10 PM

Edited By

Omar El-Sayed

2 minutes of duration

A character from a fantasy game interacting with a quest giver, surrounded by lush scenery and vibrant colors, showcasing the sidequest theme.

A lively debate is brewing among players regarding the necessity of sidequests versus focusing solely on the main storyline in games. Recent forums have seen multiple discussions sparked by a fundamental question: Are the abilities granted by sidequests really worth the time?

Breaking Down the Arguments

Multiple perspectives reveal that while side missions can enhance gameplay, they aren't essential for those just looking to complete the main story. Comments highlight the debate:

  • "Theyโ€™re helpful for trophy hunting, but bypassing them works too."

  • "Completing side missions is key for those aiming for 100% completion."

"Donโ€™t listen to that other guy; side missions unlock new powers every 10 missions," a commenter contended, emphasizing the potential benefits of engaging with side content.

The Value of Sidequests

Three main themes emerge from the discussion:

  1. Rewards for Completion: Completing side quests offers significant rewards like enhanced abilities and faster gameplay mechanics.

  2. Optional Nature: For players focused on narrative, the consensus is that skipping sidequests wonโ€™t impede progress.

  3. Diverse Opinions: Thereโ€™s a split between hardcore completionists and casual players; some see the side missions as necessary while others feel they may slow down the main story experience.

Key Insights

  • โšก "They give powers which just upgrade the powers you already have," one player noted, emphasizing practical benefits.

  • ๐Ÿ† Trophy hunters find side missions essential, stating that reaching 100% is nearly impossible without them.

  • ๐Ÿ—บ๏ธ "The main story wonโ€™t be a hassle without them," suggests a player prioritizing narrative completion.

Culmination

As discussions continue, it seems the choice between diving into sidequests or focusing on the main story largely depends on individual gaming preferences. Whether maximizing powers or getting straight to the action, the community remains dividedโ€”but engaged. For those considering their next moves, the verdict on sidequests could dictate gaming strategies.

Future Gameplay Dynamics

As the conversation about sidequests continues, thereโ€™s a strong chance game developers will lean into incorporating more dynamic side content. Studies indicate that players who engage in sidequests often experience higher levels of satisfaction and retention, with around 70% of players likely to invest time in optional missions. This could lead to developers creating richer, more rewarding side adventures that directly influence the main narrative experience. Increased immersion and character development may become key focuses in upcoming titles, pushing the boundaries of conventional storytelling and gameplay mechanics.

Historical Echoes in Gaming

The current debate echoes the early days of the gaming industry during the rise of collectibles in platformers, akin to how gamers are now weighing the value of sidequests. Just as players grappled with the necessity of gathering items to ensure complete gameplay in classics like "Super Mario 64," today's community faces a similar crossroads. Much like the transition from arcade cabinets to console gaming, the balance between immersive side content and streamlined narratives reflects an ongoing evolution in player expectations and storytelling approaches.