The Best Side Quests in Fantasy Games That Are Too Good to Miss

16 March 2025

Let’s be real—side quests in fantasy games can be like the unexpected toppings on a pizza. You might not order them, but when they’re done right, they make the whole experience so much better. Some quests might feel like filler content, but others? Oh, they’re like hidden treasure chests just waiting to be opened. You end up stumbling upon incredible stories, unforgettable characters, and rewards that make you feel like you just struck gold.

In this article, we’re diving into the best side quests in fantasy games—the ones that stand out for their emotional impact, wild creativity, or sheer fun factor. These aren’t your run-of-the-mill errands. Nope. These are the side quests that are too good to miss. Fair warning, though: you might want to replay some of these games after reading this. Let’s get into it!

1. "The Bloody Baron" – The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

If we’re talking all-time greats, how could we not mention “The Bloody Baron”? This side quest in The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt could honestly be its own standalone game. You play as Geralt, a gruff but lovable monster hunter, navigating a messy, morally complex story involving the Baron’s missing family.

What makes this quest unmissable? It’s not just about finding his wife and child; it’s the gut-punch of emotions along the way. You’ll deal with abuse, regret, redemption, and yes, even a creepy demon baby called a Botchling. The choices you make here ripple through the story, so it feels like every decision actually matters.

And the storytelling? Chef’s kiss. It’s like reading a dark fantasy novel while being smack dab in the middle of the action.

2. "A Night to Remember" – Skyrim

Who doesn’t love waking up after a wild night of drinking and trying to piece together what the heck just happened? In Skyrim, "A Night to Remember" is essentially the fantasy version of The Hangover.

You start by competing in a drinking contest with a mysterious man named Sam Guevenne. Fast forward to the next morning, and you’re in full-blown detective mode, unraveling the chaos you caused during your blackout. Broken wedding vows? Check. Angry goat owners? Double-check. A portal to a Daedric Prince’s domain? Oh, absolutely.

What makes this side quest stand out is how unexpected and hilarious it is. It’s a reminder that even in a world saving the universe, there’s always time for some chaotic fun.

3. "The Painted World" – Dark Souls III

Dark Souls III isn’t exactly known for its humor or lightheartedness—it’s all doom, gloom, and giant bosses trying to crush your spirit. But "The Painted World of Ariandel" is a side quest that feels like stepping into a sinister, otherworldly painting (literally).

This quest is both visually stunning and challenging, filled with cryptic lore for those who like piecing together puzzles. Plus, the boss fights here are on another level, both in terms of difficulty and design. It’s a hauntingly beautiful detour from the main game that sticks with you long after you leave.

4. "Cabot House" – Fallout 4

Okay, so technically this one’s more post-apocalyptic than fantasy, but stick with me—it’s weird in the best way. In Fallout 4, the "Cabot House" questline introduces you to a family that’s... not exactly your average neighbors. They’ve been alive for centuries thanks to a mysterious artifact, and the storyline blends fantasy, sci-fi, and a touch of horror.

You decide whether the Cabots should keep their immortality or if it’s time to break their cycle of madness. The tension, the moral dilemmas, and the bonkers twists make this quest unforgettable. It’s like stumbling into a gothic novel with a nuclear wasteland setting.

5. "The Legend of the Star" – Fallout: New Vegas

Fallout: New Vegas isn’t all about dusty wastelands and cowboy hats—it’s got some truly epic side quests, too. "The Legend of the Star" revolves around hunting down Sunset Sarsaparilla caps, which are basically the bottlecaps of fantasy gaming.

At first, it feels like a quirky scavenger hunt, but as you uncover the mystery behind the caps, the story evolves into something much darker. Is the prize at the end worth it? Well, you’ll just have to find out for yourself. It’s a slow burn, but oh man, is it satisfying.

6. "The Nameless Isle" – Divinity: Original Sin 2

Divinity: Original Sin 2 is a game packed with amazing side quests, but "The Nameless Isle" stands out for its sheer complexity. It’s a pivotal quest where alliances are tested, friendships are pushed to the limit, and new paths open up depending on your choices.

The island itself is filled with secrets, ancient temples, and powerful enemies. Plus, your decisions here significantly impact the game’s ending. It’s like one of those “choose your own adventure” books—but with more fireballs and epic battles.

7. "Blood Ties" – Red Dead Redemption 2

Yes, I know, Red Dead Redemption 2 isn’t technically a fantasy game, but hear me out. The side quest "Blood Ties" has all the elements of a great fantasy story: a missing person, a creepy cult, and ethical dilemmas that leave you questioning your choices.

You play as Arthur Morgan, tracking down a woman’s missing brother. What starts as a simple rescue mission quickly spirals into a tale of manipulation and control. The eerie atmosphere and emotional weight make it feel like something straight out of a dark fairytale.

8. "The White March" – Pillars of Eternity

If you’re a fan of old-school RPGs, Pillars of Eternity is a goldmine of rich storytelling, and "The White March" is no exception. This expansion-turned-side-quest takes you to a frozen wasteland filled with ancient mysteries and tough moral decisions.

What’s cool about this quest (pun intended) is how it builds on the game’s lore while standing on its own as an unforgettable adventure. The atmosphere is chilling, the stakes are high, and the rewards are worth every minute you put into it.

Why Side Quests Matter

Let’s face it: side quests are the unsung heroes of gaming. While the main storyline might get all the glory, side quests are where games can really flex their creative muscles. They let you explore new areas, meet quirky characters, and dive into stories that make the world feel alive.

In fantasy games especially, side quests add richness to the world-building. They’re like the side dishes at Thanksgiving—not the main event, but sometimes the best part of the meal. Whether they make you laugh, cry, or just scratch your head in confusion, the best side quests are the ones you’ll be talking about long after the end credits roll.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it—some of the best side quests in fantasy games that are too good to miss. Whether you’re navigating moral dilemmas in The Witcher 3, piecing together a drunken night in Skyrim, or stepping into a haunted painting in Dark Souls III, these quests remind us why we love gaming in the first place.

What about you? Got a favorite side quest that didn’t make the list? Let me know—I’m always down to add to my backlog (as if it isn’t long enough already).