Modern games frequently inundate players with a plethora of side quests, often making it challenging to appreciate the main storyline. In the midst of this superfluous content, it’s easy to lose sight of the core narrative and its objectives.
The good news is that many titles offer flexible gameplay options, allowing players to focus primarily on the main story. If you’re eager to engage with the most compelling content without being sidetracked by poorly designed ancillary tasks, consider these recommended games that shine brightest when you prioritize their narratives.
1. Death Stranding
You’ve Got A World to Connect, Sam
Engaging primarily with the story in Death Stranding can still lead to a lengthy adventure, potentially exceeding 80 hours if you devote time to side quests. However, these additional tasks often consist of mundane deliveries with little reward, detracting from the urgency embedded in Sam’s mission to connect America to the Chiral network.
The connection between gameplay actions and narrative urgency becomes tenuous when players pursue trivial quests. Sticking to the main storyline provides a richer experience and emphasizes the game’s standout aspects.
2. Assassin’s Creed Origins
Bayek’s Journey is Tightly Crafted
As the inaugural entry in the RPG-focused Assassin’s Creed series, Origins fell short in delivering captivating side quests. While trying to replicate the success of titles like The Witcher 3, it lacked the essence that made those side stories truly engaging.
The core narrative, centered around Bayek’s gripping quest for vengeance, is carefully paced and diverse in gameplay. However, the side quests often fail to provide meaningful engagement, urging players to concentrate on the main plot for the most fulfilling experience.
3. Ring of Fire
Focused Tarnished
Elden Ring, often hailed as one of the industry’s prime titles, presents a complex web of side quests that can be daunting to navigate. The lack of clarity in quest directions can sometimes feel overwhelming, as if you’re piecing together a puzzle with scattered information.
Players might find that the main storyline, which can extend beyond 100 hours, delivers the most substantial and rewarding content. Those truly interested in lore may find side quests worthwhile; however, prioritizing the main narrative proves to be a more streamlined and engaging experience.
4. Ghost of Tsushima
The Mongols Take Priority
Ghost of Tsushima captivates players with its gripping narrative, yet it’s easy to get sidetracked by numerous side missions. While some side quests are engaging, particularly legendary duels, many lengthy narratives fail to enhance the main story.
Instead, these side quests can make the gameplay experience feel repetitive and drawn out. Focusing on the primary storyline ensures a fulfilling adventure without unnecessary distractions.
5. God of War (2018)
Get to the Mountain Top, Kratos
In God of War (2018), while the game marks a significant evolution for the series, the side quests sometimes come across as tacked on. This first foray into an open-world format occasionally sees side tasks that lack depth and serve primarily as a means to enhance playtime.
Most side quests do not contribute significantly to the overarching lore, staying instead within a framework of typical objectives. Enjoying the main quest offers a more meaningful narrative journey.
6. Cyberpunk 2077
V is on Borrowed Time, Act Accordingly
Though not inherently flawed, the side content in Cyberpunk 2077 can often feel distracting. Some smaller quests may not contribute meaningfully to your experience, especially as you navigate V’s time-sensitive predicament.
Considering the urgency of the main storyline, it’s beneficial to focus on the significant quests, allowing for better engagement with the plot while deferring less impactful side activities for later exploration.
7. Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain
Why Settle for the Appetizer?
Metal Gear Solid V impresses through its tactical gameplay and the freedom it offers players. However, the additional side operations often lack the complexity needed to be truly compelling.
Many of these quests can feel mundane, offering little diversity to the primary campaign. As a result, enjoying the extensive main story will deliver the richer gaming experience you’re seeking.
8. Chiaroscuro: Expedition 33
The Paintress Calls
While the side content in Clair Obscur has captivating elements, the difficulty spikes significantly, often making it inaccessible until after completing the main narrative. In many cases, the side quests are clearly intended for exploration post-story completion.
The urgency of the main quest propels you forward, allowing for a more logical progression through the narrative before tackling these higher-challenge side missions.
9. Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
Is New York City This Boring?
As a proud New Yorker, I expected Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 to deliver thrilling side quests, especially given the wealth of Marvel characters and stories available. Unfortunately, many side missions fall flat and miss the mark on excitement.
Fortunately, the main storyline remains robust and engaging, yet the disappointing side missions detract from what could have been a well-rounded experience.
10. Dragon Age: Inquisition
Too Much Bloat
Dragon Age: Inquisition presents an expansive world filled with content, but players can easily become overwhelmed by an abundance of side quests—many of which are repetitive fetch tasks.
This phenomenon, commonly referred to as the “Hinterlands problem, ”isn’t confined to the initial area; it extends throughout the game. While the main story is captivating, getting sidetracked by side content can dilute the overall experience, so it’s advisable to keep your focus on the core narrative.
Leave a Reply