What Makes a Good Side Quest in a D&D Adventure?

 

By Charlie Stayton, Behind the Die

In any great Dungeons & Dragons campaign, side quests are more than just distractions from the main story. They enrich the world, provide depth to characters, and offer players the chance to explore unexpected paths. A well-crafted side quest should feel just as compelling as the main adventure while giving the party a reason to engage with the setting and its inhabitants. Here’s what makes a side quest truly memorable:

1. Meaningful Stakes

A good side quest should matter. Whether it’s the fate of a small village, the recovery of a powerful artifact, or aiding a desperate NPC, the stakes should feel important to the players. Even if it doesn’t change the entire world, it should still impact the local environment or provide emotional weight.

2. Player Investment

If the side quest ties into a character’s backstory, personal goals, or motivations, players will naturally want to pursue it. Maybe a rogue gets a chance to settle an old debt, or a cleric can recover a relic from their order. When the quest resonates with the party, it ceases to be “side” content and becomes a key part of the experience.

3. Unique Challenges

A side quest should offer something different from the main story. If the campaign is combat-heavy, perhaps the side quest involves intricate roleplay, puzzle-solving, or moral dilemmas. Mixing up the gameplay keeps things fresh and allows different players to shine.

4. Interesting NPCs

Memorable side quests often come with equally memorable NPCs. Whether it’s a charming con artist, a tormented ghost, or an eccentric alchemist, an engaging NPC can make even a simple fetch quest feel special. NPCs with distinct personalities, motives, and conflicts add layers to the game world.

5. Unexpected Twists

The best side quests surprise players. Maybe the “lost heirloom” is actually cursed, or the bandit leader turns out to be an old friend of the party. A well-placed twist keeps the players on their toes and prevents the quest from feeling predictable.

6. Tangible Rewards

While gold and magic items are nice, rewarding players with something unique—like a new ally, a piece of lore, or an influence over a faction—can be even more satisfying. Giving choices that affect the world, such as deciding the fate of an NPC, makes side quests feel impactful.

7. Pacing and Length

Side quests should be engaging without derailing the main story. A good side adventure should have a clear goal, a satisfying resolution, and not drag on too long. However, some side quests can plant seeds for larger storylines, enticing players to return to unresolved mysteries later.

Bringing It All Together

A great side quest isn’t just filler; it enhances the overall campaign. Whether it's a heartfelt story, a thrilling encounter, or a puzzle that challenges the group’s creativity, a well-designed side quest keeps players immersed and eager to explore more of the world. So, next time your players stray from the beaten path, make sure their detour is one they’ll never forget!