3 Hidden Side Quests Better Than the Game’s Main Story (One Changes the Ending Entirely)

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Everyone plays video games differently. Some people focus on finishing the main story as quickly as possible, while others, like me, prefer to complete every side quest and explore everything the game has to offer. Side quests are a common feature in role-playing games and story-driven titles, adding extra playtime and often enriching the game’s story and world. The best side quests are often the ones that are hardest to find!

Side quests often start simply – by talking to someone or going to a certain place. Many games also have a central hub, like a mission board, where you can pick up extra quests. However, some side quests are much more hidden, requiring effort and cleverness to discover. Often, these secret quests have surprisingly good stories, sometimes even better than the main game’s plot. Here are a few of the most rewarding hidden side quests you can find.

3. Skyrim: The Mind of Madness

I’m a big fan of *Skyrim* and have spent countless hours playing it. Recently, I challenged myself to complete every side quest in the game. While I didn’t quite finish them all, I discovered some surprisingly enjoyable experiences, including the ‘Mind of Madness’ quest. It’s not exactly a secret, but it’s difficult to start, which causes many players – including me – to miss it.

To start the “Mind of Madness” quest, you need to listen to Dervenin’s confusing stories in Solitude and then find a way into the Pelagius Wing. Once inside, you’ll be pulled into Pelagius’ mind, experiencing a bizarre and dreamlike sequence reminiscent of the Mad Hatter’s tea party from *Alice in Wonderland*. This unique quest is filled with creative ideas and nods to famous literature, making it one of the most engaging side quests in the game. It’s surprisingly as captivating and enjoyable as the main storyline, despite being a side adventure.

2. Dark Souls: Saving Solaire

Solaire is a fan-favorite character in *Dark Souls*, but his story can end tragically if you don’t take specific steps. Dedicated players can undertake a secret quest to prevent him from going insane and becoming an enemy. The game doesn’t offer clear guidance on saving him, or even if it’s possible, but it is – and doing so provides a rewarding conclusion to his story.

Saving Solaire in *Dark Souls* depends on preventing him from getting infected by the Sunlight Maggot. The best way to do this is by joining the Chaos Servant Covenant, which unlocks a secret route into Lost Izalith. This allows you to intervene before he encounters the bug. Completing this optional quest is highly recommended, as it significantly alters Solaire’s story and can lead to a less heartbreaking outcome.

1. Cyberpunk 2077: Panam’s Side Quest

You’ll meet Panam Palmer naturally as you play *Cyberpunk 2077*, and you can even develop a romantic relationship with her. However, her storyline is easy to overlook, despite potentially affecting the game’s ending. To unlock it, you first need to complete the main quest ‘Life During Wartime,’ which then allows you to start Panam’s quest, ‘Riders on the Storm.’ This quest is considered one of the best side stories in the game, letting you deepen your connection with Panam and potentially romance her.

This side quest has a good story on its own, but it’s also essential if you want to get a special ending in the game. Your choices during this quest can lead to a unique conclusion with Panam in *Cyberpunk 2077* – we won’t give away any details, but it’s definitely worth the effort to unlock and finish this lengthy quest in the Badlands.

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2025-09-22 21:11