The Worst Side Quests to Avoid in Video Games
By [Your Name]
Introduction
Side quests are a staple of modern gaming, offering players extra content, rewards, and world-building. However, not all side quests are created equal. Some are tedious, repetitive, or downright frustrating, making them a waste of time rather than an enjoyable experience.
In this article, we’ll explore the worst side quests to avoid in video games—those that test your patience without offering meaningful rewards or engaging gameplay. Whether you're a completionist or a casual player, knowing which quests to skip can save you hours of frustration.
1. "Collect 100 Bear Asses" – The Repetitive Fetch Quest
Game Example: The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
Why It’s Bad:
Fetch quests are common in open-world RPGs, but some take repetition to absurd levels. In Skyrim, the "Miscellaneous" quests often involve collecting an unrealistic number of items (e.g., "Bring me 20 flawless sapphires"). These quests lack depth, forcing players to grind without any compelling story payoff.
How to Avoid It:
- Skip any quest that requires collecting an excessive number of common items.
- Focus on faction quests or main story missions instead.
2. "Follow the NPC at a Snail’s Pace" – The Slow Escort Mission
Game Example: Red Dead Redemption 2
Why It’s Bad:
Escort missions are notorious for forcing players to match an NPC’s painfully slow walking speed. In Red Dead Redemption 2, some side missions involve following a character who moves slower than Arthur’s default walk. These quests drag on, testing the player’s patience without adding meaningful gameplay.
How to Avoid It:
- If an NPC says "Follow me" and starts walking at a glacial pace, consider skipping it.
- Look for quests with dynamic events (e.g., shootouts or chases) instead.
3. "Win 50 Races to Unlock a Useless Reward" – The Grindy Challenge
Game Example: Forza Horizon 5
Why It’s Bad:
Some side quests demand an unreasonable amount of effort for minimal rewards. In Forza Horizon 5, certain seasonal challenges require winning dozens of races just to unlock a cosmetic item. The grind outweighs the fun, making these quests feel like chores.
How to Avoid It:
- Check reward lists before committing to a long grind.
- Focus on events that offer cars or credits instead of minor cosmetics.
4. "Find 200 Hidden Feathers" – The Pointless Collectathon
Game Example: Assassin’s Creed II
Why It’s Bad:
Collectibles can enhance exploration, but some games go overboard. In Assassin’s Creed II, finding 100 feathers scattered across Italy feels tedious, especially since the reward (a mediocre cape) isn’t worth the effort.
How to Avoid It:
- Unless you’re a completionist, ignore collectibles that don’t contribute to the story.
- Use guides if you must collect everything, but prioritize fun over mindless searching.
5. "Defeat 10,000 Enemies for a Trophy" – The Absurd Achievement Quest
Game Example: Final Fantasy X
Why It’s Bad:
Some side quests exist solely for bragging rights, requiring insane amounts of grinding. In Final Fantasy X, unlocking Ultimate Weapons often involves defeating hundreds of enemies or completing near-impossible mini-games (e.g., dodging 200 lightning bolts in a row).
How to Avoid It:
- Unless you’re aiming for 100% completion, skip these extreme challenges.
- Focus on story-related side quests instead.
6. "Deliver 50 Packages Across the Map" – The Boring Courier Mission
Game Example: Death Stranding
Why It’s Bad:
While Death Stranding’s core gameplay revolves around deliveries, some side missions feel repetitive and unrewarding. Delivering the same type of cargo multiple times with little variation can become monotonous.
How to Avoid It:
- Stick to story-related deliveries or those that unlock new gear.
- Skip low-reward fetch quests that don’t add to the narrative.
7. "Defeat the Same Boss 50 Times" – The Artificial Difficulty Spike
Game Example: Monster Hunter: World
Why It’s Bad:
While Monster Hunter is built around boss fights, some event quests require defeating the same monster repeatedly for rare drops. The grind can feel unrewarding, especially if the fight isn’t challenging or fun.
How to Avoid It:
- Only farm monsters if you need specific materials for gear upgrades.
- Skip event quests that don’t offer unique rewards.
Conclusion
Not all side quests are worth your time. Whether it’s mindless collectibles, slow escort missions, or absurd grinding challenges, some quests are better left ignored. By recognizing these worst side quests to avoid, you can focus on the content that truly enhances your gaming experience.
What’s the worst side quest you’ve ever encountered? Share your thoughts in the comments!
