Celestial Saga

Side quests are optional adventures that players can pursue in TTRPGs, often to gain extra rewards, explore the world, or develop their characters. Side quests can add variety, depth, and fun to a campaign, but they also pose some challenges for game masters (GMs). How can GMs design, introduce, and run side quests that are engaging, relevant, and balanced? Here are some tips and resources to help you create memorable side quests for your TTRPGs.

• Design side quests that fit the tone, theme, and genre of your main campaign. For example, if you’re running a horror game, you might want to avoid side quests that are too comedic or whimsical. Instead, you could use side quests to build suspense, foreshadow threats, or reveal secrets.
• Introduce side quests that are connected to the main plot, the characters, or the setting. For example, you could use side quests to flesh out the backstory of a NPC, to explore a location that is relevant to the main quest, or to introduce a new faction or ally. You could also use side quests to create hooks, complications, or consequences for the main quest.
• Run side quests that are short, simple, and satisfying. For example, you could use side quests to showcase a new mechanic, to challenge the players with a puzzle or a combat, or to reward them with a treasure or a clue. You could also use side quests to give the players some agency, choice, or creativity. However, you should avoid side quests that are too long, complex, or frustrating, as they might derail the main campaign or bore the players.