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QUESTING 101: 9 PRO QUEST STRATEGIES FOR RPGs

A still from Mass Effect 3 featuring two main characters. 
Image via EA

Role-playing games have transformed the gaming industry, offering immersive narratives and captivating gameplay. With RPGs' rising popularity, developers have crafted increasingly complex and intricate quests. This guide will provide nine key strategies to help players of all levels, from beginners to experts, complete quests more effectively.


Understanding Different Types of Quests in RPGs

Quests come in various shapes and sizes, each contributing to the intricate narrative and providing distinct challenges. Recognizing the variety of quests in RPGs can enhance your gaming experience by providing a deeper understanding of each challenge.

  • Main Story Quests

The backbone of any RPG, main story quests propel the overarching narrative. Completing these quests unveils the game's central plot, introduces key characters, and often unlocks crucial game features. As a primary driver of progression, main story quests guide players through the immersive worlds crafted by game developers.

  • Side Quests

Side quests add layers of depth to the gaming experience. While not directly tied to the main narrative, these quests offer unique storylines, valuable rewards, and opportunities for character development. Exploring side quests allows players to engage with the game world beyond the central storyline, uncovering hidden lore and unexpected challenges.

  • Exploration Quests

Encouraging players to venture off the beaten path, exploration quests reward those with a keen eye for detail. These quests often involve uncovering hidden locations, solving puzzles, or discovering unique landmarks. Exploration quests not only provide a break from the main storyline but also yield valuable resources and secrets.

  • Timed Quests

Infusing a sense of urgency into the gaming experience, timed quests challenge players to complete objectives within a specified timeframe. These quests often come with increased rewards or consequences for success or failure. Effectively managing time becomes crucial, adding an extra layer of strategy to quest completion.

  • Challenges and Bounties

Challenges and bounties present specific tasks or enemies for players to overcome. Whether defeating a formidable foe, completing a specific number of actions, or achieving milestones, these quests test players' skills and offer rewards commensurate with the difficulty of the challenge.


A still from Mass Effect 3, featuring the protagonist witnessing an attack on the city.
Image via EA

9 Questing Strategies You'll Want To Employ

Questing in RPGs is an art that evolves with your gaming expertise. That's why we've created this guide to offer you these 9 questing strategies that can be applied to varied levels of gaming experience. Let's begin!


1. Prioritize Main Story Quests:

In the vast RPG landscape, main story quests act as the backbone of your journey. Prioritizing these quests ensures a structured progression through the game's narrative. Dive into the main storyline to unlock crucial features, characters, and locations. 

Understanding the central plot enhances your overall gaming experience and prepares you for the challenges that lie ahead. Allocate dedicated time to completing main story quests and embracing the immersive world crafted by the game developers.


2. Complete Low-Level Side Quests:

For novice adventurers, tackling low-level side quests serves as a stepping stone to build your character's capabilities. These quests offer valuable experience points and resources, aiding your gradual ascent to more challenging endeavors. 

Prioritize simpler tasks to familiarize yourself with the game mechanics, earn rewards, and develop a sense of accomplishment. As you gain confidence and strength, you'll be better equipped to face the intricate challenges embedded in higher-level quests.


3. Use Quest Markers Wisely:

Quest markers are indispensable navigational tools, but their judicious use can elevate your questing experience. While they guide you to your destination, be proactive in exploring the surroundings beyond the designated path. 

Hidden treasures, unmarked quests, and lore-rich locations often lie just beyond the markers. Embrace curiosity, venture off the beaten track, and uncover the richness that the game world has to offer beyond the confines of quest markers.


4. Balance Side Quests and Exploration:

Intermediate players seeking a holistic gaming experience should strike a balance between side quests and exploration. Side quests, while optional, often contribute to character development and world-building. 

Simultaneously, exploration unveils hidden gems, lore, and unexpected challenges. Allocate time between side quests and exploration to enjoy a well-rounded journey. This approach not only maximizes rewards but also immerses you in the intricacies of the game world, creating a more fulfilling gaming experience.


5. Optimize Bounty Hunt Routes:

Efficient bounty hunting requires strategic route planning. Identify locations with multiple bounty targets and plan routes that minimize travel time between them. This optimization ensures you maximize rewards by efficiently dispatching multiple targets in a single journey. 

Consider the geographical layout of the game world, study target locations, and create a systematic route to streamline your bounty-hunting endeavors. A well-organized approach to bounty hunting enhances both efficiency and profitability.


6. Manage Inventory and Resources:

As an intermediate player, efficient inventory management becomes crucial for sustained success. Regularly review and organize your inventory to accommodate quest items, valuable loot, and essentials. Visit merchants to sell excess items and restock crucial supplies. 

Utilize storage options provided in-game to prevent overburdening your character during quests. A streamlined and well-managed inventory ensures you are adequately prepared for encounters and optimizes your overall questing experience.


7. Embrace Non-Linear Progression:

Expert adventurers understand that quests are not always straightforward. Embrace non-linear progression by venturing beyond quest markers. Explore uncharted territories, seek hidden pathways, and unveil unmarked quests that offer unique challenges and rewards. 

Non-linear exploration enriches your gaming experience, providing a deeper connection with the game world. Break free from linear constraints, and let curiosity guide you to unexplored realms, enhancing both your character's growth and the overall narrative.


8. Master Stealth and Avoidance:

Expert players recognize the value of stealth and avoidance in quest completion. Develop stealth skills to navigate through areas undetected, avoiding unnecessary combat encounters. This strategic approach not only conserves resources but also allows you to focus on essential battles. 

Choose routes that minimize confrontations, honing your ability to traverse the game world with finesse. Mastering the art of stealth enhances your efficiency in questing, contributing to a smoother and more rewarding gaming experience.


9. Utilize Advanced Quest Tracking:

Fine-tune your quest-tracking preferences to align with your strategic goals. As an expert, customize quest tracking based on difficulty levels, desired rewards, or personal preferences. Prioritize quests that align with your current character build or story arc. 

By utilizing advanced quest tracking features, you can tailor your questing experience to suit your playstyle. This level of customization ensures that your quests are not just tasks to complete but integral components of your character's journey.

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