Unlocking the Best Side Stories in Final Fantasy XIV

Let’s be real, adventuring in Eorzea can feel overwhelming sometimes. The main story of Final Fantasy XIV is epic, sure, but it’s easy to get tunnel vision and miss out on some seriously awesome side content. We’re talking about quests that flesh out the world, introduce unforgettable characters, and even grant you some sweet gear. So, which ones are truly worth your precious time? Buckle up, Warrior of Light, because we’re diving deep into the best side quests FFXIV has to offer!

Side Quests You Absolutely Shouldn’t Miss in FFXIV

Alright, let’s get down to business. Not all side quests are created equal. Some are glorified fetch quests with minimal payoff, while others are hidden gems that rival the main story in terms of emotional impact and world-building. The quests we’re about to cover are the latter – the ones that will enrich your experience in Eorzea and leave you wanting more. Think of them as the “DLC” that comes free with your subscription. These add considerable depth to the regions you’re exploring, making the journey that much more worthwhile.

The Hildibrand Adventures

If you’re looking for a hefty dose of humor and sheer ridiculousness, look no further than the Hildibrand questline. This series of quests follows the self-proclaimed gentleman detective, Hildibrand Helidor Maximilian Manderville, as he stumbles his way through various mysteries across Eorzea. Think Sherlock Holmes meets Inspector Gadget, but somehow even more chaotic. The writing is top-notch, the characters are unforgettable, and the rewards (including emotes and unique glamour items) are just icing on the cake. Plus, who doesn’t love a good laugh while saving the world?

The Postmoogle Quests

These seemingly simple delivery quests evolve into surprisingly touching stories about the people of Eorzea. You’ll be delivering letters and packages for all sorts of characters, from lonely merchants to lovesick adventurers. What starts as a mundane task quickly becomes a journey into the lives and struggles of the everyday folks you encounter. It’s a great way to connect with the world on a more personal level and appreciate the small moments amidst the grand conflicts. Plus, you get to hang out with adorable Postmoogles. Win-win!

The Scholasticate Skirmishes

Head to Ishgard and delve into the Scholasticate Skirmishes, a series of quests that uncover the mysteries within this theocratic city-state. This questline isn’t just about mindless combat; it’s about political intrigue, academic rivalries, and uncovering the dark secrets hidden beneath Ishgard’s polished facade. The story is engaging, the characters are complex, and the rewards are worthwhile. If you enjoyed the Heavensward storyline, these quests will give you an even deeper appreciation for Ishgard and its history. Think of it as the historical document dive after you’ve experienced the main historical event.

Side Questlines Offering Great Rewards

Beyond the compelling stories, some side quests are simply worth doing for the tangible rewards they offer. We’re talking about powerful gear, unique mounts, and even new jobs to unlock. If you’re looking to boost your character’s power or add some flair to your adventuring style, these are the quests you should prioritize. It’s like hitting a mini jackpot for investing your time. These reward are more than just items; they’re milestones.

The Four Lords

These trials, found in the Stormblood expansion, pit you against the legendary Four Lords: Byakko, Suzaku, Seiryu, and Genbu. Not only are these fights challenging and rewarding in their own right, but they also unlock a series of side quests that delve into the lore of the Ruby Sea and its surrounding islands. Completing these quests will grant you access to unique gear, orchestrion rolls, and a deeper understanding of the region’s history. The battles are tough, but the loot is totally worth it.

The Warring Triad

The Warring Triad questline, also found in Heavensward, unlocks a series of extreme trials against Sephirot, Sophia, and Zurvan – powerful beings from a bygone era. These trials are among the most challenging in the game, but overcoming them will reward you with powerful weapons and armor that will help you conquer even the toughest content. Plus, the storyline itself is fascinating, exploring themes of faith, power, and the consequences of unchecked ambition. It’s an excellent way to test your skills and earn some truly epic loot.

The Crystal Tower Alliance Raid Series

While technically an alliance raid, the Crystal Tower series is unlocked through a lengthy side questline. This raid series is not only a blast to play with a group of friends, but it’s also a crucial part of the game’s overall lore, especially as it relates to the Shadowbringers expansion. Furthermore, it offers excellent rewards for leveling alternate jobs. If you’re looking for a fun and efficient way to level up and expand your understanding of the game’s story, the Crystal Tower is a must-do.

Side Quests to Enhance Your Roleplaying Experience

Final Fantasy XIV is more than just a game; it’s a virtual world where you can create your own story and connect with other players. Some side quests are particularly well-suited for enhancing your roleplaying experience, allowing you to delve deeper into your character’s personality and interact with the world in meaningful ways. These are the quests that make you feel like a true adventurer in Eorzea, not just a player pressing buttons.

Role Quests

Introduced in Shadowbringers and continued in Endwalker, Role Quests offer unique storylines based on your chosen role: Tank, Healer, Melee DPS, and Ranged DPS (both physical and magical). These quests explore the challenges and responsibilities associated with each role, providing valuable insights into the different playstyles and their impact on the world. Completing these quests will not only reward you with powerful gear but also deepen your understanding of your chosen role and its place within the larger narrative. It’s like getting extra credit for playing your class.

Crafting and Gathering Quests

While often overlooked, crafting and gathering quests offer a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of Eorzea. These quests will take you to remote locations, introduce you to interesting characters, and challenge you to master the various crafting and gathering disciplines. As you level up your crafting and gathering skills, you’ll not only unlock new recipes and items but also gain a deeper appreciation for the resources and industries that sustain the world. It’s a great way to take a break from combat and connect with the game on a different level.

Beast Tribe Quests

Each expansion introduces new Beast Tribe quests, which task you with forging alliances with various non-human tribes across Eorzea. These quests not only offer unique rewards, such as mounts, minions, and glamour items, but also provide valuable insights into the cultures, customs, and beliefs of these often misunderstood peoples. By completing these quests, you’ll help to bridge the gap between humans and beast tribes, fostering understanding and cooperation in a world often plagued by conflict. It’s a lesson in empathy and cultural appreciation disguised as a video game.

Tips for Tackling Side Quests Efficiently

Now that you know which side quests are worth doing, let’s talk about how to tackle them efficiently. With so much content to explore, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your time in Eorzea.

Use Online Resources

There are countless online resources available to help you navigate the world of Final Fantasy XIV. Websites like the FFXIV Wiki and various community-created guides can provide valuable information about quest locations, objectives, and rewards. Don’t be afraid to use these resources to streamline your questing and avoid getting stuck. It’s like having a veteran adventurer whispering tips in your ear.

Prioritize Quests Based on Your Goals

Before you start a side quest, take a moment to consider what you hope to achieve by completing it. Are you looking for powerful gear, a unique mount, or simply a good story? By prioritizing quests based on your goals, you can focus your efforts on the content that matters most to you. It’s like having a clear mission statement for your adventuring life.

Group Up with Friends

Many side quests can be completed more easily and enjoyably with a group of friends. Not only will you be able to tackle challenging content more effectively, but you’ll also have a chance to bond with your fellow adventurers and create lasting memories. Plus, suffering through fetch quests is always easier with company. It’s like having a support group for virtual adventuring.

FAQ

Q

A: The Hildibrand questline starts with the quest “The Rise and Fall of Gentlemen,” which becomes available after completing the main scenario quest “The Ultimate Weapon.” You can pick it up in Ul’dah – Steps of Nald (X:9.9, Y:8.7) from Wymond.

Q

A: Absolutely! Even if you’re not interested in the mounts, minions, or glamour items, Beast Tribe quests offer valuable insights into the cultures and beliefs of Eorzea’s non-human inhabitants. They provide a unique opportunity to expand your understanding of the world and connect with its diverse population.

Q

A: Keep an eye out for quests marked with a blue “+” symbol on the map and in the quest log. These quests are generally designed to provide additional content and rewards beyond the main story and are often a good indicator of quests that are appropriate for your current level. You can also check online resources for lists of quests organized by level and region.