Best RPG side quests: 8 games that make the optional stuff feel essential

Not all RPG side quests are created equal. For every captivating detour that nets you a spiffy new weapon or reveals an intriguing detail about the story, there are a dozen tedious slogs requiring you to kill five slimes or gather some herbs on a dangerous mountain. But a fascinating little side story can help make an epic adventure feel all the more meaningful — and provide a welcome diversion from the daunting task of saving the world.