Top 10 Open-World Games with Unforgettable Side Missions

Open-world games drop players into vast, living worlds where exploration feels limitless. Beyond the main story, side missions often steal the show, offering unique stories, challenges, and rewards that make every journey memorable.

These side quests can range from quirky adventures to emotional tales, pulling players deeper into the game’s universe. Here are ten open-world games that shine with their incredible side missions, each bringing something special to the table.

The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion (2006)

The side quests in ‘The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion’ are packed with creativity. From diving into a painted world to save a trapped artist to unraveling a murder mystery in a locked mansion, these missions feel wildly inventive.

Each quest delivers surprises, like helping a ghost find peace or tackling bizarre tasks for Daedric princes. The variety and depth make exploring Cyrodiil a joy, with every side mission adding to the game’s rich lore.

Assassin’s Creed Odyssey (2018)

‘Assassin’s Creed Odyssey’ weaves side missions that blend Greek history with personal drama. Quests like helping a poet win a lover’s heart or uncovering family secrets tie directly to the protagonist’s story, making them feel meaningful.

The missions also reward players with gear and skills, while exploring places like Atlantis adds epic scope. These tasks keep you hooked, balancing action, puzzles, and emotional moments across a stunning open world.

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt (2015)

‘The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt’ crafts side missions that rival its main story. Quests like tracking a serial killer in Novigrad or helping a cursed spirit in a tower feel like standalone tales, full of tough choices.

Every mission, from hunting monsters to playing cards in a tavern, immerses you in Geralt’s world. The writing and voice acting make even small tasks, like collecting herbs, feel alive and rewarding.

Grand Theft Auto V (2013)

The side missions in ‘Grand Theft Auto V’ match the game’s chaotic energy. You might chase a serial killer, skydive for thrills, or stir up trouble as Trevor, each task packed with the game’s signature humor and action.

From hunting for hidden collectibles to pulling off wild stunts, these quests let you dive into Los Santos’ criminal underbelly. They’re varied, unpredictable, and perfectly suited to the26th-century underworld.

Horizon Forbidden West (2022)

‘Horizon Forbidden West’ offers side missions that elevate its vibrant world. Quests like aiding tribes against machine threats or solving ancient ruins’ mysteries bring fresh challenges and deep storytelling.

Each mission feels unique, with Aloy’s journey revealing new lore and stunning visuals. The tasks, whether small errands or larger arcs, reward exploration with gear and narrative depth, making every detour worthwhile.

Elden Ring (2022)

‘Elden Ring’ redefines side missions with its unconventional approach. Instead of a quest log, you stumble upon characters in the Lands Between, like Ranni the Witch, whose quests lead to hidden areas and powerful rewards.

These missions, such as exploring Volcano Manor’s dark secrets, blend lore and challenge. They push you to uncover the game’s cryptic story, making every encounter feel like a discovery.

Red Dead Redemption 2 (2018)

The side missions in ‘Red Dead Redemption 2’ bring the Wild West to life. Helping a widowed photographer or tracking down legendary animals offers emotional depth and thrilling hunts across a sprawling frontier.

Each quest, from robbing stagecoaches to uncovering stranger’s tales, feels grounded in Arthur Morgan’s world. The attention to detail and storytelling make these missions unforgettable, pulling you into the era’s grit and heart.

Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain (2015)

‘Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain’ delivers side missions with unmatched freedom. Tasks like rescuing prisoners or sabotaging enemy bases let you choose stealthy infiltration or all-out chaos, keeping gameplay fresh.

Set in Afghanistan’s deserts and Africa’s jungles, these missions reward creativity with gear and base upgrades. The open-ended approach ensures every task feels like your own tactical masterpiece.

Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag (2013)

‘Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag’ makes side missions a pirate’s dream. Hunting whales, battling ghost ships, or exploring Isu crypts across the Caribbean delivers adventure at every turn.

Even smaller tasks, like collecting Animus fragments, use the open world to keep you engaged. The mix of naval combat and treasure hunts makes every side quest a thrilling escape.

Dragon’s Dogma 2 (2024)

‘Dragon’s Dogma 2’ shines with side missions that reward exploration. Helping villagers or battling massive beasts off the main path feels immersive, with time-sensitive quests adding urgency.

Your Pawns nudge you toward hidden secrets, and nearly every detour offers loot or lore. The unpredictable nature of these missions makes wandering the open world endlessly captivating.

Which open-world game’s side missions hooked you the most, or is there a hidden gem I missed? Drop your thoughts in the comments!