God of War, a legendary series beloved by gamers worldwide, offers players intense battles, profound storytelling, and expansive worlds ripe for exploration. While the main quests undeniably deliver thrilling gameplay and epic moments, the side quests, or favours, often present equally compelling narratives, valuable rewards, and deeper insights into Norse mythology and the game's intricate characters.
Discover the must-play side quests in God of War, including rewarding missions like Fafnir’s Hoard and Valkyrie battles. These quests offer exceptional loot, powerful upgrades, and deep storylines that enrich your gaming experience.
If you're looking to fully immerse yourself in the incredible universe crafted by Santa Monica Studio, this blog will explore the best side quests in God of War and God of War Ragnarök you shouldn't overlook.
Why Side Quests Matter in God of War
Side quests in God of War aren't just extra tasks to boost gameplay hours, they significantly enrich the overall experience. Through side quests, players encounter fascinating lore, obtain powerful equipment, and deepen their understanding of the central characters and Norse mythology. These quests allow you to forge a stronger emotional connection with Kratos and Atreus, while enhancing your combat prowess with superior weapons and armour.
Moreover, the side quests provide a rewarding exploration experience, taking you through breathtaking landscapes and hidden corners of the Nine Realms. The engaging stories within these quests offer emotional depth, often highlighting Kratos's evolving relationships and internal struggles. Ignoring these additional missions could mean missing out on key elements that make God of War a masterpiece.
Best Side Quests in God of War (2018)
1. Fafnir's Hoard
Triggered by Sindri, the eccentric blacksmith, this side quest sends you into the depths of Fafnir’s Storeroom, an abandoned dwarven fortress filled with valuable artefacts. The quest revolves around retrieving a precious whetstone, but along the way, you'll unravel the tragic tale of a dwarf whose greed transformed him into a dragon.
Completing Fafnir’s Hoard rewards players with valuable crafting materials, rare gear, and considerable XP. It's also packed with storytelling that explores themes of greed and its consequences, adding depth to the game's narrative landscape.
2. Family Business
Another intriguing quest from the dwarven brothers, Brok and Sindri, Family Business sends you to Northri Stronghold. The brothers task you with recovering a whetstone, crucial to their crafting. However, this seemingly simple errand quickly evolves into a gripping narrative filled with conflict and family drama.
By finishing this quest, you'll gain rare upgrades and exceptional armour pieces that greatly enhance your combat effectiveness. Additionally, it reveals more about Brok and Sindri’s strained relationship, enhancing your connection to these pivotal side characters.
3. The Anatomy of Hope
This emotionally powerful side quest has Kratos and Atreus collecting bones scattered across the Lake of Nine, all belonging to Gullveig, a tragic character hoping for revival. The quest explores themes of hope and deception, concluding in a surprising twist.
Rewards include useful resources, but the quest's real value lies in its emotional impact and the subtle lessons it imparts to Atreus, shaping his moral compass and worldview.
4. Valkyries Side Quest
Arguably the most challenging yet rewarding side quest, hunting down and defeating all Valkyries across the realms pushes players to their combat limits. Defeating each Valkyrie grants unique loot, while defeating all culminates in a battle against Sigrun, the Valkyrie Queen, one of the toughest fights in gaming.
Completing this monumental task provides the player with some of the best armour and enhancements in the game, alongside immense satisfaction and pride.
Best Side Quests in God of War Ragnarök
1. In Service of Asgard
This questline sees Kratos and Atreus dismantling mining rigs scattered around Svartalfheim, initially at Mimir’s behest. Beyond simply clearing out enemies, the quest delves deep into ethical themes, exploring the harsh working conditions imposed by Odin upon the dwarves.
The quest rewards you with powerful armour, enhancements, and significant XP, while its narrative deepens your understanding of the broader struggles faced by the realms under Odin’s oppressive rule.
2. The Lost Lindwyrms
Initiated by Ratatoskr, the eccentric squirrel guardian of Yggdrasil, this whimsical yet profound quest has players hunting down six mischievous Lindwyrms across the realms. Beyond entertaining gameplay, the quest explores fascinating Norse lore about these creatures.
Rewards from this quest notably enhance your combat abilities, offering magical upgrades and resources. It also provides lighter, humorous moments, balancing the game's otherwise intense narrative.
3. Freya’s Missing Peace
One of the most emotionally resonant quests in Ragnarök, “Freya’s Missing Peace”, allows players to support Freya in confronting her past. Set in Vanaheim, this quest involves reconciling with Freya's lost family and exploring themes of forgiveness, loss, and redemption.
Completion provides valuable equipment and profound narrative insights into Freya’s character development, significantly enriching the overarching story and your understanding of her motivations.
4. The Weight of Chains
Set in Svartalfheim, this visually and emotionally impactful quest involves freeing a colossal creature known as Lyngbakr. The quest is not only rewarding in terms of loot but offers a powerful commentary on freedom, responsibility, and unintended consequences.
Players receive excellent gear upgrades and significant XP, making this quest unmissable both narratively and strategically.
Tips for Finding and Completing Side Quests
Navigating side quests in God of War can initially feel overwhelming. Here are practical tips to maximise your enjoyment:
- Take your time: Side quests often reveal themselves through exploration and dialogue. Invest time exploring thoroughly to uncover hidden quests.
- Prioritise upgrades: Regularly upgrade your armour and weapons using rewards from side quests to maintain combat efficiency.
- Use map markers: Track quests diligently using the map, ensuring no quest goes unnoticed.
- Engage with NPCs: Conversations often hint at hidden quests, making interactions valuable beyond immediate rewards.
Honourable Mentions & Hidden Gems
While the quests listed above are the most notable, several others deserve recognition:
- Deus Ex Malachite: Discovering ancient dwarven relics for powerful upgrades.
- Dead Freight: Encountering ghostly remnants and uncovering hidden tales.
- The Mysterious Orb: Offers intriguing gameplay mechanics and valuable rewards.
These quests, though smaller in scale, are richly rewarding, particularly for players keen on uncovering every secret.
Unlock the Full God of War Experience with These Unmissable Side Quests!
God of War’s side quests transcend mere gameplay additions; they weave intricate narratives, enrich character development, and enhance overall immersion. Missing these quests means overlooking some of the most memorable moments in the series. Whether you're battling Valkyries or exploring tragic stories, the emotional depth and rewarding gameplay offered by these quests profoundly amplify your God of War experience.
So, pick up your axe, prepare your blades, and venture into the Nine Realms fully prepared. Your adventure has only just begun.
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