In a recent presentation at the Game Developer’s Conference in San Francisco, Ryosuke Horii, the director of the Like a Dragon series, shared insights about the integral role of side quests in enriching the overall narrative of role-playing games (RPGs).

He asserted that the balance between the main story and its supporting side content is essential for an engaging gaming experience.

As Horii stated, “The story being good does not automatically guarantee that the game as a whole will be enjoyable. The story is important, and for narrative games, it is the main dish of a course meal. But a good main dish alone will not earn you a Michelin star. It is the combination of the restaurant’s service, atmosphere, appetizers, etc. that allows the quality of the main dish to truly stand out.”

This perspective is particularly evident in the Like a Dragon series, which is known for its extensive and quirky side quests that often resonate more with players than the main storyline. As highlighted by Phil Savage, editor-in-chief at PC Gamer, these side stories add a level of depth and nuance, making each entry memorable.

In conclusion, Horii’s remarks suggest that the way games structure their narratives can benefit significantly from a thoughtful incorporation of side content, which complements the main storyline and enhances player engagement.