Hero Achievement and Missable Quests Guide

A guide listing every Side Quest and when they should be completed to make sure you unlock the Hero Achievement. The guide has very minimal Main Quest spoilers and is very light on Side Quest spoilers.

Introduction

Hello Dragon’s Dogma lovers! Follow this guide to ensure you unlock the Hero Achievement (complete every non-Notice Board Quest). Please note a few things below.

Don't Panic, There's Always Next Playthrough

First, this game features endless NG+ that allows you to do Main and Side Quests over multiple playthroughs to unlock the Hero Achievement. So don’t panic if you mess something up, and feel free to wait until your second playthrough to use this guide. In many ways the second playthrough is much easier since you can set up more fast travel locations.

Cut-Off/Cancellation Points

Be aware that the game has certain cut-off points all related to beginning or completing Main Quests. These cut-off points cause specific Side Quests to become unavailable if you haven't started them or CANCELLED if you have started but not completed them. When you are about to reach one of these points in this guide, a CRITICAL WARNING message will be displayed. Read carefully.

Be Sure to Do All Main Quests, Too!

Several Main Quests are actually missable because Ser Maximilian will offer you a choice of four Wyrmhunt quests, and you only have to do two of them. There will be a note in the guide below reminding you to do all four even though you don't have to!

Almost No Spoilers!

I have purposefully left out most Quest details as to not spoil things, and no serious Main Quest spoilers are listed. Additionally, I've left out most Side Quest details so you can enjoy figuring them out yourself. However, every Side Quest name is linked to its Wiki page so you can read all the Side Quest details if you wish.

When does the Hero Achievement actually unlock?

The actual achievement itself does not unlock until you complete every required Quest, which on your first playthrough will be right before the final ending cutscene/credits. If you are on a subsequent playthrough, the Achievement will pop-up whenever you complete the last Quest you've never completed.

How to Best Use the Guide

I recommend you read ahead to the next MAIN QUEST headings as you play. Always be aware of when the next MAIN QUEST begins to ensure you do not start that quest until you've read and completed the prior Side Quests. Refer back to this guide as you play, always making sure you don't get too far in the MAIN STORY Quests.

Credits and Thanks

I must give huge credit to Powerman1469’s Missable Quest List[www.xboxachievements.com] from 2012, which I based much of my work upon. Also huge credit to all the Wiki contributors over the years. I modeled my guide loosely based on the Wiki Sidequests[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] page. Thank you also to various commenters who have pointed out improvements and corrections.

Stage 1 Side Quests Part 1

MAIN QUEST: The first three Main Quests to be completed now, which last until you get control of your character in the Elder’s house.

Floral Delivery[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] - This is in Cassardis by the Inn. Benita needs some flowers found right outside the village by day and night.

Lost Faith[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] - Go to the Church in Cassardis and talk to Father Clemente and search for the book.

Grim Tidings[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] - Go to the Church in Cassardis and talk to Elvar. He just wants you to talk to Merin.

Save Reynard (Unofficial Side Quest)[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] - When you first leave Cassardis on your way to The Encampment you will see Reynard getting beat up by goblins. You MUST save him (kill the three goblins, optionally speak to him) before going on to The Encampment or he will be gone forever.

• Note: if you missed Search Party[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] in your prior playthroughs, you need to save him now to later unlock that Side Quest.

MAIN QUEST: Call of the Arisen to be completed now. Go to the Rift Stone in The Encampment to begin.

Strength in Numbers[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] - This is begun automatically immediately after completing the Main Quest Call of the Arisen where you create your main pawn. There are several more stages to the Side Quest you must manually begin by speaking with Ser Berne next to the Notice Board.

Guard Duty[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] - WARNING: VERY EASILY MISSED. A Madeleine Quest. Go back to Cassardis Inn to meet her after doing the above Main Quest. She will want an escort to The Encampment. Make sure you SPEAK to her at The Encampment to actually finish the Quest (she will ask for money; give it if you wish).

Deep Trouble[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] - This begins in Cassardis after you first reach The Encampment. Talk to the guard by the village gate standing by the well.

CRITICAL WARNING:

Ensure you’ve completed Grim Tidings[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] AND Strength in Numbers[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] because they BOTH be CANCELLED if you do the Main Quest A Rude Awakening.

• Note: the precise time they will be CANCELLED is after talking to Mercedes and picking the "Rest" option. So do NOT select the "Rest" option until you are ready.
  
• Note: Also ensure you’ve done Guard Duty[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] (escort Madeleine) since it is easily missed if not done by now.

MAIN QUEST: A Rude Awakening to be completed now. Accept Mercede’s offer to rest to begin.

An Uninvited Guest[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] - Talk to the Inn keeper Pablos in Cassardis to start.

• Note: if you missed No Honor Among Thieves[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] in your prior playthroughs, you need to do this Side Quest again to later unlock that Side Quest.

Lost and Found[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] - WARNING: VERY EASILY MISSED. After the Main Quest A Rude Awakening go back to Cassardis. Find Chief Adaro walking around in Cassardis. He will ask you to go find Quina in Witchwood. This Side Quest is a bit out of the way, so refer to the Wiki if you don’t know where to go.

• Note: if you missed Talent in Bloom[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] and/or A Parting Gift[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] in your prior playthroughs, you need to do this Side Quest again to later unlock those two Side Quests.

CRITICAL WARNING:

Ensure you’ve completed these three basic Cassardis Side Quests Floral Delivery[dragonsdogma.wikia.com], Lost Faith[dragonsdogma.wikia.com], and Guard Duty[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] because they will ALL be CANCELLED when you complete the Main Quest Off With Its Head.

• Note: the precise time they will be CANCELLED is after reaching Gran Soren's entrance and watching the cutscene and dialogue.

MAIN QUEST: Off With Its Head to be completed now. Speak with Mercedes at The Mountain Waycastle to begin.

CRITICAL WARNING:

Once you get to Gran Soren it is recommended that you immediately leave and finish Lost and Found[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] before you start all the Gran Soren Side Quests since this Side Quest is so easily forgotten and is critical to later Side Quests.

Stage 1 Side Quests Part 2

MAIN QUEST: A Matter of Myrmidons to be completed now. It starts automatically upon entering Gran Soren.

A Troublesome Tome[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] - Talk to Steffen who is usually next to the Inn in Gran Soren, by Fountain Square. This Side Quest is a bit tricky, so refer to the Wiki if you need help.

CRITICAL WARNING:

Ensure you’ve completed Lost and Found[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] because it will be CANCELLED when you complete the Main Quest Lure of the Abyss.

• Note: the precise time it will be CANCELLED is upon speaking to Barnaby after you go in to the Everfall, find what you came for, and then exit the Everfall. Therefore, you can freely go in to the Everfall to explore and even complete your task, but do NOT speak to Barnaby upon completion until you are ready.

MAIN QUEST: Lure of the Abyss to be completed now. It starts by talking to Barnaby in the Pawn Guild.

Reaper's Scorn[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] - This begins at one of the houses outside the Pawn Guild in Gran Soren. Talk to the father named Austine.

Chasing Shadows[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] - You can find Mason walking around in front of the Inn in Gran Soren. Speak with him to begin.

• Note: if you missed Bad Business[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] in your prior playthroughs, you need to do this Side Quest again to later unlock that Side Quest.

Land of Opportunity[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] - In Gran Soren talk to Fournival who walks around on a set schedule. This Side Quest is a bit tricky, so refer to the Wiki if you need help.

Dying of Curiosity[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] - Go back to Cassardis and talk to Merin the fisherman usually walking around the beach area. This Side Quest is a bit tricky, so refer to the Wiki if you need help.

• Note: if you missed Farewell, Valmiro[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] in your prior playthroughs, you need to do this Side Quest again to later unlock that Side Quest.

Thick as Thieves[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] - This is one of two Bandit Camp Side Quests where you need to go to said camp and peacefully complete the tasks they give you. This Side Quest is very tricky, so I recommend you read the Wiki because it’s unlikely you will be successful on your first attempt.

• Note: this Side Quest can be done after meeting the Duke, later in the game if you wish.

No Honor Among Thieves[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] - This is one of two Bandit Camp Side Quests where you need to go to said camp and peacefully complete the tasks they give you. This Side Quest is very tricky, so I recommend you read the Wiki because it’s unlikely you will be successful on your first attempt.

• Note: this Side Quest can be done after meeting the Duke, later in the game if you wish.
  
• Note: if you missed this Side Quest in your prior playthroughs, make sure you do An Uninvited Guest[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] earlier to unlock this Side Quest.

Of Merchants and Monsters[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] - This starts outside the Ancient Quarry North Entrance, west of Gran Soren. You will have to defeat all three large enemies to finish the Side Quest, so be prepared.

Search Party[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] - LONG-TERM QUEST. To start this Side Quest you need to buy 10 items from Reynard. He will then ask for certain items that are hidden all over the world. You probably will wish to refer to the Wiki to find the locations of the items and locations Reynard can visit.

• Note: you have much time to finish all the tasks, but make sure you finish this before doing the Main Quest The Final Battle because it will be CANCELLED then.
  
• Note: when you finish this Side Quest Reynard leaves the game forever until NG+, so buy what you want from him before you finish this Side Quest.
  
• Note: if you missed this Side Quest in your prior playthroughs, make sure you do Save Reynard[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] earlier to unlock this Side Quest.

Deeper Trouble[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] - Go back to Cassardis after going to Gran Soren. When you enter the village a man named Rorric will offer the Side Quest.

Stage 2 Side Quests

Escort Duty[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] - WARNING: ONCE-PER-PLAYTHOUGH GOLD IDOL EASILY MISSED HERE. Talk to Fournival again to accept a Side Quest to look after his daughter, Symone. If the Side Quest isn’t offered then your affinity is too low, meaning he doesn’t like you enough. If you do this Side Quest correctly, you will be given a once-per-playthrough Gold Idol item that is very helpful. Read the next paragraph to find out how to correctly maneuver through the Side Quest.

• First, bring a Flask of Water before accepting the Side Quest. Make sure you walk/jog right next to her during the city tour. Stay near her side. NEVER bump or hit her. She will stop near the Inn and want to play Hide-and-Seek. Once she has run away she can be found either in the back of the Union Inn next to the fireplace or at the back of Arsmith's Alehouse. The quicker she is found, the better. Give her the Flask of Water right when she wants it. And when she wants to race you, let the wookie her win (NEVER bump or hit her)! If you don’t get the Gold Idol for some reason, load a prior save to try again.

MAIN QUEST: There are four Wyrm Hunt Main Quests now given by Ser Maximilian at the Gran Soren palace entrance.

• These four Main Quests (The Cypher, A Fortress Besieged, Seeking Salvation, and The Watergod’s Altar) can now be completed in any order you desire.

CRITICAL WARNING:

Ser Maximilian only requires you do two of the four Wyrm Hunt Main Quests in order to "Hear the Duke's directive", but it is ESSENTIAL that you do all four before proceeding to meet the Duke (picking the dialogue option)! This is because the Hero Achievement requires all non-Notice Board Quests (Main and Side) be completed!

Justice Done[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] - This is a mandatory Side Quest you will complete as you play through the Main Quest Seeking Salvation, so don’t worry about it.

• Note: your choice in this Side Quest has no bearing on future Quests, despite what an NPC says if he disagrees with your choice. So do whatever your missing-heart tells you!

CRITICAL WARNING:

Ensure you’ve completed Reaper's Scorn[dragonsdogma.wikia.com], A Troublesome Tome[dragonsdogma.wikia.com], Dying of Curiosity[dragonsdogma.wikia.com], and Chasing Shadows[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] because all FOUR of these will be CANCELLED if you start the Main Quest Come to Court.

MAIN QUEST: Come to Court to be completed now. This Main Quest starts by picking “Hear the Duke's directive” from Ser Maximilian.

• It is safest to make sure all Side Quests (except Search Party, and maybe the two bandit camps Side Quests) are completed before beginning this Main Quest.

CRITICAL WARNING:

During the Come to Court Main Quest, you will leave the Castle after meeting the Duke and an automatic cutscene will play that zooms in to a young lady in the Castle gardens. You MUST, MUST go talk to her BEFORE leaving the Castle grounds or her entire line of Side Quests will be permanently missed until the next playthrough!

Stage 3 Side Quests

MAIN QUEST: Now begins a whole new portion of the game involving two Main Quests given by Aldous in the Castle and a whole slew of Side Quests.

• It is best to accept only the Griffin’s Bane Main Quest by picking “Aid the Corps on a hunting expedition.”
  
• Then complete all the Side Quests below before you continue to the next Main Quest Trials and Tribulations, which has a four day limit.

Rise of the Fallen[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] - Speak to Ser Maximilian at the Gran Soren Castle entrance to begin.

The Conspirators[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] - After meeting with the Duke and leaving the Castle grounds for the first time, you can immediately go back to the Castle and speak with Chamberlain Fedel by the royal court to begin. This Side Quest can involve making forgeries. Read the Wiki if you want to explore all the options.

Arousing Suspicion[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] - After meeting with the Duke and leaving the Castle grounds for the first time, speak with Mirabelle in the Castle entrance area to begin. You need to intervene during the life or death situation during this Side Quest or you'll be unable to complete another Side Quest.

• Note: this Side Quest will ONLY be offered if you spoke to Aelinore in the Duchess's Gardens on the first visit to the Duke's Demesne during the Main Quest Come to Court.
  
• Note: this Side Quest must be done in order for the later Duchess in Distress[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] Side Quest to be available.

Witch Hunt[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] - Right after meeting with the Duke, there will be several townsfolk talking in front of the Gran Soren Inn about Selene. Stand near them and listen to begin.

• Note: this Side Quest must be done in order for The Dragon's Tongue[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] and Mettle against Metal[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] Side Quests to be available.
  
• Note: it is very convenient to do the two following Witchwood Side Quests immediately after this Side Quest. You can simply leave the Witchwood via the back exit and immediately reenter.
  
• Note: when you leave the Witchwood via the back exit, you may wish to set up a Portcrystal on the cliff, allowing for very quick access to Selene (she can brew ales).

The Dragon's Tongue[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] - Return to the Witchwood and go back to the Guardian's Grave where you talked to Selene when you finished the Witch Hunt Side Quest.

Mettle against Metal[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] - Return to the Witchwood and find a golem at the end of the back section of Witchwood. This Side Quest is a bit tricky, so refer to the Wiki if you need help.

• Note: it is HIGHLY recommended to have your main character be a Bow class for this Side Quest since the ability to hit distant targets is quite critical.

Idol Worship[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] - This is a Side Quest Caxton gives you in Gran Soren. He’s at his shop next to Fountain Square. This Side Quest requires you make a choice as to which merchant you prefer, Madeleine or Caxton. You should give one a Gold Idol (full range of items unlocked) and one a Silver Idol (partial range of items unlocked). Read the Wiki for more information.

Supplier's Demand[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] - This is a Side Quest Madeleine gives you in Gran Soren. She’s at her shop, which is just past The Black Cat. This Side Quest requires you make a choice as to which merchant you prefer, Madeleine or Caxton. You should give one a Gold Idol (full range of items unlocked) and one a Silver Idol (partial range of items unlocked). Read the Wiki for more information.

Nameless Terror[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] - WARNING: EASILY MISSED AND CONFUSING SIDE QUEST. Speak with Ser Rickart, a guard just outside the South gate of Gran Soren to begin. It involves tracking down five different assassin groups across the world. Read the Wiki to find out how to complete the Side Quest since it is hard to know what to do.

Talent in Bloom[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] - Travel to The Abbey in the forest a bit NW from Ancient Quarry North Entrance. Your friend from Cassardis, Quina needs you to do something. If you don’t finish this Side Quest quickly it can be FAILED, so read the Wiki if you want to be safe.

• Note: if you missed this Side Quest in your prior playthroughs, make sure you do Lost and Found[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] earlier to unlock this Side Quest.

A Parting Gift[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] - Go back to The Abbey and speak with Clarus, a Nun inside the church to begin. This Side Quest has different ways you can complete it. Read the Wiki page if you want to ensure the best outcome.

• Note: if you missed this Side Quest in your prior playthroughs, make sure you do both Lost and Found[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] and Talent in Bloom[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] earlier to unlock this Side Quest.

An Innocent Man[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] - A little boy named Tomlin is running around Cassardis. Speak with him.

Farewell, Valmiro[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] - Talk to Valmiro in Cassardis by a lookout at the beach.

• Note: if you missed this Side Quest in your prior playthroughs, make sure you do Dying of Curiosity[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] earlier to unlock this Side Quest.

Supply and Demands[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] - Speak to Ser Daerio in Windbluff Tower to begin. This Side Quest has different ways you can complete it. Read the Wiki page if you want to ensure the best outcome.

CRITICAL WARNING:

Ensure you’ve completed The Conspirators[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] and Supply and Demands[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] because they will BOTH be CANCELLED after you finish both Main Quests Griffin's Bane and Trial and Tribulations.

• Note: the precise time they will be CANCELLED is after talking to Aldous to automatically turn in the last of these two Main Quests. So you can finish the tasks of both any time, but simply do NOT speak to Aldous to turn in the last of the two until you are ready.

MAIN QUEST: Griffin's Bane to be completed now.

CRITICAL WARNING:

Depending on the outcome of the next Main Quest Trial and Tribulations, Land of Opportunity[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] will be CANCELLED and Escort Duty[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] will become unavailable. Make sure you've already done both or make very sure you ensure the right outcome of the Main Quest.

MAIN QUEST: Trial and Tribulations to be completed now.

WARNING:

Despite being able to the rest of the above Side Quests later, it is safest to make sure you do all the above Side Quests before doing more Main Quests from Aldous.

Stage 4-6 Side Quests

MAIN QUEST: The Wyrmking’s Ring and Pride Before a Fall to be completed now.

Bad Business[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] - Go to Madeleine’s shop in Gran Soren and speak with Katlyn. Make sure you pick up the dagger that is sitting on the table, called "Divine Razors". Now go to the Alehouse and talk to Nettie and Arsmith. There are some semi-important choices to make in this Side Quest, so refer to the Wiki if you want to know the options.

• Note: if you missed this Side Quest in your prior playthroughs, make sure you do Chasing Shadows[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] earlier to unlock this Side Quest.

MAIN QUEST: Honor and Treachery to be completed now.

CRITICAL WARNING:

Ensure you’ve completed Rise of the Fallen[dragonsdogma.wikia.com], Arousing Suspicion[dragonsdogma.wikia.com], Talent in Bloom[dragonsdogma.wikia.com], and A Parting Gift[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] because ALL FOUR will be CANCELLED after you finish the Main Quest Reward and Responsibility.

• Note: the precise time they will be CANCELLED is upon entering the Treasury with the Duke and then trying to leave the room. Therefore, do NOT enter the Treasury with the Duke until you are ready.

MAIN QUEST: Reward and Responsibility to be completed now.

Duchess in Distress[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] - Immediately following the completion of Reward and Responsibility, this Side Quest is given by Mirabelle just outside the castle steps as you go to exit the castle area.

• Note: if you missed this Side Quest in your prior playthroughs, make sure you do Arousing Suspicion[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] earlier to unlock this Side Quest.

HOPEFUL MESSAGE:

Now you should have completed every Side Quest in the game! Remember you still need to complete the remaining Main Quests for the Hero Achievement (if you haven't done them in a prior playthrough).

CRITICAL WARNING:

Completing the next Main Quest Deny Salvation is the cut-off point for the Side Quests Land of Opportunity[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] and Bad Business[dragonsdogma.wikia.com].

• Note: the exact point of no return for Deny Salvation is when you go through the doorway in the small room where you fight the Skeleton Lord on the Third Floor. Ser Gerrick will warn you the leader is just ahead (if Ser Gerrick survives the Skeleton Lord). Feel free to go up to this point, but do NOT go through the final door until you are ready.

CRITICAL WARNING:

Completing the next Main Quest Deny Salvation is the POSSIBLE cut-off point for the Side Quests Search Party[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] and Duchess in Distress[dragonsdogma.wikia.com].

• Note: Search Party and Duchess in Distress will still be available after completing Deny Salvation if Reynard or Aelinore. respectively, is NOT your Beloved. However, it is very tricky to know if either is or isn't your Beloved. Therefore it is always safest to do both of these Side Quests before completing Deny Salvation.

MAIN QUEST: Deny Salvation to be completed now. Begin it by going to the Greatwall Encampment in the far Northwest.

CRITICAL WARNING:

The next Main Quest The Final Battle is the cut-off point for a slew of Side Quests. Just make sure you've done all the Side Quests by this point!

• Note: there are only three Side Quests that can be done after The Final Battle, those being Idol Worship[dragonsdogma.wikia.com], Supplier's Demand[dragonsdogma.wikia.com], and Mettle Against Metal[dragonsdogma.wikia.com].

MAIN QUEST: All remaining Main Quests to be completed now, free of worry about Side Quests!

• Reminder: the Hero Achievement does not unlock until you complete every required Quest, which on your first playthrough will be right before the final ending cutscene/credits. So if this is your first playthrough keep reading to the next section for guidance on unlocking NG+.

CRITICAL WARNING:

It is technically possible to skip one of the final Main Quests. Just make sure you visit the Duke when the game tells you to visit him!

How to Start New Game Plus

Once you reach the post-game content, you have the freedom to explore the world again with new and more dangerous enemies. Also feel free to play around in the newly unlocked dungeon as long as you wish.

The only thing you need to know is there is a point of no return for your current playthrough: when you give the 20 Wakestones to a certain NPC. Just be aware that this will begin the process of truly beating the game and starting New Game Plus.

• Reminder: the Hero Achievement does not unlock until you complete every required Quest, which on your first playthrough will be right before the final ending cutscene/credits.

Thanks for reading this guide. I sincerely hope it helps you get the most enjoyment out of one of the best games ever made! Stay willful, Arisen!

When to begin Bitterblack Isle

Dragon's Dogma will make you aware of Bitterblack Isle (the very difficult mega-dungeon originally added in the 2013 Dark Arisen re-release of the game) early on in the game (after leaving The Encampment). The game almost encourages you to go there as a new player with many tutorial pop-ups while in Cassardis. This is VERY unfortunate because this dungeon is clearly designed to be played AFTER you finish the game at least once because of the loot progression.

Therefore, I do not recommend you even start this dungeon on your first playthrough. Some masochist players like to go there early, and some more dubious players go there to exploit it by rushing past enemies to swipe loot that is too powerful and breaks the main game loot progression.

If you want to experience the game the most ideal way, finish the game and reach around level 60 (dangerous), 80 (decent), or 100 (pretty safe) on NG+ before trying Bitterblack.

Helpful Hint: you should never go in to Bitterblack without a good number of Wakestones on your person. This is yet another reason to wait until you reach the place in the main game where you can quickly acquire dozens of Wakestones without much trouble.

Or do whatever you want since the game lets you go there almost any time. Just know that you need to have a VERY solid understanding of how to best use your Skills, Items, and group synergies if you hope to do well.

NG+ Recommended Side Quests

It is very tedious to try to do all Side Quests every playthrough, so after you unlock the Hero Achievement it is recommended to skip all unimportant Side Quests and only do those that offer important items, give access to locations, or provide interesting NPC interactions. Below is a list of what I deem as quality Side Quests.

Stage 1 Part 1

Save Reynard - Gives access to Reynard, an important merchant.

• Begin by leaving Cassardis the first time. Make SURE you save him and speak to him the FIRST time you leave Cassardis.

Guard Duty - Gives access to Madeleine, an important merchant.

• Begin by going back to the Cassardis Inn once you get your main pawn but before you accept Mercedes offer to rest at the Encampment.

Lost and Found - Gives access to Quina’s later Side Quests and personal story.

• Begin by going back to Cassardis and speaking the the Chief after you cut off the Hydra head at the Encampment.

Stage 1 Part 2

Chasing Shadows - Required to finish Madeleine’s Side Quest and story.

• Begin by finding Mason walking around in front of the Inn in Gran Soren after you go in to the Everfall and escape.

Stage 2

None.

Stage 3

Escort Duty - Gives access to Gold Idol, one of the MOST important items in the game.

• Begin by talking to Fournival after doing several Main Quests in Gran Soren. He has to like you enough, so perhaps do his prior Side Quest or give him gifts.

Arousing Suspicion - Prerequisite Side Quest to give access to the Duke’s Northern Manse (good items there), and gives access to Aelinoire’s content and romance.

• After meeting the Duke for the first time, speak with Mirabelle in the Castle entrance area to begin. You MUST speak with her before leaving the area.

Witch Hunt - Gives access to the second area in Witchwood, which contains very good items and two Side Quests. Also helps if you want to romance Selene or brew lots of ales.

• Right after meeting with the Duke, there will be several townsfolk talking in front of the Gran Soren Inn about Selene. Stand near them and listen to begin.

Idol Worship - Can give Caxton a Gold Idol to get access to her best selection of items.

• After meeting with the Duke, begin by speaking to Caxton.

Supplier’s Demand - Can give Madeleine a Gold Idol to get access to her best selection of items.

• After meeting with the Duke, begin by speaking to Madeleine.

Talent in Bloom & A Parting Gift - Not necessary but both have nice dialogue for Quina and they are a good reason to go to the Abbey area.

• Begin by going to the Abbey and speaking to Quina.

Supply and Demands - You can be given 5 quite rare Ambrosial Meats. Finishing the Side Quest helps raise Ser Daerio's affinity, which helps gain access to the Windbluff Tower stores, which contain two interesting armor pieces (although they can be purchased later from several merchants).

• Begin by gonig to Windbluff Tower and speaking to Ser Daerio.

Stage 4-6

Bad Business - Gives Divine Razors (found nowhere else) that you can keep if you like. Finishes Madeleine’s story to ensure she’ll be in the Post-Game as a merchant.

• After the first two Main Quests The Wyrmking’s Ring and Pride Before a Fall, begin by going to Madeleine’s shop in Gran Soren and speaking with Katlyn.

Duchess in Distress - This is the ONLY way to ever explore the Duke’s Northern Manse (good items there), and it finishes Aelinore’s story.

• Immediately following the completion of Reward and Responsibility, this Side Quest is given by Mirabelle just outside the castle steps as you go to exit the castle area.

Appendix: Portcrystal Locations

Portcrystals[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] are items you can place in the Gransys open-world that allow you to travel to them using a regular Ferrystone or the Eternal Ferrystone (find it in Storage at the Gran Soren Inn). Up to 10 total Portcrystals can be placed in the world, but you can only find 5 in your first playthrough.

In NG+ you can buy Portcrystals from The Black Cat for 200,000G, or you can find all five of the Portcrystals again. Below are the locations of all five if you want to make sure you don't miss any:

• At the very bottom of the Everfall, most easily gotten during the Main Quest The Lure of the Abyss. However, it can be claimed any time before facing the Dragon in the Main Quest The Final Battle.
  
• In the cave at Hillfigure Knoll. Can be claimed any time during your playthrough.
  
• Inside one of the basement prison cells at the Shadow Fort. Can be claimed any time during your playthrough.
  
• At the very top of Bluemoon Tower, which you'll probably first visit during the Main Quest The Griffon's Bane. Can be claimed any time during your playthrough.
  
• In the cave passage underneath the Witch's House in Witchwood, during or after the Witch Hunt Side Quest. If you miss the Witch Hunt Side Quest, it is missed until your next playthrough.

Appendix: Notice Board Locations

Just for the sake of ease-of-access, below are the locations and descriptions of every Notice Board in the game. Remember, none of these Quests have anything to do with getting the Hero Achievement.

• Cassardis Inn - This offers both "Kill X enemies." and "Escort X NPC." Quests.
  
• The Encampment - This offers more specialized "Kill X enemies." Quests usually pertaining to more difficult beasts.
  
• Gran Soren Inn - This offers "Escort X NPC." Quests exclusively.
  
• Gran Soren Pawn Guild First Floor - This offers more specialized "Kill X enemies." Quests usually pertaining to more difficult beasts.
  
• Gran Soren Pawn Guild Basement - This offers the 100 "Badge of Vows" scavenger hunt Quests exclusively.
  
• Gran Soren Alehouse - This offers various "Acquire X item(s)." Quests exclusively. There are countless Quests that require fairly exotic and rare items.
  
• Bitterblack Isle: Shore - Various Bitterblack Quests.
  
• Bitterblack Isle: The Warrior's Respite - Various Bitterblack and mainland Quests.
  
• Bitterblack Isle: The Arisen's Refuge - Various Bitterblack and mainland Quests.

Also note that in any New Game Plus playthrough, new "Kill X enemies." Notice Board Quests are added to select Notice Boards. These quests offer very large gold rewards such as 500,000G. So be on the lookout for those if you're interested. Known locations:

• Cassardis Inn - Eradication Quests ("Kill X enemies.").
  
• The Encampment - Suppresion Quests ("Kill X enemies.").
  
• Gran Soren Pawn Guild First Floor - Fears of a Pawn Quests ("Kill X enemies.").

Appendix: Side Quest Chains

There are a number of Side Quests that only are available if you complete prior Side Quests or even Main Quests. These are all covered in the main sections of the guide, but they are also listed here just for quick reference.

Save Reynard[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] -> Search Party[dragonsdogma.wikia.com]

An Uninvited Guest[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] -> No Honor Among Thieves[dragonsdogma.wikia.com]

Lost and Found[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] -> Talent in Bloom[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] -> A Parting Gift[dragonsdogma.wikia.com]

Chasing Shadows[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] -> Bad Business[dragonsdogma.wikia.com]

Dying of Curiosity[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] -> Farewell, Valmiro[dragonsdogma.wikia.com]

Main Quest Seeking Salvation -> Rise of the Fallen[dragonsdogma.wikia.com]

Arousing Suspicion[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] -> Duchess in Distress[dragonsdogma.wikia.com]

Witch Hunt[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] -> The Dragon's Tongue[dragonsdogma.wikia.com]

Witch Hunt[dragonsdogma.wikia.com] -> Mettle against Metal[dragonsdogma.wikia.com]

Appendix: Cancellation Points

Below I've have listed every single cut-off point in the game where Side Quests become unavailable or get CANCELLED if you've started but not completed them. Use this for quick reference as you play through the game to avoid surprises.

Arriving at the Encampment:

• Save Reynard[dragonsdogma.wikia.com]
  
  • An unofficial Side Quest, technically part of the Main Quest Upon a Pawn.

Beginning A Rude Awakening:

• Grim Tidings[dragonsdogma.wikia.com]
  
• Strength in Numbers[dragonsdogma.wikia.com]

Completing Off With its Head:

• Floral Delivery[dragonsdogma.wikia.com]
  
• Lost Faith[dragonsdogma.wikia.com]
  
• Guard Duty[dragonsdogma.wikia.com]

Completing Lure of the Abyss:

• Lost and Found[dragonsdogma.wikia.com]

Beginning Come to Court:

• Reaper's Scorn[dragonsdogma.wikia.com]
  
• Chasing Shadows[dragonsdogma.wikia.com]
  
• A Troublesome Tome[dragonsdogma.wikia.com]
  
• Dying of Curiosity[dragonsdogma.wikia.com]

Completing both Griffin's Bane and Trials and Tribulations:

• The Conspirators[dragonsdogma.wikia.com]
  
• Supply and Demands[dragonsdogma.wikia.com]

Completing Reward and Responsibility:

• Rise of the Fallen[dragonsdogma.wikia.com]
  
• Arousing Suspicion[dragonsdogma.wikia.com]
  
• Talent in Bloom[dragonsdogma.wikia.com]
  
• A Parting Gift[dragonsdogma.wikia.com]

Completing Deny Salvation:

• Search Party[dragonsdogma.wikia.com]
  
  • If Reynard is your Beloved, the cut-off for Search Party is completing Deny Salvation. If Reyanrd is NOT your Beloved, the cut-off for Search Party is completing The Final Battle.
• Land of Opportunity[dragonsdogma.wikia.com]
  
• Bad Business[dragonsdogma.wikia.com]
  
• Duchess In Distress[dragonsdogma.wikia.com]
  
  • If Aelinore is your Beloved, the cut-off for Duchess in Distress is completing Deny Salvation. If Aelinore is NOT your Beloved, the cut-off for Duchess in Distress is completing The Final Battle.

Completing The Final Battle:

• Deep Trouble[dragonsdogma.wikia.com]
  
• An Uninvited Guest[dragonsdogma.wikia.com]
  
• Thick as Thieves[dragonsdogma.wikia.com]
  
• No Honor Among Thieves[dragonsdogma.wikia.com]
  
• Of Merchants and Monsters[dragonsdogma.wikia.com]
  
• Search Party[dragonsdogma.wikia.com]
  
  • If Reynard is your Beloved, the cut-off for Search Party is completing Deny Salvation. If Reyanrd is NOT your Beloved, the cut-off for Search Party is completing The Final Battle.
• Deeper Trouble[dragonsdogma.wikia.com]
  
• Escort Duty[dragonsdogma.wikia.com]
  
• An Innocent Man[dragonsdogma.wikia.com]
  
• Witch Hunt[dragonsdogma.wikia.com]
  
• The Dragon's Tongue[dragonsdogma.wikia.com]
  
• Nameless Terror[dragonsdogma.wikia.com]
  
• An Innocent Man[dragonsdogma.wikia.com]
  
• Farewell, Valmiro[dragonsdogma.wikia.com]
  
• Duchess In Distress[dragonsdogma.wikia.com]
  
  • If Aelinore is your Beloved, the cut-off for Duchess in Distress is completing Deny Salvation. If Aelinore is NOT your Beloved, the cut-off for Duchess in Distress is completing The Final Battle.

Completing Fathom Deep:

• Idol Worship[dragonsdogma.wikia.com]
  
• Supplier's Demand[dragonsdogma.wikia.com]
  
• Mettle Against Metal[dragonsdogma.wikia.com]
  
  • Bizarrely, it never shows as CANCELLED, but this is the cut-off point for doing it.

No Cut-Off:

• Justice Done[dragonsdogma.wikia.com]
  
  • It starts and finishes as part of the Main Quest Deny Salvation.

[SpicyAppleJuice]

Awesome guide, last achievement I needed, thank you.

[Aneto]

There is usefull quest map in other (russian language) guide:
https://steamuserimages-a.akamaihd.net/ugc/355024907209969359/10720B29A8B42281EAF421AF8D3BA13222523D30/
The quests' names ain't translated so it can be used by anyone.
The legend of the map is in russian, but it's easy to understand visually (or you can use https://translate.yandex.ru/ocr to translate it).

[Sam The La Pofum]

Thanks man

[Unit 45]

"If Reynard is the Arisen's Beloved, Search Party will be cancelled upon completion of Deny Salvation." I think this should be added

[Umbrella]

this was an awesome guide, though i woulld do one small adjustment... maybe mention having to talk to symone after the 'Escort Duty' quest is done for the gold idol, because there is dense people like me (or just me, tbh i wouldnt be suprised if i was the only one dense enough) who literally ran that shiz like 28 times following the orders to the letter and wondering why the idol didnt pop up in the inventory. otherwise though... that guide is bloody brilliant ^^. gonna get a few awards for this one

[Bolas Boi]

Thank you you absolute legend

[WhiffMaster]

Just what I needed, Thanks !

[Zentun]

Great guide, thanks a lot for your work, i got the achievement just now.

[Penis Lord]

This guide not just help me get the achievement but also help my pawn gain knowledge from quests that I have missed. Thank you very much for this guide .

[Shaman]

I did a Fan-Page of this Guide, it is too good: https://chi.lu/ddda/indexb.html
What do you think of it (Usability?)