Disco Elysium: Best Side Quests, Ranked

As a seasoned gamer with over two decades of experience under my belt, I must admit that Disco Elysium has left an indelible mark on me. The sheer depth and complexity of this game are truly unprecedented, and it’s not every day you come across a title that manages to touch your heart and challenge your mind simultaneously.

One of the quests that stood out for me was “Help The Ravers Start A Nightclub.” As someone who can appreciate a good dance party, I found myself completely immersed in this side quest. The eclectic mix of supporting characters, the fantastic musical compositions, and the sheer absurdity of it all made for an unforgettable experience. To be honest, Egg Head’s one-liners had me laughing out loud more than once!

However, if I were to pick just one quest that truly encapsulates the magic of Disco Elysium, it would have to be “Find The Insulindian Phasmid.” This optional story is a testament to the game’s ability to blend harsh reality with hopeful idealism. It’s a journey that will stay with me for a long time, and I can’t help but feel that Disco Elysium may never be surpassed in terms of its unique blend of grit, wit, and emotional resonance.

In the words of the great Kim Kong-Il, “Sometimes you eat the bar, and sometimes the bar eats you.” In this case, I think it’s safe to say that Disco Elysium has eaten me whole, and I couldn’t be happier about it. Now if only they could make a spin-off featuring the Insulindian Phasmid as a playable character… now that would be something!

As a gaming enthusiast, I can confidently say that Disco Elysium stands tall among the greatest Role-Playing Games (RPGs) and narrative games ever created. It’s a true masterwork that deserves recognition in both conversations about these genres.

As a long-time fan of indie games, I have played my fair share of titles that claim to tell profound stories with deep emotional resonance. However, none have left as lasting an impression on me as ZA/UM’s creations. Having grown up playing games that often lacked the nuance and complexity of human experience, it is truly awe-inspiring to encounter a game developer who manages to weave such intricate narratives that are both human and captivating. The stories they tell resonate with me on a deeply personal level, touching on themes and emotions that feel universal yet intimate at the same time. I find myself drawn into their worlds, feeling the weight of their characters’ struggles and triumphs as if they were my own. ZA/UM’s work is truly transcendent and has become one of my all-time favorites in the indie gaming landscape.

Boasting compelling secondary figures, an immersive atmosphere, and thought-provoking themes that encourage deep introspection about your own existence, this game is intricate and rich in content.

Consequently, we acknowledge its storytelling prowess and decide to explore Martinaise more thoroughly by compiling a top-rated collection of the most captivating side missions in Disco Elysium.

10. Add Even More Beauty To The Wall

Leaving a Mark in Martinaise

One immediate observation about the city in Disco Elysium is that it seems to etch an indelible image into the minds of all who traverse its worn-down roads and narrow passages.

Instead, the “Add Even More Beauty To The Wall” mission serves as a chance for the detective to repay Martinaise for her assistance throughout the game by being the one who adds a distinctive touch to the town.

It wasn’t until my second attempt that I managed to complete it. I found it challenging to identify the necessary items for the mission, and Cindy the Skull didn’t captivate me significantly as a character.

Although it might appear insignificant at first glance, this task carries a greater influence on shaping the ambiance and personal attachment to the location than you may initially think. For instance, even something as simple as writing “I LOVE YOU CUNO” on an empty wall could create a lasting impression in your memory.

What makes it appealing is its straightforward yet heartfelt nature. Those who genuinely appreciate Martinaise will invest the required effort to unravel the secret of making it work.

9. Dead Body On The Boardwalk

Show That You Have a Heart

Disco Elysium is a role-playing game set in a compact yet intensely rich world, where each move you make leads to encounters with characters, problems, or events that are engaging and noteworthy.

When you journey to the seaside and find the corpse that initiates the mystery “Dead Body on the Boardwalk“, you’re confronting both the brutal awakening of life in Martinaise and its indifference all at once.

In Disco Elysium, being good often requires excessive time investment, facing difficult truths and healing wounded emotions – all for minimal return. Yet, this is precisely what makes it worthwhile.

As a scholar with a background in political science and economics, I have always been accustomed to navigating complex moral dilemmas through academic discourse. However, Disco Elysium has disrupted my ethical compass like no other game before it. With its unapologetic directness in questioning my choices as a player, this game has made me confront moral quandaries that have left me feeling unsettled and introspective. It’s rare for a game to challenge me so profoundly, and I must say, it’s an experience I will carry with me long after I put down the controller.

Is ‘Dead Body on the Boardwalk’ merely an additional mission, or is it designed to challenge you by confronting you with its commentary on callousness towards others’ suffering?

8. The Jam Mystery

A Doubt From The Beginning

Leaving Whirling-in-Rags behind for the first time, one of the initial scenes you encounter is a frustrating traffic congestion due to a demonstration, trapping numerous motorists.

By embarking on the adventure called “The Jam Enigma“, you have the opportunity to discover more about these intriguing characters, each with their own distinct and quirky traits. Simultaneously, you’ll untangle a mystery that sheds light on the world around you, revealing hidden truths.

In essence, the drivers serve as representations of Revachol’s broader narrative. The Lorry Driver exposes the town’s racial issues, whereas the Paledriver highlights the psychological effects of substance abuse and the mysterious aspect known as the Pale phenomenon, a key enigma within the game.

Working together with Joyce Messier, who we’ve come to know as our literary adversary, The Jam Mystery captivates me with its skillful depiction of societal stratification even within the seemingly ordinary context of a traffic congestion.

Completing this side mission gives you an insight into the city’s population, reveals the residents’ struggles, and introduces you to the fantastic character, Tommy Le Homme (one of the game’s best-loved characters). It has all the elements required for it to be as compelling as it is poignant.

7. Sing Karaoke

Without Talent But With Soul

As someone who has spent countless hours immersed in the gritty, unforgiving world of Disco Elysium, I can attest that its narratives are far from cheerful. The game offers a stark portrayal of humanity’s bleakest aspects, delving deep into the complexities and contradictions that define our existence. Playing detective in a city grappling with social, political, and economic turmoil leaves little room for levity or joy. The weight of the world rests heavy on your shoulders as you navigate through this troubled landscape, seeking justice amidst the chaos. It’s a hauntingly realistic experience that resonates deeply with my own life experiences, offering a grim reflection of society’s darker side.

Singing karaoke has always been a special escape for me from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It’s one of those rare moments where I can forget about work, bills, and all the world’s problems, even if just for a little while. The pure joy and innocence that comes with belting out a favorite song is something truly magical, and it reminds me of simpler times. Whether it’s with friends or family, singing karaoke provides an unparalleled sense of connection and shared experience that I cherish deeply. It’s a unique opportunity to let go and be fully present in the moment, and I wouldn’t trade those moments for anything.

For a brief while, the detective momentarily sets aside thoughts of his past struggles and current hardships, instead expressing these feelings musically. Yet, the tune he chooses echoes with the poignancy of recollection and longing.

It’s soothing to forget, even for a moment, your position as the puppeteer of the detective. Instead, you simply relax, enjoy the captivating yet chilling melody, and cherish the fleeting tranquility amidst the constant turmoil that seems determined to never dissipate around you.

In addition, I’d prefer the skill test to not succeed this time, because it provides a more authentic portrayal of the detective. It might seem unfortunate, people don’t enjoy such situations, and they can be awkward, but it rings true and is easy to identify with.

In Disco Elysium, such moments that seem unexpected yet harmoniously fit are quite common, and Garte’s hostel cafeteria is no exception – it’s a scene worth a chuckle as well.

6. Find Your Badge

The Aftermath of a Hangover

In “Disco Elysium,” the character’s identity conundrum forms a crucial aspect of the storyline. Consequently, during the initial one-third of the game, players are engaged in unraveling the events that transpired prior to the detective’s hangover.

Wearing a badge is crucial for a law enforcement officer to be recognized, so the title “Find Your Badge” not only gives insight into our character but also helps immerse us in the game’s setting.

In the delicate balance between the worry of not precisely knowing where it is and the unease of nearly guessing who might be behind it, this mission captures the subtle tension that truly embodies the Disco Elysium atmosphere.

This moment also marks a pivotal shift in our connection with Kim Kitsuragi (a standout secondary character in video game lore, as far as I’m concerned) and the detective, who gradually acknowledges and adapts from the chaotic state he was in at the game’s onset.

The experience of ‘Find Your Badge’ is enchanting as it offers an authentic and relatable feel to the audience. It unfolds in a novel setting, uncovers the truth about the motor carriage enigma, and concludes with a breathtaking scene that resonates deeply… It’s captivating because it feels grounded in reality and human emotions.

5. Split A Kilo With Cuno

Morals Are Fictitious

Any discerning fan of Disco Elysium would surely recognize Cuno as one of the most unforgettable characters in the whole game, so anything related to him is bound to be humorous.

As a seasoned gamer with years of experience under my belt, let me tell you that the quest “Split A Kilo With Cuno” stands out like a sore thumb in the gaming world. The literal title alone sets the stage for an absurdly amusing adventure, making it one of the most unforgettable experiences I’ve had while exploring virtual realms.

Despite its initial humor due to the extraordinary circumstances portrayed, the story also offers a glimpse into Cuno’s difficult past and the harsh reality that the lifestyle of Martinaise imposes on its youth, preventing them from living a normal life.

Despite my inability to divide a kilogram, I usually have to keep it because I can’t bear to do anything that could upset Kim, even though fostering a stronger bond with the red-headed boy might be a worthy sacrifice.

Regardless, I want to stress that it stands out as particularly noteworthy given Cuno’s involvement. However, its inclusion in this list arises from the stark contrast between the gravity of the situation and how absurdly amusing and implausible it seems.

4. Find Your Gun

The Most Piercing Stress

In Disco Elysium, you often experience persistent dissatisfaction as every new insight your detective uncovers serves to underscore his own shortcomings.

On various instances during the game, this becomes noticeably clear, yet it’s most pronounced in the mission called “Find Your Gun“, where we need to locate the gun of our dear but inexperienced main character.

Considering there are kids and individuals dealing with different mental health conditions nearby, every move we make is accompanied by a heightened awareness and concern for potential outcomes.

As I delve deeper into understanding Martinaise, it becomes increasingly clear how the system functions – or perhaps more accurately, malfunctions. Two striking issues that surface in this exploration are the misuse of power by law enforcement and the deterioration of mental health among its citizens. These themes are not just present, but vividly on display throughout this journey.

I found it bothersome to encounter “The Pigs,” as it clearly highlighted the detective’s lack of competence, which was an unsettling experience unlike any other in the game.

‘Find Your Gun’ is a roller coaster ride that I adore despite its unsettling nature, mainly due to the intense emotions it stirs up and the sense of vulnerability it creates as we are effortlessly manipulated by Evrart Claire.

3. Investigate The Doomed Commercial Area

The Walls Tell Many Stories

In Disco Elysium, it’s worth mentioning that Martinaise serves as a key setting in the game’s narrative. The atmosphere and surroundings contribute significantly to the storytelling, almost equal to the contributions made by the game’s narrator.

One fine instance of this is the objective, ‘Explore the Failed Business District.’, where the game exhibits the peak of its detective style in terms of gameplay.

I found myself thoroughly immersed in its rich tapestry of secrets, complex characters, nods to other series, and gradual yet lasting development, particularly enjoying the tales spun by the Novelty Dice Maker.

As a seasoned gamer with years of experience under my belt, I can confidently say that The Doomed Commercial Area stands out from the crowd due to its unique ability to instill fear and uncertainty in players. One memory that still gives me chills is the first time I laid eyes on the towering stuffed bear in the game – a moment that left me feeling a mix of shock and unease, sensations that I’ve yet to encounter in any other game. The Doomed Commercial Area has a way of tapping into our deepest fears and uncertainties, creating an immersive experience that is truly one-of-a-kind.

Moreover, the game Disco Elysium is particularly fitting because of its connection to imaginative elements. Unlike many games, it doesn’t strive for absolute realism, and this assignment showcases that aspect beautifully.

2. Help The Ravers Start A Nightclub

Hardcore To The Mega!

Although I haven’t brought it up beforehand, Disco Elysium boasts a soundtrack that’s worthy of high praise. However, you might not fully appreciate this until you complete the ‘Help The Ravers Start A Nightclub’ side mission.

According to its title, your task involves assisting a group of youths in transforming a previously unused church into a nightclub. This process unfolds a remarkable sequence of incidents that are truly captivating to be part of.

As a long-time video game enthusiast with a keen interest in narrative-driven titles, I can confidently say that Disco Elysium stands out as one of the most exceptional games I’ve ever played. The supporting characters and the musical composition in this masterpiece are truly showstopping elements that elevate it to new heights.

The diverse cast of characters, each with their unique personalities and motivations, adds depth and richness to the world of Revachol. These characters feel real and relatable, making me care about them and the choices I make throughout the game. The musical score complements these characters beautifully, enhancing the mood and atmosphere of each scene, creating an immersive experience that leaves a lasting impression.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a game with captivating storytelling, memorable characters, and outstanding music, Disco Elysium is an absolute must-play. It’s a true testament to the power of narrative in video games and a shining example of what can be achieved when every aspect of a game works together harmoniously.

Witnessing the detective dancing with Kim and the revelers following the disputes, the surprising events, and the lengthy voyage feels enchanting, nearly equal to the amusement caused by Egg Head’s clever quips.

The experience seems reminiscent of a vivid dream brought on by a fever, and considering the title, this comparison seems fitting. Yet, it provides a clearer understanding of just how extraordinary the journey unfolds.

1. Find The Insulindian Phasmid

The Magic of Elysium

Disco Elysium can be harsh, unyielding, and painful at times. Yet, developer ZA/UM doesn’t shy away from utilizing this video game as a platform for critique of societal issues, while equally celebrating the positive aspects.

To achieve this, it often employs tangible and relatable depictions, yet the side mission titled “Locate the Insulindian Phasmid” serves as a pivotal moment where the story begins to establish a clear divide from actuality.

Frankly speaking, I’ll tread lightly as I don’t want to ruin this mission for those who haven’t experienced it yet. However, I believe it’s the point where you find yourself captivated by Disco Elysium, recognizing that you’re encountering something truly exceptional.

The enigma it presents can be understood through an optional narrative that, though possibly fabricated, carries a sense of humanity and optimism. In essence, the game acknowledges the grim nature of its storyline but offers room for faith in the existence of wonder.

From the get-go, it was clear to me that Disco Elysium would make its way onto my list of favorite games. However, I could hardly have anticipated that the quest ‘Find The Insulindian Phasmid’ would serve as the clue suggesting there might never be another game quite like this one.

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2025-01-01 19:40