As a game master, one of the keys to running a successful TTRPG campaign is to keep your players engaged and interested in the story. While the main plotline of the campaign is important, adding in side quests and adventures can help to break up the monotony and add some excitement to the game.

By incorporating side quests like the ones described in this post, you can give your players a chance to explore new settings, encounter new enemies, and interact with interesting NPCs. These quests can also provide a break from the main plotline, allowing the players to regroup and recharge before diving back into the action.

Side quests can also be a chance to highlight the unique skills and abilities of each player character. For example, a heist adventure might be the perfect opportunity for the rogue to shine, while a puzzle-based adventure might be a chance for the wizard to use their intellect.

By providing new challenges and opportunities for adventure, you can keep the game fresh and exciting, and keep your players coming back for more.

Here are three adventure hooks to get your players excited!

  1. The Forgotten Tomb: While exploring a remote corner of the kingdom, the players stumble upon an ancient tomb that has been lost for centuries. But as they delve deeper into the tomb, they discover that it is not as abandoned as they first thought. Unseen forces begin to manipulate the tomb, and the players soon find themselves fighting to survive. To incorporate this hook into an existing campaign, consider having an NPC or quest-giver point the players in the direction of the tomb, perhaps offering a reward for its discovery. Once the players enter the tomb, you can introduce traps, puzzles, and monsters to keep them on their toes.
  2. The Mysterious Island:
    The players find themselves shipwrecked on a seemingly deserted island, with no memory of how they got there. But as they explore the island, they discover that it is home to strange and mysterious creatures, ancient ruins, and perhaps even a hidden civilization. To incorporate this hook into an existing campaign, consider having the players stumble upon the island while traveling by ship or on a mission. You can use the island as a chance to introduce new creatures and settings, and to explore themes of survival and discovery.
  3. The Heist: The players are approached by a wealthy noble who needs their help with a delicate matter. A valuable artifact has been stolen from his family’s estate, and he needs the players to retrieve it before it falls into the wrong hands. The catch? The artifact is located in the heavily guarded vault of a rival noble, and the players will need to use all their skills to pull off the heist. To incorporate this hook into an existing campaign, consider having the noble approach the players with the job while they are on a separate mission. You can then use the heist as an opportunity to introduce new characters, settings, and challenges, as the players plan and execute their plan to retrieve the artifact.

No matter which hook you choose, remember that the key to a successful adventure is to keep the players engaged and invested in the story. Make sure to include plenty of opportunities for role-playing, combat, and exploration, and be open to the players’ ideas and suggestions as the story unfolds.

Have fun and roll some dice!