20 Video Game Sidequests Better Than The Main Campaign

Although Final Fantasy explores serious themes, like free will, trauma, and corruption, Square's biggest IP has never been afraid to embrace wacky hijinks.

With that said, embarking on adventures with Hildibrand in Final Fantasy XIV has to be one of the zaniest and funniest sections in the whole series.

Centred on the bumbling inspector, Hildibrand Manderville, the quest incorporates slapstick comedy, visual gags, and over-the-top animations rarely seen elsewhere in the game. The writing is sharp and self-aware, poking fun at detective tropes and JRPG conventions while still honouring the ensemble’s sincerity. This playful energy offers a joyful tonal contrast to the intense narrative while showcasing exceptional storytelling and cinematic flair. 

Rather than having a singular objective, Hildibrand boasts dozens of ludicrous missions, which should keep anyone entertained for hours on end. Hildibrand proved to be such a popular character, he was brought back in FFXIV's expansions. Even if these goals harboured no tangible rewards (which they do), they'd be worth it for the entertainment value.

If you need to pause from the main story's high-stakes drama, kicking back with Hildibrand is a nice way to unwind.