The main questline in The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim offers a more compelling experience than the majority of its side content, according to an opinion piece from PC Gamer. The author contrasts Skyrim's primary storyline with the more engaging side quests found in its predecessor, Oblivion.
While Oblivion was criticized for a less exciting main quest, its Thieves Guild, Dark Brotherhood, and Daedric Prince quests were lauded for their variety and flair. This experience, the piece suggests, may have led to a skewed perception when it comes to Skyrim.
Skyrim's side quests, including those for the Thieves Guild and Dark Brotherhood, are described as less engaging. The Thieves Guild quests are characterized by procedural filler jobs needed to progress, and the Dark Brotherhood missions lack the distinctive style of Oblivion's, often devolving into simple assassinations. Outside of rare exceptions like "A Night to Remember," Skyrim's side content is deemed unremarkable.
In contrast, the article highlights Skyrim's main quest for its epic scope, featuring dragon battles, mountain climbs, and journeys to the afterlife. The presence of memorable NPCs, such as Paarthurnax, is also noted as a significant strength. Crucially, the main quest avoids the often-criticized repetitive elements like Oblivion Gates, offering a more focused and spectacle-filled adventure.