‘Side Quest’ (2025) Apple TV+ Series Review - A Delightful Detour into the World of Mythic Quest

When Apple TV+ announced Side Quest, an anthology spin-off from Mythic Quest, it sounded like a bold experiment. Anthologies can go either way—either a refreshing creative playground or a scattered collection of half-baked ideas. Thankfully, this one lands closer to the former. It takes the DNA of Mythic Quest and stretches it in new directions, exploring how a game can shape people’s lives in unexpected, sometimes absurd, but often touching ways.

Each of the four standalone episodes tells a different story, which keeps things unpredictable. The best part? The show leans into its freedom. The worst part? Not every story lands equally well.

The first episode follows a group of childhood friends who reunite yearly for an in-game raid. It’s a love letter to those who’ve ever scheduled their lives around a game night, except real-life responsibilities start creeping in, and not everyone is on the same page. The chemistry between the cast makes the emotional beats hit hard, and the humor feels earned rather than forced.

Then comes the tale of a struggling comic book shop owner trying to revive his business by selling Mythic Quest merchandise. This one has a classic underdog charm, blending nostalgia with the harsh realities of keeping a brick-and-mortar store afloat. The comedic timing is sharp, but it also has some genuinely heartfelt moments.

The third episode is arguably the most ambitious, centering on an orchestra hired to perform the game’s soundtrack. It dives into the tension between art and commerce in a way that’s both hilarious and weirdly insightful. Watching classically trained musicians grapple with gaming culture is a comedic goldmine, and the performances carry it beautifully.

The final episode, The Last Raid, unfolds entirely within the game itself, which is both a clever concept and a risky move. Visually, it’s stunning, and the commitment to making it feel like a true in-game experience is impressive. But the emotional weight doesn’t quite translate as well as it should, leaving it feeling more like an experimental tech demo than a fully realized story.

The guest stars bring a lot to the table. Rob McElhenney makes a brief but entertaining return as Ian Grimm, while others, like Derek Waters and Anna Konkle, steal scenes with their comedic timing. The writing keeps the humor sharp without over-explaining jokes, trusting the audience to pick up on the subtleties.

Of course, Side Quest isn’t perfect. The anthology format, while allowing for creative freedom, makes some episodes feel more like great short films than essential viewing. Some stories connect deeply, while others feel like bonus content rather than must-watch entries in the Mythic Quest universe. And if you’re not already into gaming culture, a few episodes might feel a little too niche.

Visually, it maintains the sleek production of its predecessor. The in-game sequences are detailed and immersive, while the real-world settings feel grounded and authentic. The contrast between the two enhances the show’s themes without making it feel like a gimmick.

For those who loved Mythic Quest, this series is a welcome addition. It doesn’t try to replicate the original’s long-term character arcs but instead thrives in its own space, offering fresh perspectives on gaming’s impact. It’s funny, occasionally poignant, and often unpredictable—just like a great side quest should be.

Final Score- [6/10]
Reviewed by - Anjali Sharma
Follow @AnjaliS54769166 on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times