Completing All Side Quests
Final Fantasy VIII is brimming with optional side quests that offer valuable rewards, unique experiences, and contribute to a deeper understanding of the game's world and lore. While the main story is engaging, neglecting these side activities means missing out on powerful items, rare Guardian Forces, and even opportunities to influence your SeeD rank. A thorough playthrough involves seeking out and completing as many of these quests as possible.
Some of the most sificant side quests include the Chocobo Forests, which allow you to train and utilize Chocobos for exploration and access to hidden areas. The Fisherman's Horizon questline involves helping residents with their problems, often leading to unique rewards. The highly popular Triple Triad card game is itself a massive side activity, with hundreds of cards to collect and a complex set of rules that can yield powerful items when mastered. Don't forget the various optional dungeons and bosses, such as the optional GF Brothers and the challenging Omega Weapon.
Many side quests are time-sensitive or can become inaccessible after certain points in the main story. For instance, certain events in Timber or Dollet might lock off opportunities to start or complete specific quests. It's advisable to explore thoroughly and speak with NPCs frequently, as they often provide clues or initiate these optional tasks. Keeping an eye on your SeeD rank and salary can also be a motivating factor, as many side quests offer substantial Gil rewards or items that can be sold. A comprehensive approach to side quests not only enriches the gameplay experience but also sificantly strengthens your party for the challenges ahead.