Strategic Exploration Benefits in Elden Ring
Side quests and NPC interactions in Elden Ring often lead to strategic advantages that enhance exploration. Engaging with these quests can reveal hidden paths, valuable resources, and unique travel shortcuts that make navigating the vast world of the Lands Between more efficient.

1. Unlocking Alternate Routes & Shortcuts
Many NPC quests open up new paths or hidden locations that would otherwise be difficult to discover. These include:

Secret Areas: Some NPCs provide hints or direct access to Elden Ring Items hidden regions, such as Nokron, Eternal City, or Miquella’s Haligtree.
Portal & Teleportation Access: Certain quests unlock teleporters that allow instant travel to remote locations, bypassing dangerous terrain.
Safe Passageways: Some NPC interactions reveal safer routes, avoiding high-level enemies that might be difficult early on.
Example: Completing Ranni the Witch’s quest grants access to best place to buy elden ring items Ainsel River Main, an area filled with rare resources and critical story elements.