"Side Quest" initially lures you in with a premise that feels like it could delve into some genuinely interesting corners of the "Mythic Quest" universe. The idea of exploring the lives of those orbiting the game - the players, the comic shop owners, the musicians performing the soundtrack - holds a certain appeal and promises to offer fresh perspectives beyond the familiar office dynamics. The first episode, focusing on Phil's work-life balance struggles, manages to capture some of the original show's charm and relatable humor, suggesting that this spin-off could carve its own engaging path.
However, as the series progresses through its short four-episode run, that initial spark unfortunately fizzles out into a rather underwhelming experience. The subsequent episodes, while attempting to showcase different facets of the "Mythic Quest" community, struggle to maintain a consistent level of intrigue. The narrative threads often feel thin and underdeveloped, lacking the depth and engaging character work that made the parent series so compelling at its best. What starts as a potentially insightful exploration of a wider world gradually devolves into a series of somewhat bland vignettes.
The pacing across these later episodes feels uneven, with some storylines meandering without a clear sense of purpose or a satisfying payoff. Moments that could have been poignant or humorous often fall flat, leaving the viewer feeling detached and uninterested in the outcomes. The initial curiosity sparked by the unique scenarios presented - the intense competition for a rare comic, the pressures faced by a touring orchestra member, the dynamics of a long-standing online gaming group - ultimately gives way to a sense of dullness as these stories fail to truly resonate or offer any significant emotional investment.
While the acting remains competent and there are occasional glimpses of the sharp writing that characterized "Mythic Quest," these fleeting moments are not enough to elevate the overall experience. "Side Quest" ultimately feels like a collection of underdeveloped ideas that never quite manage to coalesce into a compelling or memorable series. It's a shame, as the initial concept held promise, but the execution leaves much to be desired, resulting in a show that is more likely to be forgotten than fondly revisited. The interesting premise ultimately succumbs to a lack of engaging storytelling, making "Side Quest" a rather unexciting detour in the "Mythic Quest" landscape.
