Act 2 is shorter than Act 1 in terms of mandatory main plot quests, but offers a rich wealth of other activities. These include some fairly sizable (and commensurately rewarding) companion and secondary quests. There are also plenty of short yet satisfying side quests, many of which act as follow-ups to the events of the first Act.
As with Act 1, the following table details optional quests that we would deem as being essential to a good Act 2 playthrough. The companion quests are particularly important: failing to complete these can have some major repercussions, and cause you to miss out on future opportunities.
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Quest
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Page
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Notes
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Repentance*
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81
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Unlocks Sebastian as a companion.
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The Long Road
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82
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This results in many far-reaching effects for Aveline. Take Isabela along for extra conflict and interesting dialogue.
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Dissent
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82
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A relatively short but decisive step in the development of Anders. Those seeking to enjoy everything related to the core Dragon Age II narrative will find that this contributes a great deal.
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Mirror Image
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83
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Merrill’s companion quest is a great source of loot. It’s also an essential venture for Achievement and Trophy hunters: it unlocks “That Thing Has Legs”.
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Family Matter
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84
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This develops Varric’s personal story. It’s worth it just for the fun that BioWare’s writers have with the in medias res narrative technique: we defy you not to snigger.
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A Bitter Pill
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85
|
Failure to complete this means that you can’t play Fenris’s companion quest in Act 3.
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Night Terrors
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76
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In addition to more customary rewards, this distinctive quest offers opportunities to earn bonus attribute points or a free Talent.
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Herbalist’s Tasks
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78
|
There are three further ingredients to obtain for Solivitus; complete this, and a special reward awaits you in Act 3.
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Raiders on the Cliffs
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79
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A short, action-oriented quest based in the Wounded Coast area. Take Aveline along for additional drama in the opening cutscene.
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Inside Job
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79
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Following on from The Bone Pit, this profitable secondary quest unlocks three separate smaller quests on completion.
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Forbidden Knowledge
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88
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If you spared Idunna during the events of Enemies Among Us, this is your reward. Though listed as a side quest, it actually eclipses many main plot missions in terms of size, difficulty and potential loot.
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Hometown Breed, The Lowdown & Ladies’ Lights Out
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91
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There are three more gangs to clear from the streets of Hightown, Lowtown and the Docks.
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