why not make a few optional side quests, some that can only be achieved during the chapter you are in
for example
in chapter 1 right before Algus leaves the party, you, go to Dorter and go in the bar and take on a mission to take out a handful of Death Corps that are trying to dessert the country and you have to take them out
of course accomplishing the mission can get you a really decent item, like a sword that you get in chapter 2, or some armor etc.
its just an example but the over-all idea might be something to think about
for example
in chapter 1 right before Algus leaves the party, you, go to Dorter and go in the bar and take on a mission to take out a handful of Death Corps that are trying to dessert the country and you have to take them out
of course accomplishing the mission can get you a really decent item, like a sword that you get in chapter 2, or some armor etc.
its just an example but the over-all idea might be something to think about