Metaphor ReFantazio Strohl Guide: Unlocking Bond Ranks and Abilities Explained

Atlus and Sega introduce their latest venture in the JRPG genre with Metaphor ReFantazio. This game features a range of engaging gameplay mechanics, including turn-based combat, character management, and a richly woven narrative, frequently drawing comparisons to the acclaimed Persona series from Atlus. Players can enjoy the game on various platforms such as the PS4, PS5, PC, and Xbox Series X and S.

One intriguing aspect of the game is the Follower system, which enables the protagonist to build relationships with other characters. Among the earliest followers you can obtain is a warrior named Strohl, whose Bond level progression presents significant rewards.

In this guide, we will explore how to access the various ranks for Strohl and the associated rewards from his Bond Abilities.

Unlocking Strohl in Metaphor ReFantazio

Strohl, a noble warrior, stands for justice and loyalty. Despite his noble origins, he chose to abandon that life to serve in the military. He becomes a follower automatically on 6/6 after you conquer the Nord Mines boss, followed by a cutscene that introduces him as a companion.

Strohl’s Bond Rank Unlock Requirements and Abilities in Metaphor ReFantazio

Strohl's bond rewards can be strategically advantageous (Image via Sega) — Strohl’s bond rewards can be strategically advantageous (Image via Sega)

Here’s a breakdown of how to unlock Strohl’s ranks and the benefits associated with each level:

Rank 1: Achieved on 6/6 after defeating the Nord Mines boss. This unlocks the Warrior Archetype.

Rank 2: Unlocked after clearing the Regalith Grand Cathedral and conversing with Strohl on Sunlumeo Street. Rewards include Warrior’s Enlightenment which lowers the MAG cost for studying the Warrior lineage, and Undaunted Spirit, enhancing Strohl’s critical hit likelihood against human foes.

Rank 3: To achieve, wait two days after Rank 2 and engage with Strohl. Unlocks Warrior Archetype: Adept, permitting the party to learn the Swordmaster skills.

Rank 4: Unlocked by talking to him on the Gauntlet Runner. This grants Scion’s Skill, expanding the inheritance slots to two.

Rank 5: Available after speaking with Strohl post 6/29. This unlocks Warrior Veneration, which further cuts the cost for studying Warrior Archetypes, and Battle Aura, enhancing Strohl’s EXP gain when he is in reserve.

Rank 6: Unlocked after completing the quest “A Noble’s Legacy,”which becomes available following Rank 5, with an Imagination level of at least 3. This reveals Scion’s Merit (Warrior), boosting inheritance slots to three. Additionally, it allows access to Battle Hypnosis (Warrior), ensuring Strohl gains EXP in reserve at a normal rate.

Rank 7: Unlocked after waiting two days post Rank 6. This rank reveals Warrior Archetype: Elite, which also grants access to the Samurai Archetype.

Rank 8: Achieved after waiting two days after Rank 7. Unlocking this rank gives you three valuable rewards:

Scion’s Essence, which increases the inheritance slots to four.
Slayer of Humans, boosting Strohl’s critical hit chances against human adversaries.
Grand Fantasy, enabling Strohl to obtain a new Heroic Embodiment.

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