Game Guide: Tales of Arise [Punksroach]

1. Introduction
Overview: Tales of Arise is an action-packed JRPG that tells the story of Alphen, a mysterious masked warrior, and Shionne, a woman cursed with a power that harms those who touch her. Together, they journey through the world of Dahna to free it from the oppressive rule of the Renans.
Setting: A richly detailed fantasy world split into diverse regions, each with unique themes, landscapes, and stories. The game blends high-fantasy settings with advanced Renan technology.
What Makes it Unique: Engaging real-time combat, a deep and emotional storyline, and stunning anime-style visuals that set it apart from other RPGs.

2. Before You Play: Must-Know Tips
Game Length & Difficulty: The main story can take 40-60 hours, with side content extending to over 100 hours. There are multiple difficulty levels—normal is a good starting point, but adjusting based on your experience with JRPGs is recommended.
Combat System: The game uses an action-based combat system with combos, dodges, and special attacks. Timing, positioning, and team synergy are crucial.
Save System: The game has autosave but also allows manual saves at rest points or when entering a new area. Use manual saves before tough boss fights.
Skill Panels: Character progression revolves around unlocking skills via the skill panels. These skills are essential for customizing combat styles and play preferences.
Cooking & Campfires: Cooking at campfires grants buffs like increased experience, combat advantages, or resource drops. Don’t neglect this system, as it can make a significant difference.

3. Beginner Tips & Tricks
1. Use Boost Attacks: Every character has a Boost Attack that can be activated in combat. These attacks interrupt enemy actions, so use them strategically to gain an advantage.
2. Chain Combos: Focus on chaining combos to build the Boost Gauge faster. Start with basic attacks, then switch to Artes for maximum efficiency.
3. Explore Thoroughly: Each area has plenty of hidden treasures, materials, and skits (conversations between party members). Exploration is often rewarded with items or useful gear.
4. Balance Your Team: Take advantage of each character’s strengths. Alphen is a strong attacker, Shionne is great for healing, Rinwell is a powerful mage, and Law excels at dealing rapid physical damage.
5. Cook Often: Experiment with recipes to see what buffs suit your playstyle. Always cook before tackling a tough dungeon or boss fight.

4. Advanced Tips & Tricks
1. Elemental Weaknesses: Pay attention to enemy weaknesses and adjust your Artes accordingly. Some bosses are weak to certain elements, so exploit those weaknesses for maximum damage.
2. Manage CP (Cure Points): CP is a shared resource used for healing and support Artes. Use it wisely during exploration and try to avoid wasting it on minor healing.
3. Dodge to Perfect Evade: Mastering the perfect dodge (just as an enemy is about to hit you) opens up powerful counterattacks. It also refills some of your AG (Action Gauge) for more Artes.
4. Upgrade Equipment: Don’t forget to regularly upgrade your weapons and armor. This is crucial to keeping up with the game’s increasing difficulty. Crafting at blacksmiths with gathered materials can provide substantial power boosts.
5. Spend SP (Skill Points) Wisely: Focus on skills that complement your combat style. Some skills enhance defense, others bolster attack, and some offer utility like better item drops.

5. Combat & Character Development
Combat Guide: Combat is real-time with a focus on fluid combos and strategic use of Artes. Use basic attacks to build the Boost Gauge and Artes to deal significant damage. Keep moving to avoid enemy attacks, especially during boss fights.
Character Builds: Customize each character by focusing on their Artes, equipment, and skills. Alphen can become a damage powerhouse, while Shionne’s Artes can turn her into an effective healer or ranged attacker.
Weapons & Gear: Collect and upgrade weapons using crafting materials found throughout the world. Always upgrade your weapons to stay competitive with tougher enemies.
Skill Trees: Use Skill Points (SP) to unlock abilities from skill trees. Focus on Artes and skills that align with your preferred combat strategy—offensive, defensive, or balanced.

6. Exploration & Quests
World Map: The game world is divided into regions. Use fast travel to save time but remember to explore thoroughly for hidden quests and collectibles.
Side Quests: Side quests often provide valuable rewards like rare gear, special items, or extra skill points. They are also great for understanding the world’s lore and characters.
Collectibles: Look for collectibles like Owls, which unlock cosmetic items and bonuses, or artifacts that can grant permanent buffs. Finding them can give significant advantages.

7. FAQ & Common Questions
Q: What Artes should I focus on?
A: Prioritize Artes that suit your playstyle. If you’re struggling with tougher enemies, Artes with high stagger potential can help. Experiment to find a balance between offensive and defensive Artes.
Q: How do I get more recipes?
A: Speak to NPCs, complete side quests, and explore new areas. Some recipes are found in treasure chests, so explore every nook and cranny.
Q: Can I change characters mid-combat?
A: Yes, you can switch between characters at any time during combat. Experiment with each character to understand their strengths and weaknesses.

8. Secrets
Hidden Bosses: Some areas feature optional bosses that are more challenging than main story foes. Defeating them can yield rare items and unique gear.
Unlockable Costumes: Completing certain tasks or finding collectibles unlocks cosmetic outfits for your characters. These are purely visual but add a fun element to customization.
Secret Artes: Completing specific challenges or reaching certain points in the game can unlock powerful Artes for your characters. Keep an eye out for hints and challenges.

9. Final Thoughts & Summary
Strengths: Excellent combat system, stunning visuals, engaging story, and a world full of secrets. The character dynamics and their growth throughout the game make the journey worthwhile.
Weaknesses: Some areas may feel repetitive, and there might be a learning curve for those new to the Tales combat system.
Replay Value: High replay value due to different builds, collectibles, side quests, and the challenge of replaying on higher difficulties.

10. Additional Resources
Video Walkthroughs: Check out YouTube for in-depth guides on tough bosses, side quests, and hidden collectibles.
Community Forums: Join Tales of Arise Reddit, Discord servers, or other online communities for tips, discussions, and build recommendations.
Official Site: Visit the official Tales of Arise site for updates, DLC content, and more.