Diving into Digimon Story: Time Stranger, you’ll find that it’s not exactly the most complex RPG out there. The battles are pretty straightforward, and the game does a good job of guiding you with clear mission markers. But after spending a solid 40 hours playing, I’ve picked up a few tips for all you newbies venturing into the Digital World now that the game is finally released. So grab your Digivice and let’s get started.
Lost in Side Quest Limbo
So, the most annoying thing I ran into during my first playthrough of Time Stranger was how it locks you out of side quests for what feels like ages. Just when you’re getting into the groove of completing these secondary missions, the game hits you with a warning that you won’t be able to access them for who knows how long. And let me tell you, it’s not just a matter of doing a quick story mission and getting back to them. No, you could be waiting around for hours on end before you can dive back into those quests. And that’s a big deal because these side quests actually contribute a lot more than just a little bonus story or some extra loot. They help you earn Anomaly Points that boost your Agent rank, which is crucial for unlocking Digivolution levels. So, when you hit that warning, brace yourself for a long wait before you can pick up where you left off.
No Need to Sacrifice Your Turn for Items
One thing Time Stranger gets right is that you can use items and attack in the same turn. Unlike other RPGs that make you choose between healing or dealing damage, this game lets you do both without any trade-offs. This comes in handy during those epic boss battles where every move counts. You can heal up your team, buff their stats, or cure status ailments without missing a beat in your offensive strategy. It’s a small mercy, but it can make a big difference in the heat of battle.
Climbing the Ranks to Avoid Tedious Grinding
Those Anomaly Points you earn from completing quests aren’t just for show—they’re your ticket to upgrading your Agent rank. And that’s where the real magic happens. By leveling up your rank, you unlock Agent skills on a skill tree that can give your team a serious edge. Some perks are universal and benefit your whole squad, while others cater to specific Digimon personalities. So, don’t just blindly follow one path on the skill tree. Take a moment to plan out your upgrades based on your team composition and playstyle. It’s a smarter way to power up your party without resorting to mindless grinding.
Cross Arts: Use ‘Em or Lose ‘Em
Cross Arts abilities are your secret weapon in battle, with effects ranging from healing to debuffing enemies. It’s tempting to save them up for a big showdown, but don’t be afraid to unleash them early and often. Your Cross Arts gauge charges up quickly with each action you take, so you can afford to be generous with these powerful moves. Plus, the more you use them, the faster you’ll recharge for the next round. So, go ahead and let loose with those Cross Arts whenever you see an opening.
Keep Your Rideable Digimon Handy
Having a rideable Digimon on your team can save you a lot of time traveling from place to place. But here’s the catch: as your Digimon evolve, they may lose their ability to carry you around. So, make sure to keep an eye on your team composition and swap out your rideable companion as needed. It’s a small detail, but it can make a big difference in how quickly you navigate the world of Time Stranger. So, don’t get too attached to one mount—be ready to switch things up as your Digimon evolve and grow stronger.
