Summoning & Eidolon Usage Guide
Eidolons, also known as summons, are immensely powerful entities that can be called upon in battle to dramatically shift the tide against formidable foes. However, their summoning comes at a steep price: the life of the cadet who performs the ritual. This makes Eidolons a last resort, to be used only when victory seems otherwise impossible.
To summon an Eidolon, a cadet must be desated as the summoner and possess the necessary magical aptitude. The summoning process itself requires a sificant amount of MP and often a specific item or condition to be met. Once summoned, the Eidolon unleashes devastating attacks that can decimate enemy ranks. The specific Eidolon available and its abilities will depend on the story progression and certain character unlocks.
The sacrifice involved in summoning is a critical gameplay mechanic. When a cadet summons an Eidolon, they are removed from the battlefield for the remainder of the mission, effectively sacrificing themselves. This means careful consideration must be given to which cadet you allow to perform the summon, as you will be down a party member. It is often advisable to have a strong reserve of cadets available so that the loss of a summoner does not cripple your remaining forces.
Each Eidolon possesses unique abilities and attack patterns. For example, Shiva excels at ice-based attacks, while Ifrit unleashes fiery devastation. Understanding these elemental affinities and attack ranges is key to maximizing their impact. Some Eidolons may have area-of-effect attacks, while others might focus on single-target destruction.
Given the high cost, it is crucial to use Eidolons strategically. They are best employed against boss encounters or overwhelming waves of enemies where their power can be most impactful. Do not waste their potential on minor skirmishes. Always ensure you have a plan for how to manage your remaining party after a summon, as you will need to compensate for the loss of your summoner.