Figaro Castle & South Figaro
Your epic journey in Final Fantasy VI begins with a dramatic entrance to Figaro Castle, a marvel of engineering and the domain of the charismatic King Edgar. This section will guide you through your initial exploration of Figaro Castle, the subsequent events that propel you into the world, and your first visit to the bustling town of South Figaro.
Figaro Castle: Initial Exploration
Upon gaining control of Terra and Edgar, take some time to explore Figaro Castle. It's not just a royal residence; it's a mobile fortress with hidden secrets and helpful NPCs.
- Basement: Head to the basement (take the stairs near the main entrance). Here, you'll find a series of engine rooms and a treasure chest containing a Potion. Speak to the engineers for some world-building lore.
- Guest Chambers: Your initial room, located on the main floor, offers a chance to rest and recover HP/MP for free.
- Throne Room: Located on the top floor, this is where you'll find Edgar. After the initial dialogue, you'll witness the arrival of the Imperial General, Kefka, setting the stage for the game's central conflict.
- Castle Mechanics: Edgar will demonstrate Figaro Castle's unique ability to burrow underground and travel through the desert. This mechanic will be crucial later in the game.
After Kefka's destructive visit, Figaro Castle will transform and escape into the desert, leaving you to continue your journey on foot. Your next destination is the town of South Figaro.
South Figaro: A Merchant's Haven
Head south from Figaro Castle's desert location to reach South Figaro. This vibrant port town offers your first opportunity to upgrade equipment, gather information, and even recruit a temporary ally.
Exploring the Town & Key Locations:
- Inn: The inn is located on the west side of town. Resting here costs 50 Gil and fully restores HP/MP.
- Item Shop: Found on the east side of town. Stock up on essential healing items.
- Potion: 50 Gil
- Antidote: 50 Gil
- Eyedrop: 50 Gil
- Tent: 250 Gil (useful for resting on the world map)
- Weapon Shop: Located in the northern part of town. This is your first chance to significantly upgrade your party's offensive capabilities.
- Armor Shop: Adjacent to the Weapon Shop. Don't neglect your defenses!
Recommended Equipment Upgrades in South Figaro:
Prioritize upgrading Edgar and Terra's gear. Locke will join you shortly, but his initial equipment is usually sufficient for the immediate area.
| Character | Equipment Type | Recommended Item | Cost (Gil) | Stat Boost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Terra | Weapon | Broad Sword | 300 | +30 Attack |
| Terra | Armor | Iron Armor | 350 | +24 Defense |
| Terra | Shield | Iron Shield | 250 | +10 Defense |
| Terra | Helmet | Iron Helmet | 200 | +7 Defense |
| Edgar | Weapon | Broad Sword | 300 | +30 Attack |
| Edgar | Armor | Iron Armor | 350 | +24 Defense |
| Edgar | Shield | Iron Shield | 250 | +10 Defense |
| Edgar | Helmet | Iron Helmet | 200 | +7 Defense |
Total estimated cost for basic upgrades: Approximately 2200 Gil. You should have enough from your initial funds and any Gil gained from random encounters.
Recruiting Shadow: The Mysterious Assassin
In the South Figaro pub (located on the west side of town, near the inn), you'll encounter a mysterious ninja named Shadow, accompanied by his faithful dog, Interceptor. Shadow is a powerful mercenary who can be hired for a fee.
- Hiring Cost: Shadow can be hired for 3000 Gil.
- Duration: Shadow will accompany your party for a specific number of battles, typically around 10-15 encounters. After this, he will abruptly leave, taking his equipment with him.
- Implications: While Shadow is a strong early-game character, his high hiring cost and temporary nature mean he's often skipped by players saving Gil for permanent upgrades. If you do hire him, ensure you make the most of his presence in the upcoming South Figaro Cave. Do not equip him with rare or expensive gear, as you will lose it when he departs.
Hidden Treasures & Information:
- Barrel in the Pub: Check the barrel outside the pub for a hidden Potion.
- Back Alley: Explore the back alleys and talk to NPCs for hints about the Empire and the Returners.
Proceeding to the South Figaro Cave
Once you've explored South Figaro, upgraded your gear, and decided whether or not to hire Shadow, your next objective is to head to the South Figaro Cave. This cave is located directly north of South Figaro, leading towards the Returner's Hideout.
- Random Encounters: The South Figaro Cave features relatively easy random encounters. Use this as an opportunity to gain a few experience points and Gil. Common enemies include Hornet, Repo Man, and Leaf Bunny.
- Preparation: Ensure your party is healed, and you have a few Potions on hand before entering.
