Ascension

Ascension is the main way to power up characters in Final Fantasy XV, similar to the Sphere Grid (Final Fantasy X) or Crystarium (Final Fantasy XIII), but is split into multiple Nexuses.

Each Nexus focuses on a specific aspect of gameplay, such as magic, exploration, and combat.

To purchase nodes on the Ascension board, you need to earn AP (Ability Points).

AP can be earned through combat by defeating enemies with a Blindside Link, Linkstrike, Parry, and Warp Strike.

Other methods for obtaining AP include dialogue choices, Tours sidequests obtained during camping, and specific nodes within the Exploration Nexus that grant AP for activities like fishing, camping, and driving.

When choosing nodes, prioritize the Exploration Nexus for nodes like Roadrunning (driving), Happy/Happier Camping (camping), Chocobump (riding Chocobos), and Angler Action (fishing) to earn AP passively.

For Ignis's recipes, invest in Aftertaste and Lingering Aftertaste nodes to increase the duration of meal buffs.

On the Stats Nexus, unlock the second accessory slots for all characters; the third slots are recommended for postgame.

If you use magic, focus on Elementalism (draw more energy from deposits), Powercraft, and Extra Powercraft (increase potency).

On the Recovery Nexus, Hang In and First Aid are recommended.

In the Armiger tree, Armiger Harvester and Iron Armiger are good choices.

For Techniques, Ignis's Regroup, Enhancement, and Overwhelm are powerful. Tech Strike is useful for increasing the tech bar. Prompto and Gladio's default techniques are also good.

In the Teamwork and Combat Nexuses, prioritize nodes that increase damage for Blindside attacks, Warpstrikes, and Linkstrikes.

Analyze is useful for Ignis to identify enemy weaknesses, especially without Wait Mode.

Venom Fang (Ignis), First Strike (Prompto), and Reflex (Gladio) are cost-effective choices.

Light Phase reduces MP cost for Warpstrikes when dodging.

Airstep and Airslip provide enhanced aerial maneuverability and dodging capabilities.