Ashley Graham is your constant companion throughout a significant portion of Resident Evil 4 (Remake), and her safety is paramount. While she can defend herself to a degree, Leon is ultimately responsible for keeping her out of harm's way. This section details how to manage Ashley's safety effectively.
Ashley's Vulnerability
Ashley is not a combatant. She cannot wield weapons or effectively fight off enemies. Her primary role is to be rescued. If she is grabbed by an enemy, she will be in a vulnerable state, and if not rescued quickly, she can be killed, leading to a game over.
Commanding Ashley
Leon has a set of commands he can issue to Ashley:
- “Stay Here” (or “Wait”): This command instructs Ashley to remain stationary in her current location. This is crucial for keeping her safe while you clear an area of enemies or solve a puzzle.
- “Follow Me” (or “Come”): This command tells Ashley to follow Leon closely. Use this when you need her to move with you.
- “Get Behind Me” (or “Hide”): Ashley will position herself directly behind Leon, offering a small degree of protection. This is useful in chaotic combat situations.
Strategic Placement
When you need to leave Ashley unattended, choose her location wisely. Look for areas that are:
- Out of the Way: Place her in rooms or alcoves that enemies are unlikely to enter.
- Elevated: If possible, have her wait on a higher platform or ledge where enemies cannot easily reach her.
- Behind Doors: Closing a door behind her can sometimes provide a temporary barrier.
Combat Situations
During combat, your priority is to eliminate threats before they can reach Ashley. If an enemy grabs her:
- React Immediately: As soon as you see an enemy grab Ashley, switch to your most powerful weapon and target the enemy holding her.
- Use Explosives: Grenades or flashbangs can sometimes dislodge enemies holding Ashley and stun them, giving you a chance to finish them off.
- Prioritize Threats: If multiple enemies are attacking, deal with those closest to Ashley first.
Puzzle Solving with Ashley
Some puzzles require Ashley's assistance. In these instances, you'll need to position her correctly and potentially issue commands to have her interact with mechanisms or hold levers. Always ensure the area is clear of immediate threats before engaging with these puzzles.
When Ashley is in Danger
If Ashley is grabbed, a prompt will appear indicating how to rescue her (usually a quick-time event or a specific button press). Mash the button or perform the action quickly to free her. If you fail, she may be killed.
Tips for Keeping Ashley Safe
- Clear Areas First: Before proceeding, ensure all immediate threats are neutralized.
- Use "Stay Here" Liberally: Don't hesitate to leave Ashley in a safe spot while you scout ahead or deal with distant enemies.
- Listen for Her Cues: Ashley will often call out if she's in danger or if enemies are approaching.
- Keep Healing Items Handy: While Ashley doesn't use healing items, you will need them to survive encounters that put her at risk.
- Don't Forget Her Commands: Regularly use the "Stay Here" and "Follow Me" commands to manage her positioning.