Grade is a crucial currency in Tales of Symphonia, earned through combat performance and used to purchase bonuses in New Game+. To maximize Grade, aim for high combo counts, finish battles quickly, and avoid using items. Using overlimits and Mystic Artes also grants bonus Grade. For efficient Grade farming, find areas with easily defeated enemies and practice chaining combos. EX Gems are another vital component, allowing you to customize character growth. Higher-level EX Gems offer more powerful skills. Don't be afraid to experiment with different EX Gem combinations to unlock hidden EX Skills, which can significantly alter a character's combat style and effectiveness. Regularly check the EX Skill menu for new combinations.
While Tales of Symphonia rewards tactical combat performance, Tales of Graces f later refined this system by tying Grade directly to the completion of specific in-game titles and achievements.