Zaphias: The Lower Quarter
Following the introductory cutscenes, you'll assume control of Yuri Lowell in the bustling, yet grimy, Lower Quarter of Zaphias. This area serves as your initial playground and tutorial zone, introducing you to the game's core mechanics and setting the stage for the adventure ahead. Your immediate objective is to track down the thief who stole the Mystic Artefact from the Don. This section will guide you through your first steps, including essential combat training and the discovery of early-game resources.
Navigating the Lower Quarter: The Thief's Trail
Your journey begins near the fountain in the central plaza of the Lower Quarter. Speak to the nearby citizens if you wish, but your primary focus should be on finding clues to the thief's whereabouts. The path forward is relatively linear at this early stage.
- Head North: From the fountain, make your way towards the northern exit of the plaza.
- The First Encounter: As you proceed north, you will be intercepted by a group of local Ruffians. This encounter is designed as your first combat tutorial.
Combat Tutorial: Mastering the Basics
The Ruffians are your initial test of Yuri's combat prowess. This fight will teach you the fundamentals of attacking, defending, and using Artes.
- Objective: Defeat the Ruffians.
- Enemies: Typically 2-3 Ruffians. They are weak and serve as a gentle introduction.
- Strategy:
- Basic Attacks: Mash the attack button to unleash a combo.
- Artes: As the tutorial progresses, you'll be prompted to use Yuri's first Arte, Azure Edge. This is a powerful sword technique that deals significant damage.
- Defense: Learn to block incoming attacks by holding the guard button. This will reduce or negate damage.
- Movement: Practice dodging and repositioning to avoid enemy attacks and flank them.
- Rewards: Upon defeating the Ruffians, you'll receive a small amount of Gald and experience points. This also triggers the next phase of your objective.
Exploring the Alleyways: Hidden Treasures
The Lower Quarter is not just a path to your objective; it's also a place to gather essential early-game items. Do not neglect the side paths and alleyways, as they often conceal valuable loot.
- The Alley Behind the Fountain: Immediately after the combat tutorial, before proceeding further north, take a moment to explore the narrow alleyway directly behind the central fountain. Here, you can often find:
- Apple Gels: Essential for restoring HP during combat.
- Gald: A small amount of currency.
- The Alleyway to the East: After defeating the Ruffians, and before exiting the area to the north, look for a small, easily missed alleyway branching off to the east. This path often contains:
- Cooking Ingredients: Such as Mushrooms or Potatoes, crucial for later cooking.
- Potions: Further HP recovery items.
Checking these areas thoroughly will equip you better for the challenges ahead and ensure you don't miss out on vital resources right from the start.
Continuing the Pursuit
After the combat tutorial and a brief exploration of the immediate surroundings, your objective will update, urging you to continue pursuing the thief. Follow the path leading out of the Ruffians' encounter area to the north. This will lead you into the next section of Zaphias, where your chase will continue.
