BATTLE BASICS

Learn the fundamentals of Eternal Strands' unique turn-based combat system, including movement, action gauge, tactical time, attacks, items, special attacks, guarding, and running away.

Eternal Sonata features a unique turn-based battle system with elements similar to the Tales series. Colliding with an enemy on the field initiates a battle.

Battle Screen Elements:

• Party HP: Represented by HP bars at the top of the screen.
• Turn Indicator: The highlighted character icon shows whose turn it is. Look for "NEXT" over other icons to see the upcoming turn order.

Movement and Action Gauge:

When it's your turn, you can move freely in a 360-degree area using the Left Analog Stick. Movement, attacking, and using items deplete the Action Gauge (a vertical blue bar on the left). Stopping movement conserves the Action Gauge. If the Action Gauge depletes, your turn ends.

Tactical Time (TT):

Symbolized by "TT" above the Action Gauge, Tactical Time allows you to stand still for a limited duration without depleting your Action Gauge. Once this time runs out, the Action Gauge begins to deplete. Tactical Time stops when you move or attack.

Actions During Your Turn:

• Attack (A): Performs a physical attack. Each attack depletes the Action Gauge but also fills it slightly, potentially extending your turn. You must be near the enemy to attack.
• Item (X): Use items from your customizable Item Set. The number of items you can carry depends on your Party Level. Scroll through items using LB and RB. Item Sets must be customized outside of battle.
• Special Attack (Y): Each character has unique Special Attacks. Press Y for primary Special Attacks and hold Y for secondary Special Attacks. You can equip two primary and two secondary (one Light, one Dark) Special Attacks, which must be chosen outside of battle. Party Level increases the number of available slots.

Actions During Enemy Turn:

• Guard (B): When the word "CHANCE" appears over your character, press B to guard and reduce incoming damage.
• Counterattack: Later in the game, a counterattack symbol will appear. Press A instead of B to perform a counterattack.
• Run: Hold LB and RB to attempt to flee. This depletes the Action Gauge and is more successful if initiated before your turn begins. Pay attention to the "NEXT" indicator to time your escape.