Chain Attacks are a mechanic introduced in the second chapter of Xenoblade Chronicles 3 and are an essential part of the game’s combat system. At first, you may be somewhat confused on what you should be focusing on after initiating a Chain Attack, so we have prepared this guide to help you understand how they work, things to watch out for, and how to maximise your damage. Let’s get straight to it!
How To Start A Chain Attack in Xenoblade Chronicles 3
JRPG enthusiasts have likely been exposed to the idea of chain attacks in the past – they’re a tool that allows you to literally “chain” attacks together by utilising everyone in your party – and are an excellent form of damage output. However, there are a few differences in Xenoblade Chronicles 3 that make chain attacks unique, so here’s everything you need to know.
Firstly, you are required to fill the chain attack meter before you can start one – this can be viewed to the right of your screen during combat. The meter can take a while to generate enough points to launch a chain attack, as lower-level enemies don’t contribute much to your overall gain. That being said, larger enemies, such as unique encounters, are more likely to speed up this process. Once this meter has been filled, you are then able to press the + button on your controller to start a chain attack.
Xenoblade 3 Chronicles Chain Attacks Explained
Now that you’re in the chain attack phase, it’s time to start dealing some damage! Then again, you will first need to decide the fate of the chain attack, which can be viewed after initiating the process. A list of outcomes will be presented to you, such as increasing the attack of your allies or lowering the accuracy of your opponent. As such, you will need to ensure that you’re thinking about the ideal outcome for your current situation, especially during boss fights.
You should now have an idea of what you want to accomplish from the chain attack, so now comes the fun part. Everyone in your party will be listed in a row, featuring their currently equipped class and the amount of TP one of their attacks will generate. For a chain attack to be successful, you are required to surpass 100% TP – it can be tracked in the top-right corner of the screen. Each class role offers a different contribution to TP depending on how you use them.
Attackers retrieve additional TP if they’re the first to take a swing at the opponent, while Healers don’t surpass 100% no matter your current percentage, and Tanks receive a ton of TP if they’re the last to initiate an attack. After all of this has been considered, chain your attacks together to reach the right criteria to accomplish the goal you assigned to the devastating attack. However, you’re not finished, as some characters may regenerate their TP and are able to continue their offense.
You are then able to select a different outcome and continue utilising chain attacks until you’re no longer able to do so. Additionally, the longer you stay in a chain attack the more experience you receive, and more damage is dealt.
That’s everything you need to know about chain attacks in Xenoblade Chronicles 3 for Nintendo Switch. Want to unlock your class-level cap? Check out our dedicated guide to learn more!