Metaphor ReFantazio Bardon guide: How to unlock, Bond ranks, and abilities

Bardon in Metaphor ReFantazio is a follower whom you can recruit for your party. This highly disciplined person embodies the Commander Archetype. Ironically, despite his commanding nature, leveling up Bardon's Bond Ranks grants your party the "Escape Artist" abilities that increase your chances of successfully fleeing from battle.

This guide shares all the information you need to unlock and bond with Bardon in Metaphor ReFantazio.

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How to Unlock Bardon in Metaphor ReFantazio

Where you can find Bardon (Image via Atlus)

You can unlock Bardon starting July 6 or later in the game by completing the main quest titled "Apprehend the Real Kidnapper."

"Apprehend the Real Kidnapper" Main Quest details:

• Available on July 6 or later.
• You have 10 days to complete this quest before the deadline, but it’s recommended to finish it as soon as possible to unlock Bardon earlier.
• Once completed, Bardon becomes available as a Follower; you will also unlock the Commander Archetype.

Finding Bardon

After completing the quest, Bardon can be found in Martira Castle Town. Initially, look for him in the central area of the town. If you don't see him there, check near the sanctoress' manor. Bardon often appears near the manor for later Bond Ranks, so it's good to check that area if needed.

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Bond Ranks and Rewards for Bardon Metaphor ReFantazio

Bond rewards and ranks for Bardon (Image via Atlus)

Bardon’s Bond Rank system lets you unlock abilities and bonuses as your relationship with him strengthens. You can improve your bond by talking with him and completing events tied to him. Even though you can role-play freely, here are the ideal responses to maximize Bardon’s MAG at each Bond Rank.

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Bond Rank 1

Availability: After completing Apprehend the Real Kidnapper.

Ideal responses: N/A (No specific responses required at this stage).

Rank rewards:

• Unlocks the Commander Archetype, which grants access to the Commander class.

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Bond Rank 2

Availability: After reaching Brilehaven.

Ideal responses:

1. "You're popular."
2. "It'll be fine" or "Everything's a challenge."

Rank rewards:

• Commander Enlightenment: MAG cost of studying the Commander lineage lowers.

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Bond Rank 3

Availability: At least two days after reaching Rank 2.

Ideal responses:

1. "I support you."
2. "The job suits you."
3. "You can protect them now."

Rank rewards:

• Commander Archetype: Adept: Unlocks the General class.
• Scion's Skill: Increases inheritance slots to two.

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Bond Rank 4

Availability: At least two days after Rank 3.

Ideal responses:

1. Any answer is fine.
2. "I see you in a whole new light."
3. "That's a good idea."
4. "That's reassuring."

Rank rewards:

• Protective Formation: Increases defense when the entire party is positioned in the back.
• Care Package: Occasionally receive items from Bardon at the start of a new day.

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Bond Rank 5

Availability: At least two days after Rank 4. Requires Eloquence Rank 3.

Ideal responses:

1. Any answer is fine.
2. "I'm leaning toward yes."
3. "Let's think of another strategy."

Rank rewards:

• Scion's Merit: Increases inheritance slots to three.
• Escape Artist: Increases your success rate when attempting to flee from battles.

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Bond Rank 6

Availability: At least two days after Rank 5.

Ideal responses:

1. Any answer is fine.
2. "The children are scared."
3. Any answer is fine.

Rank rewards:

• Commander Veneration: MAG cost of studying the Commander lineage significantly lowers.
• Rapid Swapper: Decreases the turn icon cost when switching characters in combat.

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Bond Rank 7

Availability: After completing the "Right to Rule" quest.

Ideal responses:

1. "You're causing no trouble at all."
2. "Let's go tell them."
3. Any answer is fine.
4. Any answer is fine.

Rank rewards:

• Escape Master: Guarantees successful escape from all non-boss battles.

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Bond Rank 8

Availability: After unlocking the Prince Archetype.

Ideal responses:

1. "That's terrible."
2. "Have faith in yourself."
3. Any answer is fine.
4. "You're still a kind person."
5. "There is no one more qualified."

Rank rewards:

• Commander Archetype: Elite: Unlocks the Warlord class.
• Scion's Essence: Increases inheritance slots to four.

That’s all for our Bardon guide for Metaphor ReFantazio, we hope it will help you bond better with this companion.