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

Atlus and Sega's latest foray into the JRPG space is called Metaphor ReFantazio. With gameplay elements, such as turn-based combat, character party management, an incredibly detailed story, and much more, the game is often compared with the Persona series which is also made by Atlus. The game is available on the PS4, PS5, PC, and Xbox Series X and S platforms.

Within the game is a Follower system, which allows players to have the protagonist form bonds with other characters. A warrior named Strohl is among the first followers you unlock over the course of gameplay, and ranking up his Bond level can reward you handsomely.

That said, we look at how to unlock the different ranks for him and the rewards earned via Bond Abilities.

---

Strohl unlock criteria in Metaphor ReFantazio

Strohl is a character with deep-rooted values of loyalty and justice (Image via Sega)

A warrior, Strohl is a firm believer in the values of justice and loyalty. Though born into nobility, Strohl chose to leave that part of his life behind and enlisted in the army. Unlocking him as a follower occurs automatically on 6/6 when the Nord Mines boss is defeated during gameplay. A cutscene will play, and Strohl will be unlocked as a follower.

---

Strohl Bond Rank unlock dates and Bond Abilities in Metaphor ReFantazio

Strohl's bond reward unlocks can prove immensely valuable (Image via Sega)

Below are the Rank unlock criteria and rewards for Strohl:

Rank 1: This is unlocked on 6/6 after defeating the Nord Mines boss. Unlocks the Warrior Archetype.

Rank 2: This is unlocked after clearing the Regalith Grand Cathedral and speaking with Strohl on Sunlumeo Street. It unlocks Warrior's Enlightenment, which reduces MAG cost of studying the Warrior lineage, and Undaunted Spirit, which has Strohl's Critical hit chances increase against humans.

Rank 3: Unlocked by waiting at least two days after achieving Rank 2, and speaking with Strohl. Unlocks Warrior Archetype: Adept, allowing the party to study the Swordmaster.

Rank 4: Unlocked by speaking with him while aboard the Gauntlet Runner. Unlocks Scion's Skill, which increases the inheritance slots to two.

Rank 5: Unlocked by speaking to Strohl after 6/29. Unlocks Warrior Veneration, further reducing the cost of studying Warrior Archetypes. Also unlocks Battle Aura, which increases Strohl's EXP gain if he is a reserve.

Rank 6: Unlocked after completing "A Noble's Legacy" quest, which can be accessed after Rank 5, and the Imagination level being at least 3. Unlocks Scion's Merit (Warrior), which increases the inheritance slots to three. Also unlocks Battle Hypnosis (Warrior), and increases Strohl's EXP gain if he is a reserve to the normal rate.

Rank 7: Unlocked by waiting at least two days after achieving Rank 6. Unlocks Warrior Archetype: Elite, which in turn, unlocks the Samurai Archetype.

Rank 8: Unlocked by waiting at least two days after achieving Rank 7. There are three rewards for unlocking Rank 8:

1. Scion’s Essence, which increases the inheritance slots to four.
2. Slayer of Humans, which sees Strohl's critical hit rate against human enemies greatly increased.
3. Grand Fantasy, which allows Strohl to acquire a new Heroic Embodiment.

---

Read more Metaphor ReFantazio articles below:

• Metaphor ReFantazio stuttering and crashing on PC: How to fix and possible reasons
• All character stats in Metaphor ReFantazio explained