Recruiting Ashton in Star Ocean: The Second Story R

Starting The Ashton Quest In Star Ocean: The Second Story R

Star Ocean: The Second Story R features several party members that players can recruit for Cluade and Rena during their playthroughs. While some characters are essential to the story, others like Ashton can be easily missed if players don't encounter him within the game's specified timeline or choose a different path. It's not possible to recruit all the characters in one playthrough, but Ashton can be recruited early on when the party is still preparing to depart for Laucer. He's a great choice for a first playthrough, so this guide will provide players with instructions on how to recruit the missable character Ashton in Star Ocean: The Second Story R.

Although Ashton becomes available early on in the Star Ocean: The Second Story R's storyline, players cannot embark on his quest until a specific point. However, if players proceed too far into the narrative before reaching Laucer, they will miss the opportunity to recruit Ashton but will have the chance to add Opera and Ernest to their team instead. Upon arriving in Salva to aid in the search for Rena within the mines, players may come across a sign cautioning them about a dragon. Additionally, warriors in the local tavern can be overheard discussing strategies for slaying the dragon lurking in the mines.

Luckily, the party won't have to encounter any dragons in order to recruit Ashton. However, recruiting Ashton does come with a unique quirk that compensates for the lack of dragon battles. In order to embark on Ashton's quest, players must first complete the story mission in Marze with Celina. Once that mission is finished, the party will need to either fast-travel or walk to the town of Harley. In Harley, players will notice two NPCs marked with an exclamation point on the minimap. Approach and speak to these NPCs to hear a captivating story about the dragon that resides in the Salva Mines.

Where To Find Ashton In Star Ocean: The Second Story R

Once the knowledge regarding the dragon's presence in the underground mines is acquired, the party ought to swiftly transport themselves to the mining town of Salva. Access to the Salva Mines can be gained either by utilizing Allen's concealed passage within the mansion or by traversing through the main entrance.

Both entrances are guarded. Therefore, approach one of the guards who will then alert the group about Ashton, a fellow warrior undertaking the daring task of challenging the dragon. Proceed beyond the guard to reach the warning sign located within the depths of the mines.

The enemies beyond the sign pose a greater challenge compared to the monsters encountered in the early stages of the game. It is important to ensure that the party has been adequately leveled up, with a minimum requirement of level 20.

The mines present an excellent opportunity to accumulate FOL currency, cultivate SP points, and acquire valuable EXP.

Explore all the interconnected pathways to find and unlock the chests for valuable items.

Head towards the mission exclamation point marked on the map and approach the save point to document the game's progress and restore the party's health. As Claude, Rena, and Celine spot Ashton engaged in combat with the dragon, they decide to rally behind him with encouragement. However, an unexpected turn of events occurs when the dragon becomes entwined with Ashton, becoming an inseparable part of him. When faced with a pivotal decision, Claude is compelled to assume responsibility.

Ashton and the party come to a decision after discussing and eventually step out of the Salva Mines to join forces. This action will lead to unlocking the Cursed Swordsman trophy - Proof of recruiting Ashton.

Head over to the weapons store and claim the Twin Splicers as a well-deserved prize for vanquishing the dragon. Ashton, who is now a member of your party, has an additional side quest that players can embark on to further enhance character growth. Don't miss out on the chance to experience Star Ocean: The Second Story R, available now on PC, PS4, PS5, and Switch.

Editor's P/S

Ashton is an optional character in Star Ocean: The Second Story R, but he's definitely worth recruiting. He's a powerful ally with a unique backstory, and his questline is one of the most interesting in the game.

If you're a fan of Star Ocean, or if you're just looking for a great JRPG to play, I highly recommend checking out Star Ocean: The Second Story R. And don't forget to recruit Ashton!