Pair-Up

Another signature feature adopted from recent Fire Emblem games, you’ll have the option to pair up two characters, with the one acting as the Vanguard and other as Support. You can do this by pressing R+B when an ally is close or ordering them to do so during the battle pre-battle preparation screen or actively during the battle. To unpair a paired unit, press R+B again. If the support unit is a playable character, you can switch the Vanguard and Support positions without breaking up the pair by pressing R+X. You can pair up with non-playable allies but that can only be done by ordering one of your playable characters to do it via the Map options.

Like the recent Fire Emblem titles, the support unit gives stat boosts to the vanguard unit and even shares EXP as the vanguard defeats enemies. This also gives the vanguard access to special moves like Dual Strike, Dual Guard, and Dual Special. Pairing is also a great way to increase the bonds (Support Rank) of the paired characters.

Aside from having a solid, powerful unit, there are other tactical advantages of paired units. Mounted units, especially flyers can act as reliable transports, making it possible to “carry” their partners to another location that will be otherwise inaccessible or will take longer for the character to go to. You can also pair up characters to cover their weaknesses. For example, a Frederick and Lisse pair is pretty solid since Frederick’s impressive HP pool and stats make him a great all-around mounted unit that’s weak against magic. This is covered by Lisse since she’s practically a mage’s bane due to her high physical attack and strong resistance. Another example is a flying unit’s weakness to archers. Enjoy the great mobility flyers provide then switch to another character to deal with the archers.

Dual Strike

When the Weapon Gauge is full, press R+Y to perform a Dual Strike to order the support unit to attack the enemies in front of you. This attack can break through enemy guard. If the support unit’s weapon that has advantage over the enemy, Dual Strike will always trigger a Stun Gauge. This gauge also fills up as you attack enemies while paired.

Dual Special

When both the vanguard and support Warrior Gauges are full, pressing A will allow the paired unit to perform a devastating wide-area special attack that is capable of even wiping out a boss instantly. This will deplete both unit’s warrior gauges so make sure to activate it wisely, preferably when you’re already surrounded by hordes of minions and several dangerous enemies/ bosses.

Dual Guard

When a vanguard is attacked while paired and with the Shield Gauge is full, Dual Guard will automatically trigger and the support unit will appear to guard against that attack. The Shield Gauge will fill up as you attack enemies while paired. This is quite beneficial especially against bosses since they tend to attack more aggressively. And cause a lot of damage especially in hard mode.