In many ways, Fire Emblem Engage is a back-to-basics turn for the tactical RPG series. The newest game removes many of the social elements and multiple branches of Three Houses, for a more streamlined, linear approach. It does have a significant new gameplay wrinkle, though, in the form of Emblem rings. These rings, which summon heroes from other Fire Emblem worlds, have major story and gameplay implications throughout Fire Emblem Engage. Bond rings, meanwhile, help round out the nostalgia by recalling other iconic heroes and granting benefits of their own. Here’s how Emblem rings and Bond rings work in Fire Emblem Engage.
Emblem rings
The headliner of the new equipment are the Emblem rings. There are only 12 total, and you unlock them in a linear order as the story progresses. Each of these features a glowing blue specter of another Fire Emblem Game, each with their own abilities. Those 12 are, in no particular order:
- Marth
- Lucina
- Roy
- Celica
- Sigurd
- Leif
- Lyn
- Erika
- Ike
- Micaiah
- Corrin
- Byleth
These rings have a major impact on the story, as the warring factions are fighting in part for control of the rings that could turn the tide of the conflict. But they also have gameplay implications, as each Emblem has its own suite of special abilities and attacks that can be used when you equip it on one of your characters. The Emblems specialize in different types of weapons, so to maximize their utility, you’ll want to equip them on characters that complement their skills. Lyn, for example, is an Archer and would be best suited on a ranged unit, since they’ll make the most of her abilities. Emblem ring abilities come in three types: