Our coverage of Xenoblade Chronicles 3 continues with the Soulhacker, already a fan favorite alongside its recruitable Hero, Triton. What makes Soulhacker stand out so much in a game that's flush with fairly unique classes is that it's the only one touting that classic "Final Fantasy Blue Mage" appeal. And for a select number of RPG fans? That's a huge draw.
This guide will give you an overview of why Soulhacker is a ton of fun. Afterward, we'll ensure you unlock it as soon as possible, so that you can get to blue-maging your way across Aionios.
What Is The Soulhacker Class?
It might be more accurate to ask what isn't the Soulhacker class, in which case the answer is that it is most assuredly unlike any other class in the game. Rather than learning skills through traditional means, Soulhacker essentially absorbs special abilities from Xenoblade Chronicles 3's named monsters, better known as Unique Monsters in common parlance.
How's that work, exactly? Well, first you go looking for one of the many Unique Monsters across Aionios. If you've been playing for long, you'll already know that there are a ton. Take your Soulhacker, whether it's Triton or an inheritor, and go to town against the creature. Congrats; your Soulhacker now learns something they possessed for their own before meeting an untimely end.
There's further coolness involved. Rather than being assigned a set role, you choose from one of six tailored to the style of play you prefer, or in the case that another party member is in control of them, the style that you want them to prefer. In this regard, they'll double down on the right sorts of mechanics to suit what you've selected.
Additionally, you can have up to six Unique Monster Arts equipped at a time. This keeps things roughly on par with how other classes work, giving meaningful distinction in how you choose to deck out your Soulhacker.
Best of all, there's a very satisfying sound effect and visual representation when you acquire a new Art. If seeing the words "Soul Hacked" flash across your TV or Switch screen doesn't do it for you, we're not sure anything will.
How To Unlock The Soulhacker Class
So, you want a Blue Mage of your own, do you? We can't blame you. Soulhacker's seriously that rad. Here's how to make the magic happen.
The earnest and steadfast Triton cannot be recruited until at least Chapter Five. Head to Cadensia's Ishan Isle and witness the notably splashy event that ensues. Catching that Ferronis is now your modus operandi, Ouroboros. Follow it to Hargan Isle, at which point you'll get to know a member of Moebius who isn't afraid to play by his own rules in the name of his charges.
The quest Doing It My Way thus unlocks, which combines several battles with some old-fashioned treasure hunting. The climax, predictably, revolves around a head-to-head with Triton himself.
Another Colony is saved, and Xenoblade Chronicles 3 once again proves there's no one way to crack a Flame Clock, as Triton teams up with the gang, offering his amazing Soulhacker class to sweeten the pot.