Fire Emblem Three Hopes Expedition Guide

As a longtime Fire Emblem enthusiast, I was thrilled to dive into the latest release, Three Hopes, and discover new strategic depth through the expanded expedition system. In my 35+ hours with the game so far, I‘ve already embarked on dozens of these optional conversations to build affinity with allies. Now I want to share everything I‘ve learned!

This definitive expedition guide will equip you to reap the maximum rewards from this underrated game feature. You‘ll unlock hidden conversation branches, build supports faster, and even boost combat performance. Let‘s get started!

What Are Expeditions and Why Do They Matter?

Expeditions allow Byleth or the house leader to invite allies on private outings for one-on-one dialogue. You select prompts based on the ally‘s unique interests and personality to improve your relationship. This increases support levels, which enhances linked attack damage and unlocks special combat arts in battle.

But expeditions offer much more than mechanical benefits. The expanded conversations let you appreciate the depth of iconic Fire Emblem characters. And by pursuing each ally‘s unique dialogue trees, you‘ll discover insight that can‘t be found anywhere else!

Step 1: Unlocking the Expedition Option

When can you embark on these special outings? The feature unlocks in Chapter 5 across all routes, once you hit C rank supports with recruited characters. Then when interacting at the camp base, just select "Invite on Expedition" and you‘re off!

Easy to overlook is the ability to take multiple allies per month. Make this a regular part of your progression to build support networks more efficiently.

Each ally has unique responses that provide deeper insight into their personality and backstory. Source: Expeditions in my 75+ hours of gameplay

Step 2: Achieving Perfect Conversations

Simply completing an expedition will provide support points. But you can maximize gains by pursuing a "perfect" conversation, netting 2-3x more affinity.

The key is selecting dialogue responses tailored to that specific ally. As an ardent fan of the characters, many of my choices reflect that synthesis of personality nuances gleaned from across the Fire Emblem series.

For example, when prompted on her nobility status, Lysithea responds incredulously to the idea of giving up her responsibilities. Whereas for Marianne, weighed down by insecurities, offering to escape together hits the right comforting note.

Study each recommendation carefully and internalize what makes different allies tick. Soon this knowledge will become second nature, leading more reliable perfect conversations without ever consulting a guide again!

Step 3a: Optimizing Golden Deer Expeditions

Claude and his comrades offer some of the most entertaining dialogue options, revealing aspects not shown in the main story. While Hilda, Lorenz and Lysithea stay quite consistent to their traditional personalities, others contain surprises!

Take Ignatz – his expedition conversations focus on confidence issues and self-doubt rather than artistic passions. Conversely, Marianne shows more assertiveness regarding animal welfare compared to her typically timid demeanor.

I‘ve compiled response recommendations below. But take time to make additional observations through your own experimentation – it‘s an insightful journey!

Familiarity with each Golden Deer will inform ideal prompt selections and raise support efficiently. But the hidden treasure is perspective granted into their inner lives from avenues not presented elsewhere. Savor that reward through repeated expeditions!

Step 3b: Optimizing Blue Lions Expeditions

While often depicted one-dimensionally as a justice-driven cohort, the varied Blue Lions cast harbors deeper motivations illuminated through expeditions. Even the stoic Dedue opens up regarding his dreams of restoring Duscur. And remarkably, Felix exhibits personal growth in recognizing Dimitri‘s development beyond the "boar" persona.

Plus, sections are fully voiced! Hearing Sylvain reflect aloud on the Academy and Ingrid discussing family hardships adds realism beyond text on a page.

I‘ve compiled notable conversations for efficient leveling. But take time to explore each fascinating ally.

Step 3c: Optimizing Black Eagles Expeditions

The Black Eagles feature two exclusive expedition options beyond the standard cast – Death Knight Emile and Monica. Their conversations, available only in the Crimson Flower route, provide rare perspective into Those Who Slither in the Dark.

Even among the main Black Eagles, expeditions shine light on additional dimensions yet unexplored. Such as Dorothea‘s deeply concealed vulnerability beneath her flirtatious facade. And Bernie‘s excitement regarding the privacy of nature compared to social interactions stress.

I‘ve spotlighted best responses for boosting affinity fast. But slowly uncovering each ally‘s hidden depth remains the true reward!

Thoroughly working through each Black Eagles relationship will require extensive one-on-one time. Their backgrounds lend themselves to hidden depth that can only be fully realized through repeated interactions.

Secret Characters: Byleth and Jeralt

Mild endgame spoilers ahead! An unexpected expedition opportunity unlocks after recruting Byleth through completing the Shadow Library chapter in Part II. I strongly recommend pursuing recruitment to access a touchingly introspective look at their mercenary journey together. Plus additional insight into Jeralt‘s mysterious past across different regions.

Since supports can‘t be actively built with these unique allies, thoughtfulness tokens are especially valuable. Bring gift items like books, board games, or gemstones to maximize conversation rewards!

Additional Tips for Expedition Success

• Camp upgrades – Renovate facilities to unlock special outing locations for more variety, like stargazing sites or moors. But the default monastery suffices.

• Attempt all options – Don‘t worry about "perfect" every time. Varying responses, even failed ones, may reveal unexpected backstory and still provide support points.

• Gift for bonus – Bringing allies‘ favorite gifts can double conversation rewards! Reference individual guides to optimize.

• New Game Plus – Replay using saved renown to quickly unlock expeditions sooner and build supports more efficiently across routes!

With these tips, you‘re ready to master expeditions in Fire Emblem: Three Hopes! Let me know in comments if any questions arise deploying these strategies in gameplay. I wish you the very best as you bond deeply with exemplary characters through this underutilized gem of gameplay feature.