Metaphor: ReFantazio features eight playable characters, including the protagonist. While Gallica is present from the start, her combat role is limited. The remaining seven party members join at specific points in the story, detailed below. Note: Reading further may reveal minor story spoilers regarding party member recruitment.

Party Member Recruitment Timeline:

Each character awakens to their unique Archetype; once awakened, the Archetype can be used by any party member. Some early members are initially AI-controlled until their awakening.

• Strohl (Warrior): Joins on June 5th (6/5) at the Border Fort, but awakens and becomes fully playable on June 6th (6/6) at the Nord Mines.

• Grius: Joins after the Border Fort events, becoming a combat participant on June 6th (6/6). While he doesn't have a traditional awakening, he can use an Archetype once Strohl awakens.

• Hulkenberg (Knight): Begins interacting with the party on June 10th (6/10), fully joining and awakening her Archetype during the boss fight on June 11th (6/11).

• Heismay (Thief): His awakening and party integration occur on July 4th (7/4) within Martira's main dungeon.

• Junah (Masked Dancer): Awakens and joins the party on August 13th (8/13).

• Eupha (Summoner): Eupha's recruitment is flexible. Completing the Dragon Temple Dungeon anytime between August 19th (8/19) and September 4th (9/4) during Viraga Island's free time adds her to the party for the final boss fight. Her Bond quest becomes available after this period.

• Basilio (Berserker): Awakens and joins on September 11th (9/11) during Saint's Day events. He becomes fully usable in combat the following day.