Echoes of Aincrad: Best Early Game Partners

Echoes of Aincrad is the latest, and possibly the greatest, in a long line of SAO games aiming to capture the magic of the VRMMORPG anime. It places you in the shoes of a unique protagonist for a change. 

Alongside the new lead, you also have a bunch of new partners to buddy up with. Beginning with three partners that you'll meet in the beta. Plus, Cal, but they won't be available for a little while after the beta ends, so we won't include them. 

Anyone wondering who to take along on your quests after the beta period, we have you covered. Here's the partner you'll want to take with you in every situation you encounter while visiting the overworld and beyond. 

Best Partner For Defense 

Iori

If you're not all that great at blocking and parrying, or you constantly find yourself swarmed by enemies, Iori is the partner to go for. 

Their Twin-Embrace ability allows you to exact crowd control where needed to take out less tanky enemies, avoiding any awkward stun-lock scenarios. 

Plus, they have a Healing Circle ability that spawns a circle around Iori, allowing you to passively heal while standing in it. Which is perfect for when you run out of potions

Best Partner For Offense 

Wyseman

If you just want to go in all guns blazing to a fight, Wyseman is your guy. Mainly because they are a big hitter, best showcased by their Tri-Stampede ability. This attacks a single enemy with three powerful attacks, dealing massive damage. 

Admittedly, their Discordant Resonance ability leaves a lot to be desired, as it's hard to ensure that they are positioned in an area where this effect will daze foes. But, if you're lucky, this can stun enemies and deal some damage into the bargain. 

Best Partner For Exploration 

Argo

While I would never use Argo for anything seriously challenging, as they are laughably frail compared to the other two. I will say that she comes in handy when expressly searching for chests, database entries, and blueprints in the overworld. 

This is mainly down to her Analyze ability, which shows chests that would otherwise not be marked on the map without resting at a safe zone.

But it's also a great ability to buff your attack, as anyone caught in the range of this move will be more vulnerable to attacks. Which, when paired with her Twin Moon ability, can be pretty devastating. 

She's a little too squishy for my liking, but if you're out there for goodies and supplies, Argo is the ideal companion. 

Best Partner For Hard/Death Mode 

Iori

Lastly, if you are playing Very Hard difficulty or Death Mode, you'll want to rely on Iori over the others.

This is almost entirely down to the Healing Circle ability, as you will have limited opportunities to heal, and when you're out of them while playing at this difficulty level, you're in big trouble. 

You'll therefore want this added safety net of a way to keep health high. Especially in boss fights where a few heavy hits could put your save file in jeopardy.