Metaphor: ReFantazio - How to Identify Mimics?

Loot chests are a staple in Metaphor: ReFantazio, but not all of them are as harmless as they seem. Some of these treasure chests could turn out to be Imitecs, the game's version of mimics. Once you start opening one, you’re locked in a battle with no escape unless you defeat it or fall to its attacks.

Imitecs tend to be significantly stronger than the other foes in their dungeon, often several levels above standard enemies. Plus, they can't be engaged in combat in the overworld like other creatures, which makes these encounters even more challenging. Fortunately, there’s a way to identify an Imitec beforehand, so you can either prepare yourself for the fight or steer clear of it entirely.

How to Identify an Imitec in Metaphor: ReFantazio

You can easily spot Imitecs by using Fae Sight from Gallica. Regular treasure chests will appear with a white outline when viewed through Fae Sight, but Imitecs will be outlined in a different color, indicating their level relative to yours. Even when you identify an Imitec, you won’t be able to engage it in combat unless you open the chest itself, meaning you can't attempt to stun or weaken it through overworld tactics.

Imitecs won't actively attack or reveal their true nature in the overworld, so they are simple to avoid if you’d rather not fight them. However, if you do choose to engage, defeating an Imitec not only grants you the standard battle rewards but also rewards you with a special item, just like a regular loot chest.

Strategies for Defeating Imitecs in Metaphor: ReFantazio

Imitecs come in various forms throughout Metaphor: ReFantazio, each with its own set of weaknesses. However, they all share a vulnerability to a specific skill from the Merchant Archetype: the "Gold Attack." This move is key to gaining the upper hand, as it lures the Imitec into focusing on the money, using up all its Press Turn icons in the process. Even if the Imitec lands hits on your weak spots and gains extra icons, it will still be limited to just one attack.

Here's what you need to know about the Gold Attack:

- Cost: 500 Reeve per use

- Effect: Deals weak Almighty damage with a high chance of delivering a critical hit

Using the Gold Attack each turn will keep the Imitec distracted, making it worth the cost in Reeve. The rewards for taking down an Imitec are substantial, offering generous amounts of EXP and Reeve, as well as rare and valuable items that often surpass the standard loot found in that dungeon, especially after purification.

Mastering these tactics will turn even the toughest Imitec encounters into opportunities for significant gains, making each victory well worth the preparation and effort.