The Star Ocean series is known for utilizing multiple systems to make it as enjoyable for the player as possible, and Star Ocean: The Second Story R is no different. The optional mechanics like pickpocketing make obtaining FOL, rare and unusual items, weapons, and more much less challenging. While stealing from the party and NPCs can be a questionable action, the rewards that Claude and the others can get are worthwhile.
Furthermore, if the protagonist's relationship is affected by the theft, it can be rebuilt using Star Ocean: The Second Story R's Private Action scenarios. This guide will show players how to get the Pickpocketing specialties early in Star Ocean: The Second Story R.
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Specialties For Pickpocketing In Star Ocean: The Second Story R
Before taking on the quest to unlock Pickpocketing in Star Ocean: The Second Story R, players must ensure that Claude has the relevant skills and specialties. Claude should have the Nimble Fingers talent - which gets assigned randomly - like in the PS1 and PSP versions of Star Ocean 2. To check if Claude has the talent, press the Triangle button on the PlayStation or the X button on the Switch. Select Status and the Square button on the PlayStation or Y on the Switch to see if he has the talent. If it's missing, players can either restart the game or learn the Machinery Speciality.
In addition to the Nimble Finger ability, players must spend some skill points (SP) to get and level up the following skills:
- Courage
- Poker Face
The more players increase the level of Courage and Poker Face, the higher the chance of successfully stealing items without getting caught.
Finally, players must activate the Pickpocketing mechanic in the IC/Speciality menu. With the skill activated, players can approach NPCs and characters in Private Actions and steal from them by pressing L1 on the PlayStation or L on the Switch.
How To Get The Thief's Glove In Star Ocean: The Second Story R
After getting Claude's skills and talents in order, it is time to get the right tool for the job, the Theif's Glove. Luckily, this can be obtained early in Star Ocean: The Second Story R, especially as the map opens for exploration. Claude and the party must travel to a harbor town called Harley.
Harley is located east of Kross and past the village of Maize on the coast. The Thief's Glove can be purchased in the town's Antique Shop called The Sunken Vessel for 40,000 FOL. It's an expensive item, but players can invest Skill Points in Determination to lower the cost of leveling up specialties and increase Purity to obtain more FOL.
Star Ocean: The Second Story R is available now for the PC, PS4, PS5, and Switch.