How to defeat the Foreign Assassin in Octopath Traveler 2

There are a handful of hidden side bosses in Octopath Traveler 2—the Foreign Assassins being one of them. As their name suggests, they're a group of four assassins who, once beaten, you can recruit into battle. Here's how to defeat the Foreign Assassins in Octopath Traveler 2, including weaknesses.

Where to find the Foreign Assassin in Octopath Traveler 2

While the Octopath Traveler 2 boss fight itself is with four assassins, you'll be looking for a singular assassin to engage in battle, who then brings out three others. To find him, head out to Western Merry Hills Pass in the Crestlands. Note that it is a level 45 area though, so this isn't something you want to attempt until you're at least level 43 (the higher, the better).

The lone assassin can be found left of the Merry Hills town entrance, down a ladder. Change the time of day to night and he'll appear. Speak to him and select yes when asked if you want to fight, where you'll go up against the four Foreign Assassins.

How to beat the Foreign Assassins in Octopath Traveler 2

Each Foreign Assassin has its own weaknesses, which you'll want to exploit to Break and immobilize them for a turn. Their weaknesses are as follows:

• Foreign Assassin I - Bow, Fire, Light
• Foreign Assassin II - Sword, Polearm, Bow
• Foreign Assassin III - Axe, Ice, Light
• Foreign Assassin IV - Sword, Stave, Ice, Wind

Because two assassins take Sword and Ice damage, it'd be wise to head in with Castti, Osvald, Throné, or Hikari, or equip your team with the Apothecary, Scholar, Thief, or Warrior secondary jobs.

Related: All side quests in Octopath Traveler 2 and where to find them

Aside from exploiting their weaknesses, there is no special strategy when it comes to beating the four. It's all a matter of saving up your team's BP before Breaking them, then going wild with your most powerful attacks. You'll eventually start picking them off one by one until the fight is over and you reign victorious. You'll receive 6,000 leaves, 6,000 EXP, and 800 JP for winning.

How to hire the Foreign Assassin in Octopath Traveler 2

Once you've defeated the Foreign Assassin, he will become available for hire during battle using Partitio's Hired Help skill in his Merchant Skills menu. Be warned: the price is steep, at a whopping 50,000 leaves per use.

It is worth it if you have the money, though, as Foreign Assassin not only deals a devastating dagger attack on all foes but also heals your team's HP and SP.

For more information on Octopath Traveler 2, check out Best NPCs to recruit in Octopath Traveler 2 on Pro Game Guides.