Octopath Traveler: What the Difference Between Inquire and Scrutinize Is

Difference Between Inquire and Scrutinize in Octopath Traveler

In Octopath Traveler, there are a total of eight Path Actions for each of the main characters. Arguably the most useful ones are Inquire and Scrutinize, which allow you to glean more information from NPCs you meet along the way. This can give you hints as to how to progress certain side quests in Octopath Traveler, or perks that offer inn discounts or a more varied stock at the item shops. Both Path Actions work in exactly the same way, but there’s one very key difference between the two.

Inquire is Alfyn’s Path Action in Octopath Traveler, while Scrutinize is Cyrus’. Inquire is also considered a Noble Path Action, while Scrutinize is a Rogue one. What this means is that Inquire can be used on any NPC with no repercussions in Octopath Traveler, while Scrutinize might offer you an 80 percent chance of success. If you fail to Scrutinize an NPC too many times, your reputation will take a hit. When this happens, NPCs will no longer be receptive to your Path Actions, and you’ll need to pay the tavern keeper a sum of money to restore it.

However, it’s also worth noting that Inquire can only be used if Alfyn is at a high enough level to do it. If his level is too low, he won’t be able to use it on certain NPCs. When this happens, and you need information from the NPCs, it might be better to use Scrutinize instead since you have at least some chance of success. Of course, once Alfyn is leveled enough to use his Path Action on any NPC, it’s far better to use Inquire instead of Scrutinize.

And that’s pretty much all you need to know about the difference between these two Path Actions. Be sure to check our wiki for more information on Octopath Traveler.