Optimizing your characters' abilities in Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is a strategic necessity, especially as you progress through the game and face tougher challenges. While creating a perfect character from the outset is difficult, the game provides a mechanism to adjust your skill and attribute allocations, known as respeccing. This process requires a specific item called a Recoat, making careful consideration of its use important for effective character development.

To initiate a respec, you must first locate an Expedition Flag, which serves as a central hub for various character management actions, including health recovery and fast travel. Once at an Expedition Flag, you can choose the character you wish to modify and decide whether to reallocate their attribute points or skill points. It is crucial to remember that each Recoat allows for the reset of either attributes or skills for a single character, not both simultaneously. This distinction means that a complete overhaul of a character's build would necessitate two Recoats. New players are advised to conserve their Recoats until they have accumulated more experience and points, allowing for more informed decisions on character optimization.

Acquiring Recoats, while seemingly scarce early on, becomes more manageable as you delve deeper into Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. The most common method involves defeating enemies, who have a chance to drop Recoats. Certain enemies, such as the Ice Golem in Act 3, are particularly known for their Recoat drops, offering a reliable farming opportunity by resetting the area at an Expedition Flag. Additionally, Recoats can be purchased from Gestral Merchants or discovered as loot in various locations. A notable early-game opportunity for new players to obtain a Recoat is by engaging Nicolas, the painter, in a duel during the prologue, where you are rewarded with a Recoat regardless of the outcome. Another accessible Recoat can be found near Noco's Hut in Flying Waters, hidden on a flat stone before a large round tunnel, making exploration a rewarding endeavor.

The ability to refine character builds and adapt to evolving gameplay scenarios is fundamental to success in Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. By strategically managing and acquiring Recoats, players are empowered to experiment with different character configurations, leading to a more dynamic and engaging gameplay experience. This flexibility ensures that every expedition offers opportunities for growth and discovery, encouraging players to continuously strive for improvement and overcome adversity with innovative strategies.