Building strong bonds in Persona 3 Reload is essential for unlocking powerful Personas and gaining helpful bonuses throughout your journey. Among the various relationships you can foster, the Star Social Link with rival athlete Mamoru Hayase offers a compelling story and valuable rewards. Understanding the exact unlock conditions and choosing the best conversation responses will help you maximize this relationship efficiently.
How to Unlock the Star Social Link
To begin the Star Social Link, you must first progress far enough in the game to meet Mamoru Hayase. First, ensure you have joined the Track Team via the Chariot Social Link early in the story. After participating in the track meet on August 2nd, Mamoru will approach you and acknowledge your performance.
You must also reach Rank 4 Courage ("Tough") to interact with Mamoru. Once you meet this stat requirement, head to the Iwatodai Strip Mall during daytime after school. Speaking with Mamoru here starting August 3rd or later will officially initiate the Star Social Link.
Best Dialogue Answers for Ranks 2 to 5
When hanging out with Mamoru, selecting responses that encourage his athletic career and family responsibilities earns the maximum amount of points. Bringing a Persona of the Star Arcana when meeting him will further boost your point gains. For the early ranks, always express support for his determination and hard work.
During Rank 2 and Rank 3 events, praise his athletic drive and offer positive encouragement when he discusses his training. For Rank 4 and Rank 5, support his family-first mentality and choose options that emphasize standing by his decisions. These supportive choices ensure steady progression without requiring extra fortune draws or filler hangouts.
Optimal Dialogue Answers for Ranks 6 to 10
As you approach the later ranks of the Star Social Link, Mamoru faces heavy personal challenges and tough life decisions. In Rank 6, reassure him when he apologizes for delays by choosing comforting responses like "Don't worry, it's okay". Rank 7 requires you to motivate him when he feels overwhelmed, selecting "Don't give up yet" to keep his spirits high.
For Rank 8 and Rank 9, encourage his resolve by telling him to take action and agreeing with his future plans. Finally, at Rank 10, ask him about his departure plans and show willingness to see him off as he embarks on his new path. Reaching this final rank solidifies your lifelong friendship with Mamoru Hayase.
Rewards for Maxing the Star Social Link
Completing the Star Social Link grants significant benefits for combat and Persona fusion. Upon reaching Rank 10, Mamoru gifts you his father's car key as a valuable key item. This item unlocks the ability to fuse Helel, one of the ultimate Star Arcana Personas in Persona 3 Reload.
Additionally, fused Personas of the Star Arcana will gain massive bonus experience upon creation based on your maxed rank. Taking the time to finish this link enhances your overall combat readiness late in the game. Managing your calendar carefully allows you to easily fit Mamoru into your daytime routine.
