TL;DR
- Pawn inclinations determine AI behavior and combat roles, set during creation but modifiable later
- Rift Incense purchased from Vernworth merchants using Rift Crystals enables inclination changes
- Specific incenses cost 2000 RC each while random option costs only 500 RC
- Apply incense during camp rest sessions and end the day to activate changes
- Strategic inclination selection significantly impacts party synergy and combat effectiveness
Dragon’s Dogma 2 introduces an innovative AI companion system where Pawns serve as your constant allies throughout the adventure. These computer-controlled partners not only engage in combat but also provide valuable insights about quest objectives, enemy weaknesses, and hidden secrets throughout the game world. Each Pawn possesses a fundamental behavioral template called an inclination, established during their initial creation process. This inclination framework dictates their combat priorities, interaction patterns, and tactical decision-making during battles.
The inclination system represents a sophisticated AI personality matrix that goes beyond simple aggression levels. It determines whether your Pawn prioritizes healing allies, targeting specific enemy types, gathering resources, or providing defensive support. Understanding these behavioral patterns is crucial for building a balanced party that complements your playstyle. Many players discover their initial inclination choices don’t match their evolving strategies, necessitating adjustments as they progress through the game.
To modify your Pawn’s core behavior, you’ll need to visit Vernworth, the capital city of Vermund region. The main narrative naturally guides you to this hub location during early game progression, making it easily accessible for most players. Within Vernworth, seek out the specialized Rift Merchant situated adjacent to the Grand Rift Stone – a prominent landmark that’s hard to miss. This vendor stocks an assortment of Pawn-related items exclusively available for Rift Crystals, the specialized currency obtained through various in-game activities.
Rift Merchants operate as your primary source for inclination modification tools, but their inventory extends beyond just behavioral items. They offer gear, consumables, and other Pawn-enhancement products, making them essential stops for serious Arisen. The Rift Crystal economy can be challenging for newcomers, as these currencies accumulate slowly through normal gameplay. However, strategic farming methods and efficient crystal management can alleviate the financial pressure of purchasing multiple inclination-changing items.

The merchant’s selection includes five distinct Rift Incense variants designed specifically for altering Pawn behavioral patterns. Each type corresponds to a particular inclination, allowing precise control over your companion’s combat style and out-of-battle conduct. The pricing structure reveals an interesting economic choice – targeted changes come at a premium while randomization offers budget-friendly alternatives.
- Ambivalent Rift Incense: Provides random inclination reassignment at the affordable price of 500 Rift Crystals, ideal for experimentation or budget-conscious players.
- Kindhearted Rift Incense: Directly sets Pawn behavior to Kindhearted orientation for 2000 RC, emphasizing supportive and cooperative actions.
- Calm Rift Incense: Establishes Calm demeanor at 2000 RC cost, promoting measured tactical responses and calculated engagement.
- Simple Rift Incense: Implements Simple behavioral pattern for 2000 RC, focusing on straightforward combat approaches and minimal complexity.
Strategic purchasing requires considering both immediate needs and long-term party development. The significant price difference between specific and random options encourages players to weigh certainty against economy. Many experienced Arisen recommend purchasing the random option early game when resources are scarce, then transitioning to targeted purchases once you’ve identified your preferred party dynamics.

Successfully modifying your Pawn’s inclination requires following a specific application protocol. After acquiring your desired Rift Incense from the merchant, you must initiate the transformation process during a rest period at any campsite. The ceremonial nature of this activity emphasizes the significance of behavioral reprogramming within the game’s lore. Present the incense item to your Pawn while settled at the campsite, then complete the rest cycle by ending the current day.
The resting mechanic serves as a catalyst for the inclination change, allowing the metaphysical adjustments to properly integrate with your Pawn’s core programming. Immediately after the rest cycle concludes, you should observe noticeable differences in your Pawn’s combat behavior, dialogue patterns, and tactical decisions. Verification is straightforward – engage in a few battles and monitor how your companion responds to different combat scenarios and environmental stimuli.
Mastering inclination management involves more than just basic application – it requires strategic planning and resource optimization. Rift Crystals can be efficiently farmed by assisting other players’ Pawns, completing specific board quests, and engaging in multiplayer activities. The economic reality means most players should prioritize their inclination purchases rather than buying every available option immediately.
Common mistakes include changing inclinations too frequently without proper testing, wasting valuable Rift Crystals on incompatible behavioral sets, and neglecting to consider party synergy. A strategically selected inclination can dramatically improve your party’s performance, while a poorly chosen one can create combat inefficiencies and role conflicts. For advanced players, consider how different inclination combinations between multiple Pawns can create specialized team compositions for specific content types.
If you’re looking to expand your tactical knowledge further, our Class Guide provides deep insights into character specialization that complements inclination strategy. Similarly, understanding Weapons Unlock systems can help you align your Pawn’s behavior with your preferred armaments. For a comprehensive overview of game mechanics, the Complete Guide offers extensive strategic coverage.
Action Checklist
- Travel to Vernworth and locate Rift Merchant near Grand Rift Stone
- Acquire Rift Crystals through quests or Pawn sharing (minimum 500-2000 RC)
- Purchase desired Rift Incense based on inclination goals and budget
- Rest at campsite, gift incense to Pawn, and complete rest cycle
- Test new inclination in combat and adjust strategy if needed
No reproduction without permission:Tsp Game Club » How to Change Pawn Inclinations in Dragon’s Dogma 2 Master Pawn behavior customization in Dragon's Dogma 2 with strategic inclination changes and Rift Crystal optimization
