FFIII - espers/exp gain for outside party members?

[opa]

Do characters not in your party gain exp and magic points? I honestly can't remember. I've started up my game that I had put down a few months ago (right before you do the floating continent section). If they do gain experience/MP, I'll be sure to equip the outside party members with espers while I do a bit of grinding.

[prfsnl_gmr]

No. If I recall correctly, you have to have them in your party for them to gain EXP.

[opa]

UUUGGGGHHHH......

They expect me to actually put Cyan in my party??

[MrPopo]

In the World of Ruin characters have their levels bumped up as needed when you recollect them, but otherwise you have to have them in the party for them to level up.

[opa]

Thanks. I don't know why but I thought that it shared experience with the other characters. Maybe I'm thinking of Chrono Trigger(?)

[BoneSnapDeez]

These is one of the easiest FF games. You really don't have to spend time beefing everyone up. There is a notable "grind spot" discovered eventually, if you feel so inclined to use it.

[opa]

Really I'm mostly concerned with the magic points. I'd prefer it if most characters have fire/ice/bolt 2 and a cure spell. It's definitely overkill but it helps. I've still gotta get some of Gau's rages and get Water Rondo for Mog so I'll have some combat opportunities ahead.

[MrPopo]

Where are you in the game? Because there's only one spot to get Water Rondo and it's missable.

In terms of magic points, there is a fantastic grind spot in the WoR where you get 5-10 per battle.

[opa]

I got the airship and my next step is to go to the esper gate.
IIRC, water rondo is at the Serpent Trench.

The furthest I've been in the game is right after the Celes portion of the WoR.

[MrPopo]

That's correct on the Water Rondo. You have to get it before the Floating Continent.