After much anticipation, Metaphor: ReFantazio is coming out this week, and it is easily a must-play for any and every JRPG fan, especially for those who love the Persona series. After all, this game is made by Studio Zero, the same creative team behind the mainline Persona games.
Given that it’s made by Studio Zero, the Persona DNA can clearly be seen in Metaphor: ReFantazio given that the game features a turn-based RPG combat system along with deep social elements. Of course, Metaphor: ReFantazio has its own identity, not just because of its intriguing medieval fantasy story.
That’s because Studio Zero’s latest title takes their tried-and-tested JRPG formula and pushes it to new heights when it comes to its combat, gameplay, visuals, and more!
A Familiar Yet Revamped Turn-Based Combat System
In Metaphor: ReFantazio, players can enjoy a turn-based combat system that’s familiar yet unique in that it features plenty of additions that give gameplay a different flavor.
For instance, players get a more action-packed experience even before combat encounters as attacking enemies in real-time is possible, and can give players an advantage when entering combat. Once in combat, players must also manage Turn Icons. For instance, some attacks consume two Turn Icons, while a Critical Hit will only consume half of a Turn. As such, players need to think about their moves more during battle.
The game also has the Synthesis mechanic which features abilities where two characters attack simultaneously for more damage. This can turn the tide in difficult battles.
What’s more, the combat also has an array of quality-of-life enhancements. These include a rewind feature that allows you to restart the battle from the beginning during combat– a great feature to have especially when things get hairy against tough foes. Plus, enemy weaknesses are recorded after beating them, meaning finding out weaknesses is more straightforward.
Archetypes Allow for Impressive Customization
Perhaps the key gameplay feature that players must know in Metaphor: ReFantazio is the Archetype system. In the game, both the protagonist and the other party members can equip one of many Archetypes. These Archetypes have different specializations such as healing, magic, physical attacks, and more.
What’s great about the Archetype system is that every character’s Archetype can be changed, meaning this isn’t something to be considered only for the protagonist.
Thanks to this, players have plenty of flexibility when it comes to building their party, depending on their playstyle or the weaknesses of enemies in a dungeon. While certain Archetypes fit certain characters more based on their stats, the fact that Archetypes can be changed is still something JRPG fans who love tinkering with their party will love.
Eye-Catching Aesthetic with High Art References
Atlus RPGs have memorable and distinctive art styles, and this is also the case with Metaphor: ReFantazio. Right from the get-go, players can enjoy a striking UI that features bold colors and smooth transitions. This UI not only makes for a more engaging experience, but it’s also a great fit with the game’s interesting medieval fantasy aesthetic.
As for the game’s world and characters, Studio Zero has struck a nice balance between a gritty medieval look and a sleek and eye-catching style. This is clearly seen in the game’s various townships, along with the character designs.
On top of this, the game also features an array of high-art inspirations that are again a perfect fit for the game’s world. For starters, the Archetype menu features an artwork that’s heavily inspired by the Renaissance maestro Leonardo Da Vinci’s “Vitruvian Man.”
There are also the designs of the monstrous “Humans” which are taken straight out of the striking and memorable paintings of the Dutch Old Master Hieronymus Bosch. Specifically, some of the game’s bosses look very much like the nightmarish creatures in Bosch’s “The Garden of Earthly Delights.”
Pitch Perfect Music
The game’s art style and UI are a treat, but what elevates the experience even more is the incredible soundtrack. Again, Atlus RPGs have great soundtracks, but Metaphor goes the extra mile as it features memorable music that gives exploration and boss fights an epic feel.
Metaphor’s music features a mix of medieval-style beats and some modern flourishes. But the most memorable aspect of the soundtrack is the various chants that add a strong sense of atmosphere to the tracks.
Coupled with the game’s striking visual style, Metaphor: ReFantazio should be a memorable experience for many from an audio-visual perspective.
A Memorable Fantasy Story
Finally, there’s the game’s story. RPGs like this are story-driven, meaning having an engaging plot with a great cast is key. With this in mind, Studio Zero crafted a memorable tale that should stick with players even long after the credits have rolled.
In this game, players take on the role of a boy from the Elda tribe as he goes on an adventure throughout the Kingdom of Euchronia to break the curse that has been placed on the prince who is believed to have died over ten years ago.
As the protagonist goes on this epic quest, he meets various colorful characters, some of whom will join him as party members, while others become loyal Followers.
Given how interesting the story is, it would be a shame to spoil more of what happens. But what we can safely say is that it is a thrilling ride that’s made even better by the excellent voice acting in both the English and Japanese dubs.
Metaphor: ReFantazio comes out on consoles and PC on October 11
With its combination of a familiar yet fresh combat system, striking visuals, memorable soundtrack, and thrilling story, Metaphor: ReFantazio is definitely a game that JRPG and especially Persona fans should check out. In fact, for fans of the genre, this might just be one of the best games of the year.
Metaphor: ReFantazio will be released on PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam on October 11, 2024.
For those who still need a bit more convincing though, a free demo of Metaphor: ReFantazio is available on all platforms. The best part is that progress in the prologue demo can be carried over to the full game on the same platform.