Metaphor: ReFantazio Review
Metaphor: ReFantazio is an engaging RPG that builds upon the foundations established by the Persona series, offering a robust exploration experience alongside a charming roster of companions. However, its strong emphasis on combat may cause it to linger less in players’ memories compared to its high school-themed predecessors. Developed by Atlus and published by Sega, the game is set to release on October 11, 2024, for Windows, with a retail price of £60, €70, or $70.
Upon reflecting on the game’s narrative, it’s clear that it resonates with two key themes: a gameplay style reminiscent of Persona and a storyline that critiques societal issues. As a player, you take on the role of an anime character known as an Elda, a race that faces discrimination within a diverse world filled with various fantastical beings. The game’s narrative tackles unfairness and prejudice head-on through dialogues and troubling scenes, establishing a dark backdrop against which the story unfolds.
The plot revolves around a power struggle following the curse placed on a prince by his scheming brother. This curse, combined with the deceased king’s magical influence, sets the stage for a competition that will determine the next ruler of the realm. Entering this contest, the protagonist must navigate trials while also aiming to break the curse afflicting the prince.
Metaphor’s central message emphasizes the importance of kindness and democracy, presenting these themes through relatable characters and a storyline filled with twists to maintain player engagement. Like Persona, the game adopts a deadline-driven campaign where players must complete objectives within specific timeframes, managing their daily activities to enhance character abilities.
The game’s structure is notable for its natural flow compared to Persona’s more rigid format. While players are still bound by deadlines, their journey is propelled by exploration with the Gauntlet Runner, a mobile base that allows for visits to numerous cities and access to quests that enrich the experience.
Dungeons in Metaphor are crafted with quality-of-life improvements, providing variety and engaging challenges. Despite this, some nagging issues from Persona persist, such as repetitive corridor design and the occasional frustration with combat mechanics. The real-time combat feature introduces an element of strategy but can also lead to complexities if players are not significantly over-leveled.
The archetype system presents an engaging way to develop characters and unlock new abilities, allowing for customization of playstyles. While the system is intuitive, the focus on combat sometimes overshadows the character interactions and friendships that are pivotal in creating a lasting connection with the game.
Despite some critiques regarding the depth of character dynamics compared to Persona, Metaphor: ReFantazio stands as an excellent RPG. It delivers beautifully crafted storytelling and smooth combat mechanics that cater to both newcomers and fans of the genre. Overall, players can expect an entertaining adventure that, while differing in emotional resonance from Persona, still offers a rewarding and enjoyable experience.