One of the most intriguing big games coming this fall is Metaphor: ReFantazio from Atlus Studio Zero, known for the Persona and Shin Megami Tensei series. Moving away from the modern-day Tokyo setting, Metaphor immerses players in a high-fantasy world that feels like a culmination of the developers’ past works.
Set in the United Kingdom of Euchronia, Metaphor deepens world-building, combat, characters, and themes in a rich and engaging manner. The game starts by asking for the player’s name, hinting at the bridge between fantasy and reality that the narrative explores. As players embark on a quest to navigate political chaos and societal disparities, the game confronts themes of class disparity and societal norms.
Embarking on the Journey
The initial hours of the game unfold gradually, introducing players to the protagonist, Gallica, and the intricate web of alliances and betrayals in Euchronia. The narrative takes players through diverse landscapes, introducing them to different tribes and races, each with its own unique challenges and prejudices.
One striking element of Metaphor is the Archetype system, allowing players to tailor their party members’ abilities through various job classes. This system offers a depth of customization and strategy reminiscent of traditional RPG mechanics, while still retaining the essence of Atlus’ signature gameplay mechanics.
Exploring the World
As players navigate through cities, towns, and dungeons, they encounter a diverse array of enemies and challenges. The combat system presents new opportunities for strategic gameplay, with each character’s Archetype influencing battle tactics and party dynamics. Elemental weaknesses and strengths play a crucial role in combat, adding an additional layer of depth and strategy.
From engaging in public debates to facing shadow demons in stealth sections, Metaphor offers a diverse and immersive gameplay experience. The game’s narrative themes and moral choices reflect a nuanced approach to storytelling, inviting players to explore complex societal issues and personal dilemmas.
Anticipating the Release
Metaphor: ReFantazio promises to be a standout title in 2024, with its innovative combat mechanics and rich storytelling. As the release date approaches on October 10, 2024, players can look forward to a captivating and thought-provoking gaming experience on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.
