A new fantasy world awaits players in the upcoming game Metaphor: ReFantazio, created by the legendary trio behind the Persona series – director Katsura Hashino, art director Shigenori Soejima, and composer Shoji Meguro. Set in the fantasy kingdom of Euchronia, the game explores themes of prejudice and inequality through the eyes of the main protagonist, a member of the Elda tribe.
While Persona games focused on character growth within a Japanese societal context, Metaphor delves into the broader concept of human imagination and emotions. The game aims to explore universal themes of fear and anxiety that resonate with people from all walks of life. The narrative of Metaphor encourages players to reflect on their own experiences and emotions to grow and become better individuals.
The combat system in Metaphor introduces new mechanics that build upon the turn-based system of the Persona games. Players can initiate encounters with enemies in the field, strategically positioning their party members in a line-based formation to optimize their strengths and weaknesses. The introduction of Archetypes, powerful creatures reminiscent of Personas, adds depth to battles with the ability to perform team-up attacks called Synthesis.
Visually, Metaphor retains the stylish UI of Persona 5 Royal, showcasing the distinctive art style of Shigenori Soejima and the evocative music of Shoji Meguro. Soejima’s approach to character design in a fantasy setting aimed to bring a fresh perspective to the genre by infusing his unique style and creativity. The game’s fantasy kingdom setting, narrative depth, and captivating creature designs promise an immersive experience for players eager to explore a new world crafted by this talented trio.
As a fan of the Persona series, I am excited to see how Metaphor pushes the boundaries of storytelling and gameplay in a fantastical setting. The game’s emphasis on universal themes and engaging combat mechanics make it a highly anticipated title for both fans of the Persona series and newcomers to the world of ReFantazio. I look forward to diving into the world of Euchronia and uncovering the mysteries that await when Metaphor launches this October.