ATLUS has a strong reputation for crafting unforgettable RPG experiences, and with “Metaphor: ReFantazio,” they’ve once again proven their mastery. Developed by ATLUS and published by SEGA, this game takes a bold step into a high fantasy world, steering away from the familiar urban settings of the Persona series and diving headfirst into a grand adventure filled with magic, mystery, and political intrigue. As someone who has loved their past work, especially “Persona 5,” I was immediately drawn to “Metaphor: ReFantazio” even if high fantasy isn’t my main bread and butter, but let me tell you, this is far from just a Persona re-skin. What unfolds here is a game that’s brimming with heart, innovative mechanics, and a truly engaging narrative that had me hooked from start to, well present. Having gotten the review code a bit late, and this being an exceptionally long game, I have yet to roll credits on it, but I’m going to go on a limb here and assume the game doesn’t fall off a cliff and continues its superb momentum.
The game begins with the assassination of the king, and with no heirs to the throne, the kingdom is thrown into chaos. The late king’s decree that the next monarch will be chosen by the people sets the stage for an epic struggle for power. Your protagonist, accompanied by his fairy companion, Gallica, embarks on a journey not only to claim the throne but to lift the curse that has befallen the kingdom’s lost prince. The story alone is captivating, but it’s the way “Metaphor” weaves its narrative with deep character interactions and stunning world-building that makes it shine. One of the most enjoyable aspects of the game is how much it emphasizes personal growth and the bond between the protagonist and his allies. “Metaphor” introduces a unique mechanic called the “Archetype” system, where your character taps into hidden magical powers by awakening these dormant forces within their heart. This system allows you to unlock and combine different job classes, which adds a layer of strategy to both character progression and combat. The flexibility this offers means you can truly personalize how you approach each battle and build your party. Whether you want to focus on strength, healing, magic, or a mix of abilities, the Archetype system has you covered. It gave me a sense of ownership over my character and made every decision feel meaningful.
The combat itself is a really nice blend of turn-based and real-time action. It’s fast-paced yet strategic, and the combination of Persona’s famous Press Turn system with the new Archetype mechanic creates something that feels fresh but also familiar. Each boss fight is a thrilling encounter that had me on the edge of my seat, demanding both quick thinking and careful planning. The variety in enemy types, the way battles are structured, and the ability to customize your approach with different abilities made me feel excited the entire way through so far. There has yet to be a dull moment, and every victory felt earned. Speaking of time, “Metaphor” cleverly balances its gameplay with time management, much like its “Persona” predecessors. During the day, you’re off questing, exploring dungeons, and hunting for treasures. At night, you’ll focus on building relationships, strengthening your bonds with party members, and increasing virtues that impact your character’s progression. How you choose to spend your time is crucial, and it creates a nice rhythm where I felt like every action counted towards my ultimate goal. The pacing so far feels spot-on, with fewer lulls than a “Persona” title. It’s like taking a high-stakes road trip with your best friends, one filled with danger, but also with camaraderie.
What else truly elevates “Metaphor: ReFantazio” beyond just another fantasy RPG is its presentation. ATLUS has always been known for its stylish design, and this game is no exception. From the captivating anime cutscenes to the beautiful landscapes, every inch of the game is a visual treat. The world is expansive, and riding your “gauntlet runner” across different regions, from dungeons to towns, feels like a real adventure. The music, composed by ATLUS’s seasoned team, is nothing short of spectacular. I often found myself pausing just to appreciate the music. One of the most rewarding parts of “Metaphor” is its characters. Each member of your party has a distinct personality, and the relationships you build with them feel genuine. Gallica, the fairy companion, provides some much-needed levity during tense moments, and I loved the dynamic between her and the protagonist. It’s the kind of story that stays with you, not just because of the grand stakes of saving a kingdom but because of the intimate, personal connections you forge along the way. This is a near hundred-hour long journey, and while I’m still not done with it, I can’t stop thinking about it and can’t wait for what else it has in store for me. Despite its complexity, it never feels overwhelming. The game did a fantastic job of easing me into its systems without bogging me down with too many mechanics at once. And while it is a long journey, there’s a constant sense of progress that keeps me motivated throughout. “Metaphor: ReFantazio” is an extraordinary adventure that stands on its own, even in the shadow of “Persona.” The combination of a compelling story, innovative gameplay systems, and stunning presentation make it not only one of the best RPG titles out there, but one of the best games of the year.
9.5/10
Metaphor: ReFantazio is now out for PC, PlayStation, and Xbox. For more information, visit HERE.
Related: Reviews by Nick Navarro
Gaming since I was given an original Nintendo as a kid. I love great storytelling and unique ingenuity. When both collide in a single game, I'm a happy gamer. Twitter/IG @NickNavarro87
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