Summary

  • Metaphor: ReFantazio is a high-fantasy JRPG with turn-based combat and social building mechanics.
  • The game's setting was partly inspired by Lord of the Rings initially. However, the developers decided to take the game in a different direction later on.
  • The developer aimed to create a distinct identity with Metaphor: ReFantazio while incorporating familiar elements for a unique experience.

The developers of Metaphor: ReFantazio recently revealed one of the inspirations behind the JRPG's setting, citing J.R.R. Tolkien's Lord of the Rings as one of its initial references. Metaphor: ReFantazio is the latest JRPG from Atlus subsidiary Studio Zero, with the game having a number of former developers from the Persona series spearheading the game. Much like Atlus' past works, Metaphor: ReFantazio is a JRPG that has turn-based combat accompanied by other time management and social building mechanics.

When comparing Persona and Metaphor: ReFantazio, one of the biggest differences is the setting. Unlike Persona, which is an urban fantasy RPG that takes place in relatively modern day Japan, Metaphor: ReFantazio is a part of the high-fantasy genre. Many have cited the completely different setting compared to Persona as a welcome change of pace. Director Katsura Hashino recently commented on how the developers approached making the world of Metaphor: ReFantazio, along with one of the inspirations of the game's setting.

In an interview with Hashino on the Official Xbox Podcast, host Jeff Rubenstein noted the very different parts of Metaphor: ReFantazio's world are inspired by Belle Époque Europe, along with how the game's world incorporated various anachronistic technologies and fantastical elements, and asked what the developers were looking at in terms of planning the world. Hashino explains that the developers were looking at traditional fantasy culture at the start of development, mentioning The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien. Specifically, they were looking to see not only what traditional fantasy was, but the how, why, and other inspirations that made the genre.

Metaphor: ReFantazio Was Originally Inspired by LOTR, But Then Went for Something Different

Hashino noted that, as they were trying to bring this aspect into the game, the more they realized that they couldn't make a game that was in the same line as a traditional fantasy, saying it wouldn't feel "original" to the developers. Hashino also said that sticking strictly to the conventions of the traditional fantasy genre would lack the originality that defined Atlus. The team decided to abandon some of the inspirations they had and create something new, while also incorporating things that they did like into the game. This explains a lot of the creative liberties used for the medieval setting of Metaphor: ReFantazio.

While The Lord of the Rings and other pieces of art like those by Hieronymus Bosch were starting points in development, Atlus and Studio Zero aimed to make Metaphor: ReFantazio have a distinct identity, even if parts of it were familiar. While Metaphor: ReFantazio doesn't strictly adhere to the traditional conventions of the genre, it is shaping up to be one of the best fantasy RPGs ever made.

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Metaphor ReFantazio Tag Page Cover Art
10 /10

Metaphor: ReFantazio
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RPG
JRPG
Action
Adventure
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Systems
PlayStation-1 Xbox-1 PC-1
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Top Critic Avg: 93 /100 Critics Rec: 98%
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Released
October 11, 2024
ESRB
T For Teen // Blood, Language, Mild Suggestive Themes, Use of Alcohol, Violence
Developer(s)
Studio Zero
Publisher(s)
Atlus
Engine
GFD
Number of Players
1
Steam Deck Compatibility
Playable
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WHERE TO PLAY

SUBSCRIPTION
DIGITAL
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From the creative minds behind Persona 3, 4, and 5 comes Metaphor: ReFantazio, a unique fantasy world, where your protagonist will journey alongside his fairy companion, Gallica, to lift the curse from the kingdom’s lost prince.


Control your destiny, face your fears, and awaken magical Archetype powers that lie dormant in your heart. By awakening to an Archetype, you will unlock the power to channel and combine the abilities of unique job classes. Strengthen your bonds and build your party to take down powerful foes and discover the kingdom’s true nature.

Genre(s)
RPG, JRPG, Action, Adventure
OpenCritic Rating
Mighty
Fighting a battle in the Regalith Grand Cathedral dungeon in Metaphor ReFantazio