Every Feature Confirmed for Metaphor: ReFantazio Explained

Metaphor: ReFantazio is here, and it’s already delivering on its massive anticipation. Atlus and Studio Zero have created a stunning blend of the fantasy RPG genre, intricate world-building, and unique storytelling. Set in a world divided by tribes, political turmoil, and mysterious creatures, the game offers a fresh take on RPG gameplay with a variety of refreshing mechanics.

Fans can dive into the world of Euchronia, where eight distinct tribes, looming political conflicts, and dangerous creatures known as “Humans” create an intricate, multi-layered narrative. Metaphor: ReFantazio includes quite a few innovative elements that while are present in Atlus’ other works, namely the Persona series, give the game its own identity.

The World of Euchronia and Its Tribes

Set in the decayed United Kingdom of Euchronia, Metaphor: ReFantazio drops players into a once-glorious land now ravaged by corruption, inequality, and unrest. The kingdom is home to eight unique tribes, each with distinct physical traits, characteristics, and societal roles. From the intellectual Ishkia with their elegant wings to the long-living Rhoag, the narrative is steeped in both fantasy and socio-political realism.

The Eight Tribes of Metaphor ReFantazio’s Social Hierarchy

The interaction between Euchronia’s eight tribes adds depth to Metaphor: ReFantazio’s political and social storytelling. Each tribe holds distinct societal roles, shaping the world in a way that influences both the narrative and gameplay:

• Clemar: The ruling tribe, marked by their regal horns and pivotal role in the monarchy.
• Roussainte: Renowned for military prowess, the Roussainte are defined by their long ears and combative nature.
• Ishkia: Winged scholars who serve as the kingdom’s intellectual and spiritual leaders.
• Rhoag: A tribe known for their extended lifespans, holding seniority-based roles within society.
• Nidia: Charismatic yet often distrusted, these socialites are seen as eccentric within the kingdom.
• Paripus: Beast-like and strong, this marginalized tribe is known for their impulsive, yet cheerful personalities.
• Eugief: Discriminated against and impoverished, these bat-winged beings are peaceful but live on society’s fringes.
• Mustari: The mysterious and persecuted tribe with a third eye and their own faith, adding an air of mystique to the story.

Metaphor ReFantazio’s Humans: Monstrous Threats to the Kingdom

As if political instability wasn’t enough, Euchronia faces constant danger from monstrous creatures known as Humans. These beings, infused with uncontrollable magic, pose a deadly threat to the kingdom’s inhabitants. Their otherworldly design continues to show how Atlus has a creative ability to fuse both the mundane world and the uncanny. The Humans’ unpredictable nature makes them a formidable challenge in both the narrative and gameplay.

Related

5 Best Games To Play To Prepare For Metaphor: ReFantazio

These fantastic games are perfect for players wanting something to play before diving into Metaphor: ReFantazio.

At the heart of Metaphor: ReFantazio is a young boy from the elda tribe—one of the most reviled groups in the kingdom—who, alongside his fairy companion Galica, sets off to break a curse placed on Euchronia’s prince. His journey takes him across the vast kingdom, where he must uncover ancient secrets, forge unlikely alliances, and confront the sorcerer responsible for the curse. Along the way, the story explores themes of identity, justice, and survival, with the fate of the kingdom hanging in the balance.

Magic Through Election: A Battle for the Throne

One of the most arguably captivating elements of the game is the throne succession system. After the assassination of Euchronia’s previous ruler, the new king is to be chosen through “election-enforcing magic,” where the individual who earns the most trust from the people will take the throne. This magical political contest introduces intense gameplay moments, as players must navigate both the battlefield and the hearts of the kingdom’s citizens.

Evolving Persona-Like Gameplay Mechanics

Fans of Persona will feel right at home with Metaphor ReFantazio’s evolved command-based combat system. Building on familiar mechanics, the game blends action and strategy, offering a level of flexibility that allows players to customize party formations and approaches to battle. Lower-ranked enemies can be dispatched quickly, while more formidable foes require careful planning.

The Archetype system serves as the foundation for job changes, with each Archetype offering unique skills and stat boosts. Party members can equip any Archetype, though they initially awaken to a specific one, but Archetypes cannot be switched during battle. Archetypes can evolve twice and be combined using Synthesis to create powerful attacks at the cost of multiple turns.

While Metaphor: ReFantazio considerably leans into the Press Turn combat system established by Shin Megami Tensei, there is a twist. Players can begin an encounter in action-based combat, attempting to get the first few hits in before jumping into the full fight. This stuns enemies and gives players the upperhand; however, if the player is hit by the enemy, they will be put at a disadvantage.

Traveling the World via Gauntlet Runner

Exploration is central to the player experience, with travel unfolding aboard the Gauntlet Runner—a long-distance vehicle designed for epic journeys across Euchronia. The world is dotted with bases from which players can set off to explore, and a daily life system helps create an immersive, living world within Metaphor: ReFantazio. The details are intricate with players even seeing the world pass them by in real time if they look out the window. Players can consider the Gauntlet Runner vehicle to be a central hub of sorts. They will bond with characters therein, and do other interactive activities while waiting to get to their next destination.

All in all, Metaphor: ReFantazio is looking to be one of Atlus’ most intriguing offerings in recent years. Understanding the features of the game will help players to feel more immersed as they jump into the game.

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.

Released

October 11, 2024

Developer(s)

Studio Zero

Engine

GFD

ESRB

t

OpenCritic Rating

Mighty

Expand