At Anime Expo 2024 in Los Angeles, the creators of the popular roleplaying game Persona 5 unveiled new information about their upcoming game, Metaphor: ReFantazio. This unique game combines the gameplay mechanics and anime style of the Persona series with a medieval theme. Despite the presence of anime elements such as colorful hair, a fairy protagonist, and unconventional fashion choices, the game is expected to offer a top-notch gaming experience, following the success of Persona 5 in 2016.
In Metaphor: ReFantazio, players will find themselves in a challenging political scenario. Following the assassination of the king of the United Kingdom of Euchronia and the subsequent curse placed upon the prince, the protagonist and their companions must embark on a quest to locate and defeat the individual responsible for the curse. Similar to the Persona games, forging deep relationships with the cast of characters will be a central aspect of the gameplay.
Game director Katsura Hashino, known for his work on Personas 3, 4, and 5, described Metaphor as a narrative centered around building connections and striving for royalty. The game’s art style draws inspiration from medieval paintings and features a protagonist who can ride a sword like a skateboard, adding a touch of whimsy to the fantasy setting.
During the panel at Anime Expo, the character designs for Metaphor: ReFantazio received enthusiastic praise from attendees. The fusion of 1960s London fashion with expressive anime features delighted the audience, showcasing a unique blend of styles that resonated with fans. Character designer Shigenori Soejima explained that the game’s art team includes talent from renowned series such as NieR and Evangelion, ensuring a visually stunning experience for players.
The monster designs in Metaphor draw influence from the works of Hieronymus Bosch, a 15th-century Dutch painter known for his surreal and eerie art. Players can expect creatures with distorted features, oversized faces, and unsettling appearances, with some of the most formidable foes being referred to as “humans” within the game.
In addition to its captivating visuals, Metaphor: ReFantazio pays attention to its user interface, a trait that was highly praised in Persona 5. The development team at Studio Zero aims to deliver a seamless and visually appealing interface that enhances the overall gaming experience. With vibrant menus and intricate design elements, players can expect a polished and immersive journey through the medieval fantasy world of Metaphor.
Scheduled for release on Oct. 11, Metaphor: ReFantazio will be available on PC, PS5, PS4, and Xbox Series X and S, offering players across different platforms the opportunity to explore its rich narrative and engaging gameplay. Fans of the Persona series and newcomers alike can anticipate an exciting adventure filled with intricate storytelling, dynamic characters, and imaginative world-building in this upcoming medieval fantasy game.
