As a lifelong enthusiast of JRPGs and someone who’s witnessed the evolution of storytelling within this genre, I can confidently say that Metaphor: ReFantazio has left an indelible mark on my heart and gaming experience. Having grown up in the era where these games were filled with theatrics, humor, and a keen sense of adventure, it’s like coming full circle to find such qualities embodied in this modern masterpiece.
In other words, although ReFantazio is the debut high fantasy project from the former Persona team, it could arguably be their most realistic and profoundly human game to date. By blending magical aspects with relatable themes such as prejudice, poverty, loss, cycles of violence, anxiety, and the impact of religion and politics on society, ReFantazio provides a fresh perspective for exploring humanity. It encourages players to ponder numerous questions, acknowledging that the answers may not always be straightforward or definitive. However, it emphasizes one question above all others: Can stories we tell influence our reality?
When the game concludes, there’s no question about it – yes indeed! (Metaphor: ReFantazio is a stunning journey into how fantasy can carry thoughts and humanity even during the most challenging periods. It grasps the influence that art and the concepts conveyed within it have on society, urging us to both embrace and critically analyze the media we engage with.)
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The diverse array of characters in this game – including Junah, the vivacious pop star with blonde hair, Heismay, the experienced ninja, and Louis, who has fallen from grace but still holds a special place in hearts – are all intricately designed, convincingly voiced, and incredibly captivating. They either quickly win over players or provoke their dislike. These characters delve into the different themes mentioned earlier, presenting stories that are both tear-jerking and heartwarming. This game also boasts a rich cast of secondary characters, which constitute the most developed and comprehensive collection of social links in an Atlus game to date.
The studio skillfully navigates each story with subtlety and accuracy, showing appreciation for its audience’s intellect while also being unwaveringly confident in its own values. In an era where games are frequently accused of being overly political, Atlus champions empathy and underscores the importance of tackling social issues. It encourages collective action, advocating for personal convictions, and striving for a brighter tomorrow, not just for oneself but also for others. As Metaphor suggests, it’s easier to succumb to fear and hatred, but standing firm in hope and compassion takes courage.
Regarding its length, Metaphor maintains a remarkable pace, allocating suitable time to each scene, character, and plotline. These storylines are noteworthy as well, offering a mix of excitement, unusual circumstances to prevent boredom, and intriguing plot turns. The game frequently evoked memories of the ’90s JRPGs I used to play, characterized by their dramatic flair, humor, and adventurous spirit. This elusive and hard-to-define characteristic is something that Metaphor clearly embodies.
Despite some initial reservations about traditional, turn-based battles, Metaphor significantly enhances this style of combat by addressing common criticisms such as a slower pace. This is achieved through intelligent button mapping, excellent party management, and the incorporation of action-style elements in combat. The result is a strategic yet swift battle experience, while traversing dungeons remains engaging without becoming tedious or laborious. Instead of feeling like a burden, it maintains an enjoyable adventure feel. Furthermore, the game’s other systems, including its calendar, Royal Virtues, and Archetype tree, seamlessly integrate with combat, resulting in a cohesive and deeply rewarding gaming experience.
In Metaphor, the exceptional art direction and music significantly enhance the overall experience. Unlike Persona’s usual monochromatic color scheme, Metaphor skillfully employs multiple hues to express diverse themes, moods, and intensify the feeling of a journey. Its soundtrack shares this complexity, moving seamlessly from ethereal choirs to intense incantations. Although its narratives may resonate universally, the visuals and music in Metaphor convey an otherworldly ambiance that underscores the game’s ominous and fantastical nature.
No matter when the game Metaphor: ReFantazio was launched, it would still be an outstanding choice. However, in the tumultuous year of 2024, marked by political upheaval, increasing inequality, fear, mistrust, misinformation, and division, no other game seems as fitting and crucial. Although not every piece of fiction has the power to reshape the world or instill a sense of goodness that appears to have vanished, Metaphor: ReFantazio serves as a testament to the transformative potential of art.
Wondering if the game you loved most in 2024 has made it to our top 10? Take a peek at TopMob’s list of the top 10 games from 2024.
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2024-12-11 21:39