The “Weird Found Family” Behind Metaphor: ReFantazio

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With awards season approaching, I’ve been thinking about my favorite game of 2024, which happens to be TopMob’s Game of the Year: Metaphor: ReFantazio. This fantasy RPG immediately grabbed my attention when it came out last year, and what struck me most was Atlus’s skill in making this epic, fantastical story feel surprisingly relatable and deeply human.

Considering Atlus is known for games that thoughtfully examine complex themes like life, death, and personal growth, maybe the game’s uniqueness shouldn’t have been a shock. While titles like Persona and games like Catherine stay connected to reality, Metaphor truly breaks away from it. This is thanks to both the game’s strong writing and captivating story, but also to the incredible performances within it.

I was thrilled when Caleb Yen, the actor who played the main character in Metaphor, agreed to talk about his role and experience working on the game. He shared with TopMob his favorite lines, how he brought humor to a serious character, and what it was like to play a game he himself was in.

Before Metaphor: ReFantazio, Atlus rarely used fully voiced main characters. What was your reaction to finding out you’d be responsible for bringing one of their key characters to life through voice acting?

I was honestly a little shocked when I first received the email confirming the role – but it was a really exciting kind of shock! Being able to voice the main character during so many important scenes, and deliver some powerful speeches later in the game, felt like an incredible opportunity.

I really enjoyed the humor you added to the performance. This character is mostly serious and admirable, but also has moments of being a little clumsy or silly. Can you talk about how you found that balance?

Everyone has different sides to their personality, and even in difficult or chaotic situations, there’s usually still room for humor. The main character is like that too—he starts the story as someone who isn’t naturally a fighter, and everything is new to him. He’s driven by a good cause—seeking justice for his friend and his kingdom—but he’s also a bit clueless and funny at times. It was really rewarding to play him as he develops and changes throughout the story.

I’m really curious to know your initial reactions to the game’s story. What parts did you find most memorable or impactful? And were there any particular storylines that really grabbed your attention?

I was really impressed with the story. The world of Metaphor: ReFantazio is incredibly well-developed, with interesting tribes, a rich history, and believable interactions between them. What makes it stand out is how each character’s choices feel natural and are shaped by the world and society they live in – it’s just excellent storytelling.

I’m really impressed by how well-developed the supporting characters are. Each one feels like they could be the main character in their own story. Strohl is struggling with a lot of pressure and feeling guilty for surviving, Heismay is dealing with being an outsider while grieving his son, and Hulkenberg feels ashamed of losing her status as a knight, but realizes her sense of duty is more important than any title. And that’s just the first three! I’ve really grown to love this quirky group of characters – they feel like family.

A key element of Metaphor: ReFantazio is building relationships between characters. I’m curious to hear about the connections you enjoyed creating the most. Were there any actors you had great chemistry with, or characters whose stories really resonated with you?

Everyone was fantastic! Working with Alejandra Reynoso, who played Gallica, was especially enjoyable because we’d worked together before. We already had a great rapport and a history – she played a sort of big sister or mentor to my character in a previous project, so it felt natural for her to play my fairy guide here.

Heismay’s story was incredibly moving. It follows an older man who simply wanted to build connections between different communities to help his people, but ended up being rejected. Watching him grieve the loss of his son and search for a peaceful place to honor his memory was deeply impactful.

What’s it like revisiting a game you did the voice acting for, especially as the main character? Is it strange or challenging?

It’s funny, I definitely recognize my own voice while playing! But honestly, it’s amazing to be involved in such a great game, and I’m really proud of what I and the whole cast – and the entire team – accomplished. That makes it easy to move past any awkwardness.

Could you share a couple of your favorite lines that you voiced in Metaphor: ReFantazio? Also, are there any lines delivered by your fellow cast members that particularly stood out to you?

It’s not a surprise I really enjoyed working on the “Awaken!” scenes. As a big fan of the Persona series, it was a dream come true to say “Persona!” I also got a kick out of delivering the line, “a ghost,” which made me laugh while recording.

I still remember Philippe Spall shouting, “Oh, the power of kings!” while playing Heismay. The character is a small, bat-like creature that appears like a mascot, but he’s actually incredibly impressive.

I really enjoyed the scene where everyone makes a lot of noise to get Heismay’s attention – the way the actors said their lines was hilarious! And I just have to say, I adore my quirky group of friends.

Honestly, what really got me hooked on Metaphor was how it wasn’t afraid to tackle real-world issues. It was a bold game! And it’s wild thinking about voicing it during such a crazy time for politics – it definitely added another layer to the experience. I remember wondering what it was like for the developers and voice actors during that period.

Metaphor: ReFantazio explores themes that resonate with everyone. The characters grapple with the pressures and expectations placed upon them by their birth, heritage, and family – things they can’t change. The game beautifully portrays their struggle to reconcile these external forces with their own desires and find a path that feels authentic. It’s a fantastic experience because the characters are deeply connected to the game’s unique story and world, and I’m thrilled to have been involved.

The above interview has been lightly edited for clarity and brevity.

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2025-11-19 00:41