Comparing Gameplay: Metaphor: ReFantazio vs. Persona

Atlus' upcoming game Metaphor: ReFantazio has been updated on its digital store and wishlist pages. The game offers a unique blend of dungeon crawling and social simulation gameplay, setting it apart from the Persona franchise. Despite being a new IP with a high fantasy setting, Metaphor: ReFantazio still maintains elements that connect it to Atlus' previous works.

Trailers and screenshots of Metaphor: ReFantazio showcase gameplay features reminiscent of both Persona and Shin Megami Tensei. Players can expect a day-night cycle and social simulation elements similar to those found in Persona games, as well as a fresh take on the Press-Turn battle system seen in Shin Megami Tensei titles. Atlus has provided insights into how these mechanics are integrated in Metaphor: ReFantazio, highlighting the game's unique gameplay loop compared to Persona.

Metaphor: ReFantazio's Key Features:

These details were shared on updated versions of Metaphor: ReFantazio's PlayStation Store and Steam pages. Both descriptions give some insight into the differences between Metaphor: ReFantazio and the Persona series. They specifically state that during the day, players can participate in dungeon crawling, quests, and treasure hunting, while the nighttime is dedicated to "increasing virtues." This means that the social sim elements like building bonds via social links will be during the night, contrasting previous Persona games that allowed players to interact with them during the day.

MetaphorReFantazio-4 - Metaphor: ReFantazio's Key Features:

Embark on quests, explore dungeons, and search for treasures during the day. At night, focus on nurturing relationships, forging bonds, and developing virtues. Remember, making smart choices and managing your time effectively are essential for reaching your objectives.

Hop on your "gauntlet runner" and explore distant dungeons and towns in a vast world. Enjoy stunning landscapes, enchanting music, immersive UI, and anime cutscenes along the way.

Experience a one-of-a-kind battle system that combines turn-based and real-time action, offering both strategy and excitement in every encounter. Customize your party through "Archetypes" for a personalized adventure like no other.

A thrilling and mysterious tale unravels in a world where individuals battle their own anxieties. Dive into the intense Royal Tournament that offers endless hours of exciting exploration and surprises.

In Metaphor: ReFantazio, similar to the Persona series, managing time is crucial. Screenshots reveal the game's main menu, showcasing features like Calendar and Memoradum, which are Metaphor: ReFantazio's versions of Persona's calendar and social link systems. One screenshot tracks the passing days, leading up to a mission deadline, while also displaying the weather and current day on the side. Another screenshot highlights one of Metaphor: ReFantazio's social stats, Eloquence, which players can boost by delivering a captivating speech to win over the citizens. Additional social interactions with the game's party members, like training with Hulkenberg or cooking with Strohl, are also depicted in these screenshots.

ReFantazio offers players the opportunity to explore various dungeons and towns, with the gauntlet runner serving as a mode of transportation between different locations. When it comes to dungeon crawling and combat, the game features the Archetype system, which combines elements of RPG job classes and the Persona series' unique Personas. These distinctions between the two games will surely spark engaging discussions upon the release of Metaphor: ReFantazio this Fall.

Editor's P/S:

This article provides an intriguing glimpse into Atlus' upcoming game, Metaphor: ReFantazio. While it shares similarities with the Persona franchise, the game's unique blend of dungeon crawling and social simulation gameplay sets it apart. The incorporation of elements from Shin Megami Tensei, such as the Press-Turn battle system, adds another layer of depth and strategy.

Metaphor: ReFantazio's emphasis on time management and the reversal of social interactions from day to night adds a fresh perspective to the genre. The game's focus on exploring anxieties and the Royal Tournament adds an intriguing thematic element. Overall, the article has piqued my interest in this upcoming title, and I am eager to learn more about the world of Metaphor: ReFantazio and the unique experiences it offers.