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Metaphor: ReFantazio

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Metaphor: ReFantazio
Item: Metaphor: ReFantazio
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2024

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, RPG, Anime and JRPG, Drama, Single Player

AvailableOct 11, 2024

PlatformXbox Series X, PlayStation 4, PC, PlayStation 5

DeveloperStudio Zero

Overview

From the creative minds of the Persona series – Metaphor: ReFantazio marks ATLUS’ first ever, full-scale fantasy RPG, brought to you by director Katsura Hashino, character designer Shigenori Soejima, and composer Shoji Meguro. Write your destiny and rise above fear as you step into a fantasy world unlike anything you’ve seen before. Fraught with unsettling mystery, the kingdom stands on a precipice. Now, you must embark on a journey, overcoming obstacles and forging bonds with friends.

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Game analysis

Critik Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

93%

Mixed (50-79)

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The Story of Metaphor: ReFantazio has garnered high praise from the majority of critics for its engaging and well-developed narrative, rich in themes and societal commentary. Critics like Inverse, XboxEra, and Digitally Downloaded commend the game for its grand tale of conspiracy, revolution, and societal anxiety, as well as its exploration of themes like prejudice, power, and discrimination. The game's unique and imaginative story, as noted by XboxEra, coupled with memorable characters and emotionally charged storylines, as highlighted by CGMagazine, contribute to an immersive and thought-provoking experience. Additionally, the game's intelligent narrative, as described by Digitally Downloaded, set in a medieval fantasy realm with modern-world parallels, adds depth and complexity to the storytelling. While the overall sentiment towards the story of Metaphor: ReFantazio is overwhelmingly positive, there are some critiques to consider. Worth Playing mentions that while the plot is enjoyable and features compelling elements like racial strife and political drama, it lacks originality and feels derivative of other Atlus series. This sentiment suggests that while the game excels in certain aspects of storytelling, it may fall short in terms of offering a completely fresh and innovative narrative experience. This critique highlights a potential area for improvement in terms of originality and distinctiveness in storytelling. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that the Story of Metaphor: ReFantazio is a standout title with a compelling narrative that delves into complex themes and societal issues. Critics like RPG Fan and Push Square praise the game for its phenomenal narrative, atmospheric world-building, and intricate exploration of dark themes and political machinations. Despite some concerns about originality, the majority of critics appreciate the game's engaging characters, thought-provoking plot twists, and the depth of storytelling that it offers. Overall, Metaphor: ReFantazio is celebrated for its well-crafted story, immersive world, and the meaningful exploration of relevant themes, making it a highly recommended experience for fans of narrative-driven games.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Metaphor: ReFantazio wows critics with its gripping narrative exploring themes of conspiracy, revolution, and societal issues, but faces criticism for lack of originality. Despite this, the game shines with memorable characters and immersive storytelling in a medieval fantasy world with modern parallels. Overall, a standout title for narrative lovers with deep themes and engaging plot twists.

Gameplay Mechanics

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

93%

Mixed (50-79)

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The majority of critics praised the gameplay of Metaphor: ReFantazio for its innovative and refined features. Digital Trends highlighted the inventive travel system, while IGN Italia and XboxEra appreciated the combination of turn-based mechanics with action elements, reminiscent of the Persona series. The Archetypes system was a standout feature for many critics, with Inverse mentioning the vast array of strategic options it offers, and GameSpot praising its flexibility and synergy abilities. The game's combat mechanics were widely commended for their engaging nature, tactical options, and strategic depth, as noted by Eurogamer and Push Square. While the overall sentiment towards the gameplay of Metaphor: ReFantazio was overwhelmingly positive, there were some minor criticisms from a few critics. Worth Playing mentioned some twists in the gameplay structure that might not have resonated with all players, possibly indicating a lack of universal appeal in certain aspects. Additionally, Digitally Downloaded highlighted the action-based combat for weaker enemies, which could potentially disrupt the flow of the turn-based combat system for some players. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that Metaphor: ReFantazio offers a highly engaging gameplay experience that combines traditional RPG mechanics with innovative features. The game's deep and interconnected systems, challenging boss battles, and variety of content to explore were widely praised. Critics appreciated the strategic depth, customization options, and tactical combat, with many drawing comparisons to the Persona series for its gameplay elements. Overall, the positive feedback from the majority of critics indicates that Metaphor: ReFantazio delivers a compelling and immersive gameplay experience that is likely to appeal to fans of the genre.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Metaphor: ReFantazio wows critics with innovative gameplay, praised for combining turn-based mechanics with action elements like Persona series. Archetypes system shines for its strategic depth and flexibility. Some minor criticisms noted for twists in gameplay structure and action-based combat. Overall, the game offers a highly engaging experience with deep systems, challenging battles, and tactical combat, likely to appeal to RPG fans.

Graphics and Visual Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

64%

Mixed (50-79)

36%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The opinions of the critics regarding the Graphics and Visual Design of Metaphor: ReFantazio are quite varied, showcasing a mix of positive and negative feedback. Critics like CGMagazine, Digitally Downloaded, and RPG Fan praise the game for its stunning visuals, detailed character designs, beautifully realized environments, and attention to detail in cutscenes and animations. Eurogamer also highlights the vibrant anime style, varied character designs, and psychedelic patterns that add a nostalgic '70s vibe to the game. GameSpot appreciates the use of vibrant colors, textures, and animations to effectively convey the game's themes and atmosphere. These positive aspects of the game's visual design are lauded by several critics, emphasizing the beauty and immersive quality of the world created in Metaphor: ReFantazio. On the other hand, some critics express concerns about certain aspects of the game's graphics and visual design. Digital Trends and XboxEra mention bland dungeon designs, poor texture resolution, and simplistic character models that detract from the overall visual experience. Metro GameCentral notes disappointment with low polygon characters and signs of being a cross-gen PlayStation 4 game, indicating potential issues with optimization and graphical fidelity. Push Square also points out rough edges, low-resolution textures, and dodgy anti-aliasing as areas that could use improvement in the game's visual presentation. TheSixthAxis echoes these sentiments, mentioning issues with textures and optimization when examined closely, suggesting that while the game may look stunning from afar, there are noticeable flaws upon closer inspection. Overall, the consensus among the critics leans towards appreciating the visual style and artistic direction of Metaphor: ReFantazio, with many praising the detailed character designs, immersive environments, and captivating animations. However, there is a recurring theme of criticism regarding technical aspects such as texture resolution, character models, and optimization, highlighted by critics like XboxEra, Metro GameCentral, and Push Square. Despite these criticisms, the majority of reviewers acknowledge the game's strengths in creating a visually stunning and immersive world, showcasing a mix of positives and negatives that contribute to the overall reception of the game's Graphics and Visual Design.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Critics have mixed opinions on the graphics and visual design of Metaphor: ReFantazio. Positive feedback praises stunning visuals, detailed character designs, and immersive environments, while noting vibrant colors and animations that convey themes effectively. However, some critics critique bland dungeon designs, low texture resolution, and optimization issues like low polygon characters. Overall, while the game's artistic direction is lauded for its beauty and immersion, technical flaws like texture resolution and character models are points of concern for critics.

Music and Sound Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

100%

Mixed (50-79)

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The Sound Design and Music of Metaphor: ReFantazio have garnered high praise from the majority of critics, with several standout positives noted. IGN Italia commends the soundtrack by Shoji Meguro for blending elements from the Persona series with new features like team attacks and battle themes, showcasing a seamless integration of music with gameplay mechanics. XboxEra and Eurogamer highlight the fantastic score by Meguro, emphasizing its varied arrangements that complement the game's atmosphere and setting, with Eurogamer specifically mentioning the dramatic choral battle theme and playful orchestration. GameSpot also praises the dynamic and beautiful compositions that convey a sense of religious fervor and whimsical idealism, further enhanced by the voice acting that adds personality and humor to the characters. On the downside, CGMagazine notes that while the music is hauntingly beautiful and enhances emotional depth with orchestral pieces and ambient tracks, it lacks a distinct musical identity, suggesting a potential lack of originality or cohesion in the overall sound design. Worth Playing mentions ominous Buddhist chants and orchestral songs that set the mood well, but does not delve into any specific negatives, leaving room for interpretation regarding any potential shortcomings in the sound design or music. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the Sound Design and Music of Metaphor: ReFantazio. The majority of reviewers praise the soundtrack for its immersive and compelling nature, with Digitally Downloaded calling it a "cracking good score" that enhances the overall experience. The blend of orchestral arrangements, religious-sounding chants, and memorable themes by composer Shoji Meguro resonates well with the gameplay experience, as noted by Push Square and RPG Fan. Despite some minor criticisms regarding distinct musical identity or originality, the general sentiment is that the sound design and music significantly contribute to the game's atmosphere, emotional depth, and overall enjoyment, making it a standout aspect of the gaming experience for many critics.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Critics rave about the sound design and music of Metaphor: ReFantazio, praising composer Shoji Meguro for blending old and new elements seamlessly. While some note a lack of distinct musical identity, the majority applaud the immersive and compelling soundtrack that enhances the game's atmosphere and gameplay mechanics. Overall, the consensus is overwhelmingly positive, with reviewers hailing it as a standout aspect of the gaming experience.

Voice Acting

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

83%

Mixed (50-79)

17%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Metaphor: ReFantazio has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from the majority of critics, with many highlighting its exceptional quality and impact on the overall experience. CGMagazine praises the voice acting for bringing the characters to life with remarkable depth and elevating the emotional weight of the story. Noisy Pixel also commends the phenomenal English voice acting, emphasizing the excellent casting choices in diction and tone. RPG Fan further adds to the positive sentiment by describing the voice acting as excellent, with standout performances from various characters that enhance the depth and emotion of the game. Worth Playing contributes to the consensus by acknowledging that the voice acting is solid and succeeds in making the characters instantly likable and enjoyable. Despite the overwhelmingly positive reception, there are some mixed opinions regarding the implementation of voice acting in Metaphor: ReFantazio. Metro GameCentral points out that only important story-related dialogue is spoken, with the rest presented as on-screen text, which they consider a missed opportunity. This limitation in the use of voice acting may have led to a less immersive experience for some players who prefer a fully voiced narrative. While this critique does not directly relate to the quality of the voice acting itself, it does highlight a potential area for improvement in future iterations of the game. Overall, the consensus among the critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the voice acting in Metaphor: ReFantazio. The majority of reviewers, including GameSpot, CGMagazine, Noisy Pixel, RPG Fan, and Worth Playing, praise the voice acting for its exceptional quality, impactful performances, and ability to enhance the depth and emotional resonance of the story. Despite some minor criticisms regarding the implementation of voice acting, the overall sentiment leans heavily towards appreciation for the voice performances in the game. The collective opinion underscores the significant role that voice acting plays in immersing players in the world of Metaphor: ReFantazio and bringing its characters to life with authenticity and charm.

TL;DR

voice acting

Critics are raving about the top-notch voice acting in Metaphor: ReFantazio, praising its exceptional quality and emotional impact on the game. While some feel that not all dialogue is voiced, the majority agrees that the performances elevate the story and characters, making the game a truly immersive experience.

Technical Performance

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

100%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

In terms of positives for the Xbox Series X version of Metaphor: ReFantazio, IGN Italia appreciated the basic technical aspects such as dungeon structures and city divisions. This indicates a decent foundation in level design. Additionally, XboxEra noted that despite experiencing odd frame drops, the game still managed to deliver an engaging experience on various platforms, showcasing potential for an immersive gameplay experience. On the negative side for the PlayStation 5 version, critics pointed out several technical issues. Metro GameCentral highlighted long load times and suggested that a larger budget could have improved the overall performance of the game. Noisy Pixel mentioned minor frame drops during loading screen transitions, indicating potential optimization issues. Push Square and TheSixthAxis both criticized the game for graphical flaws, including low-resolution textures, rough edges in presentation, dodgy anti-aliasing, and occasional slowdowns and crashes. These technical shortcomings could significantly impact the visual quality and overall gameplay experience on the PS5 platform. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Metaphor: ReFantazio faces technical challenges across both Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5 platforms. While some positive aspects like basic technical structures were acknowledged, the game's technical performance falls short in various areas. Critics like Push Square and TheSixthAxis highlighted significant graphical flaws and optimization issues that hinder the overall experience. The general sentiment suggests that the game's technical performance needs improvement to provide a smoother and more visually appealing gameplay experience on both gaming platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Metaphor: ReFantazio impresses with solid level design on Xbox Series X, but faces technical challenges on PlayStation 5. Critics point out long load times, graphical flaws, and optimization issues impacting gameplay. While some positives exist, overall consensus is that the game needs improvement for a smoother and visually appealing experience on both platforms.

Replay Value

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

33%

Mixed (50-79)

67%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The critics generally agree that Metaphor: ReFantazio offers a strong replay value due to various positive aspects. Digital Trends appreciates the quality of life changes and strategic combat mechanics that enhance replayability. GameSpot and Noisy Pixel highlight the meaningful side quests, social links, character progression, deep customization options, and strategic combat as factors contributing to the game's replay value. CGMagazine and RPG Fan mention the numerous side quests, optional conversations, follower bonds, character progression, and diverse job classes that provide additional context, character development, and gameplay variety, encouraging players to revisit the game. On the other hand, there are some concerns raised by critics regarding the replay value of Metaphor: ReFantazio. Inverse points out that while the game offers extra content like optional bosses, dungeons, and side quests, some side dungeons feel generic compared to the main story content, potentially impacting the overall replayability for players seeking diverse and engaging experiences. Eurogamer mentions that while the calendar-based quests and side activities may enhance replay value, the linear plot and lack of branching narratives could limit the game's overall replayability, suggesting that the game may not offer enough narrative variety to keep players engaged across multiple playthroughs. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Metaphor: ReFantazio provides a solid replay value through its diverse gameplay mechanics, character progression systems, and additional content. While there are some minor drawbacks such as generic side dungeons and limited narrative branching, the game's layered narrative, strategic combat, deep customization, and meaningful side activities offer players a compelling reason to revisit the game multiple times. Worth Playing's mention of a Regicide difficulty level unlocked after beating the game also adds to the overall replay value, providing an additional challenge for players looking to further test their skills. In conclusion, Metaphor: ReFantazio seems to strike a balance between offering enough content and gameplay variety to keep players engaged in multiple playthroughs, making it a title with solid replay value for fans of the genre.

TL;DR

replay value

Metaphor: ReFantazio impresses critics with its strong replay value thanks to quality of life changes, strategic combat, and engaging side quests. While some raise concerns about generic side content and linear plot, the game's diverse gameplay mechanics, character progression, and narrative depth make it worth revisiting. Overall, the game strikes a balance with compelling reasons to play again, offering a solid replay experience for genre fans.

Overall Verdict

CRITIK

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Critik Score

Positive (80-100)

99%

Mixed (50-79)

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

Metaphor: ReFantazio has garnered significant praise from multiple critics for its standout qualities. Digital Trends and IGN Italia commend the game for offering a familiar yet distinct RPG experience, catering to both Persona fans and RPG enthusiasts. CGMagazine highlights the masterful crafting of the JRPG, combining political intrigue, rich storytelling, and strategic combat into a gripping and emotional experience. Additionally, Digitally Downloaded and Noisy Pixel laud the game for its exceptional narrative experience, deep themes, innovative combat, compelling characters, and rich storytelling, making it a must-play for fans of the genre. On the flip side, some critics did point out areas of improvement for Metaphor: ReFantazio. Inverse mentions issues with Persona elements and dungeon repetition, while XboxEra notes flaws in story aspects and handholding tendencies. TheSixthAxis criticizes the game for its complex systems explanation issues and technical problems, which detract from an otherwise enjoyable experience. Worth Playing also comments on the lack of distinctiveness, despite offering a genuinely fun experience closely following the Persona franchise's formula. Overall, the majority of critics agree that Metaphor: ReFantazio delivers a very good overall experience. GameSpot describes it as a brilliant game that offers comfort, hope, and inspiration through its engaging story, characters, gameplay, and thematic depth. RPG Fan goes as far as to call it Atlus's crowning achievement, combining the best elements of their past titles and the RPG genre into a thrilling, strategic, and well-balanced experience. The consensus among reviewers is that while the game may have some minor issues and room for improvement, its strengths in storytelling, gameplay, visuals, and sound design outweigh any shortcomings, making it a highly recommended title for fans of JRPGs and narrative-driven games alike.

TL;DR

Metaphor: ReFantazio impresses critics with its standout RPG qualities, praised for blending familiar Persona elements with innovative features. While some critics note areas for improvement like dungeon repetition and technical issues, the majority agree that the game offers a compelling narrative, deep themes, and engaging gameplay. Described as a must-play for RPG fans, it's hailed as a brilliant, well-balanced experience with room for minor improvements but overall highly recommended.

CRITIK

Reviews

173 reviews found

100

Noisy Pixel

PlayStation 5

Oct 7, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Metaphor: ReFantazio is a triumphant JRPG with a rich narrative, innovative combat, compelling characters, and must-play status.

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100

GameSpot

PlayStation 5

Oct 7, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Metaphor: ReFantazio is praised as a brilliant game that offers comfort, hope, and inspiration through its engaging story, characters, gameplay, and thematic depth. It is described as a transcendent experience that blends familiarity with novelty.

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100

Digitally Downloaded

PlayStation 5

Oct 7, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Metaphor: ReFantazio offers an exceptional narrative experience with deep themes, solid gameplay mechanics, stunning visuals, and a memorable score, making it a worthwhile and lengthy investment for players.

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100

Eurogamer

PlayStation 5

Oct 7, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Metaphor: ReFantazio is praised for merging nostalgia and modernity, offering a gripping fantasy RPG experience with lofty thematic goals, despite minor issues like under-utilizing the election concept and lack of branching narratives.

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RPG Fan

PlayStation 5

Oct 7, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Metaphor: ReFantazio is described as Atlus's crowning achievement, combining the best elements of their past titles and the RPG genre into a thrilling, strategic, and well-balanced experience with a compelling story, fantastic gameplay, stunning visuals, and excellent sound design.

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XboxEra

Xbox Series X

Oct 7, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Metaphor: ReFantazio is praised for its strong visual presentation, fantastic score, engaging combat system, and interesting story despite some flaws in story aspects and handholding tendencies.

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CGMagazine

PlayStation 5

Oct 7, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Masterfully crafted JRPG combining political intrigue, rich storytelling, and strategic combat into a gripping and emotional experience, with strengths outweighing shortcomings.

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Worth Playing

PlayStation 5

Oct 7, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Metaphor: ReFantazio is a fantasy Persona game that closely follows the franchise's formula with familiar mechanics and design, offering a genuinely fun experience despite lacking distinctiveness. It's recommended for every RPG fan.

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Push Square

PlayStation 5

Oct 7, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Memorable RPG with a rich experience in narrative and audiovisual design. Combines and refines gameplay elements for a unique and fulfilling adventure.

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Metro GameCentral

PlayStation 5

Oct 7, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

An excellent Japanese role-player that is on par with Persona, offering an engaging story, fast-paced combat, and meaningful content despite some initial shortcomings.

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