Metaphor: ReFantanzio might not feature a romance system like the Persona series. Read on to learn more about Metaphor’s version of the social link system and other insights shared by the director of Metaphor.
Metaphor: ReFantanzio Might Not Feature Romance Options
Deepening Friendships Will Grant Players Followers
At the Metaphor: Stalker Club Final live stream, which Persona Central translated, developers were asked whether the game would incorporate any elements similar to the Social Link system found in Persona.
Atlus Japan hosted a recent live stream titled "Metaphor: Stalker Club Final," during which they fielded numerous inquiries about the upcoming game Metaphor. One of the questions posed was whether the game would incorporate any features akin to the Social Link system found in the Persona series.
As translated by Persona Central, the developers of Metaphor: ReFantazio have introduced a unique relationship system where deepening friendships with encountered characters can result in them becoming "supporters" or followers, embodying heroic sentiments through the Archetypes.
Persona Central shared their translations on Twitter(X), stating that the developers of Metaphor: ReFantazio have confirmed "that the relationship system in the game will not involve any romantic relationships, unlike the Persona series."
While Persona Central's statement suggests a departure from romantic relationships in Metaphor: ReFantazio, it doesn't definitively confirm or deny their inclusion. Speculation persists due to the incomplete understanding of the new system and the ambiguous nature of the developers' statements.
Furthermore, some fans contend that the developers' remarks don't entirely preclude the possibility of romantic pairings or a canon romance option in the game. However, the developer’s statement does confirm that the follower system will diverge from the social link system, resembling more of a recruitment mechanism.
The Game is Not Connected to Persona or MegaTen Series
In response to one of the questions asked in the live stream about its ties to the Persona or MegaTen series, the developers emphasized that Metaphor is a "completely new work created from scratch." While distinct, they hinted at elements that might resonate with fans of Atlus games. They encouraged players to explore this new fantasy realm and experience its unique offerings firsthand.
Developers Want Fans to Call the Game "Metaphor"
Aside from the aforementioned query, other questions surfaced, one of which was about what would be the official abbreviation for Metaphor: ReFantazio. The developers clarified, requesting it be referred to simply as "Metaphor." Another inquiry concerned the protagonist's ability to change attire.
Responding to this, the developers pointed out that certain scenes in the trailers depict the protagonist and Hulkenberg experiencing events as soldiers in the past, suggesting that costume changes may occur throughout the narrative. Regarding the protagonist's name, the developers admitted they have yet to determine an answer.
Former Persona Director Shares New Information about Metaphor
Combat will be Intentionally Difficult in the Beginning
During a recent showcase event for Metaphor: ReFantazio, former P-Studio director Katsura Hashino, now directing this new project, shared exciting updates about the game. Developed by Studio Zero, an Atlus subsidiary, Hashino revealed that the new IP is being crafted by members of Persona 5's development team, with renowned Persona series composer Shoji Meguro composing the soundtrack.
Hashino expressed that creating a large-scale fantasy RPG marks a new endeavor for both him and Atlus, emphasizing the studio's unique approach to shaping Metaphor. Unlike previous Atlus RPGs, Metaphor: ReFantanzio places a strong emphasis on action in its gameplay.
Although battles retain a turn-based structure, they incorporate real-time actions like when you attack or evade enemies. According to Hashino, combat in the game will deliberately be difficult in the beginning so that players can learn and there is a greater sense of accomplishment.
Hashino underscores that the distinguishing factor of Metaphor: ReFantanzio lies in the perspective of its characters. In their eyes, our present world is a fantasy.
