Atlus Announces New Fantasy RPG 'Metaphor: ReFantazio' for October Release

Atlus, the well-known developer behind the popular Persona series, has unveiled their latest project, a brand new fantasy RPG titled 'Metaphor: ReFantazio'. Set to launch on October 11, 2024, the game is being developed by Studio Zero, a team led by several Persona veterans including director Katsura Hashino.

Metaphor: ReFantazio takes place in the United Kingdom of Euchronia, which has been thrown into chaos following the assassination of its king. Players will set out on a quest to seize the throne by forming bonds with potential followers, earning monster-slaying bounties, exploring dungeons, and gathering support through an election system. The protagonist must break the curse that has fallen upon the kingdom's prince in order to restore order to the land.

The game aims to blend elements from Atlus' beloved Persona series, such as social interactions and a day-night cycle, with a faster-paced combat system that mixes real-time action and turn-based battles. Players will be able to customize their party using the 'Archetypes' job system, allowing for a broad range of playstyles and strategies.

Shoji Meguro, known for his work on the Persona series, is composing the game's soundtrack, which will feature a more orchestral style compared to the pop-influenced music of the Persona games. The game's unique art direction draws inspiration from medieval paintings, creating a visually striking fantasy world for players to explore.

Metaphor: ReFantazio will be available for PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam. The standard edition is priced at $69.99, while a special edition, which includes a steelbook case, art book, soundtrack, pins, stickers, a fabric map, and digital content, will retail for $149.99. Pre-orders are now live, with bonuses including experience boosters, healing items, and in-game currency.

Why this matters: The announcement of Metaphor: ReFantazio marks a significant step for Atlus as they venture into a new IP, leveraging their expertise in crafting immersive RPG experiences. The game's unique blend of social elements, fantasy setting, and innovative combat system has the potential to captivate both fans of the Persona series and newcomers alike.

Director Katsura Hashino expressed his excitement for the project, stating, "Metaphor: ReFantazio is a massive game that questions the power of fantasy. We've poured our hearts into creating a rich world filled with unforgettable characters and a gripping narrative that will keep players engaged from start to finish." With Atlus riding high on the success of recent releases like Persona 5 and the upcoming Persona 3 Reload, all eyes are on Metaphor: ReFantazio to

Key Takeaways

• Atlus unveils new fantasy RPG 'Metaphor: ReFantazio' launching in 2024.
• Game set in UK of Euchronia, players quest to seize throne, break prince's curse.
• Blends Persona's social elements with faster-paced combat, customizable party.
• Soundtrack by Persona composer Shoji Meguro, art inspired by medieval paintings.
• Available on PS5/PS4, Xbox, PC; standard $69.99, special edition $149.99.