Metaphor: ReFantazio, the latest video game from the director behind Persona 3, 4 and 5, promises to transport players into a rich fantasy world filled with political intrigue, personal growth, and tactical combat. The game aims to offer an immersive experience that encourages players to not only explore a vast world but also reflect on their own lives.
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We had the opportunity to sit down with Studio Zero’s Katsura Hashino-san to talk all about Metaphor: ReFantazio. With the help of a translator, we discussed the inspiration behind the game, its key themes, and what players can expect from this ambitious new fantasy RPG.
“Metaphor is a game where you kind of go on a journey in a fantasy world,” Hashino-san explained.
“But it’s not a fantasy world completely one hundred per cent distinct from reality. There’s a hope that when you play the game, you can see yourself reflected in the game as well… and hopefully find some courage that you can take back to your life,” he said.
Set in a beautifully crafted fantasy world, the game explores themes like anxiety and personal growth while challenging players to reflect on their own lives.
Hashino-san describes Metaphor: ReFantazio as more than just another role playing game; it’s a “transformative experience”.
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After the king is assassinated, the protagonist enters a race for the throne, set on helping anyone in need, regardless of their tribe or social standing. Although the game’s setting may seem like a reflection of our own world, Hashino-san insists that Metaphor is more about human emotions than mirroring real world issues.
“It has nothing to do with the real world… Each tribe you see in the game, they’re based on personality types or emotions that exist within all of us. We think it’s an interesting way to explore people’s personal issues.”
Hashino-san shared his vision of a world that not only takes players on an epic journey but also encourages them to reflect on their own personal struggles along the way.
For those familiar with the Persona series, Metaphor: ReFantazio carries forward many beloved aspects, while introducing new themes and gameplay mechanics that set it apart.
One central theme in Metaphor is anxiety — something deeply human that drives the entire narrative.
“The game’s core focus is about anxiety, which is universal… It’s something that visits all humans. We chose this election as a core theme because there’s a lot of anxiety tied to becoming a ruler. Will people trust me? How can I get people to follow me? What will I do once I’m there?” Hashino-san said, adding that the exploration of anxiety is woven into both the game’s story and its unique battle system.
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Fans of turn-based RPGs will recognise familiar elements, but Metaphor offers a new hybrid approach. Players engage in fast paced action sequences against weaker enemies and switch to tactical, turn-based combat for tougher encounters.
“Action games usually feel really good to play. Our games have generally been more tactical and thoughtful. So, taking the tactical elements and adding action was difficult, but we wanted to replicate the tempo of action scenes in movies — where you have fast, exciting moments, and then slow, intense confrontations,” he said.
One of the standout features is the game’s evolution of the calendar system — a key mechanic in Persona. However, Metaphor expands this system, allowing players to travel to various locations rather than staying in a single town. Each new area offers unique activities and opportunities for exploration.
“You’re going on a journey in Metaphor, so each area has different activities. You could be milking an animal in one place or bungee jumping in another. There’s a wide variety of things to do,” he said.
These activities aren’t limited to destinations, either. Even while traveling, players can pass the time by reading a book or doing laundry — small, everyday tasks that make the world feel alive and personal. But don’t worry about missing out on activities due to time constraints; players can revisit places later to experience everything.
“We didn’t want players to feel limited by time. You’ll be able to return later to places you’ve visited using a fast travel system, so you can do everything you want without feeling rushed.”
Hasino-san also says Persona players may get a kick out of creating snowmen, or “snow people”.
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Beyond the gameplay, Metaphor: ReFantazio invites players to take a reflective journey. Hashino-san wants players to feel connected to the world, facing both external challenges and internal fears, with the goal of finding courage along the way.
“The one thing I want players to know before playing is that there’s a lot to see and do in this world. There’s a long, interesting journey ahead of you, and I hope you’ll spend time exploring and having fun.”
Metaphor: ReFantazio is coming to Xbox, PlayStation and PC on October 11th.
