Persona developer P-Studio's exciting fantasy offering, Metaphor: ReFantazio, is due in Fall 2024, inevitably causing fans of Atlus's all-consuming RPGs to retreat from society. The publisher has revealed some slick screenshots (thanks, Gematsu) and shed further light on the world in which the game takes place.
With a narrative and setting sure to resonate, ReFantazio tells a "mysterious and exciting story unfolding in a world where people must fight their own anxiety". It takes place in a medieval European-inspired fantasy setting that mirrors a contemporary backdrop set in the real world. A non-silent protagonist embarks on a journey to protect their kingdom, forging alliances with companions and characters encountered along the way to become more powerful and overcome obstacles. That sure sounds like Persona to us!
ReFantazio has an elite team of developers helming the project, directed by Katsura Hashino, with characters designed by Shigenori Soejima and music composed by Shoji Meguro. Each S-Rank artist is responsible for games like Shin Megami Tensei III: Nocturne, Persona 3, Persona 4, and Persona 5.
In an intriguing twist, ReFantazio will feature both turn-based and action combat. Perhaps taking some inspiration from Persona 5 Strikers, weaker enemies can be slashed through, with more harrowing encounters requiring a turn-based touch. Initiating combat can be done through action combat, allowing players to keep the element of surprise.