Metaphor: ReFantazio is only a couple weeks away, and it appears like a free demo for the huge fantasy RPG may very well be hitting PlayStation 5, Xbox Collection X/S, and PC right this moment. The Persona-like riff on medieval politics and magic-infused friendships has been oozing model for months, and can hopefully scratch that itch Persona 6 followers have been harboring for years.
An outline for the demo leaked on the Hong Kong on the Xbox retailer earlier right this moment, describing a prologue for Metaphor: ReFantazio that might present gamers its opening, and carry over their demo progress to the complete recreation. It looks as if the free demo will go stay on every of the platforms later right this moment. -[Update 9/25/24 5:06 p.m. ET: It’s now live on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and Steam and it rocks except on PC where it runs like potatoes apparently.]
Metaphor: ReFantazio comes out in full on October 11, and can mark Atlus’ first huge new RPG since 2021’s Shin Megami Tensei V. Not like that recreation, nevertheless, this shall be taking full benefit of the higher-powered current-gen consoles. And whereas it’s being developed by veteran members of the Persona and SMT groups, it’s additionally a totally new franchise with the liberty to experiment in several methods.
Whereas Metaphor: ReFantazio borrows plenty of acquainted methods from Persona—just like the calendar system, relationship meters, and character talents that operate loads like Persona powers—it additionally introduces a bunch of novel fight mechanics, as properly what looks as if a extra exploration-based marketing campaign. I performed it at Summer season Recreation Fest and had a good time with the fight. Kotaku staffer Kenneth Shephard performed it in additional in-depth extra not too long ago and in addition got here away with a constructive impression.
One of many different huge distinguishing elements for Metaphor: ReFantazio is that it takes place in a fantasy setting slightly than modern-day city Japan. Consequently, the sport appears to be attempting to sort out extra broad and sophisticated themes about society and politics with out really popping out and saying it’s about these issues. We’ll learn how properly that works out subsequent month.
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