Every Character has Their Role to Play
As for characters, no one ever really stood in the background, as every member of this JRPG party had a role to play in one way or another. Each of them has their reasons and motivations, a background that can be freely explored in your free time, and noticeable growth that makes them either a likable or hateable personality. I grew attached to these characters thanks to the small things, which gave the impression that they are indeed on a journey and that they are growing an actual bond with each other. Some examples include Heismay’s fear of bugs, Hulkenburg’s tolerance and persistence of good/bad food, and Neuras, a character that doesn’t join you in battle, but plays the role of the pilot that expresses his passion for creating the best inventions.
Even Louis, the game’s villain, has a respectable stance to his beliefs and motivations, and while it’s not something you want to agree with, it’s not complete nonsense, as he’s not one-dimensional, but just as layered as the rest of the main cast. There’s also a unique reason why each member opposes him.
Del, Gallica, Bardon, and all these lesser characters were even worth exploring, and while it stretched the game time a bit, the writing and storytelling are stellar, and I’m all for listening to what they have to say, and what troubles them. It’s also quite the bonus for the unlocks you receive for seeing each small storyline through.
It’s a combination of fantastic voice acting, smart script writing, and proper pacing from the developers that equip this story with the ability to hold you down. It’s a fantasy world many would feel familiar with. but with enough twists to keep those well-versed in this setting curious.
Even the music has found its place, as every melody has this tribal theme that at first was unusual, but grows on you the longer you hear it. It’s so unique, but just as infectious as the rest of the game, as the soundtrack is just as effective as Persona 5’s jazzy tunes. I never thought I would get amped up due to tribal chants, but here we are.
Performance has been spot on, as there’s no sense of bugs or unusual or distracting visual problems. Its polish mirrors Atlus’ previous titles, as there are no technical problems that I could think of.
As I was scrolling through social media, I came across a comment that made sense – “this is Atlus’ Elden Ring”. Metaphor: ReFantazio contains the essence and signature design concepts the Persona team is known for, and was able to create a new series that elevates these elements to new heights. I have always enjoyed my time with Persona games, but not at the level I was at when I was playing Metaphor. It’s commendable that the team went above and beyond, as they could have stuck to something safe, but they tested themselves, and tested their loyal fans in committing to a big twist.
