Over the past year, dedicated fans of Atlus have enjoyed an impressive array of releases, with Metaphor: ReFantazio emerging as a standout. As a fresh addition from the developers, this new intellectual property has captivated audiences, earning it critical praise and acclaimed honors at The Game Awards 2024, taking home accolades for Best RPG, Best Narrative, and Best Art Direction. Given its success, a sequel seems inevitable, sparking widespread speculation among fans about the potential direction it might take.
As of now, Metaphor: ReFantazio’s director, Katsura Hashino, has mentioned that there are no solid plans for a series, though he’s hopeful for one in the future. Although a follow-up might not appear immediately, the original game offers a rich foundation for any future installments. Some fans believe that a successor might act more as a spiritual continuation than a direct sequel, though the game’s conclusion leaves certain storylines intriguingly open-ended, hinting at a more straightforward follow-up.
MAJOR SPOILER ALERT
The conclusion of Metaphor: ReFantazio sees players celebrating the protagonist’s ascension as the new King of Euchronia, with companions settling into their respective roles in the kingdom. Notably, Strohl takes charge as the head of the Royal Army, while Hulkenberg assumes leadership of the Royal Guard. However, a particularly intriguing development surrounds Catherina, whose newfound role as an emissary to lands beyond Euchronia suggests broader possibilities for a sequel.
In conversation during the game’s epilogue, Catherina’s new position implies the existence of other unexplored continents. While Metaphor: ReFantazio allowed players to traverse Euchronia’s expansive terrain, Catherina’s insights hint at undiscovered territories that could harbor their own tales. This sets the stage for a sequel that could unfold in these new lands, continuing the narrative yet exploring fresh regions and stories in the Metaphor universe.
Connecting Metaphor: ReFantazio and Future Sequels
A sequel could maintain its connection to Metaphor: ReFantazio without necessarily reusing all of the original characters. Catherina makes an ideal bridge, linking the Kingdom of Euchronia with new locales while offering a nod to returning players. Such an approach could provide a harmonious blend of new adventures and unresolved mysteries, addressing lingering questions about the destruction of the old world, ensuring an invigorating and novel experience for players.
Imagine framing a sequel akin to the Persona series, where each installment stands unique yet interconnected, featuring elements like Igor and the Velvet Room as continuity threads. Catherina, who was not playable in the initial game—much to the chagrin of fans who wanted her in the action—could claim a more significant playable role this time. If included, even briefly like Grius, she could serve as an envoy from Euchronia to aid distant nations facing turmoil, enriching the new narrative.
From the brilliant minds behind the beloved Persona series comes Metaphor: ReFantazio—a vibrant fantasy realm waiting to be explored. Players join the hero and his fairy companion, Gallica, on an epic quest to lift a curse upon a lost prince. Crafting destiny and confronting fears, players discover powerful archetypes within, combining unique job classes to forge bonds and uncover the kingdom’s secrets. It’s a thrilling RPG adventure packed with action and discovery, battling formidable foes across PlayStation and Xbox platforms alike.
