Major spoilers ahead for Metaphor: ReFantazio. Proceed at your own risk.
In today’s AAA climate where games take longer than ever to produce, passion projects can be a risky play to consider. It is fortunate, then, thatMetaphor: ReFantazio’s praises continue to be sung, showing that the efforts of director Katsura Hashino and Studio Zero have borne fruit with the introduction of a new IP under Atlus' repertoire. In the wake of any IP’s acclaim comes a look into how its success might be prolonged into the future, and withHashino’s desire to seeMetaphoras its own flagship series, there warrants the question of what, exactly, a follow-up to the title might look like. The possible paths are many, for better or for worse.
In recent years, Atlus' approach to follow-ups has set a somewhat divisive pattern through its enhanced editions. What has become a staple of modernPersonahas made its way into other properties, fromCatherine: Full Bodyto the more recentShin Megami Tensei 5: Vengeance, setting up a formula that has garnered mixed reaction from fans. There are, of course, pros to enhanced editions that come with the name; better platform accessibility, iterations on shakier design mechanics, and story alterations/additions might justify a purchase for some. For others, the idea of cashing out a second time calls into question the ethics of the practice. WhetherMetaphor: ReFantaziowarrants a similar approach remains up for debate.
Metaphor: ReFantazio’s Follow-Up Paths are Numerous
Following or Straying From Atlus' Enhanced Edition Formula
It is unclear whetherMetaphorwill follow suit with an enhanced edition, though that hasn’t stopped discourse from circulating as fans call into question what content was cut throughout the game’s development. As any development cycle goes, the scope of a game often starts far larger than it ends up; inMetaphor’s case, this appears to have resulted in both party members and followers being culled from the title’s final version.
Still,Metaphorfeels feature complete in most respects, especially when compared tothe OGShin Megami Tensei 5, whoseVengeanceupgradewas definitely needed to better serve the game’s world and story. Whether an enhanced edition is necessary forMetaphorremains up to personal preference, though mixing up Atlus' formula could work to the IP’s benefit.
A Story Sequel, With or Without Following the Same Cast
Beyond the avenue of an enhanced edition, there are plenty of options for aMetaphorsequel. An anthology approach wouldn’t be surprising considering its use across bothSMTandPersona, and followinga new cast of characters withinMetaphor’s worldwould be interesting on its own. With that said, this type of approach raises the question of how transferableMetaphor’s core components are to a different premise and cast. While the title touches on the societal relations of Euchronia as a whole, it’s worth noting that so many of its moving parts are contingent on the protagonist’s identity, from More’s involvement to the mysterious voice that ushers in its Archetype awakenings. This framework could certainly be reshaped, maybe even casting the prince as the next mentor figure, though it does present some obstacles.
A direct story sequel following the same cast could also be considered, and would work to the favor ofMetaphor’s ending. Despite the party’s efforts for social reform,Metaphormakes it clear by the end of its story that there is still work that needs to be done, offering a hopeful look into the future that keeps in mind the problems that may yet surface. Seeing the prince’s retinue expanded on in their older years, especially withthe popularity ofMetaphor’s cast, would be a welcome path to take, and could work to remedy the cut content of the original game without necessitating an enhanced edition. Though, there is the case of whether starting fresh would be preferable, as new tales withinMetaphor’s world would be just as intriguing.
Metaphor’s Spinoff or Prequel Potential
It wouldn’t be a stretch to say that aMetaphorspinoff in the vein of thePersonadancing games would be a bit of a poor match, thoughPersona 5’s other spinoffs, namely the tile-based strategy ofTacticaand the musou gameplay ofStrikers, could have merit. Even anArena-like fighting game could work withMetaphor’s gorgeous fantasy stylingand weaponry, provided that its more serious tone is upheld. Lastly, the concept of a prequel toMetaphorthat further expands on the lore surrounding its society’s previous downfall (which in itself channelsEtrian Odysseyand, to an extent,SMT4), could be interesting to showcase the origins of its fantasy setting more closely after its technological collapse, giving a greater glimpse into how Euchronia was formed.
Metaphor: ReFantazio
WHERE TO PLAY
From the creative minds behind Persona 3, 4, and 5 comes Metaphor: ReFantazio, a unique fantasy world, where your protagonist will journey alongside his fairy companion, Gallica, to lift the curse from the kingdom’s lost prince.Control your destiny, face your fears, and awaken magical Archetype powers that lie dormant in your heart. By awakening to an Archetype, you will unlock the power to channel and combine the abilities of unique job classes. Strengthen your bonds and build your party to take down powerful foes and discover the kingdom’s true nature.
