Metaphor: ReFantazio – Uncovering the Hidden Gems References to Atlus’ Past Titles
Metaphor: ReFantazio has taken the gaming world by storm with its immersive gameplay, captivating storyline, and nods to classic JRPGs. But did you know this game is packed with clever references to Atlus’ past masterpieces? If you’ve spent any time exploring its intricate world, you may have noticed familiar Archetypes, skill names, and even achievements that tip their hat to games like Persona, Devil Summoner, and Soul Hackers.
Atlus is no stranger to creating iconic RPG experiences, and Metaphor: ReFantazio is the culmination of years of trial and error, bringing together elements from some of its most beloved titles. In this guide, we’ll dive deep into the subtle and not-so-subtle nods that pay tribute to these legendary franchises and show how they’ve shaped Metaphor into the fantasy epic it is today.
The Archetypes System: A Nod to Atlus’ Classic Job System
One of the most notable features in Metaphor: ReFantazio is the Archetypes system, a sophisticated take on the classic Job system from older JRPGs. If you’re a seasoned Atlus fan, you’ll immediately notice how this system pulls elements from earlier titles, blending them seamlessly into the gameplay.
As you journey through the game, you’ll be able to evolve your Archetypes, unlocking new abilities and roles for your characters. This evolution is more than just a gameplay mechanic it’s a treasure trove of references to Atlus’ past. From Persona to Soul Hackers, these nods serve as both Easter eggs for longtime fans and a way to honor the legacy of Atlus’ iconic titles.
Persona Master: A Familiar Archetype
One of the clearest homages is found in the Archetype called Persona Master. In Metaphor: ReFantazio, players encounter a character who can create masks (sound familiar?), which allow them to tap into the power of specific Archetypes. The process of forging these masks is accompanied by a flash of familiar tarot art, a subtle yet unmistakable nod to the Persona series.
As you evolve this Archetype, you’ll unlock abilities that feel ripped straight from Persona’s playbook. From summoning shadows to channelling elemental attacks, the Persona Master archetype is Atlus’ way of tipping its hat to the series that redefined modern JRPGs.
Devil Summoner & Soul Hacker: Bringing Back the Classics
Atlus didn’t stop with Persona. Another significant reference can be found in the Devil Summoner Archetype, which is a callback to the classic series of the same name. This evolved Archetype allows players to summon powerful monsters, many of which are eerily familiar to those who’ve played previous Atlus games, albeit with different names.
Likewise, fans of Soul Hackers will appreciate the evolved Seeker skill tree, which features an Archetype called Soul Hacker. This nod to Atlus’ classic cyberpunk RPG brings back fond memories for fans while introducing new players to the rich history of the developer’s RPG offerings.
Achievements That Tip Their Hat to Legends
It’s not just the Archetypes that are packed with references. Metaphor: ReFantazio’s achievements and trophies are filled with clever nods to other beloved franchises. For instance, one achievement titled “Hey, Listen!” is a direct reference to The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, a legendary game that shaped the action-adventure genre. Hearing those two words instantly brings back memories of Navi’s iconic catchphrase.
Another cheeky reference is the achievement called “Monster Hunter,” a playful homage to Capcom’s highly successful Monster Hunter series. Though Metaphor: ReFantazio is not about slaying gigantic beasts, the inclusion of this achievement serves as a fun wink to fellow RPG fans who might have spent hours hunting monsters in another world.
Crafting an Experience from Atlus’ RPG Legacy
Throughout Metaphor: ReFantazio, players will notice not only direct references to other Atlus titles but also gameplay mechanics that feel like evolved versions of what the studio has done before. It’s almost like Atlus spent years perfecting their RPG formula, from Persona’s social simulation elements to Shin Megami Tensei’s strategic combat and Devil Summoner’s creature-summoning mechanics. All of these ingredients blend together seamlessly in Metaphor, creating an experience that feels both fresh and familiar.
More Than Just Easter Eggs: Evolved Gameplay Mechanics
While these references are fun Easter eggs, they also contribute to Metaphor’s innovative gameplay. For instance, the mask-forging mechanic not only nods to Persona but also serves as a strategic system for managing Archetypes and abilities. Similarly, the evolving skill trees in Metaphor echo the deep customization found in Soul Hackers and Devil Summoner, offering players countless ways to tailor their party.
The Evolution of Archetypes: Unlocking New Powers
As players advance through Metaphor: ReFantazio, they’ll have the opportunity to evolve their Archetypes into elite versions that offer even more powerful abilities. This mechanic is reminiscent of Persona’s fusion system, where combining different Personas results in stronger versions. However, in Metaphor, this evolution is tied directly to followers, a mechanic that rewards players for investing time in their relationships with characters.
Unlocking the Merchant Archetype: A Case Study
One standout example is the Merchant Archetype, which becomes available after you’ve met Brigitta, the Igniter Merchantess. To unlock this Archetype, players need to level up their Wisdom by completing tasks like viewing key locations or helping out at local inns. Once the Merchant Archetype is unlocked, players can take on a unique role that focuses on Almighty damage a reference to the high-level abilities found in Persona.
As you progress through the game, unlocking and levelling up Archetypes becomes an essential part of the gameplay, with more complex abilities and roles becoming available as you rank up your followers.
The Future of Metaphor: A New Franchise in the Making?
With the inclusion of so many nods to past Atlus games, one has to wonder will Metaphor: ReFantazio become a series of its own? Atlus has a history of turning one-off hits into successful franchises, as we’ve seen with Persona and Shin Megami Tensei. Metaphor seems poised to follow a similar path, with its rich world-building, intricate mechanics, and devoted fanbase.
Fans of the game are already speculating about future entries, and if Atlus continues to refine its formula, it’s likely that Metaphor could become just as iconic as the games that inspired it.
FAQ Section
Q: What are Archetypes in Metaphor: ReFantazio?
A: Archetypes in Metaphor: ReFantazio are the game’s version of a job system. Each Archetype grants characters specific abilities, and players can evolve these Archetypes by ranking up followers or completing tasks.
Q: How do you unlock new Archetypes?
A: New Archetypes are unlocked by meeting followers throughout the game and investing time in leveling them up. Completing tasks and raising specific stats also helps unlock elite Archetypes.
Q: What are some of the references to other Atlus games in Metaphor: ReFantazio?
A: The game includes several references to past Atlus titles, such as the Persona Master Archetype (a nod to the Persona series), Devil Summoner, and Soul Hacker. Even the achievements reference other franchises like The Legend of Zelda and Monster Hunter.
Q: Can I miss any Archetypes in the game?
A: Yes, certain Archetypes can be missed if you don’t complete specific quests or rank up followers. For example, the Merchant Archetype requires you to complete a quest tied to Brigitta.
Q: Is there a Persona-like fusion system in Metaphor: ReFantazio?
A: While there isn’t a direct fusion system, the mask-forging mechanic in Metaphor: ReFantazio works similarly, allowing players to combine elements and create new Archetype abilities.
Metaphor: ReFantazio is not just a new RPG; it’s a love letter to Atlus’ RPG legacy. By weaving in elements from its most iconic franchises, the game creates a unique experience that feels nostalgic yet fresh. Whether you’re a longtime Atlus fan or new to the studio’s games, Metaphor: ReFantazio offers a world full of surprises and familiar comforts, all while forging its own path in the realm of fantasy RPGs.
