Metaphor: ReFantazio launches with praise as it carves its own identity apart from Persona series

Metaphor: ReFantazio launches this week, receiving high praise and comparisons to Atlus' Persona series. However, it features a different protagonist—a mercenary in a violent fantasy world—setting it apart from the high school drama of Persona games. The game’s setting, Euchronia, contrasts sharply with the urban environment of Tokyo, offering a fairytale-inspired landscape filled with danger. Its orchestral soundtrack also differs from the jazz-pop style of Persona, enhancing the game's unique atmosphere. Notably, Metaphor lacks romance options, a staple in Persona titles. This absence, along with the game's darker themes, suggests a shift in focus that may attract new players while leaving some Persona fans wanting.