Yoko Taro Praises Metaphor: ReFantazio's Stunning Design and Next-Gen Feel

  • 03-09-2024 |
  • Melissa Hinds

The excitement surrounding the upcoming Atlus JRPG Metaphor: ReFantazio is palpable, especially with positive endorsements from well-known figures in the gaming community. One such influential voice belongs to Yoko Taro, the esteemed creator behind the Nier series. He recently shared his thoughts about the game, showcasing a blend of admiration and enthusiasm, which is certainly encouraging for fans eager to experience this new title.

In a recent video uploaded to the official atlustube YouTube channel, Taro offered his enthusiastic feedback on Metaphor: ReFantazio. He described the game's impressive user interface as exceptionally stylish, a compliment that many take quite seriously. According to a translation by Automaton, his praise focused specifically on the game’s stunning design elements, following in the footsteps of games such as Persona 5 Royal. The high quality of the game's menus appears to be a deliberate choice, as mentioned by director Katsura Hashino, who acknowledged that Atlus invests significantly in its UI designers.

Furthermore, Taro indicated that the game feels meticulously crafted, expressing that it gives the impression of being a next-generation experience. He remarked on the sense of investment he felt during gameplay, suggesting that substantial financial resources were dedicated to its development. This kind of feedback not only raises expectations but also showcases Taro’s deep appreciation for what he has encountered in the initial stages of the game.

It’s worth noting that despite his glowing comments, Taro emphasized that he has no affiliations with Atlus and has not received any compensation for his appearance in the video. His admission as simply a passionate gaming enthusiast adds a layer of authenticity to his remarks, indicating that his praise for Metaphor: ReFantazio comes from genuine enjoyment rather than obligation.

I had my own opportunity to play the first hour of Metaphor: ReFantazio at Gamescom 2024, and while my descriptions may differ from Taro’s, I completely resonate with his sentiment regarding the stunning visuals. The game truly is a visual treat. Anticipation is building as the release date approaches—set for October 11 on platforms including PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. For fans of the genre, this date marks an important milestone.

In the meantime, if you're looking to explore JRPGs, be sure to explore our curated list of the finest titles currently available.