Summary
Metaphor: ReFantaziohas just received an ESRB rating, signaling that the game is more than ready for its upcoming release and probably won’t suffer delays. The game is set to launch on October 11 for PS5/PS4, Xbox Series X/S, and PC, but players can already try out theMetaphor: ReFantaziodemo, which offers over five hours of gameplay.
In 2016, Atlus founded a subsidiary called Studio Zero, headed byPersonacreator Katsura Hashino. Since then, Studio Zero has been working on a game calledProject Re Fantasy, which was eventually revealed as the upcomingMetaphor: ReFantazio. After its first announcement, fans noticed striking similarities betweenMetaphor: ReFantazioandPersona, especially considering that Hashino directed both titles. Still, despite similar mechanics,Metaphor: ReFantaziois distinct fromPersonaand will likely carve out its own identity soon.
The Entertainment Software Rating Board, responsible for rating video games in North America, has just announced thatMetaphor: ReFantaziohas been rated “Teen,” meaning it’s suitable for ages 13 and up. The rating summary explains in detail the various ways the RPG depicts scenes of blood, one of which can be seen right at the start ofMetaphor ReFantazio’s extensive demo. The summary also mentions the use of alcohol and strong language and shows examples of them.
ESRB Rating Suggests Metaphor: ReFantazio Won’t Be Delayed
One classification suggests mild suggestive themes, including verbal or visual sexual connotations. According to the summary, this is limited to certain NPC dialogues. SinceMetaphor: ReFantaziowon’t feature romancewith the protagonist’s followers, it seems these are side conversations and don’t involve the main cast. Lastly, there are mentions of the monsters the player must face throughout the game and how this may result in “cries of pain.”
The ESRB rating is essential for determining a target audience and setting expectations regarding the game’s themes. In the past, somegames have had different age ratingsacross multiple platforms because developers removed features or elements depending on the target audience of a specific platform. This isn’t the case forMetaphor: ReFantazio, which will maintain its Teen rating across all platforms and the themes described in the summary.
All in all, the most important thing is that Atlus' upcoming JRPG is closer than ever, and soon, fans will be able to experience it fully. Atlus is ensuring thatall issues withMetaphor: ReFantazioare addressedbefore launch so that players can enjoy the best experience, no matter which platform they choose to play on.
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.
