Atlus, the renowned Japanese developer behind the Persona series, surprised many when they revealed Metaphor: ReFantazio, a fantasy RPG seemingly worlds away from their usual contemporary urban settings. Initially, the game drew heavy inspiration from classic fantasy works like “The Lord of the Rings.” However, in a recent interview on the Official Xbox Podcast, director Katsura Hashino revealed that the team ultimately “threw out” this research in favor of creating a truly original world. This decision, he explains, stems from Atlus’s core value: originality.
This unexpected turn has sparked considerable interest among fans and the gaming community. Why would Atlus, a studio known for its stylish and innovative takes on modern settings, venture into the well-trodden territory of high fantasy, only to abandon the classics that inspired them? Hashino’s explanation sheds light on this intriguing development process, providing a glimpse into the creative philosophy driving Metaphor: ReFantazio.
From Tolkien to Terra Incognita: A Journey of Creative Discovery
Hashino described how the team initially delved deep into traditional fantasy, studying not just Tolkien but the broader cultural influences that shaped the genre. They sought to understand the “why” behind these iconic works, hoping to capture the same magic in their own game. However, they soon realized that this approach was leading them down a path of imitation rather than innovation.
“It wouldn’t really feel original to us,” Hashino explained. “It would lack the originality that defines us.” He further emphasized that adhering to established fantasy tropes was hindering their creativity, preventing them from fully realizing their vision. This realization led to a pivotal decision: to abandon their initial research and forge a new path, creating a unique fantasy world that is distinctly “Atlus.”
Embracing Originality: A Defining Characteristic of Atlus
This commitment to originality is a recurring theme in Atlus’s games. From the stylish and surreal worlds of Persona to the demon-negotiating mechanics of the Shin Megami Tensei series, Atlus has consistently defied conventions and pushed the boundaries of game design. This dedication to originality is deeply ingrained in their company culture, as Hashino’s statement confirms.
Metaphor: ReFantazio is no exception. By discarding familiar fantasy tropes, Atlus is creating a world that is both familiar and fresh, blending classic fantasy elements with their signature style and innovative gameplay mechanics. This approach allows them to explore new ideas and themes, unburdened by the expectations that come with established fantasy settings.
A World of Their Own: Building a Unique Fantasy Experience
This shift towards originality is evident in the game’s visuals and gameplay. While Metaphor: ReFantazio retains some classic fantasy elements, such as swords, sorcery, and mythical creatures, it also introduces unique concepts and aesthetics. The game’s art style, a blend of traditional fantasy and anime influences, is unlike anything seen in the genre.
Furthermore, the game’s combat system, which combines turn-based tactics with dynamic action elements, promises a fresh and engaging experience. By shedding the constraints of established fantasy conventions, Atlus has created a world where they can freely experiment and innovate, resulting in a truly unique and unforgettable gaming experience.
My personal take: As a long-time fan of Atlus and their work, I’m incredibly excited to see them venturing into the realm of high fantasy. Their willingness to break away from established tropes and forge their own path is what makes them so special. I’m eager to explore this new world they’ve created and experience the unique blend of classic fantasy and Atlus’s signature style.
Key takeaways:
- Atlus initially drew inspiration from “The Lord of the Rings” for Metaphor: ReFantazio.
- The team abandoned this approach to prioritize originality, a core value for Atlus.
- This decision allows for greater creative freedom and a unique fantasy experience.
- Metaphor: ReFantazio blends classic fantasy elements with Atlus’s distinctive style.
By choosing originality over imitation, Atlus is poised to deliver a fantasy RPG that is both familiar and groundbreaking. Metaphor: ReFantazio promises to be a testament to Atlus’s commitment to innovation and their ability to create worlds that are truly their own.
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