Metaphor: ReFantazio Leaves the Door Wide Open for One Sequel Direction
Exploring Endless Possibilities: How Metaphor: ReFantazio Sets the Stage for a Bold Sequel Journey
Atlus fans have been treated to a wave of exceptional releases in the past year, with Metaphor: ReFantazio standing out as a clear breakout hit. As a fresh intellectual property from the renowned developer, it has already made its mark, earning critical acclaim and a slew of awards at The Game Awards 2024, including Best RPG, Best Narrative, and Best Art Direction. With such a positive reception, many fans are eagerly anticipating what direction a sequel to this promising new franchise might take.
While Metaphor: ReFantazio director Katsura Hashino has stated that there are no definitive plans for a series at the moment, he has expressed hope that one day the game will grow into one. Even though a sequel may be a while off, the original game's narrative and world-building offer a strong foundation to build upon, leading fans to speculate about the direction a follow-up might take. Some have theorized that a sequel could serve as a spiritual successor rather than a direct continuation, but the unresolved plot threads at the end of Metaphor: ReFantazio make a direct sequel seem all the more likely.
Metaphor: ReFantazio's World Holds Endless Potential Beyond Euchronia
Metaphor: ReFantazio's world feels vast and teeming with unexplored possibilities. After defeating the villainous Louis and witnessing the protagonist's coronation as the new King of Euchronia, players are treated to an epilogue that ties up the major threads of the story. Most of the game’s loyal Followers are integrated into the royal court, with Strohl assuming the role of General of the Royal Army and Hulkenberg becoming the captain of the King’s Royal Guard. However, one particular Follower stands out in the game's conclusion, offering a tantalizing hint of what could lie ahead.
Catherina, a key character, is revealed to have become an emissary to other kingdoms beyond Euchronia. While players spend most of the game exploring the Kingdom of Euchronia, this conversation with Catherina implies that there are other continents, each with their own struggles and stories. This opens up the possibility for a sequel to venture beyond the familiar territories, perhaps focusing on a new kingdom in a distant land that Catherina visits following the events of the original game.
Catherina: A Link Between Metaphor: ReFantazio and Its Sequel
By shifting the focus to a new location, a potential sequel could still be grounded in the world of Metaphor: ReFantazio, with Catherina acting as a crucial bridge between the two stories. Serving as an emissary between the Kingdom of Euchronia and the new setting, she would also serve as a narrative connector for players, seamlessly linking the two games. This type of sequel setup could provide a fresh perspective on the mysteries left unresolved in the original game—such as the destruction of the old world—while still feeling like a new adventure.
Additionally, Catherina’s absence as a playable character in the original game offers a compelling opportunity for a future sequel. While players might have wished to see her join the party as the representative of Paripus, that role ultimately went to Basilio. A sequel could fulfill this fan request by making Catherina a playable character, even if only temporarily, in a role that sees her assisting a neighboring nation in need. This would not only provide a satisfying continuation for long-time fans but also introduce an exciting new dynamic for the story.
The Future of Metaphor: ReFantazio
As we look to the future of Metaphor: ReFantazio, it’s clear that the game has established a rich and expansive world, full of potential for new adventures. Whether a direct sequel or a spiritual successor, there is no shortage of directions the series could take. Catherina's journey beyond the borders of Euchronia offers the perfect setup for continuing the narrative while exploring new corners of this captivating universe. Atlus fans have every reason to be excited about what’s to come in this promising franchise.