Metaphor: ReFantazio shines above all through his attention to detail

The devil is in the details when it comes to making outstanding games Metaphor: ReFantasia gets many of these details right.

Atlus’ push to create a game that clearly shares the tried-and-true Persona DNA but stands out as a unique franchise has already impressed many critics. Between the captivating fantasy world and the endearing character moments, there’s a lot to love. But I love one screen: the post-fight victory summary screen.

Metaphor: ReFantasia features turn-based combat where you assemble a team of fighters with different roles and specialties. While the game allows players to defeat weaker enemies with real-time combat in the dungeon, you will still fight many regular turn-based battles. Every time you win a battle against a group of monsters, a victory screen flashes on the screen. It shows your group walking against a red and white background and includes information such as: B. how much experience and money you earned from combat.

It sounds kind of simple, but I really can’t believe how good it looks. The composition and broad stroke of color immediately capture my attention; The characters strut confidently in perfectly animated, smooth slow motion; Best of all, if the enemy doesn’t deal any damage to your party, you’ll be rewarded with additional boosts and a banner that says “Unhurt Victory.”

I really like the post-battle screen, but also the interface and menus in general are stunning. The pause screen makes the protagonist look like a dreamy watercolor painting come to life. According to Katsura Hashino, who has also directed several Persona games Metaphor: ReFantasiaThe menus require a lot of time to prepare and are “actually really annoying” because the team creates unique designs for each menu.

“Whether it’s the shop menu or the main menu, when you open them, there’s a whole separate program running and a separate design that goes into creating it,” Hashino told The Verge.

For me, details like the menu or the post-battle screen shine like jewels in the crown of Metaphor: ReFantasia. There’s an undeniable confidence that comes through in the little things, and I think it’s a central part of what makes the game so special. Some of the fights or sections of the game can get really difficult. You need all the encouragement you can get, and every time I see the screen I feel ready to save the world – one fight at a time.