Ways The Metaphor: ReFantazio Follower System Is Different Than Persona 5s Confidants

Ways The Metaphor: ReFantazio Follower System Is Different Than Persona 5s Confidants

Key Takeaways

  • Metaphor: ReFantazio‘s Followers system is less restrictive than Persona, with no strict schedule for interactions.
  • The game introduces Archetypes for characters, akin to classes, allowing for strategic customization.
  • Unlike Persona, there are no optional romances in Metaphor: ReFantazio, emphasizing platonic relationships instead.

As a longtime fan of the Persona series, I must say that Metaphor: ReFantazio has certainly caught my attention with its unique take on character development and gameplay systems. While it shares some similarities with Persona 5’s Archetypes and Social Links, it manages to stand out in a crowd by offering more tangible benefits from upgrading non-party members and eliminating the optional romances found in many RPGs.


In numerous aspects, the release of Persona 3 reshaped the series. One innovative feature introduced was the Social Links system, enabling players to forge relationships with non-player characters (NPCs), which in turn provided advantages through a sequence of side missions. The Social Links concept carried over into Persona 4 , and although they go by a different name, Confidants, in Persona 5, their functioning remains unchanged.

In the newest RPG from Studio Zero, titled “Metaphor: ReFantazio“, introduces a fresh feature known as Followers. Although the fundamental concept remains the same, the mechanical aspects are significantly distinct. Here’s how the two systems differ when compared to the latest iteration of Persona, and the newcomer, “Metaphor: ReFantazio“.

6 No Strict Schedule (Mostly)

When They Want To Hang Out, They’ll Let You Know

Ways The Metaphor: ReFantazio Follower System Is Different Than Persona 5s Confidants

In the game ‘Metaphor: ReFantazio’, there’s a calendar system akin to real life and the ‘Persona’ series, but with its unique twist. The game features fictional days of the week such as Flamesday, Watersday, Arboursday, Metalsday, and Idlesday. While Followers in this system have certain limitations, it offers more flexibility compared to traditional calendar systems.

In the game “Metaphor: ReFantazio”, Alonzo, for instance, doesn’t adhere to a strict schedule of appearing on one specific day of the week. Instead, the characters’ appearances can be influenced by progressing through the story or enhancing certain Royal Virtues like Tolerance. Additionally, some characters might only appear during nighttime hours. So while there are conditions attached, Followers have more freedom in this game compared to other Atlus titles.

5 Party Members Can Hang Out On The Go

The Gauntlet Runner Is A Great HQ

Ways The Metaphor: ReFantazio Follower System Is Different Than Persona 5s Confidants

In a creative twist, ReFantazio is overflowing with fresh concepts, not just for Atlus games but for the video game industry as a whole. For instance, gamers will commandeer a colossal land-bound vessel known as a Gauntlet Runner. As the story unfolds, this vessel will adapt to allow for water and air travel as well. During journeys between cities or dungeons, time continues to pass, but players won’t lose any progress in their journey.

In the game “Metaphor: ReFantazio,” players can utilize their time on the Gauntlet Runner to boost stats, amplify Royal Virtues, or interact with Followers. Interestingly, there are exclusive Follower episodes only accessible through the Gauntlet Runner. While it might sound like a limitation, it’s more about creating an engaging dynamic that illustrates the party’s growth throughout this epic adventure. Unlike in games like “Persona 5,” players don’t often get to witness NPCs commenting on the story as it unfolds in real-time social situations.

4 Followers Unlock Archetypes

The Class System Of The Gods

Ways The Metaphor: ReFantazio Follower System Is Different Than Persona 5s Confidants

The primary distinction between Persona and Metaphor: ReFantazio lies in the use of Archetypes. Each character you control will have assigned Archetypes that serve as roles similar to classes in other role-playing games. For instance, Hulkenberg initially appears as a Knight. Notably, players can change between these Archetypes, enabling them to devise unique strategies according to their preferred playstyle.

Non-party members have Archetypes as well, giving players more of a want to track Followers down. While certain Arcana in Persona 5 can strengthen the Persona of a particular sign, like The Lovers, it’s not quite the same as getting a new class with evolving parts. It’s an intricate gameplay system that any Atlus fan can dig into.

3 Non-Party Member Upgrades Matter

Learn How To Game The System

Ways The Metaphor: ReFantazio Follower System Is Different Than Persona 5s Confidants

Forming bonds with Followers is not just about acquiring new Archetypes; the advantages gained from upgrading relationships with non-party members in this game seem more rewarding than any Social Link in the Persona series. While there are similarities, the decision of which Follower to prioritize can be challenging due to the substantial benefits each offers.

As a gamer, I can boost the Experience Points (EXP) I earn after battles and whip up dishes without spending any time. In the game “Metaphor: ReFantazio”, my character Brigitta sets up a high-powered accessory shop, benefiting players, along with slashing prices nationwide and enhancing the Magla to Reeve exchange rate. There’s plenty to explore, and luckily, an early upgrade from More grants me a sneak peek of each upgrade’s effects.

2 No Optional Romances

It’s A Relief In An RPG

Ways The Metaphor: ReFantazio Follower System Is Different Than Persona 5s Confidants

As a devoted fan, one of the captivating aspects I’ve found in “Metaphor: ReFantazio” is that its characters aren’t excessively love-struck or yearning for romance like many other games. Instead, they express shared admiration for Junah, much like fans would for a real-life pop star. Unlike most games from the Persona series, there’s no option for romantic entanglements with Followers in “Metaphor: ReFantazio”.

In simpler terms, the game might excel at creating strong relationships with female characters, but it’s not focused on romantic elements. This could be seen as a positive aspect by those who appreciate a unique approach, as not all stories necessarily require a forced love storyline.

1 Little Is Voiced

It’s A Step Back

Ways The Metaphor: ReFantazio Follower System Is Different Than Persona 5s Confidants

In the game Persona 5, characters within its Confidant system had voiceovers during their initial encounter and when they reached their final chapter. This was also the case for many other games, with the exception of a recent remake. For instance, in Persona 3 Reload, all Social Links scenes were voiced, making it significantly more engaging.

Although ReFantazio appeared later, it adopted the convention from the Persona 5 Confidant system where the first and last episodes of follower conversations were voiced. This makes these interactions similar, but there’s a slight difference: the main character now speaks directly. However, he won’t voice all his lines; instead, the character will technically be saying the words after the text is selected.

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2024-10-22 17:23