Metaphor: ReFantazio emerges as yet another ambitious title from Atlus, a developer renowned for its expansive and intricately designed JRPGs. Players familiar with previous titles such as Persona 5 Royal and Persona 3 Reload will likely approach this game with tempered expectations regarding its length. The narrative architect, Katsura Hashino, hinted at a sprawling experience, comparable to Persona 5’s extensive gameplay. This raises an intriguing question: just how long is this fantasy epic?
The estimated runtime for a general playthrough of Metaphor: ReFantazio hovers around the 80 to 90-hour mark, a conclusion drawn from various play styles and personal experiences. The game’s depth is undeniable, with numerous side quests, character interactions, and expansive dungeons contributing to the experience. Those who immerse themselves in the additional activities—like building relationships and tackling side quests—will find themselves invested for a substantial duration. For context, one player’s completion of the game on ‘Normal’ difficulty spanned 87 hours, encompassing a thorough exploration of all quests and interactions, underscoring the meticulous nature of the engagement.
However, the actual time spent in the game can differ drastically based on play style. Efficient players or those aiming for a speedrun can complete it more swiftly by focusing primarily on main objectives or utilizing in-game mechanics to optimize their time. Simple tasks that enhance stats can dilute the time spent wandering in labyrinths, which may lead to a quicker journey. Conversely, players who dare to tackle higher difficulty settings while completing everything Metaphor: ReFantazio offers may find their adventure extend well beyond the initial estimate, approaching the legendary 100-hour milestone seen in Persona 5 Royal.
In addition to its already extensive single-player campaign, Metaphor: ReFantazio tantalizingly includes a New Game+ mode. Players who complete the main narrative can delve deeper into the game, uncovering fresh layers of narrative complexity while facing the challenging Regicide difficulty. This mode not only encourages replayability but also enriches the narrative experience, offering fans a compelling reason to return to its richly crafted world after their initial playthrough.
Ultimately, the journey through Metaphor: ReFantazio is expected to be both lengthy and fulfilling. While the estimated playtime is significant, the essence of this gaming experience lies not just in the hours logged but in the multifaceted layers of exploration and story. Players are encouraged to embrace the vast world Atlus has created, relishing the intricate storytelling and character development that make the adventure worthwhile. Patience and engagement will yield a richly rewarding experience, solidifying Metaphor: ReFantazio’s place as another monumental entry in the realm of JRPGs.