Atlus enthusiasts have been basking in a steady stream of remarkable game releases lately, and among them, Metaphor: ReFantazio has emerged as the standout sensation. As a fresh intellectual property from the developers, it has garnered widespread critical acclaim and garnered several accolades at The Game Awards 2024, including Best RPG, Best Narrative, and Best Art Direction. With rumors swirling about a potential sequel, fans are buzzing with theories about what direction the continuation could take.
Director Katsura Hashino has mentioned that while there are no solid plans for the game to evolve into a series, he hopes it will turn into one someday. Even though it might be a while before we see a sequel to Metaphor: ReFantazio, the original’s rich foundation makes for an ideal base for future development. Some fans predict that the next game might serve more as a spiritual successor rather than a direct sequel, but thanks to the unresolved plot threads in the ending, a direct follow-up appears more plausible.
For those who haven’t played it yet, we’re diving into spoiler territory for Metaphor: ReFantazio from here on out.
After the protagonist’s rise to power in Euchronia and Louis’s defeat, players witness an epilogue depicting the characters settling into their new roles. Many of the game’s Followers find their place within the newly established royal court. Strohl takes on the role of general of the Royal Army, while Hulkenberg steps in as the captain of the King’s Royal Guard. However, it’s Catherina who might hold the key to the game’s next chapter.
In the closing dialogue with Catherina, it’s revealed she’s become an emissary to lands beyond Euchronia. Players traverse much of the continent of Euchronia during Metaphor: ReFantazio, yet Catherina’s role hints at other, unexplored continents. This revelation opens up exciting possibilities for a sequel set in a new kingdom, located on one of these undiscovered lands that Catherina visits after the events of the original game.
The notion of Catherina being a bridging character for a follow-up is particularly intriguing. She could connect Metaphor: ReFantazio and a potential sequel without the need to carry over all previous characters. Acting as a nexus between the Kingdom of Euchronia and fresh settings, Catherina allows players to appreciate the connection between the two games, while exploring new narratives. This approach could balance fresh storytelling with re-investigating the mysteries not entirely resolved.
Adopting a sequel style similar to the Persona series could be viable, where each installment blossoms into its own story, linked through shared elements like characters or themes. Catherina’s character, not being playable in the first game, provides developers with a unique opportunity. Many fans wished to see her as a party member, particularly given her standing as the Paripus representative, which went to Basilio. A sequel could give Catherina her due, potentially as a temporary playable character like Grius was, acting as Euchronia’s ambassador aiding another nation in need.
