by Sarah Jacobs

The 2024 Game of the Year Awards was a tough contest. Three of the best games I’ve played in a long time were nominated for the prestigious title, but one stood above the rest: Metaphor: ReFantazio.

Although it didn’t win Game Of The Year 2024, Metaphor: ReFantazio won multiple awards at The Game Awards 2024, including Best Narrative, Best RPG, and Best Art Direction. It is critically acclaimed for its beautiful art style and story.

The king’s assassination is causing anxiety in the kingdom because he is assumed to have no heir. Unbeknownst to the public, the prince was put under a curse many years ago. He is alive, but he has been unconscious since the curse was cast. A good friend of the prince, Will, and his closest confidant, Gallica, are tasked with finding a way to reverse the curse and return the prince to the throne. At the royal funeral, the late king’s magic manifests as a stone island large enough to block out the sun bearing his face. He announces that the people will decide on the next king. Will decides to win the throne in the prince’s place.

Characters and their arcs are handled beautifully by this game’s narrative. The world feels expansive, and it’s easy to get invested in the problems facing this world.

It won Best Art Direction at The Game Awards 2024, and it earned that title. The menus take on a painted style. The art and character designs are visually stunning. The mix of 3D and 2D makes the visuals compelling throughout the entire experience.

The cast is easily one of the most likable. The party includes characters from a variety of fantasy races, and their race and upbringing play an obvious role in how they see and interact with the world.  

The voice acting in this game is one of the most impressive aspects of the game. The English voice cast features largely unknown actors, each of whom excellently brings the characters to life. The variety of accents creates the impression of a vast world.

Metaphor: ReFantazio is a step above its competition in the JRPG genre. Few other games have gripped me in the same way. I highly recommend anyone who is a fan of JRPGs check it out.