SEGA and Atlus have released more details on the gameplay of Metaphor: ReFantazio, including its battle system and features.

For those out of the loop, Metaphor: ReFantazio is an upcoming RPG developed by Studio Zero of ATLUS, featuring the creators of the Persona 3, 4, and 5.

Enhanced Turn-Based Combat

Metaphor: ReFantazio features a new battle system that merges the best elements of turn-based and
action-based gameplay, offering an new method of exploring dungeons. Fast Battle allow you
to directly attack enemies roaming the overworld in real-time, while in Squad Battles, you’ll be able
to face your opponents tactically with turn-based combat.

Fae Sight

With the help of the protagonist’s fairy ally, Gallica, you’ll be able to detect the danger level posed by
nearby enemies, allowing you to plan and pick their battles as well as your combat style.

Fast Battles

Fast Battles are an action-focused combat style, with classical features of the genre such as enemy lock-on, dashing, and evading attacks. This makes it an effective method to take out lower-level enemies quickly. Each Archetype has a different attack styles, so discover which ones suit you best.

Squad Battles

Against harder foes, players can easily switch from Fast Battles to Squad Battles, seamlessly converting the fight into a traditional turn-based encounter. Gain advantage over formidable foes by repeatedly striking them in
Fast Battle to stun them, then switch to Squad Battle to finish them off.

Lethal Labyrinths

In your quest to become the king of Euchronia, you must venture into perilous labyrinths known
to lead adventurers to their deaths. These labyrinths house formidable monsters and obstacles and discover
hidden treasures and powerful gear.

Some dungeons will be key to advancing the main story, while others offer optional adventures that will let you take on new quests.

Archetypes

Along your journey, you and your party will awaken Archetypes, the power of heroic embodiment, as you face hardships, deepen your bonds with your followers, and build rapport as a team. Party members can then transform into the Archetypes they’ve awakened, each wielding unique skill sets that help turn the tides of battle.

Many kinds of Archetypes exist, each with their own abilities and traits. Seekers are all-round fighters,
Mages excel at targeting enemies’ weaknesses with their offensive magic, while Thieves skillfully
plunder treasure. It’s up to you to choose which Archetypes work best for your party.

Archetypes also come with their own weaknesses and disadvantages as well, so choose wisely.

Party Arrangement

Just like Persona, players can bring a maximum of 4 characters in a party, including the player character. As the story unfolds, you’ll be able to choose from up to 7 characters, each with their own unique strengths, party synergies, and Archetypes.

The composition of your party also plays a crucial role. You can change up your party members’ turn
order, swap them out mid-battle, or even move them to the front or back. Use these tactical
maneuvers to shift the odds in your favor.

Foster Bonds and Draw Strength From Them

As one of the requirements to become king, you will meet people from all walks of life throughout your journey. Building strong ties with them can turn them into valuable followers who’ll support you in your quest to become king. You can also awaken new Archetypes and unlock new abilities.

By interacting with those who support your claim to the throne, you’ll unlock substories, granting a glimpse into their backstory. Each follower has their own story to tell and past to discover. Your interactions will strengthen your party and add rich new layers to the narrative. Substories can be done at your own pace and are permanently available once you unlock them. How you choose to navigate your journey will play a huge impact on the growth of your party and the overall story.

Metaphor: ReFantazio is slated to launch October 11, 2024 on the Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4 and PC.