Persona and Metaphor: ReFantazio Director Katsura Hashino Aims to Create JRPG 3.0

At the Korean gaming conference G-Star 2025, Metaphor: ReFantazio and modern Persona director Katsura Hashino shared ambitious plans for JRPGs. He believes the genre is entering a new era called “JRPG 3.0.”

Hashino spoke during a talk titled “When experience becomes memory – designing lasting impressions through art and structure”, alongside art director Shigenori Soejima. During the session, he explored how JRPGs have evolved and where the genre could go next.

JRPG 1.0 and 2.0 Explained

According to Hashino, JRPGs can be divided into three distinct eras. Firstly, JRPG 1.0 represents the classics. He didn’t name specific titles, but this era includes franchises such as Dragon Quest and Final Fantasy, which have shaped the genre since the 1980s.

Next, JRPG 2.0 reflects the modern style. These games feature higher production quality and more responsive gameplay. In addition, they improve on past formulas while keeping the core elements that fans love.

The Vision for JRPG 3.0

However, the most intriguing part of Hashino’s talk focused on JRPG 3.0, the next generation of the genre. He described it as a fundamental shift that could change the structure and presentation of JRPGs entirely.

Although Hashino admitted he isn’t exactly sure what JRPG 3.0 will look like, he hopes his next game, likely Metaphor: ReFantazio, will embody this vision. Furthermore, he suggested that future JRPGs will offer a greater dimension and innovate beyond traditional mechanics and storytelling.

A New Era for JRPG Fans

Therefore, Hashino’s announcement signals an exciting time for JRPG enthusiasts. By aiming to reshape the genre fundamentally, he promises experiences that go beyond updating graphics or improving controls.

Consequently, if successful, JRPG 3.0 could redefine player expectations. It will blend modern gameplay with creative new structures. As a result, fans of both Persona and classic JRPGs will likely watch his next moves closely.

Available Now

On Nintendo Switch 2, PS5, PS4 & Steam

Buy Now

Beatrix

Undying Blue

An elite Society agent and contractor of the seal weapon Embrasque, Beatrix's ferocity when facing primal beasts is rivaled only by her insatiable hunger for glory.

Eustace

Earthrending Thunder

An elite Society marksman and contractor of the seal weapon Flamek Thunder, Eustace is efficient, laconic, and longs to live in a world of peace and quiet.

Fraux

Striking Strength

Pactbearer to The Devil, a primal seeking to create a new world order, Fraux is otherwise an ordinary skydweller whose heart, character, and temperament are filled with love and compassion.

Fediel

Darkness Personified

One of the Six Dragons, entities who exist beyond the confines of the natural world. Having dominion over darkness, she influences the very laws of nature.