Metaphor: ReFantazio enjoyed a stellar debut in 2025, selling over one million copies on its first day and garnering numerous awards and nominations. This success has prompted discussions about the game’s future, with director Katsura Hashino expressing ambitious plans. In a recent interview with Weekly Famitsu Magazine (via Persona Central), Hashino voiced his desire to see Metaphor evolve into a major franchise alongside Shin Megami Tensei and Persona. While nothing is confirmed, this aspiration aligns with Studio Zero’s founding goal of creating a new RPG series.
Expanding the World of Metaphor
Hashino’s ambition for a Metaphor sequel isn’t surprising. Studio Zero’s creation was intended to birth a new franchise, and expanding beyond a single game is a natural progression. Since the game’s October release, players have expressed interest in spin-offs exploring specific storylines. Alternatively, a new Metaphor title set in a different era is also a possibility. Hashino specifically mentioned the Sengoku period of Japanese history, a time marked by intense civil war, as a potential setting. He jokingly acknowledged the potential similarities to the Basara manga/anime series, suggesting he might explore a unique angle or a different direction entirely.
metaphor-refantazio-screenshot-2.jpgPlayers can choose from various dialogue options in Metaphor: ReFantazio.
Metaphor’s Rise to Prominence
The positive reception and accolades Metaphor: ReFantazio received increase the likelihood of a sequel, potentially attracting new players. Persona’s recent success has established it as one of Sega’s core franchises, alongside Sonic the Hedgehog and Like a Dragon. These pillars have fueled Sega’s growth, leading to reboots of dormant franchises like Shinobi, Streets of Rage, Golden Axe, Crazy Taxi, and Jet Set Radio. Metaphor has the potential to become another major pillar for Sega in the coming years.
The Future of Metaphor
Metaphor: ReFantazio‘s impressive performance and Hashino’s vision for a full-fledged franchise strongly suggest a sequel is likely. The exact timeline remains uncertain, but fans eagerly await news about the future of Metaphor. Hopefully, Sega and Atlus won’t keep them waiting too long.
What are your thoughts on Metaphor: ReFantazio?
Would you like to see a sequel or a spin-off? Do you think Metaphor will become a major franchise like Persona and Shin Megami Tensei? Share your thoughts with me on Twitter @Marcdachamp, Bluesky @Marcdachamp, or Instagram @Dachampgaming!
