How the user interface of Metaphor: ReFantazio escaped the shadow of Persona

Metaphor: ReFantazio's UI combines medieval and modern styles.

: Atlus, famed for its distinctive UI designs, continues to innovate with Metaphor: ReFantazio, stepping out of Persona's influential shadow. Koji Ise discusses how the team's priority was to embed the UI with the game's unique narrative, notably using the Vitruvian Man. Balancing style with functionality was crucial, ensuring that the UI remains both usable and retains the 'Atlus touch'. The team also drew inspiration from a blend of medieval and modern art styles to appeal to contemporary players.

Metaphor: ReFantazio, developed by Atlus, stands out for its UI design, distinct from the company's previous work on the Persona series. The UI designer, Koji Ise, explained that the goal was to create a 'cool' yet timeless interface that resonates with the game's narrative. They achieved this by incorporating elements like Da Vinci’s Vitruvian Man, which aligned with Metaphor's medieval theme.

A significant element was the Vitruvian Man's inclusion, used in the game's class system menus, representing the formula for the ideal king, resonating with the core plot. The team worked from concept to completion with UI in mind, integrating medieval painting styles mixed with modern animations to create a captivating artistic experience.

Creating a UI that honors the traditions of classic RPGs while introducing new design elements was a core challenge. Early designs included a fantasy setting motif using parchment paper and minimalist retro elements inspired by older RPGs. The ambition was to merge these fantastical representations with modern style for a universal appeal.

UI's role extended beyond visual aesthetics, influencing how players experience the game emotionally. By focusing on what Metaphor: ReFantazio needed specifically, the team distanced itself from other Atlus titles, allowing for clear creative direction. Vital to the development was balancing creative expression with usability to ensure that the UI served its practical purpose without sacrificing style.

Despite the challenges, Metaphor's UI succeeded in defining its aesthetic voice, separate from Persona, all while maintaining the 'Atlus touch'. The game's design demonstrated a deliberate intention to merge historical and modern influences, resulting in a unique user interface that both stands out and remains user-friendly.

Sources: Eurogamer, VideoGamer.com, GameWatch, Kotaku, PC Gamer

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