Metaphor: ReFantazio Takes Japan's Grand Award
Sega confirms Metaphor: ReFantazio, the new RPG from ATLUS’s Studio Zero, has earned the Grand Award at the Japan Game Awards 2025. This top prize marks the strongest pick in the Games of the Year division for the year.
A Long Path of Praise
Before it even hit shelves, the game grabbed attention by winning Future Division Awards in 2023 and 2024. Those wins built big anticipation among fans and critics alike.
Rave Reviews Across Platforms
Since launch, critics have praised the title across each platform. The PS5 version, in particular, stood out with a Metacritic score near the top end, reaching the mid-90s in some listings.
The Game Awards 2024: A Major Sweep
At The Game Awards 2024, Metaphor: ReFantazio was in six categories, including Game of the Year. It went on to secure Best RPG, Best Narrative, and Best Art Direction, underscoring its strong storytelling and visual style. The win streak continued as fans and critics praised the game around the world.
Anniversary Tributes from Key Creators
To mark the game’s first birthday, creative director Katsura Hashino and character designer Shigenori Soejima shared a special video message with fans. Soejima also revealed new commemorative illustrations, giving players fresh art to celebrate.
A First Look: The New Demo Is Live
A fresh demo offers a first taste of Metaphor: ReFantazio. Players can complete the opening chapters and transfer their save data to the full game later. To try it, head to your platform’s store and download the demo today.
What This Milestone Means for Fans
The Grand Award at the Japan Game Awards 2025 confirms that Metaphor: ReFantazio stands out in design, story, and art. Its strong showing at The Game Awards 2024 adds to a growing track record of praise. The demo gives newcomers a risk-free way to sample its world, while veterans can revisit the early moments before the full release.
A Rising Flag for Studio Zero and Its Audience
This string of honors signals that Studio Zero has solidified its name in RPG circles. The blend of bold visuals, memorable characters, and a unique narrative approach helps the game stand apart in a crowded market. Fans now await more updates and maybe future expansions, all while keeping an eye on how the team keeps expanding this world.
Looking Ahead for a Global Audience
As awards rain in from around the globe, Metaphor: ReFantazio continues to draw attention beyond Japan. The blend of strong writing and art direction has earned it a place on many best-of lists. Players everywhere can expect continued support and new content as the title grows.
Supporting Creators and Keeping the Experience Fresh
With Hashino and Soejima’s ongoing involvement, the game’s visuals and storytelling feel fresh even after many hours. The team’s commitment to character depth and vivid scenes helps the world stay inviting and alive for newcomers and returning players alike.
Please note that when you make a purchase through our links at GameHaunt, we might earn a small commission. This helps us keep bringing you the free journalism you love on our site! And don’t worry, our editorial content remains totally unbiased. If you’d like to show some support, you can do so here.
