Director of Metaphor: ReFantazio Calls Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 “Truly Inspiring” and Highlights Its “Deep Understanding” of JRPGs

Discover the New RPG Bundle on Steam

A fresh game bundle has launched on Steam, featuring two prominent RPG titles that have captured players’ hearts in recent years. Developers Sandfall Interactive and ATLUS have collaborated to create an enticing bundle that includes both Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 and Metaphor: ReFantazio. While these games are available for individual purchase, this bundle offers a 10% discount on their combined price, making it a compelling option for RPG enthusiasts.

Insights from the Creators

Katsura Hashino, the creative director and writer of Metaphor: ReFantazio, expressed his enthusiasm about the pairing with Expedition 33. He praised the game for its quality and its deep-rooted connection to the JRPG genre.

“I am very pleased to hear that a Steam bundle will be released with Expedition 33, a title that has received high praise around the world, ”Hashino stated in a press release.“Expedition 33 is a work that conveys a deep understanding of and sincere dedication to the JRPG genre, crafted with great care down to the finest details. As someone who also creates RPGs, I found it to be truly inspiring.

Hashino continued by highlighting the rise of Japanese-style RPGs globally, appreciating the diverse creativity emerging from both Japanese and international studios.

“I am genuinely delighted to see Japanese-style RPGs being born and embraced, not only from Japanese-based studios like ours, but other places around the world through diverse creative approaches, ”he remarked.“While the two titles differ in their worlds and overall direction, players may find a shared spirit in how we each approach and express the RPG genre. I hope that this bundle encourages players to experience both titles and enjoy the breadth of what RPGs can offer.”

The Significance of This Collaboration

The commendation from Hashino is particularly noteworthy, considering his extensive influence on the JRPG landscape through his pivotal roles in Shin Megami Tensei and Persona. This kind of recognition underscores the innovative qualities that both games bring to the table.

On the other hand, Guillaume Broche, creative director and CEO of Sandfall Interactive, shared his admiration for ATLUS and the inspiration he draws from their work. He regarded Metaphor: ReFantazio as a phenomenal game that resonates with the themes of creativity.

“Metaphor: ReFantazio is a game that is really inspiring for us, ”Broche expressed.“It tells a beautiful story in a completely new world that is masterfully crafted. It deals with heavy themes but one that resonates strongly with me is the importance of imagination in all aspects of our lives.

Broche further commended the game’s lovable cast and strategic turn-based combat, particularly praising the innovative job system through Archetypes, which offers varied playstyles. He remarked, “It is a great honor to be able to collaborate with ATLUS on this bundle, as I have been a fan of their work since Shin Megami Tensei™: Lucifer’s Call.”

Critical Acclaim

Both titles have received high ratings, with Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 earning a stunning 9.5/10 in our review, while Metaphor: ReFantazio secured a 9/10 in our 2024 analysis, highlighting their quality and the engaging experiences they provide.

A Must-Have for RPG Fans

This new Steam bundle presents an excellent opportunity for RPG aficionados to acquire two of the best titles currently available. If you haven’t ventured into either of these captivating worlds yet, now is the perfect time to do so.

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