Looking back at the past few years, 2024’s choices for the best PC games are full of solid options. Some have entertaining combat mechanics, while others tug at your heartstrings and make you contemplate life. Nonetheless, several shone through as superb this year, with Destructoid’s choice for the best PC game of 2024 being none other than Metaphor: ReFantazio.
The inspiration from ATLUS’ Shin Megami Tensei and Persona series is almost immediately apparent, but there’s enough present to help Metaphor stand out from the ground. You still have SMT and Persona-like combat mechanics, with Archetypes taking center stage and allowing for more customization than usual. Nonetheless, the overall vibe has shifted from chill high school adventures to a medieval-themed world where a young protagonist travels across the continent to save a kingdom’s prince.
If anything, it pulls more of its dark and, at times, bleak tone from Shin Megami Tensei, with in-world social and political issues being at the forefront rather than post-apocalyptic survival. Metaphor certainly isn’t the most lighthearted game you’ll find, but there are still plenty of chances to spend time with friends or cook a warm meal if that’s more your style.
Much of Metaphor: ReFantazio feels familiar enough for veteran players SMT or Persona to jump in and enjoy it. Beyond that, even those who have never touched ATLUS’ series and find some parts off-putting or feel general reluctance can snatch onto the vastly different soundtrack, art style, or story progression system. Metaphor completely separates itself from previous ATLUS titles, with almost every aspect being changed or improved, without taking away from what makes these series enjoyable in the first place.
For those who like a continuous story, there is also enough wiggle room for DLCs or sequels to come out of Metaphor. Although there’s no guarantee of it and no telling what’ll happen from now on with this title, the potential is certainly there. That said, it still stands quite well on its own with a satisfying story flow and conclusion, so it’s only a matter of time before we learn whether it’ll expand from here.
Nominees for Best PC Game of 2024
- Metaphor: ReFantazio
- Dragon’s Dogma 2
- Dragon Age: The Veilguard
- Metal Slug Tactics
- Satisfactory
- Tiny Glade
- Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree
Published: Dec 19, 2024 10:12 am