The excitement surrounding the new JRPG Metaphor: ReFantazio is palpable. With a staggering Metacritic score of 94, it’s no wonder everyone is talking about it! The developers behind Persona have truly outdone themselves with this one, delivering a game that’s already winning hearts.

One of Metaphor's standout features is the Archetypes mechanic. Representing the spirits of past heroes, these Archetypes aren’t just your typical battle forms; they fundamentally transform your experience of the game.

If you’re familiar with Persona or Shin Megami Tensei, you’ll have an idea of what’s in store. However, Metaphor: ReFantazio takes things up a notch with deeper narrative significance tied to each Archetype. From Seeker to Summoner—and everything in between—let’s dive into the incredible world of Metaphor: ReFantazio Archetypes!

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What Are Metaphor: ReFantazio Archetypes?

Think of Archetypes as the game’s version of Personas. However, instead of merely reflecting your subconscious, they embody the legends your characters channel to gain power. These aren’t just extra combat tools; each Archetype comes with its own skill set and the ability to level up and evolve over time.

You can unlock Archetypes by building bonds with your party members and Followers (think of them as your social links). With 46 Archetypes spread across 14 lineages, there’s a lot to explore!

A Breakdown of All 14 Archetype Lineages

Here’s a handy list of the 14 Archetype lineages in Metaphor: ReFantazio, how to unlock them, and what they offer:

• Seeker: The protagonist's first Archetype, perfect for Wind attacks and Healing spells. Unlock it by reaching Bond Level 1 with More.
• Mage: Master of Fire, Ice, and Electric attacks. Bond with Gallica to get this one.
• Warrior: Specializes in single-target Slash attacks. Unlock by bonding with Strohl.
• Knight: The tank that draws enemy attention. Hulkenberg is your key for this Archetype.
• Thief: Perfect for stealing from enemies and dealing Dark damage. Unlock via Heismay.
• Masked Dancer: Versatile in battle by switching skills with different masks. Bond with Junah to use this Archetype.
• Summoner: Summon monsters to fight for you. Eupha’s bond unlocks this powerhouse.
• Berserker: Boosts attack power with a berserk mentality. Unlock through Basilio.
• Healer: Focuses on healing and Light attacks, making Maria’s bond essential for survival.
• Gunner: Ranged combat expert, evolving into the Sniper and then the Dragoon. Unlock through Neuras.
• Brawler: Buffs your attack power and hits hard up close. Bond with Catherina to unlock this brawler.
• Faker: Debuffs enemies and lowers their defenses. Alonzo will help you unlock this sneaky Archetype.
• Merchant: Boosts drop rates and buffs your party, with Brigitta as your contact.
• Commander: Controls the battlefield with formation skills. Bond with Bardon to unlock this strategic role.

Evolving Archetypes: From Adept to Elite

Each Archetype has three stages: the base form, Adept, and Elite. These evolutions unlock even more powerful abilities. For example, the Gunner starts with solid long-range attacks, evolves into the Sniper for enhanced accuracy and power, and eventually becomes the Dragoon—a true heavy-hitter from afar.

Who Gets to Use Archetypes?

Only the main party members can equip Archetypes, but here’s the fun part: any of them can use any (non-Royal) Archetype you’ve unlocked! That's to say, each of the seven main characters, including the protagonist, starts with their own Archetype. However, once you unlock a new one, you can mix and match based on your available MAG. For instance, Strohl might start with the Warrior, but if you need him to tank as a Knight for a tough boss fight, you can switch him over. This is provided you have enough MAG.

After mastering an Archetype, characters can switch without spending MAG, so it’s wise to let them stick with one for a while.

Starting Archetype for Each Character

• Protagonist: Seeker
• Gallica: Mage
• Strohl: Warrior
• Hulkenberg: Knight
• Heismay: Thief
• Junah: Masked Dancer
• Eupha: Summoner

Unlocking Royal Archetypes

Once you’ve had your fun with the base Archetypes, Royal Archetypes come into play. Providing a permanent stat boost, these unique forms unlock after completing key story arcs and require you to hit Rank 8 Bond with specific party members.

Unlike regular Archetypes, which any character can equip, Royal Archetypes are character-specific and cannot be inherited. Furthermore, although the protagonist's Royal Archetype is automatically unlocked, characters like Strohl and Hulkenberg must meet bond requirements to access their powerful Royal forms, further encouraging you to foster relationships within the game.

Experiment and Master the Archetypes!

The beauty of Metaphor: ReFantazio lies in its Archetype flexibility. Every party member can master any Archetype, unlocking powerful abilities and resistances. Adjust your strategy mid-game to exploit enemy weaknesses or stick with your favorites for cost-free switching. And as the game progresses, Royal Archetypes add an exciting twist to your tactics.

So, whether you start with the Seeker or aim for the Sniper, there’s an Archetype that suits your playstyle. Dive in, experiment, and find the perfect combination to navigate Metaphor: ReFantazio’s epic adventure!

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