cross-posted from: https://lemmy.world/post/20211963

Releasing January 30th, 2025

Atlus has release a prologue demo for Metaphor: ReFantazio for PlayStation 4/5, Xbox Series and PC via Steam.

Seems this game is some kind of yokai watch succesor.

Release Date: 5th december

Plattforms: PS5, Xbox Series, PS4, Switch, and PC (Steam)

Game Information

Game Title: REYNATIS

Platforms:

• PC (Sep 27, 2024)
• PlayStation 5 (Sep 27, 2024)
• PlayStation 4 (Sep 27, 2024)
• Nintendo Switch (Sep 27, 2024)

Trailers:

• REYNATIS - Demo Trailer (Nintendo Switch, PS4, PS5, Steam)
• Reynatis - Announcement Trailer | PS5 & PS4 Games

Developer: FURYU Corporation

Publisher: NIS America

Review Aggregator:

OpenCritic - 56 average - 30% recommended - 10 reviews

Critic Reviews

8Bit/Digi - Stan Rezaee - 9 / 10

REYNATIS is an action experience that tosses you onto the streets of Shibuya while making you question your characters.

Console Creatures - Bobby Pashalidis - Recommended

Reynatis has heart but feels like a previous generation relic with sometimes archaic game design elements. However, it has some good ideas, fun combat, and good music working for it.

Final Weapon - Raul Ochoa - 3.5 / 5

REYNATIS is a great action RPG that interprets the themes of a "fantasy based in reality" in an intriguing setting: Shibuya, with a bustling underground of wizards. From the perspective of protagonists Marin and Sari, players may unleash their magic with unique Wizart abilities and explore another world that runs in parallel with their own. Despite some of the game's limitations and flawed execution in various areas, it delivers a compelling story without overstaying its welcome.

GamingTrend - Henry Viola - 65 / 100

Reynatis is close to a master at one trade, with its unique and refreshing combat system. But there's too many other pieces that drag the overall presentation down, especially with its outdated graphics, poor Switch performance, awkward camera angles, and high price tag. However, even through all its minor to glaring flaws, and believe me there are many, it's an adventure I find myself looking fondly back on the things it does well.

IGN Italy - Majkol Robuschi - Italian - 5.5 / 10

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Niche Gamer - Fingal Belmont - 7 / 10

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Nintendo Life - Ethan Zack - 5 / 10

It would be one thing if Reynatis was a decent enough action RPG to turn your brain off to and enjoy some simplistic, button-mashy battles with. The problem is that the creators behind this title so obviously wanted it to be more than that, but it doesn't have the writing quality, the technical spectacle, or the mechanical depth to make it happen. Just like its co-lead Marin, Reynatis' single-minded ambition to reach greater heights unveils its greatest weaknesses - a sense of aimlessness and a general apathy toward its own fantastical world. If you believe you can still find some enjoyment in Reynatis despite its failings, it might be worth a shot. Unfortunately, the performance deficiencies of this Switch release make it a game that's best played on just about any other console you have available. With plenty of other great action RPGs out on the market, you have to wonder if it's worth the trouble.

NookGaming - Thomas Knight - 7 / 10

Reynatis is a rather curious experience. Its story is enjoyable, but it has its issues. The gameplay has some great ideas but it sometimes fails to realize them properly. Luckily the combat is frequent and fun.

While it's certainly not perfect, I did enjoy playing through Reynatis and I believe others will too. I just wonder about the reasons behind some of the game design decisions made.

Push Square - Jenny Jones - 5 / 10

The story and world-building are definitely the most interesting things about Reynatis but it’s a shame everything else feels so half-baked and repetitive. It’s hard to get invested in the characters when the dull combat makes you want to get through the adventure as quickly as possible.

The Beta Network - Anthony Culinas - 5 / 10

Even with the help of three Square Enix vets, Reynatis has regrettably fallen short. Its dated PS2-like graphics, copy-paste environments, blatantly reused boss fights and annoying mechanics inevitably damper this 12-hour action RPG. While Shibuya looks lovely, the combat is flash and the narrative about wizards overcoming oppression is intriguing, the gameplay, story and certain characters could’ve been fleshed out further. The drama does have its moments and the Japanese voice-acting is high quality, it’s just a shame that the experience leaves much to be desired.

The Games Machine - Emanuele Feronato - Italian - 7.5 / 10

Reynatis offers a compelling story and some nail-biting combat with a dual system of defense and offense that engages properly, especially in boss fights with huge monsters. Unfortunately, exploring Tokyo and the parallel world Another is not as engaging, as apart from rare situations it proves to be little more than a walking simulator. Technically it is not excellent, with models and textures reminiscent of what we saw on PS3, however, at least there is no slowdown or frame loss. If you are looking for a storyline full of charismatic characters, this might be your game.

The Outerhaven Productions - Scott Adams - 4 / 5

Reynatis is a very fun action RPG that ticks a lot of boxes for me with its challenge and personality. The character models in gameplay do lack polish but the designs are gorgeous.

TheSixthAxis - Miguel Moran - 6 / 10

Reynatis is a game full of heart that reminds me of the golden age of PS2 RPG adventures, for better and for worse. It's full of interesting ideas, but is lacking consistent execution. If you can see past that, I do think that the charm of the game – the strong character writing, the living city of Shibuya, and angsty JRPG vibe of it all – will really resonate.

The official TGS livestream starts on the 26th. For our purposes, the Koei Tecmo, Level-5, Sega/Atlus, and Square Enix programs will likely be of most interest there. Gematsu has a livestream schedule if you're really keen. Konami has also promised to show more of the Suikoden remasters, and Falcom will be showing the new Trails. I'm sure there's more I'm missing, too.

Is there anything you're looking forward to seeing more of? Any announcements you'd like to see? Personally, I'm going to be here with my clown makeup hoping they finally announce the long-rumored Final Fantasy Tactics remaster.

I'd say Final Fantasy is probably the most well-known JRPG series out there. With over 16 mainline games and countless spin-offs, it's got a huge amount of games under its belt, and has had a big influence on the JRPG genre.

The first Final Fantasy game was created by Hironobu Sakaguchi in 1987. In the 36 years since the first game was released, the series has undergone numerous changes. While the games up to Final Fantasy X were all turn-based, sometimes they were played in real time. Subsequent games introduced different experimental battle systems and were MMORPGs or action games. Many fans believe the series reached its peak with the older games between Final Fantasy VI and Final Fantasy X. On the other hand, the more recent Final Fantasy games, including the Final Fantasy VII remake series, Final Fantasy XVI and every expansion of Final Fantasy XIV, have been well-received.

So what you opionion about the Final Fantasy series, what the best game and what is you opinion about the modern games.

If you want to share your opinion on other JRPG series look at these posts: dragon quest

Tell us about the game you finished? Were they good or bad and what are you plans for the current month?

Game Information

Game Title: Visions of Mana

Platforms:

• Xbox Series X/S (Aug 29, 2024)
• PlayStation 5 (Aug 29, 2024)
• PC (Aug 29, 2024)
• PlayStation 4 (Aug 29, 2024)

Trailers:

• Visions of Mana - Tourism Guide | PS5 & PS4 Games
• Visions of Mana | Launch Date Trailer
• Visions of Mana | March Trailer

Developer: Square Enix

Review Aggregator:

OpenCritic - 78 average - 66% recommended - 29 reviews

Critic Reviews

CGMagazine - Justin Wood - 7 / 10

Visions of Mana marks a solid return to the series, featuring an emotionally engaging storyline and striking visuals. However, the side quests and voice acting may turn some players off.

Checkpoint Gaming - Pedro Cooray - 8.5 / 10

I hope Visions of Mana signals a new, brighter direction for the series. This is more than a classic series receiving a jaw-dropping glow-up. This is a game that gives you a classic JRPG experience while being a modern blockbuster through and through. It's one of the best-looking games this generation and gives you dozens of unlockable options to customise your party your way. The story is deep and dark (for a PG title) and explores familiar themes in a new and engaging way. Visions of Mana confidently asserts its own spot among other long-running modern JRPGs, and I can't help but agree. It's proof that despite its age, this series still has a lot of potential left.

ComingSoon.net - Tyler Treese - 8.5 / 10

It's not hard to imagine that its story about tradition and sacrifice came from the development team grappling with the pressure of making another Mana game after many years without a new entry, but the end result is a proper continuation of its legacy.

Console Creatures - Bobby Pashalidis - Recommended

Visions of Mana is the first new Mana game in nearly two decades, bringing the series into a new generation. While some overgrown roots need a trim in the future—the various improvements to the combat, the level design, and the world are better than ever.

Digitec Magazine - Kevin Hofer - German - 3 / 5

Visions of Mana plays and looks wonderfully – except for it's stiff character animations. The story is exciting, the battle system offers plenty of variety and the world invites you to explore. Unfortunately, it takes a long time to get there. The story and gameplay suffer from inconsistent pacing. By the time I'm let off the leash, more than half the story is over.

For fans of the “Mana” series and Japanese role-playing games in general, “Visions of Mana” is a must-play despite its weaknesses. I still enjoyed my 25 hours or so in the world around the Mana tree. I'm used to Japanese role-playing games always taking a little longer. If you can live with that, I can recommend the game to you.

Evilgamerz - Dutch - 8.5 / 10

This may sound a bit strange, but Visions of Mana is a game that you shouldn't expect too much from. The game doesn't do anything new at all. Just like your favorite meal or that one music album that you can't get enough of, this can be an advantage. Visions of Mana takes that old familiar and gives it just enough modern polish to not make it feel too dated. Just like Dragon Quest XI. If this is the future of the series, then I'm at least hopeful for the next installment, because one thing is for sure, it was simply a joy to explore the world in this game.

GAMES.CH - Sven Raabe - German - 77%

Visions of Mana scores above all with its charming look and loveable characters. The new elemental powers are also quite impressive. Although various facets prevent the action RPG from unleashing its full potential, the return of the legendary game series is a success overall.

Game Rant - Nick Rodriguez - 3.5 / 5

The Mana series is back with Visions of Mana, a steady, fun, and slightly by-the-numbers entry in the style of the Trials of Mana remake.

GamePro - Cassie Mammone - German - 73 / 100

Unfortunately, the beautiful graphics and the successful gameplay of Visions of Mana don't completely distract from the boring story.

GamingTrend - Katelyn Lawlor - 65 / 100

Visions of Mana is a rollercoaster of emotions. The team under Square Enix has made a beautiful game with a solid mechanical foundation. But the balance of the game has been somewhat out of whack. What's here is not bad, just unpolished and a bit lacking. Visions of Mana is worth your time if the issues mentioned with combat and story won't be an issue for you. Maybe try it on a harder setting. At the very least, I recommend trying the free demo on every platform as that will give you a feel for how the game controls and feels. Visions of Mana is solid but doesn't quite reach the heights it aimed for.

God is a Geek - Chris Hyde - 8 / 10

Visions of Mana is an enjoyable adventure that doesn't push the boundaries but serves as a solid series entry for fans and newcomers alike.

Hardcore Gamer - Michéal Murphy - 4 / 5

After eighteen years, the Mana series' new entry, Visions of Mana, proves that the franchise hasn't gone anywhere.

Hobby Consolas - Alberto Lloret - Spanish - 87 / 100

Visions of Mana is not only one of the most beautiful action RPGs, it is also a very fun one, with a great combat system and a lot of content, although sometimes it seems that Square Enix has wanted to play it safe without betting on new ideas and concepts, although the move has worked out well.

IGN - Nicholas Ransbottom - 8 / 10

Exciting combat, a deeply rewarding class system, and likable characters make Visions of Mana a great comeback for this classic RPG series.

IGN Italy - Alessandra Borgonovo - Italian - 8 / 10

A commendable comeback for the series, capable of offering a beautiful, bittersweet story and captivating gameplay in its liveliness.

INVEN - Dongyong Seo - Korean - 7.3 / 10

While Visions of Mana presents a fantastical world brought to life with vibrant colors, the story's lack of depth makes it difficult to fully immerse oneself in the game, and the slow combat tempo and repetitive sequences until the mid-game are drawbacks. Despite these issues, the game is held together by its charming characters that keep you engaged until the end.

Kakuchopurei - Jonathan Leo - 80 / 100

Visions of Mana's earnestness and positives outweigh its negatives by a sizeable amount. At the very least, old-school 90s RPG fans should be glad that Square Enix did not forget about this classic series, now with a few more bells and whistles to make it quite a ride.

Noisy Pixel - Bailey Seemangal - 8.5 / 10

Visions of Mana marks a triumphant return for the Mana series, offering a richly detailed world with deep lore, an intricate combat system, and robust customization options. While the early pacing may deter some players, those who persist will find a rewarding RPG experience filled with compelling characters, challenging gameplay, and a wealth of content, including a post-game chapter and a New Game Plus mode. Visions of Mana successfully blends classic RPG elements with modern innovations, making it a standout title in Square Enix's lineup.

One More Game - Ricki Buzon - 7 / 10

Visions of Mana is a welcome entry in the long-running and beloved series, providing an entertaining and fun time for newcomers and fans alike. Surprisingly, one of its strongest points is its compelling story, and while it was simply a journey to the Mana Tree on the surface, the rest of the adventure is one to look out for.

Previous-gen console players beware because the playthrough is not as smooth. The number of bugs we experienced on a PS4 was not enjoyable, and while the PS5 version was a lot smoother, caution is advised.

PSX Brasil - Thiago de Alencar Moura - Portuguese - 85 / 100

Visions of Mana is an excellent JRPG and the purest definition of a comfortable game. With functional and very fun gameplay, a simple story, but with a reflection to deliver and very well executed, make it, quite easily, one of the best (if not the best) games in the series so far.

Press Start - Kieron Verbrugge - 7.5 / 10

Visions of Mana feels like the RPG equivalent of being young and visiting a park in the summer. It's picturesque, warm and full of hope, inviting you to set out and explore and maybe come home with a couple scratches or bruises but always rewarding the effort with a new adventure or discovery. There's a fantastic balance of old and new ideas here, enough to satisfy patient series fans and newcomers alike, a hugely-enjoyable main story, stunning environments and satisfying combat going a long way to make up for some annoying technical and mechanical foibles.

Push Square - Robert Ramsey - 7 / 10

As a nostalgia-driven retread of the classic Mana adventure, Visions of Mana is rock solid - but it struggles to be anything more than a reminder of how magical those old RPGs could be. If you can look beyond the game's monotonous storytelling and tragically bland characters, the essence of an old-school excursion is here, in the exploration of wonderful environments and in battles against burly boss monsters.

RPG Fan - Izzy Parsons - 87%

A wonderful return to form for the Mana series. Visions of Mana will have longtime fans grinning from ear-to-ear.

RPGamer - Luis Mauricio - 4.5 / 5

Visions of Mana is a strong entry that effectively revitalizes the lore of the series and keeps it more alive than ever. With dancing merchants, the ring system, and cute creatures such as Sproutlings, the game includes many staples of the series at their best, with Elemental Vessels being a magnificent addition.

Spaziogames - Marcello Paolillo - Italian - 6.9 / 10

Visions of Mana aims to bring players back to a classic RPG experience reminiscent of the 1990s. Accepting these conditions, you'll still find a pleasant, colorful action RPG that can entertain you for a good number of hours-nothing more, nothing less.

TechRaptor - Brittany Alva - 9 / 10

Visions of Mana features an impactful story, well-written characters, fun combat, and a gorgeous world to get lost in with very few problems.

The Outerhaven Productions - Matthew Paul - 4 / 5

Visions is an excellent addition to Square Enix's Mana series and fans of the series will be excited with changes presented with the title. That said, the gameplay plays it safe at times, and can be a bit stale at times. Still, if you like the series, you'll enjoy Visions of Mana.

Wccftech - Kai Tatsumoto - 7.5 / 10

Visions of Mana is a fun JRPG for the first thirty hours but the continuous backtracking and overall padding left me feeling like my time wasn't being respected by the time Val's journey came to a close

oprainfall - Steve Baltimore - 4 / 5

Despite my few nitpicks I had a great time with Visions of Mana. The story is fantastic and watching these characters grow as the adventure went on was pure joy. The world felt full and there were lots of hidden things to find while exploring each map. The combat is fun and having all the different classes for each character gave it lots of variety. While it took me around 30 hours to complete the main quest I left a lot undone with this one. There were plenty of upgrades, monsters and even a post story that I still need to get to. I feel this one is well worth the $59.99 price tag to fans of the series and newcomers alike.