ReFantazio, the latest fantasy RPG from Atlus’ Persona team, has been released to much anticipation. While it is a great game that improves upon its predecessor in many ways, there is one aspect that sets it apart: the absence of traditional romance routes for its characters.
However, upon playing the game, it becomes apparent that there are subtle romantic storylines that may catch players off guard. The majority of relationships in ReFantazio are platonic, focusing on shared goals and adventures rather than romantic entanglements. But there are hints of romantic interest between the protagonist and two female companions, Junah and Eupha.
Junah’s interactions lean towards flirtatious, while Eupha’s storyline includes a more direct confession of love, albeit within the context of her people’s culture. It is possible to ignore these romantic overtures and focus on other aspects of the game, but there are moments where the game nudges the player towards acknowledging these feelings, particularly in Eupha’s case.
If players are not interested in pursuing a romantic subplot, they have the option to not complete Eupha’s follower bond, similar to how some players handled relationships in Persona 3. However, the inclusion of these subtle romantic elements may come across as unexpected or even forced to some players, especially those who prefer a more platonic approach to relationships in games.
Overall, ReFantazio’s approach to relationships adds a layer of complexity to the game, offering players the choice to engage with romantic storylines or focus solely on other aspects of the game. It’s important for players to be aware of these nuances to avoid any surprises or discomfort while playing.
