As the excitement builds for the upcoming Game Awards, it’s hard not to notice the buzz around Metaphor: ReFantazio, which has snagged nominations in the categories of Best RPG, Narrative, Score, Art Direction, Game Direction, and even Game of the Year. Crafted with care and vision by director Katsura Hashino and other notable figures from Atlus, this game offers an enthralling political fantasy experience set in the United Kingdom of Euchronia. Metaphor manages to capture the essence of what makes RPGs so captivating. With its excellent turn-based combat that draws inspiration from modern classics like Persona and Shin Megami Tensei, the game shines in world-building and character development. This depth is enhanced by a brilliant ensemble of English voice actors, whose performances have sparked discussions about why Metaphor wasn’t shortlisted for Best Performance at the awards.
The year 2024 has delivered some truly memorable video game performances. Briana White captured hearts with her emotive portrayal of Aerith in FF7 Rebirth, while Luke Roberts gave a nuanced performance as James Sunderland in Silent Hill 2. Add to this list Hannah Telle, Humberly Gonzalez, and Melina Juergens, and we see the Game Awards honoring actors who’ve navigated the challenging themes inherent in their games. Understandably, not every deserving act can make the final cut, but the omission of Metaphor’s talented voice cast, many of whom are relatively new to the industry, has left fans a bit disappointed.
Metaphor’s diverse approach to its English voice cast aligns perfectly with the game’s themes. It brilliantly incorporates a variety of accents, from Scottish and Welsh to Irish, reflecting the medieval setting and the diverse cultures within Euchronia. The inclusion of talented voice actors, many just beginning their journey in the gaming world, adds an extra layer of appeal. Even characters with smaller roles, like Penelope Rawlins’ Fabienne or George Weightman’s Edeni, leave a lasting impression, showcasing the meticulous quality that went into the game’s development. While all performances are commendable, certain leading characters have become fan favorites, amplifying the impact of the game’s snub in the performance category.
Stewart Clarke brings life to Leon Strohl, a standout member of the game’s ensemble. His portrayal of the intrepid nobleman is full of emotion and wit. Whether he’s challenging the wrongdoing in Halia or joking about Hulkenberg’s culinary tastes, Clarke embodies Strohl’s dual role as both a loyal friend and a vital ally in the royal line-up. Though Clarke’s resume includes notable roles like FF16’s Dion and Valkyrie Elysium’s Eygon, Metaphor has truly brought his talent to a wider audience.
The rest of Metaphor’s primary cast also deserves recognition for their stellar performances, which highlight the complexities and struggles of their characters. Philippe Spall is particularly moving as Heismay, beautifully capturing the character’s journey through grief and resolution, especially during poignant moments with the protagonist. Emma Ballantine as Junah delivers a spirited performance, adeptly handling the spectrum of emotion from intense scenarios to the lighter, everyday interactions amidst the party’s journey. While the Game Awards must condense its nominees list, the task of selecting a standout from Metaphor’s array of talent feels formidable, given each actor’s contribution.
Beyond the core group, the supporting performances continue to enrich Metaphor’s immersive world. Greg Chun’s portrayal of More offers a grounded touch, particularly as he narrates the gauntlet runner’s tales. On the opposite end, Joseph Tweedale’s cool depiction of antagonist Louis deepens the tension of their final showdown, reflecting the character’s sharp intelligence. Metaphor excels not only in narrative, music, and visual design but also in bringing its characters and world to life through standout voice performances. It might have missed out on a Game Awards nod for Best Performance, but the fan celebrations of these voice actors are a testament to their unforgettable contributions.
