Despite Metaphor: ReFantazio’s promise, JRPG fans appear to be looking the other way, leaving Xbox with a new game ‘pending’
It seems like everyone is talking about Atlus’ latest JRPG, Metaphor: ReFantasy. However, what seems most interesting is Where They’re Not Playing: On Xbox. This phenomenon isn’t new, and Microsoft has spent years trying to capture the Japanese RPG audience, only to see how, again and again, their platform doesn’t become the home they expected. The case of Metaphor It’s just another example of this reality, as while Microsoft has made efforts in marketing, it seems to have lost the momentum to compete for Japanese audiences.
The attempt to make Xbox a Dreamcast 2.0
The relationship between Microsoft and SEGA is something that could be considered an unofficial alliance. In the early days of the Xbox, Microsoft had a vision of turning the console into a sort of spiritual successor to the Dreamcast. They also discussed the possibility of Dreamcast games being compatible with the Xbox, an idea that, while it ultimately didn’t materialize, laid the groundwork for a console that would adopt some of the Dreamcast’s features.
On the other hand, SEGA’s foray into Xbox dates back to games like Shin Megami Tensei: Ninea Japan exclusive, and several ports of its most iconic arcade titles. However, while SEGA games have found a home on the Microsoft console, including Sonic unleashed On the Xbox Series And this has affected JRPGs, a genre that has failed to thrive on Xbox due to the lack of a significant audience in the Asian market.
Xbox and its failed history with JRPGs
Despite Japanese gamers’ apparent indifference towards Xbox, the company hasn’t stopped trying. During the Xbox 360 era, two notable JRPGs attracted attention: Blue Dragon Yes Lost Odysseyboth developed by Mistwalker. Blue Dragonwith its distinctive art by Akira Toriyama, it was the first multi-disc adventure for the Xbox 360, becoming a milestone at the time. However, although it sold well in the West, it only met sales expectations a year after its release.
Mistwalker’s next attempt was Lost Odysseyan epic adventure involving a group of immortals. This title, written by the creator of Final fantasyHironobu Sakaguchi, achieved greater popularity than his predecessor, especially in North America. However, the Japanese market wasn’t entirely convinced, complicating Microsoft’s hopes of making Xbox a JRPG mainstay.
An uncertain future
Although I like the titles Eternal Sonata Yes NieR They also found their place on Xbox, the console never established itself as a point of reference for the genre. To change this, Microsoft should commit to offering exclusives and work closely with Japanese developers. However, given the company’s current focus, this seems unlikely to happen. For now, the perception remains that those looking for a complete JRPG experience are moving towards other platforms.
Hope for the future of JRPGs on Microsoft’s console may be found in the next console cycle. With rumors of a portable console similar to the Steam Deck, the Xbox could become an interesting option. Imagine a portable platform that harnesses the power of Game Pass and Steam, offering games similar to the PC experience, but with the simplicity of a console. This integration could make it easier for more Japanese developers to consider the platform, allowing JRPGs to finally find a space on Xbox.
Even if this is just speculation, what is certain is this Metaphor: ReFantasy It’s a great title no matter what console it’s played on. Integration with the Xbox app on Windows even allows players to experiment with cross-saves, providing versatility that, while interesting, is unlikely to significantly change the trend.