Metaphor: ReFantanzio, a critical darling of 2024, captivated players with its stunning visuals, compelling narrative, and, most notably, its electrifying soundtrack. Orchestrated by the legendary Shoji Meguro, renowned for his work on the Persona series, the music of Metaphor pushes creative boundaries, culminating in a viral sensation: the game's iconic battle theme.
In an exclusive interview with The Verge, Meguro delves into the creative process behind this groundbreaking score, revealing the challenges, inspirations, and unique approach that led to its resounding success.
Breaking Free from Expectations:
Meguro, known for his signature blend of jazz and pop in the Persona series, acknowledges that Metaphor demanded a radical departure from his established style. "Metaphor: ReFantanzio was envisioned as an epic, high-fantasy RPG," he explains. "I immediately heard the sound of grand orchestras, a challenge that excited me immensely. It pushed me to relearn classical music theory and explore new sonic territories."
A "Spiritual Musical Style":
Meguro sought to infuse the classical fantasy aesthetic with an unexpected twist, a hallmark of Atlus games. This led to the development of what he calls a "spiritual musical style," most prominently showcased in the game's battle music.
The Viral Phenomenon: "Warriors in Arms" and "Warriors in Valor"
The battle themes, particularly "Warriors in Arms" and "Warriors in Valor," have become internet sensations. Their impact is undeniable:
- Unconventional Intensity: The music opens with a powerful orchestral and choral performance, setting a dramatic tone.
- The Monk's Chants: The introduction of rapid-fire chants by monk Keisuke Honryo elevates the intensity to unprecedented levels. Honryo's unique voice, combined with the Esperanto-inspired lyrics, creates a truly mesmerizing effect.
- Finding the Perfect Voice: Meguro meticulously searched for the ideal vocalist. His discovery of Honryo, a member of the Nam Jazz Experiment, proved to be a stroke of genius.
Reframing the Role of Music:
A key innovation in Metaphor's soundtrack lies in its reimagined role. Meguro explains, "I've traditionally viewed game scores as UI elements, serving the player." However, in collaboration with director Katsura Hashino, they challenged this notion.
Music as In-World Experience:
The developers envisioned a scenario where the characters themselves experience the music. This groundbreaking concept is elegantly implemented in the game. Early on, the player's companion casts a spell that allows them to hear the music that permeates the world.
This shift in perspective profoundly alters the player's experience. Battle themes, no longer mere background music, become a reflection of the characters' desperate struggle for survival.
A Resonating Impact:
Meguro is deeply gratified by the overwhelming player response to Metaphor's soundtrack. The viral success of the battle themes, inspiring memes and fan-created content, serves as a testament to the power of his innovative approach.
Conclusion:
Metaphor: ReFantanzio's soundtrack stands as a testament to Shoji Meguro's creative genius. By pushing boundaries, embracing new challenges, and redefining the role of music in gaming, Meguro has delivered an unforgettable auditory experience that will continue to resonate with players for years to come.
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