Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
The grotesque “humans” in Metaphor: ReFantazio were inspired in part by the fantastical paintings of Hieronymus Bosch. Game director Katsura Hashino named Bosch as an influence, while also explaining that the team studied other artists rather than treating Bosch’s work as a template for every creature.
What does “human” mean in Metaphor: ReFantazio?
In the game, “humans” are monsters, not ordinary people. SEGA describes Euchronia as a fantasy land plagued by these grotesque creatures. The story follows a journey across the kingdom as its people seek to elect a new king; the protagonist travels with the fairy Gallica.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
Metaphor: ReFantazio Launch Edition - PlayStation 5 | $38.89 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
|
Metaphor: ReFantazio Official Strategy Guide | $54.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
|
Metaphor: ReFantazio | $34.70 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
|
Metaphor: ReFantazio (Multi-Language) | $39.74 | Buy on Amazon |
| 5 |
|
Funko POP! Games: Metaphor: ReFantazio - Heismay | $15.99 | Buy on Amazon |
Atlus’s in-world explanation connects the monsters to anxiety. The game says anxiety produces particles called magla, a source of magic, and that monsters arose as magla increased. The Human is presented as the most prominent example. That is the game’s fictional account, not a claim about real-world science.
Why Bosch is part of the answer
In an official Atlus showcase, director Katsura Hashino said: “The design of the human was inspired by the many fantastic paintings left behind by the medieval artist Hieronymus Bosch.” Bosch’s fantastical imagery is therefore a documented influence on the creatures’ designs.
#1 Best Overall
- IGN and GameSpot "Game of the Year" and "Best RPG" from The Game Awards
- ATLUS' newest fantasy JRPG with beautiful anime cutscenes
- Free demo with save-data carry over
- Awaken 40+ "Archetypes," magical powers that lie dormant in your heart
- Innovative battle system that blends strategic turn-based combat and dynamic real-time combat
Hashino added nuance in an official Xbox Podcast interview. The team researched fantasy’s origins and visited a museum to look at Bosch and other artists. He clarified that they had not simply combined a hundred Bosch works into one uniform style. Bosch is an important reference, but the available creator comments do not establish him as the sole source for every design.
How the designs connect to the game’s themes
Hashino has described a key phrase for the game as “facing your fear.” That theme sits alongside the fictional link between anxiety, magla, and the monsters’ emergence. It supports reading the creatures as part of the game’s exploration of fear, but does not prove that any particular Human represents one specific fear or idea.
Rank #2
- FUTUREPRESS Metaphor ReFantazio Official Strategy Guide.
- ABISBOOK.
- FUTUREPRESS.
The story also deals with exclusion. The official site says the protagonist belongs to the elda tribe, whose members are branded “tainted” by the state religion and discriminated against in the kingdom. That context helps explain the broader social concerns surrounding the story; it should not be mistaken for evidence that Bosch’s paintings themselves encode the game’s allegory.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Does each Human copy a specific Bosch painting?
Not on the evidence of the cited creator statements. Hashino identifies Bosch and other artists as influences, but the official comments do not name a definitive Bosch painting for each creature. A visual resemblance between a Human and a particular painting may be an interesting interpretation, but it should be presented as a comparison—not as a confirmed one-to-one source unless a creator has confirmed it.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- IDEAL COLLECTIBLE SIZE - At approximately 3.75 inches (9.5 cm) tall, this vinyl mini figurine complements other collectable merchandise and fits perfectly in your display case or on your desk.
- PREMIUM VINYL MATERIAL - Made from high-quality, durable vinyl, this collectible is built to last and withstand daily wear, ensuring long-lasting enjoyment for fans and collectors alike.
- PERFECT GIFT FOR METAPHOR: REFANTASIO FANS - Ideal for holidays, birthdays, or special occasions and as a present this figurine is a must-have addition to any Metaphor: ReFantasio merchandise collection
- EXPAND YOUR COLLECTION - Add this unique Heismay vinyl display piece to your growing assortment of Funko Pop! figures, and seek out other rare and exclusive collectible items for a complete set
- LEADING POP CULTURE BRAND - Trust in the expertise of Funko, the premier creator of pop culture merchandise that includes vinyl figures, action toys, plush, apparel, board games, and more.
Rank #4
- A mysterious and exciting story unfolds in a world where people must fight their own anxiety. Join the high-stakes Royal Tournament that promises hours of captivating exploration and discovery
- Ride your gauntlet runner to faraway dungeons and towns across an expansive world. Discover beautiful landscapes accompanied by captivating music, immersive UI, and anime cutscenes
- An exhilarating turn-based combat system with a blend of real-time action. Party customization through “Archetype” powers provides the freedom to personalize your adventure
- Go on quests, dungeon dive, and hunt for treasures by day. Strengthen relationships, build bonds, and increase virtues by night. Choose your actions wisely, time management is key to achieving your goal
Rank #3
- A mysterious and exciting story unfolds in a world where people must fight their own anxiety. Join the high-stakes Royal Tournament that promises hours of captivating exploration and discovery
- Ride your gauntlet runner to faraway dungeons and towns across an expansive world. Discover beautiful landscapes accompanied by captivating music, immersive UI, and anime cutscenes
- An exhilarating turn-based combat system with a blend of real-time action. Party customization through “Archetype” powers provides the freedom to personalize your adventure
- Go on quests, dungeon dive, and hunt for treasures by day. Strengthen relationships, build bonds, and increase virtues by night. Choose your actions wisely, time management is key to achieving your goal
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
