Clair Obscur: Expedition 33's loving tribute to old-school role-playing was vindication for JRPG fans tired of their favorite genre being treated as a niche interest, but it wasn't that long ago when Metaphor: ReFantazio was also in the GOTY conversation. Now, the directors behind both of these modern classics are filled with praise for each others' work as both games join forces in a deep discount Steam bundle.
That bundle currently packages the two games together at a 10% discount on Steam. Both games are also on sale on top of the bundle, so you can get two of the best RPGs in recent memory for about $72 USD – not a bad deal. If you already own one, you can still get the other at the bundle price. Metaphor in particular is down to its lowest-ever Steam price at $35 USD.
"I am very pleased to hear that a Steam bundle will be released with Expedition 33, a title that has received high praise around the world," Metaphor director Katsura Hashino says in a press release. "Expedition 33 is a work that conveys a deep understanding of and sincere dedication to the JRPG genre, crafted with great care down to the finest details. As someone who also creates RPGs, I found it to be truly inspiring."
Hashino is a veteran developer of many beloved JRPGs, including Shin Megami Tensei and the Persona series, and this isn't the first time he's dumped praise on Expedition 33. "I am genuinely delighted to see Japanese-style RPGs being born and embraced, not only from Japanese-based studios like ours, but other places around the world through diverse creative approaches," Hashino adds in today's statement.
"While the two titles differ in their worlds and overall direction, players may find a shared spirit in how we each approach and express the RPG genre. I hope that this bundle encourages players to experience both titles and enjoy the breadth of what RPGs can offer."
Similarly, Expedition 33 director Guillaume Broche says, "Metaphor: ReFantazio is a game that is really inspiring for us. It tells a beautiful story in a completely new world that is masterfully crafted. It deals with heavy themes but one that resonates strongly with me is the importance of imagination in all aspects of our lives."
Metaphor: ReFantazio was one of our picks for the best games of 2024 – and personally, I think it was the true GOTY that go-around. "The cast is lovable and the turn-based battle system is one of the best I have played," Broche explains, and I have to agree. "The re-imagination of the traditional jobs system through Archetypes is fantastic and opens up so many playstyles that are fun to play around with. On top of that, the game has one of the most charismatic villains I've ever seen in an RPG."
Broche adds that it's an "honor" to work with Atlus on the bundle, adding that he's been a fan since Shin Megami Tensei: Lucifer's Call, "also known as Shin Megami Tensei III: Nocturne for some players." Way to show off your JRPG cred, man.
There's never been a better time to dig into the best JRPGs out there.
