Home > News > Dragon Quest and Metaphor: ReFantazio Creators Discuss Silent Protagonists in Modern RPGs

Dragon Quest and Metaphor: ReFantazio Creators Discuss Silent Protagonists in Modern RPGs

Jan 26,25(10 months ago)
Dragon Quest and Metaphor: ReFantazio Creators Discuss Silent Protagonists in Modern RPGs

Dragon Quest and Metaphor: ReFantazio Creators Discuss Silent Protagonists in Modern RPGs

The Evolving Role of the Silent Protagonist in Modern RPGs: A Conversation Between Dragon Quest and Metaphor: ReFantazio Creators

Veteran RPG developers Yuji Horii (Dragon Quest) and Katsura Hashino (Metaphor: ReFantazio) recently discussed the challenges of utilizing silent protagonists in today's advanced gaming environment. Their conversation, excerpted from the "Metaphor: ReFantazio Atlas Brand 35th Anniversary Edition" booklet, explores the changing dynamics of storytelling in RPGs.

Dragon Quest and Metaphor: ReFantazio Creators Discuss Silent Protagonists in Modern RPGs

Horii, creator of the iconic Dragon Quest series, explains the series' reliance on the "symbolic protagonist"—a silent character allowing players to project themselves into the game. This approach worked well with the simpler graphics of earlier games, where limited animations didn't highlight the lack of character expression. However, Horii humorously notes that a silent protagonist in today's realistic visuals might appear "like an idiot."

Dragon Quest and Metaphor: ReFantazio Creators Discuss Silent Protagonists in Modern RPGs

Horii's background as an aspiring manga artist and his passion for storytelling and computers led him to create Dragon Quest, a game driven by dialogue and character interactions rather than extensive narration. This design, effective in the NES era, presents a significant challenge in modern gaming. The minimalist graphics of the past allowed players to fill in the emotional gaps, a feat increasingly difficult with today's advanced visuals and audio. Horii acknowledges this as a hurdle for future Dragon Quest installments.

Dragon Quest and Metaphor: ReFantazio Creators Discuss Silent Protagonists in Modern RPGs

In contrast to Dragon Quest's continued use of a silent protagonist, many modern RPGs, including Atlus' Persona series, feature fully voiced protagonists. Hashino's upcoming Metaphor: ReFantazio will also feature a voice-acted protagonist.

Dragon Quest and Metaphor: ReFantazio Creators Discuss Silent Protagonists in Modern RPGs

Despite the challenges, Hashino praises Horii's approach, emphasizing Dragon Quest's focus on the player's emotional experience. He highlights the game's consistent consideration of player feelings, even in seemingly minor interactions with non-player characters. This player-centric design remains a defining characteristic of the Dragon Quest series.

Discover
  • Spider Fighter Gangsters 2023
    Spider Fighter Gangsters 2023
    Spider Fighter: Superhero Gangster Mafia Game is the ultimate crime action experience Welcome to Spider Fighter Gangsters 2024 Prepare for an action-packed superhero battle! Your city faces threats from dangerous mafia gangs and hostile robots. As
  • Revish
    Revish
    Discover trending styles and easily find nearby service providers with our curated selection.Revish is a mobile platform that showcases the latest fashion trends while connecting you with local stylists for convenient bookings. Whether you're looking
  • ONO LA lecture Webtoon & Manga
    ONO LA lecture Webtoon & Manga
    Discover ONO LA lecture Webtoon & Manga – your premier platform for webtoons and manga! Explore an extensive collection featuring the hottest new releases and exclusive titles, all available in crystal-clear French with zero advertisements. Enjoy ef
  • Cargo Truck Driving Euro Truck
    Cargo Truck Driving Euro Truck
    AK Games delivers the definitive Euro Truck experience with stunningly realistic graphics.Cargo Truck Driving Euro Truck - Truck SimulatorWelcome to the ultimate truck simulator experience. In City Truck Driving: Euro Truck, you take the wheel of a m
  • Drift Racing
    Drift Racing
    Experience the thrill of an endless arena as you chase trackers and master the art of high-speed drifting.The rhythm of this crash game is fast-paced and packed with adrenaline.Break free from pursuit and take back your freedom.Be sure to stay alert
  • OPL Monitor
    OPL Monitor
    Designed for Opel, Vauxhall, Chevrolet, and Buick vehiclesThis application is specifically tailored for owners of Opel, Vauxhall, and Chevrolet vehicles.Compatible models include:Insignia AInsignia BAstra JAstra KZafira CCorsa EThe app can read Diagn