Is there an option to respec in Metaphor ReFantazio?
Given most RPGs have the option to respec skills and stats, you might wonder if this is also the case for Metaphor ReFantazio. Atlus' latest JRPG offers more freedom when it comes to the class system, as you can actively change your class and weapons, but this comes at a cost of carefully allocating stat points when you level up.
The ability to respec skill can allow you to change your builds freely, but this feature is, unfortunately, missing in Metaphor ReFantazio. Any points you assign are permanent and you won't be able to reconfigure your stat system.
Let's take a look at the stat system of Metaphor ReFantazio and what Atlus did to deal with the frustration of being unable to respec.
You cannot respec your skills in Metaphor ReFantazio
Unlike Shin Megami Tensei 5 Vengeance, which offers an item called the New Testament Tablet that can be used to reconfigure your stats, Metaphor has the Archetype system. Each Archetype offers a unique set of boosts to each of your stats in the game.
For example, choosing the Mage will give you a bonus to the Magic stat, and choosing Warrior will give you a boost to Strength. However, once you change the Archetype, this bonus will also be removed to better suit the one you have equipped.
While this does address some of the frustrations of not being able to respec your skills in Metaphor, it still is a half measure. The best way to deal with this is by creating hybrid builds using the ability to inherit skills that you have learned by leveling up the Archetypes in Metaphor ReFantazio.
Alternatively, you can also save up your stat points to use later in the game, but this will significantly lower your combat prowess early on, as stats are important to determine how much damage you deal, your chance of evading attacks, or even escaping battle.
Keep in mind, that you can only set up stat points for the protagonist. Your party members will have their stats assigned to them at random, but you can change their Archetypes to similarly provide stat benefits to them. If your party member has a magic-based Archetype equipped, they are likely to get points to magic when they level up in Metaphor ReFantazio.