Fri Oct 11 04:40:00 UTC 2024: ## Metaphor: ReFantazio Throws GOTY Race Wide Open

**With a Metascore of 94, Atlus’s late-comer “Metaphor: ReFantazio” has injected a major shakeup into the Game of the Year race, creating a three-way tie for the top spot alongside Sony’s “Astro Bot” and “Elden Ring’s” “Shadow of the Erdtree” expansion.**

While “Shadow of the Erdtree” is technically tied for the highest score, its reliance on players having already completed “Elden Ring” makes it unlikely to be considered a standalone GOTY contender. This leaves the race essentially down to “Astro Bot,” “Metaphor: ReFantazio,” and “Final Fantasy VII Rebirth,” which boasts a 92 Metascore.

Other potential GOTY contenders include “Animal Well,” “Balatro,” and “Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth.” While “Helldivers 2” could make a splash, “Black Myth: Wukong” is unlikely to secure a nomination despite its popularity.

Despite its late entry, “Metaphor: ReFantazio” has become a major force in the GOTY race. The game’s high score and the critical praise it has received have made it a serious contender. However, “Astro Bot” remains the front-runner, with its 94 Metascore based on 135 reviews, compared to “Metaphor’s” 35. “Astro Bot” is also seen as a celebration of PlayStation gaming and has garnered widespread fan acclaim.

“Final Fantasy VII Rebirth” shouldn’t be overlooked either, with a 92 Metascore based on 151 reviews. With only two months left before The Game Awards, the GOTY race is more competitive than ever. 2024 has proven to be a year of exceptional titles, and “Metaphor: ReFantazio” has only added to the excitement.

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