Metaphor: ReFantazio Played on Nintendo 3DS XL via Streaming – A Creative Solution for Atlus Fans

Atlus’ latest entry into the RPG genre, Metaphor: ReFantazio, arrived on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC on October 11, 2024.

The game has already gathered critical acclaim, with industry outlets like Push Square and Pure Xbox praising its intricate world-building and innovative gameplay systems.

Although Metaphor: ReFantazio has not been released on Nintendo Switch or any Nintendo hardware, fans of Atlus have found unique ways to bring the experience to their favorite handheld devices, demonstrating both the game’s broad appeal and the dedication of its community. One notable instance surfaced on Reddit, where user bjatman8008 shared their setup: playing Metaphor: ReFantazio on a New Nintendo 3DS XL.

While the beloved 2014 clamshell console doesn’t natively support the new Atlus RPG, the user showcased gameplay and the opening cutscene running on the portable device.

This feat was accomplished not through a port, but by streaming the PC version of the game to a modified 3DS XL.

The video quickly caught attention on forums, with viewers impressed by the blend of nostalgia and technical ingenuity. According to the Reddit thread, the system utilizes streaming software to transfer live gameplay from a Windows PC to the New Nintendo 3DS XL's display.

This allows Metaphor: ReFantazio to be enjoyed in a compact, portable format, even though the device isn’t officially supported for the title.

The solution exemplifies ongoing enthusiasm within the Nintendo fan community to experience top-tier third-party releases on classic hardware, regardless of technical limitations.

As the post clarified, no unofficial port exists for the 3DS—only a creative workaround for those eager for a handheld adventure. Since its launch, Metaphor: ReFantazio has generated conversations not only about its gameplay and narrative, but also about its platform exclusivity.

Many fans continue to voice hopes for a future release on the Nintendo Switch or its successor, given Atlus’ history with Nintendo systems.

Until then, inventive approaches like PC-to-3DS streaming are keeping the spirit of portable RPG gaming alive. Metaphor: ReFantazio continues Atlus’ tradition of complex, story-driven RPGs, following the successes of titles like Persona 5 and Shin Megami Tensei V.

While handheld play on Nintendo hardware remains unofficial for now, the ingenuity displayed by dedicated players underscores the reach and influence of both Atlus and Nintendo’s legendary portable devices. For more updates on Metaphor: ReFantazio, Atlus developments, and innovative ways the Nintendo community is enjoying cross-platform games, stay tuned to our coverage.

Nintendo PlayStation Atlus PC Xbox 3DS Xbox Series X|S Metaphor: ReFantazio 3DS XL Nintendo 3DS Nintendo 3DS XL