Metaphor: ReFantazio - A Guide to Cooking

In Metaphor: ReFantazio, a significant part of the experience revolves around the protagonist's journey and the tournament for the throne. This adventure features an in-game calendar that requires players to balance a range of activities, many of which are tied to the Gauntlet Runner, a unique gameplay element.

Cooking stands out as one of these activities, allowing players to gather ingredients and experiment with recipes as they progress through the game. Although you'll come across ingredients early on, cooking won't be available right away and is limited to specific days on the in-game calendar.

Getting Started with Cooking in Metaphor: ReFantazio

Players won't have access to cooking until June 24, which marks the start of the Tournament for the Throne and the activation of the Gauntlet Runner. From that point on, cooking can only be done when the Gauntlet Runner is in operation and traveling to a destination.

During the game, you'll have the chance to explore various locations around major cities in your free time, and it's during these moments that you can engage in cooking. The cooking takes place in the Gauntlet Runner’s kitchen, which is located behind the second door on the right as you walk down its hallway.

Initially, once you unlock the cooking feature, preparing a recipe will consume the entire in-game day.

Sourcing Ingredients in Metaphor: ReFantazio

Ingredients in Metaphor: ReFantazio can be found in several ways. Some may drop as loot in dungeons or be obtained from defeated monsters, though this method is not the most reliable. The best approach is to purchase ingredients from merchants found in towns; these vendors are marked with a stall icon on the map, while butchers are indicated by a knife and meat symbol. Depending on the town, you may also find water and herb merchants who offer different items for your culinary needs.

Another option is to check the Pantry on the Gauntlet Runner, which is located to the right of the kitchen. Some ingredients can also be earned as rewards from side quests, often highlighting the local flavors of the region you're exploring.

Unlocking Speed Cooking in Metaphor: ReFantazio

For those looking to optimize their cooking process, Speed Cooking can be unlocked by achieving Rank 4 with Maria in Grand Trad. Once Speed Cooking is unlocked, the time required to prepare a recipe is significantly reduced, allowing players to engage in another activity on the Gauntlet Runner afterward.

However, keep in mind that cooking must always be the first task of the day, as any other activity will immediately consume the day's time. While Speed Cooking doesn't use up the entire day, you are still limited to one cooking session per day in the game.

With these tips in mind, players can make the most of their culinary adventures in Metaphor: ReFantazio, enhancing their journey with delicious dishes that fuel their quest for victory in the Tournament for the Throne.