Well it is just as i thought, not that i needed any real confirmation, anyone with eyes can see that the game changed direction since its initial reveal. Quote from the youtube video taken from Gematsu.
Publisher ATLUS and developer Studio Zero have released a 15-minute “Creator’s Message” video featuring comments from director Katsura Hashino, character designer Shigenori Soejim…
www.gematsu.com
"Tell us about the game’s world.
Hashino: “We originally developed the game in a more Western, medieval setting, but quickly realized it was turning into a rather conventional fantasy game. To give it a more unique twist, we thought about the modern world, and elements that we could bring into this fantasy setting, so that there’s an underlying feeling of connection between the two worlds.''
Personally disappointing since I was initially sold on the idea of Atlus doing a true western medieval setting. Looks like the original concept art like the one below has been scrapped for what we have now. Perhaps to make it more persona like after persona 5's success?
I am a fan of atlus games so I may give it a go but I would be lying if didn't say I am just not as into the current direction of the game