Can You Date Sae Niijima in Persona 5 (Royal)? The Definitive Answer
Unfortunately, the answer is a definitive no. You cannot romance Sae Niijima in Persona 5 or Persona 5 Royal. While the game offers a rich tapestry of romantic possibilities with numerous female characters, Sae Niijima, Makoto’s older sister and a crucial figure in the narrative, remains strictly outside the realm of romance. Her role is primarily that of a legal guardian, investigator, and ultimately, an ally to the protagonist. This limitation might disappoint some players drawn to her complex character, but it’s a deliberate design choice by the game developers. Let’s delve into why this is the case and explore other aspects of romance and relationships in Persona 5.
Why Sae Niijima Isn’t a Romance Option
Sae’s role in the narrative simply doesn’t lend itself to a romantic relationship with the protagonist. She represents the justice system and serves as a significant obstacle that Joker must overcome. Her character arc focuses on her evolving understanding of justice and her eventual shift from antagonist to supporter. Romancing her would drastically alter the narrative’s tone and impact.
Romance Options in Persona 5 Royal: A Comprehensive Overview
While Sae is off-limits, Persona 5 Royal offers a generous selection of ten romance options, ensuring there’s a potential partner to suit diverse player preferences. These include:
- Ann Takamaki: Joker’s classmate, a kind-hearted international model, and a member of the Phantom Thieves.
- Makoto Niijima: Sae’s younger sister, the intelligent and disciplined Student Council President.
- Haru Okumura: The gentle and refined daughter of a wealthy businessman, and a fellow Phantom Thief.
- Futaba Sakura: A genius hacker and a recluse who gradually opens up to the Phantom Thieves.
- Kasumi Yoshizawa (Royal Only): A graceful gymnast who joins Shujin Academy.
- Tae Takemi: The unconventional and mysterious doctor at the clinic.
- Sadayo Kawakami: Joker’s homeroom teacher who moonlights as a maid.
- Ichiko Ohya: A cynical and often inebriated journalist.
- Hifumi Togo: A skilled shogi player with a strategic mind.
- Chihaya Mifune: A fortune teller in Shinjuku.
Understanding Confidant Ranks and Romance
The Confidant system is central to building relationships in Persona 5. As you spend time with these characters and strengthen your bond, you’ll increase their Confidant rank. At rank nine, for most female Confidants, you’ll be presented with a dialogue choice that determines whether you enter a romantic relationship or remain just friends. Choosing the “romance” option will lock you into a romantic path with that character.
Navigating Multiple Relationships: The Valentine’s Day Consequence
While Persona 5 Royal allows you to date multiple characters simultaneously, this comes with consequences. On Valentine’s Day, you’re forced to choose one girlfriend to spend the day with. If you don’t choose any, you end up spending the day with Ryuji. The girls you didn’t choose will confront you the following day, leading to a humorous but potentially awkward scene.
The Ethics of Polygamy in Persona 5 Royal
Dating multiple characters can feel ethically questionable. The game acknowledges this and provides consequences for those who choose this path. While it doesn’t drastically impact the gameplay, it adds a layer of realism and encourages players to consider the emotional impact of their choices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can you romance Sae Niijima in Persona 5 Strikers?
No, you cannot romance Sae Niijima in Persona 5 Strikers. Strikers is a direct sequel to Persona 5 and does not include the Confidant system or romance options.
2. Is there a mod to romance Sae Niijima?
While the game doesn’t natively support romancing Sae, there might be mods created by the community. These mods are not officially supported and could potentially introduce instability to your game. Proceed with caution when using mods. The GamesLearningSociety.org provides information on ethical game design.
3. Who is the easiest girl to romance in Persona 5 Royal?
Makoto Niijima is often considered one of the easier romance options due to her straightforward Confidant progression and importance to the main story. Her availability throughout the game and the clear dialogue options make her a popular choice.
4. Can you romance all girls in Persona 5 Royal in a single playthrough?
Yes, it is possible to romance all ten romanceable girls in a single playthrough. However, you will face the Valentine’s Day and the ensuing jealousy sequence as a result.
5. What happens if you don’t romance anyone in Persona 5 Royal?
If you don’t romance anyone, you will spend Valentine’s Day with Ryuji Sakamoto.
6. Is Ann Takamaki the canon romance in Persona 5?
While there’s no official “canon” romance, Ann Takamaki is often seen as the most likely candidate due to her “Lovers Arcana” and her role as a central figure in the story. However, any of the romance options can be considered valid.
7. How old is Sae Niijima in Persona 5 Royal?
Sae Niijima is 24 years old in Persona 5 Royal.
8. What are the consequences of cheating in Persona 5 Royal?
On Valentine’s Day, you’ll have to pick one girl to spend the day with. If you pick none, you spend it with Ryuji. Afterwards, the jilted girls will confront you, leading to a humorous scene. You might suffer from Arcana penalties in combat until you rectify the situation.
9. Can you max out confidants without romance?
Yes, you can max out every Confidant without entering into a romantic relationship. This is entirely optional.
10. Who is the villain in Persona 5?
The primary antagonists in Persona 5 are Masayoshi Shido, a corrupt politician, and ultimately, Yaldabaoth, a false god representing societal control. Sae Niijima plays an antagonistic role early on, but she undergoes character development and becomes an ally.
11. What is the best ending in Persona 5 Royal?
The best ending involves refusing to make a deal with Igor’s assistant near the end of the game. This leads to a path where the Phantom Thieves confront the true villain and ultimately save the world.
12. Can you date teachers in Persona 5?
Yes, you can romance your homeroom teacher, Sadayo Kawakami.
13. Does Joker have a canon girlfriend?
Joker does not have a defined canon girlfriend in Persona 5. Players are free to choose their romantic partner.
14. Can you date Akechi?
No, Goro Akechi is not available as a romance option, despite his popularity among fans.
15. Is there going to be a Persona 6?
At the time of this writing, Persona 6 is confirmed to be in development.
While the lack of a Sae Niijima romance option may be disappointing, Persona 5 Royal offers a vast array of other compelling characters to form relationships with. Exploring these connections is a core part of the Persona experience, adding depth and emotional resonance to the narrative. Understanding how the Confidant system works and the consequences of your choices will enrich your overall gameplay. Check out GamesLearningSociety.org for insights into games and education!