How to Romance Kasumi Yoshizawa in Persona 5 Royal: A Comprehensive Guide
So, you’ve set your sights on the graceful and athletic Kasumi Yoshizawa in Persona 5 Royal. Excellent choice! She’s a fantastic character, but unlocking her romantic path requires specific actions and timing. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate her Confidant route and ultimately win her heart.
The key to dating Kasumi lies in building a strong Confidant relationship with her before the November deadline and choosing the correct dialogue options during crucial moments. Specifically, you need to reach Rank 9 of her Confidant link and then select the dialogue choice that expresses your romantic interest. Choose poorly, and you’ll remain friends. Don’t worry, we’ll break it down step by step.
Step-by-Step Guide to Dating Kasumi
1. Unlock the Kasumi Confidant
Kasumi is introduced early in the game, around May 30th (5/30), as part of the main story. She can be found in Kichijoji during the day. Speak to her whenever you have the opportunity to trigger her events.
2. Raise Her Confidant Rank to 5 Before November 18th
This is crucial. Kasumi’s Confidant link is capped at Rank 5 until you progress further into the game. Make sure you reach Rank 5 with her before November 18th. Neglecting this will lock you out of the romantic path, and you will not be able to proceed with her Confidant link and romance later in the game. You can find her regularly in Kichijoji or hanging around in the hideout from time to time. Spending time with her when the opportunity arises and answering her questions with kindness will help you increase her confidant rank.
3. Advance the Story to the Third Semester
The third semester is only available in Persona 5 Royal, not the original Persona 5. This content is unlocked by meeting specific criteria, including maximizing the Confidant rank of Dr. Maruki before the deadline. Once you’re in the third semester, Kasumi’s Confidant rank will be unlocked for further progression.
4. Continue Building the Confidant Relationship
After reaching the third semester, continue to spend time with Kasumi. Keep giving her gifts and doing hangout activities. You will be able to proceed with the Kasumi Confidant once you get far enough in the game after unlocking the third semester. Make sure to bring a Faith Persona with you when you hang out with her to maximize the Confidant points you receive.
5. Reach Rank 9 of Kasumi’s Confidant
Continue developing your Confidant relationship with Kasumi until you reach Rank 9.
6. The Crucial Dialogue Choice
At Rank 9, Kasumi will express her feelings for you. This is the moment of truth! You will be presented with dialogue options. To initiate the romance, you must choose the option that clearly conveys your romantic interest in her. Typically, this is a positive-sounding response like “I love you too.”.
7. Reload if You Fail
If you accidentally choose the wrong option, don’t panic! Reload a previous save file and try again. Persona 5 Royal provides multiple save slots, so make sure you use them strategically.
8. Enjoy Your Relationship!
Once you’ve chosen the correct dialogue option at Rank 9, you are now in a romantic relationship with Kasumi! While her appearances and screentime are limited, you will get to experience special scenes and interactions with her throughout the rest of the game.
Understanding the Nuances of Kasumi’s Character
Kasumi’s character arc is deeply intertwined with themes of identity, trauma, and overcoming personal struggles. Romancing her means understanding and supporting her journey of self-discovery. Be patient, empathetic, and genuine in your interactions. Your understanding of her struggles will make your bond even stronger.
Remember, success with any Confidant in Persona 5 Royal, especially a romance, is about building a genuine connection. Treat Kasumi with respect, show her you care, and be a supportive friend. This foundation will lead you to a fulfilling romantic relationship.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Romancing Kasumi
1. Is it possible to date Kasumi in Persona 5 Royal?
Yes, it is absolutely possible to date Kasumi Yoshizawa in Persona 5 Royal. However, it requires meeting specific requirements and making the right dialogue choices. Unlike other romance options, her Confidant link is locked until the third semester, and she will only be available in the third semester. Make sure to max Dr. Maruki before the deadline to unlock the third semester, which will allow you to unlock Kasumi’s Confidant.
2. What are the requirements to date Kasumi?
The main requirements are reaching Rank 5 of her Confidant before November 18th, progressing the story to unlock the third semester, and then reaching Rank 9 of her Confidant. At Rank 9, you must choose the dialogue option that expresses your romantic feelings for her.
3. What date can you first interact with Kasumi in Persona 5 Royal?
You first make contact with Kasumi as part of the natural story progression on May 30th (5/30).
4. Why can’t I romance Kasumi before the third semester?
Kasumi’s Confidant rank is capped at Rank 5 until you unlock the third semester. This is intentional, as her character development and story are tied to the events of the third semester. Maxing out Dr. Maruki before the deadline will unlock the third semester.
5. What happens if I choose the wrong dialogue option at Rank 9?
If you choose the wrong dialogue option at Rank 9, you will not enter a romantic relationship with Kasumi. You will remain friends. However, you can reload a previous save file and try again.
6. Is it worth dating Kasumi?
This is subjective. Some players find that her limited screentime in the third semester makes her romance less fulfilling than other options. However, many players appreciate her character arc and find the relationship meaningful. Ultimately, it depends on your personal preferences. The themes of identity, trauma, and overcoming personal struggles are something to consider.
7. Can I date multiple girlfriends in Persona 5 Royal?
Yes, you can date multiple girlfriends. However, there are consequences. On Valentine’s Day, you will face a scene where your girlfriends catch you cheating, resulting in a humorous but uncomfortable situation. Be prepared for a humorous and emotional rollercoaster!
8. Does Persona 5 Royal punish you for cheating?
While there isn’t a severe gameplay punishment, there is a Valentine’s Day scene that can make you feel like a jerk. Some players may also experience an Arcana penalty (no bonus EXP) unless you fix the problem with the girls.
9. Who is the “canon” romance in Persona 5?
There is no officially designated “canon” romance. However, some players believe that Ann is the closest to a canon romance due to her association with the Lovers Arcana.
10. Can I hang out with Kasumi in December?
Yes, in December (during the third semester), she will occasionally be available on Thursday and Sunday. However, she also will message you sometimes and be available to hang out then as well.
11. Does Kasumi join your party?
Yes, eventually, Kasumi joins the Phantom Thieves as a full-fledged party member during the third semester.
12. What is the best way to raise Kasumi’s Confidant rank?
To efficiently raise Kasumi’s Confidant rank, always bring a Faith Persona with you when spending time with her. This grants bonus points to your relationship. Also, choose dialogue options that align with her values and personality. Giving her gifts that she likes can also help you.
13. Is there a deadline to start Kasumi’s Confidant link?
While there isn’t a specific deadline to start her Confidant, you must reach Rank 5 before November 18th to unlock the opportunity to continue her Confidant during the third semester. This is a soft deadline that must be followed or you will be locked out.
14. Where can I find more information about Persona 5 Royal?
You can find more information about Persona 5 Royal on various gaming websites, forums, and guides. Communities like the Games Learning Society often have discussions and resources related to gameplay strategies and character analysis. Consider visiting GamesLearningSociety.org for related discussions.
15. Can I break up with Kasumi in Persona 5 Royal?
No, you cannot break up with anyone in Persona 5 Royal. Once you enter a relationship, it lasts for the remainder of the game. Choose wisely!
Final Thoughts
Romancing Kasumi is a rewarding experience, offering unique insight into her character and her relationship with the protagonist. By following this guide and understanding her story, you can successfully navigate her Confidant route and enjoy a meaningful romantic relationship in Persona 5 Royal. Good luck, and enjoy your time with this wonderful character!