Should You Play Anything Before Persona 5? The Ultimate Guide
No, you don’t need to play any other Persona game before diving into Persona 5 (or Persona 5 Royal). Each entry in the main Persona series boasts an independent storyline, allowing newcomers to jump in without feeling lost. However, while it isn’t a requirement, playing other games in the franchise, especially Persona 4 Golden, can significantly enhance your overall appreciation and understanding of the Persona universe.
Let’s unpack this a bit. Persona 5 stands on its own two feet. The story of the Phantom Thieves, their fight against corrupt adults, and the exploration of cognitive worlds is self-contained. You won’t be confused by returning characters or burdened by intricate plot threads carried over from previous titles. The core gameplay loop of balancing high school life with dungeon crawling and social links is well-explained within the game itself.
So, why even consider playing anything beforehand? Because, while the stories are distinct, they all exist within the same shared universe. Certain themes, character archetypes, and overarching concepts weave their way throughout the series. Experiencing these elements in earlier games provides a richer context for Persona 5. Think of it as watching the Star Wars prequels after the original trilogy – you appreciate the references and character backstories in a whole new way.
Persona 4 Golden, in particular, is often recommended as a gateway to Persona 5. Its smaller-town setting, focus on friendship, and similar social simulation mechanics offer a gentler introduction to the series’ unique blend of genres. Playing Persona 4 Golden can also familiarize you with common Persona elements like:
- Personas: The manifestations of your inner self, used in combat.
- Social Links: Building relationships with characters to strengthen your Personas.
- Shadows: The corrupted desires of individuals that populate the cognitive world.
- The Velvet Room: A mysterious place overseen by Igor, where you fuse and manage your Personas.
Ultimately, the decision is yours. You can absolutely enjoy Persona 5 as your first Persona experience. However, keep in mind that you can always enhance your gaming experience if you take time and play its predecessors, especially Persona 4 Golden.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Playing Persona 5
Do I need to play Persona 5 before Persona 5 Royal?
No. Persona 5 Royal is the definitive edition of Persona 5. It includes all the content from the original game, along with substantial additions, including new characters, a new storyline, and gameplay enhancements. Playing the original before Royal is redundant.
Do I need to play Persona 4 before Persona 5?
No. As stated earlier, the Persona games are standalone experiences. You can jump directly into Persona 5 without playing Persona 4. The stories are independent, though they share a common universe.
Can I play Persona 5 Strikers without playing Persona 5 (or Royal)?
It is highly recommended to play Persona 5 or Persona 5 Royal before Persona 5 Strikers. Strikers is a direct sequel to the original Persona 5 storyline, and it assumes you are already familiar with the characters, their relationships, and the world’s lore. Playing Strikers first would spoil the plot twists and character developments of Persona 5.
Is Persona 5 Royal a completely different game from Persona 5?
Not entirely. Persona 5 Royal is an enhanced version of Persona 5. It contains the entirety of the original game’s story and content, but it also adds new characters, a new semester, expanded storylines, gameplay improvements, and additional areas to explore.
Is Persona 4 and 5 connected in any significant way?
The main storylines of Persona 4 and Persona 5 are not directly connected. They take place in the same universe and share certain thematic elements, but there’s no overarching plotline that carries over from one game to the other. The Persona Q series brings together the casts of Persona 3, 4, and 5, but these are considered spin-offs and are not essential to understanding the main games’ narratives.
What if I can only play one game before Persona 5 – should it be Persona 3 or Persona 4?
Generally, Persona 4 Golden is the more recommended prequel. Its gameplay mechanics and social simulation elements are closer to Persona 5, making the transition smoother. While Persona 3 is a fantastic game in its own right, its darker tone and slightly more dated gameplay might be a less ideal introduction to the series. However, if you appreciate a more melancholic story and are willing to overlook some older mechanics, Persona 3 is still a worthwhile experience.
Does it matter if I play the Persona games in order?
While it is not necessary to play the Persona games in chronological order, some players prefer to do so to appreciate the evolution of the gameplay mechanics and the overarching themes of the series. However, due to dated mechanics and aging graphics in earlier entries, starting with Persona 5 might be a more appealing option for newcomers.
Is Persona 5 suitable for new gamers?
Yes, it is! Although Persona 5 is complex with many moving pieces, It’s turn-based combat, captivating storyline, and stylish presentation make it a great option for both newcomers and experienced players alike.
How long does it take to beat Persona 5 (or Royal)?
Persona 5 takes approximately 97.5 hours to complete the main storyline. Persona 5 Royal, with its added content, typically takes around 110-130 hours. Completionists aiming for 100% completion can easily spend over 170 hours on either game.
What are some things I should avoid doing in Persona 5?
Some common pitfalls to avoid in Persona 5 include:
- Wasting SP (Skill Points) carelessly.
- Ignoring Mishima’s text messages (which unlock important Mementos requests).
- Sleeping during the day unless absolutely necessary.
- Neglecting to build Social Links.
What is Joker’s real name in Persona 5?
While the player can choose a name for the protagonist (codename Joker), his canonical name is Ren Amamiya. However, in the manga adaptation, he is referred to as Akira Kurusu.
Can you get a girlfriend (or boyfriend) in Persona 5?
Yes, you can romance several characters in Persona 5 and Persona 5 Royal. You can build relationships and eventually date these characters. The choice is entirely optional and doesn’t affect the main storyline significantly, but it adds depth to the social simulation aspect of the game.
Is Persona 6 already being worked on?
Yes, it is. Although the release date is not set in stone, sources suggest that Persona 6 is aiming for a 2025 or 2026 release. It is anticipated to be a larger-scale game than Persona 5 and will feature some differences compared to the previous titles in the series.
What is the appeal of the Persona series?
The Persona series blends elements of JRPG combat, social simulation, and high school life into a unique and compelling experience. The games are known for their stylish presentation, memorable characters, engaging storylines, and thought-provoking themes. The combination of battling monsters, building relationships, and managing your time creates a deeply immersive and rewarding experience.
Where can I learn more about the intersection of gaming and education?
For more information on how games can be used for learning and development, check out the Games Learning Society website: https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/. GamesLearningSociety.org brings together researchers and educators who are passionate about using games to enhance learning.
Ultimately, whether you choose to play any other Persona game before Persona 5 is a matter of personal preference. You can jump into Persona 5 without any prior experience. Just have a blast with the game!