Which Version of Persona Should I Buy? A Comprehensive Guide for New and Returning Fans
So, you’re looking to dive into the captivating world of Persona, huh? Excellent choice! The series, known for its compelling blend of social simulation, dungeon crawling, and unforgettable characters, has charmed players for decades. But with so many different versions and spin-offs, it’s understandable to feel a bit overwhelmed. Let’s cut through the noise and get straight to the point:
If you’re new to the series or looking for the definitive experience, Persona 5 Royal is the way to go. It’s the most polished, content-rich, and accessible entry point. However, depending on your preferences and budget, other options might be worth considering. Let’s delve deeper into the nuances of each game to help you make the perfect decision.
Persona 5: The King of Style, Refined
Why Persona 5 Royal Reigns Supreme
Persona 5 Royal isn’t just a re-release; it’s a significantly expanded and enhanced version of the original Persona 5. It includes:
- An Entire New Semester: A completely new story arc that extends the game beyond its original ending, adding significant character development and plot twists.
- New Characters: The addition of Kasumi Yoshizawa, a new party member, and Takuto Maruki, a school counselor, both of whom offer fresh perspectives and gameplay dynamics.
- Enhanced Gameplay Mechanics: Improved combat, streamlined dungeon crawling in Mementos, and quality-of-life improvements that make the overall experience smoother and more enjoyable.
- Visual and Audio Polish: Updated graphics, new music, and refined animations further elevate the already stylish presentation of Persona 5.
Simply put, Persona 5 Royal offers everything the original does and then some. There’s really no compelling reason to play the vanilla Persona 5 unless you find it at a significantly lower price and don’t mind missing out on the extra content.
Persona 5 Strikers: A Worthy Spin-off
Persona 5 Strikers is a direct sequel to Persona 5, continuing the story of the Phantom Thieves during their summer vacation. However, it departs from the turn-based combat system of the main series, adopting a musou-style action gameplay.
It’s a great game if you love the characters of Persona 5 and want to see more of their adventures, but its action-oriented combat might not appeal to all Persona fans. If you’re expecting a traditional Persona experience, Persona 5 Strikers might not be your first choice.
Persona 4: A Beloved Classic
Persona 4 Golden: The Definitive Edition
Persona 4 Golden, originally released on the PlayStation Vita and now available on modern platforms, is considered a classic for a reason. It boasts a compelling mystery, a charming cast of characters, and a deeply engaging social link system. While its graphics and gameplay might feel a bit dated compared to Persona 5, its story and characters remain timeless.
Why Persona 4 Golden Still Shines
- Compelling Story: A captivating murder mystery that will keep you guessing until the very end.
- Unforgettable Characters: A cast of relatable and well-developed characters who you’ll genuinely care about.
- Charming Atmosphere: A unique small-town setting with a distinct visual style.
- Added Content: The Golden version includes new social links, events, and a new ending, making it the definitive Persona 4 experience.
If you can look past its slightly dated presentation, Persona 4 Golden is an excellent choice for any JRPG fan.
Persona 3: The Dark Horse of the Series
Persona 3 Reload: A Modern Masterpiece
Persona 3 Reload is a complete remake of the original Persona 3, bringing it up to modern standards with updated graphics, gameplay, and voice acting. It maintains the core story and themes of Persona 3, which is a bit darker and more melancholic than Persona 4 or Persona 5, dealing with themes of death and mortality.
Persona 3 Portable: A More Accessible Option
Persona 3 Portable is another version of Persona 3 originally released on the PlayStation Portable. It features a visual novel-style presentation for exploration and sacrifices the animated cutscenes for static images. However, it does offer the option to play as a female protagonist, providing a unique perspective on the story.
Which Persona 3 Should You Play?
- Persona 3 Reload: Provides the best experience and offers modern features.
- Persona 3 Portable: If you want to play the game as a female protagonist.
Persona 1 and 2: The Retro Gems
A Dive into the Past
Persona 1 and the Persona 2 duology (Innocent Sin and Eternal Punishment) are the oldest entries in the series. They offer a more traditional JRPG experience with a darker tone and a greater focus on demon negotiation. While they’re interesting from a historical perspective, their dated graphics, clunky gameplay, and high difficulty might not appeal to modern players.
If you’re a die-hard Persona fan interested in exploring the series’ roots, give them a try. But for newcomers, it’s best to start with Persona 3, Persona 4, or Persona 5.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Persona 5 Royal better than Persona 5?
Absolutely. Persona 5 Royal is the definitive version, offering more content, improved gameplay, and a richer experience.
2. Should I play Persona 5 first or Royal?
No, go straight to Persona 5 Royal. There’s no reason to play the original unless you’re curious to see the differences after experiencing Royal.
3. Which Persona game should I start with?
Persona 5 Royal is the most accessible and polished entry point. It’s a great introduction to the series.
4. Is Persona 4 Golden worth playing after Persona 5 Royal?
Yes! While it may feel a bit dated, Persona 4 Golden offers a unique story and unforgettable characters that are well worth experiencing.
5. Are the Persona games connected?
Loosely. All the Persona games are connected through the “Velvet Room” and certain recurring themes. However, each game features a standalone story with its own cast of characters.
6. Do I need to play the Persona games in order?
No, you can play them in any order. However, playing them in order can help you appreciate the evolution of the series.
7. Is Persona 5 Strikers a good game?
If you enjoy the characters of Persona 5 and don’t mind a departure from the turn-based combat, Persona 5 Strikers is a fun and engaging spin-off.
8. How long does it take to beat Persona 5 Royal?
Around 100-120 hours for the main story, and even more if you aim for completion.
9. Is Persona 5 Royal worth the price?
Absolutely. The amount of content and quality of the experience make it a worthwhile investment.
10. Should I play Persona 3 Reload, Portable, or the original?
Persona 3 Reload is the best choice for most players, offering a modern and comprehensive experience. Persona 3 Portable is another good choice to play the game as a female protagonist.
11. Is Persona 4 Golden better than Persona 3?
This is subjective. Some prefer the story and characters of Persona 4 Golden, while others prefer the darker themes and atmosphere of Persona 3.
12. What makes Persona 5 Royal so good?
Its stylish presentation, engaging story, unforgettable characters, and addictive gameplay loop.
13. Are Persona 1 and 2 worth playing?
Only if you’re a dedicated fan interested in the series’ history. They’re quite dated and challenging compared to later entries.
14. Is Persona a good introduction to JRPGs?
Yes, especially Persona 5 Royal. It offers a modern and accessible take on the genre.
15. Where can I learn more about gaming and education?
Check out the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org to explore the intersection of gaming and education, and discover how games can foster learning and development. The Games Learning Society is a great source for anyone interested in the educational potential of video games.
Final Verdict
Ultimately, the best Persona game for you depends on your personal preferences. But for most players, Persona 5 Royal stands out as the definitive choice. It’s a masterpiece of the JRPG genre that will captivate you with its style, story, and characters. Happy playing!