Atlus’ Persona 5 made a significant impact upon its release in 2017. Widely regarded as a standout JRPG, it was recognized as one of the top ten games of the year by our team at senses. Now, with the release of the Persona 5 Royal Edition, we’ll delve into the enhancements and additions players can anticipate. For those unfamiliar with the base game, we recommend consulting our original review of Persona 5.
Persona 5, while an exceptional title, possessed certain shortcomings. One common critique concerned the limited ammunition, which often depleted rapidly within dungeons. This has been addressed in the Royal Edition, granting players effectively unlimited ammunition. Another point of feedback was the game’s considerable length and occasional lack of clear direction, leading to overwhelming choices regarding the allocation of “free time.”
Here’s a summary of the key additions:
An additional school semester and a new Palace (dungeon).
A significant new area, Kichijoji, featuring new locations and storylines.
The introduction of a new playable character, Kasumi Yoshizawa.
New cooperative attacks (“Showtime”) between characters. Joker receives a grappling hook, facilitating smoother navigation within Palaces and enabling the acquisition of bonus items (“Wills”).
An expanded array of cutscenes that further develop character relationships. The game now offers assistance and guidance for time management between activities.
New third-tier evolutions for Personas, new enemy types, weapons, Personas, and two new story endings.
Unlockable content within “The Thieves Den,” a bonus mode accessible from the pause menu, including images, animated sequences, and music.
Enhanced visuals for PS4 Pro, including 4K resolution support.
The Royal Edition presents a substantial set of upgrades and additions compared to the original release. For players considering experiencing Persona 5 for the first time, the Royal Edition is the definitive choice. However, owners of the base game may find the new content less compelling, potentially not justifying a repurchase at full price. Furthermore, the Royal Edition extends the game’s already considerable length, which could be seen as either a benefit for dedicated fans or a drawback for those seeking a more concise experience. It might be the perfect way to fill the time until the next major JRPG release (such as Final Fantasy VII Remake part 2?).
Ultimately, Persona 5 is a must-play for enthusiasts of Japanese role-playing games, especially those who appreciate well-crafted narratives and compelling characters. While the initial hours require patience, the payoff is significant. Those who have waited to experience the game will find that the Royal Edition delivers a refined, more stylish, and more complete version of an already exceptional title.
