There’s a certain allure to Japanese culture, characterized by its stylishness, austerity, and, at times, its over-the-top displays of violence and sexuality, juxtaposed with moments of extreme goofiness and childishness. Often, these elements coexist. While this may appear critical, it’s remarkably refreshing. Japanese narratives often subvert established templates and conventions, embracing ambiguity and challenging viewers’ expectations, at least initially. A prime example is Hayao Miyazaki’s acclaimed, Oscar-winning film, Spirited Away, which, despite being marketed towards adults in the West, resonated equally well with children. This highlights the Western misconception that animation is solely for children.
Persona 5, an animated title steeped in Japanese aesthetics, is decidedly not intended for younger audiences. It’s an action-adventure game that leans into the JRPG genre, pioneered by Square Enix with titles like Final Fantasy and, notably, Kingdom Hearts. This game exhibits stylish design, high production values, originality, and a captivating narrative, particularly once players become immersed in its mechanics. The game unfolds in a semi-open world, yet progression is regulated by time constraints and specific sequences, a feature that becomes apparent within the first few hours.
Players assume the role of [insert character name], a young man whose attempt to prevent an assault leads to legal repercussions. He now lives under a form of probation with a distant relative and is transferred to a strict school. By day, he leads the life of a “normal” student, commuting via subway, socializing with friends at a ramen restaurant, reading, and performing household chores. However, at night, a magical mobile app transports him to a fantastical dream world. Here, he transforms into “Joker,” an agile thief and fighter who dons a masquerade mask, belongs to “The Phantom Thieves,” and can summon inner demons (Personas) to battle supernatural entities.
The turn-based battles are recognizable from classic JRPG games like Final Fantasy.
Persona 5 effectively introduces players to its mechanics. Prior experience with previous installments is not essential, although familiarity with the concept will be beneficial. Players have freedom of movement within specified locations and timeframes, requiring careful management of time to achieve objectives, typically involving a mini-boss and a castle to conquer. Throughout the game, players can customize character development, cultivate relationships with side characters, and earn money to purchase improved equipment, weapons, and restorative items.
The game mechanics are relatively straightforward, featuring turn-based combat reminiscent of classic Final Fantasy titles. This eliminates the need for dexterity, unlike games such as Final Fantasy XV. Atlus has consistently delivered games with high production values and visually striking graphics (as seen in Odin Sphere and Dragon’s Crown), and Persona 5 is no exception. It essentially functions as an interactive manga, incorporating numerous non-interactive sequences that, while skippable, provide valuable background information.
The game features extensive dialogue, delivered with compelling emotion by skilled voice actors. While English is the standard language, the original Japanese audio track is available as free downloadable content and is highly recommended for its added cultural flavor. The music also warrants commendation, blending cinematic orchestral scores with J-pop and lounge music characteristic of Japan. Consider maximizing the audio experience by utilizing a home theater system or, preferably, a pair of high-quality headphones.
Persona 5 is a Sony exclusive, available on PS4 and PS3. The PS4 Pro does not receive a specific patch, as the game’s Japanese release predated the Pro’s existence. However, Boost Mode can potentially reduce loading times. The frame rate is capped at 30fps, a deliberate choice prioritizing stability. While 60fps is generally preferred, the locked frame rate ensures a consistent experience, avoiding fluctuations between 20 and 60fps, and maintaining acceptable loading times.
Newcomers to the Persona series may require some initial patience. The game, while visually stunning, can feel fragmented due to frequent transitions between timelines, dream states, and reality, as well as other narrative techniques that unfold as the story progresses. It typically takes around five hours to gain a sense of control and influence the narrative direction. The game gradually reveals information, and the initial experience might feel somewhat enigmatic, reminiscent of David Lynch’s style. However, this contributes to the game’s unique charm and storytelling. By maintaining patience, the narrative will become clearer, and players will gain greater control as the initial hours pass quickly.
Persona 5 offers a distinctive role-playing adventure that blends the mundane routines and dialogue of high school life with the allure of embodying a powerful warrior with magical abilities in an enchanted realm. There are certainly less engaging ways to spend time gaming. Persona 5 marks a potential breakthrough for Atlus, broadening the series’ appeal to a wider audience. It is also another strong addition to Sony’s portfolio of unique game titles in 2017, which includes (Kingdom Hearts HD remake, Nioh, Yakuza 0, Horizon Zero Dawn) and upcoming releases (Crash Bandicoot HD-remaster, Uncharted 4 and God of War reboot, among others).
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