Which Version of Persona Should I Buy?
The Persona series has evolved significantly over the years, with each installment introducing new features, gameplay mechanics, and storylines. For new fans of the series, it can be daunting to decide which version to play first. In this article, we’ll break down the different Persona games, highlighting their unique features, and providing recommendations on which version to start with.
Persona 1
The original Persona game was released in 1996 and is a spin-off of the Megami Tensei series. Although it’s considered a classic, it’s not a great starting point for new fans. The game has outdated graphics and gameplay mechanics, which may not hold up well today. Unless you’re a hardcore retro gaming enthusiast or a completist, there’s little reason to play the original Persona game.
Persona 3
Persona 3 was released in 2006 and marked a significant shift in the series. It introduced social simulations, character customization, and a more Westernized gameplay style. While it’s still a great game, it’s not the best starting point either. Persona 3 has some quirky elements, such as its combat system and dungeon designs, which may take time to get used to. However, it’s a vital part of the series, and playing it will provide a deeper understanding of the Persona universe.
Persona 4
Persona 4 was released in 2008 and is considered one of the best games in the series. It refined the social simulation and dungeon crawling mechanics introduced in Persona 3 and added more depth to the story and characters. If you’re new to the series, Persona 4 is a great starting point. The game has a more refined combat system, a wider range of social links, and a engaging storyline that explores themes of friendship and identity.
Persona 5
Persona 5 was released in 2016 and is the latest mainline installment in the series. It built upon the success of Persona 4, introducing a new set of characters, social activities, and dungeons. Persona 5 has a stronger focus on the Phantom Thief storyline, exploring themes of rebellion and self-discovery. If you’re interested in the latest and greatest in the series, Persona 5 is the best starting point. It offers a more polished gameplay experience, a richer storyline, and a wider range of activities and social links.
Persona 5 Royal
Persona 5 Royal is an updated version of Persona 5, released in 2020. It includes all the content from the original game, as well as new storylines, characters, and social activities. If you already played Persona 5, Persona 5 Royal is worth replaying, as it offers new challenges, characters, and story content. However, if you’re new to the series, it’s recommended to start with Persona 5 instead, as it offers a more refined gameplay experience.
Recommendations
Here’s a summary of the recommendations:
- New fans: Start with Persona 4, as it’s a great representation of the series and offers a more refined gameplay experience.
- Fans of the series: Play Persona 5 and then Persona 5 Royal, as they offer new storylines, characters, and social activities.
- Retro gaming enthusiasts: Try the original Persona game for a nostalgic experience, but be aware that it may not hold up well today.
Key Features of Each Game
Here’s a comparison of the key features of each game in the series:
| Game | Year | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Persona 1 | 1996 | Classic retro gameplay, Megami Tensei spin-off |
| Persona 3 | 2006 | Introduced social simulations, character customization |
| Persona 4 | 2008 | Refined social simulation, dungeon crawling mechanics, engaging storyline |
| Persona 5 | 2016 | Phantom Thief storyline, polished gameplay, social activities |
| Persona 5 Royal | 2020 | Updated content from Persona 5, new storylines, characters |
Conclusion
Choosing the right Persona game can be overwhelming, especially for new fans. By understanding the unique features and storylines of each game, you can make an informed decision about which version to start with. If you’re new to the series, Persona 4 is a great starting point, while fans of the series should play Persona 5 and then Persona 5 Royal. Ultimately, the right Persona game for you depends on your personal preferences and gaming style.