Diving into the world of Persona can be daunting. With multiple games, spin-offs, and remakes, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. So, which Persona game should you play first? This guide will help you navigate the complexities and choose the perfect entry point into this beloved JRPG series.
Choosing your first Persona game can significantly impact your overall experience. Each game offers a unique story, cast of characters, and gameplay mechanics. While playing in release order might seem logical, it’s not always the best approach. Factors like your preferred gaming platform, art style, and desired level of complexity can influence which game is the ideal starting point. This article will break down each main Persona game and discuss the pros and cons of starting with each one.
Understanding the Persona Universe
Before we dive into specific game recommendations, it’s important to understand what sets the Persona series apart. These games blend social simulation with dungeon crawling, creating a unique experience where building relationships is just as important as battling shadows. This dual focus on social links and combat is a core element across the series, although each game implements it differently. Thinking about which aspects of the game appeal to you most can help narrow down your options. Do you prioritize intricate storylines, challenging combat, or the social aspects of the game? Knowing your preferences will be key to picking the perfect starting point.
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Persona 5 Royal: A Stylish Start?
Persona 5 Royal is often touted as the most accessible entry point, thanks to its polished gameplay, stunning visuals, and engaging story. It follows a group of high school students who form the Phantom Thieves of Hearts to reform corrupt adults. Its stylish presentation, catchy soundtrack, and refined mechanics make it a visually appealing and enjoyable experience for newcomers. However, starting with Royal can potentially spoil some of the surprises and twists present in earlier games. It also sets a high bar for presentation and gameplay, which might make older entries feel dated in comparison. It’s a fantastic game, but consider whether you want to start with the most polished experience or work your way up through the series’ evolution.
Persona 5 Royal: The Phantom Thieves Strike a Pose
Persona 4 Golden: A Rural Mystery
Persona 4 Golden offers a different flavor, trading the bustling cityscapes of Persona 5 for the quiet charm of rural Inaba. Its focus on a murder mystery and building bonds within a smaller community creates a more intimate and personal narrative. The gameplay is slightly less refined than Persona 5, but it still holds up remarkably well. Its lighter tone and engaging mystery might appeal to players looking for a more grounded story. Consider this game if you enjoy cozy mysteries and character-driven narratives.
Persona 3 Portable/FES: A Classic with a Twist
Persona 3, available in both FES and Portable versions, is the game that solidified the series’ modern formula. It introduces the social links system and explores darker themes than its successors. The gameplay is noticeably older, but its story about mortality and finding meaning in life resonates deeply. The Portable version sacrifices some visual fidelity for improved gameplay and the option to play as a female protagonist. Choosing between FES and Portable will depend on your priorities. Do you prefer improved gameplay or a more visually rich experience?
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Which Persona Game is Right for You?
Ultimately, the “best” Persona game to start with depends on individual preferences. If you’re drawn to stylish visuals and polished gameplay, Persona 5 Royal is a great choice. If you prefer a more character-driven story and cozy atmosphere, Persona 4 Golden is a strong contender. For those seeking a classic experience with darker themes, Persona 3 is worth exploring.
Persona 4 Golden: The Investigation Team in Inaba
Beyond the Mainline Games
While the core Persona games offer hundreds of hours of gameplay, there are also numerous spin-offs to consider. These include fighting games, rhythm games, and even a dungeon crawler. These are generally recommended after playing a mainline game to avoid spoilers and fully appreciate the characters and universe. Many find similarities in other games like the Fallout series, especially the challenges of choosing where to begin. A good resource to consult on this would be our guide on what fallout game should i play first.
So, Which Persona Game Should I Play First? A Quick Recap
- For the polished and stylish: Persona 5 Royal
- For the cozy mystery: Persona 4 Golden
- For the classic experience: Persona 3 FES/Portable
No matter which game you choose, you’re in for a treat. The Persona series offers a unique blend of gameplay and storytelling that has captivated players for years. Choose the game that resonates most with you, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey.
Persona 3 SEES Ready for Battle
FAQ
- Can I play Persona 5 Royal if I haven’t played the original Persona 5? Yes, Royal is a standalone experience that includes all the content of the original game with additional features.
- Are the Persona games connected? While there are some recurring themes and elements, each mainline Persona game tells a self-contained story.
- Which Persona game has the best story? This is subjective, but many consider Persona 3 and Persona 4 Golden to have some of the most impactful narratives.
- Do I need to play the Persona games in order? No, you can start with any mainline game.
- Which Persona game is the longest? Generally, Persona 5 Royal is the longest, followed by Persona 4 Golden and then Persona 3.
- Which Persona game has the best music? Each game has a fantastic soundtrack, but Persona 5 is often praised for its catchy and stylish music.
- Are there any other games like Persona? If you enjoy the social simulation aspects, you might enjoy games like the Fire Emblem series or Stardew Valley.
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Which Persona game will you choose? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
