Persona 5 Royal

Pros

• Additional semester provides new content and story
• New characters with deeper confidant arcs
• Refined battle mechanics and gameplay tweaks
• More free time for activities enhances social aspects
• Updated visuals and an engaging soundtrack

Cons

• Additional content may feel disconnected from the main story
• Ease of combat might not challenge experienced players

Intriguing Expansion of a JRPG Classic

Persona 5 Royal is a refined and expanded version of the critically acclaimed RPG, Persona 5. Crafted with precision by Atlus, this enhanced edition builds upon the original with additional content, deepening the incredibly stylish and engaging world that was first introduced in 2016.

Expanded Story Arc and Content

Central to the enhancements in Persona 5 Royal is the introduction of a brand-new semester, complete with a unique story segment and a fresh palace to explore. This extends the narrative and provides players with approximately an extra month’s worth of gameplay that is dedicated to conquering the new challenges and wrapping up lingering storylines with beloved characters.

Adding complexity and richness to the story, two new confidants enter the scene: the mysterious school counselor Takuto Maruki and the talented gymnast Kasumi Yoshizawa. Their introduction into the plot is seamless and adds new layers of interaction and backstory. A noteworthy improvement is seen with Goro Akechi, whose character arc is now fully controlled by player interaction rather than automatic progression. This change delivers a more immersive and deliberate experience, allowing players to delve deeper into Akechi's complexities.

Endings and Gameplay Enhancements

Persona 5 Royal does not just stop at adding new characters and storylines; it also offers alternate endings. The conditions to access these endings are steeped in gameplay choices, especially with the necessity to maximize new confidants within a certain timeframe. Additionally, the battle mechanics have undergone tweaks, leading to a more refined and sometimes, an easier combat experience. Serious fans of the series may note that this can lower the overall difficulty, but the game allows for difficulty adjustments to cater to a wide range of players, from newcomers to series veterans who crave a challenge.

Improved Social Simulation

Beyond battle enhancements, Persona 5 Royal places a greater emphasis on the social simulation aspect of the game. The main protagonist has more opportunities for free time activities, allowing for greater character development and exploration of the game’s vibrant world. This not only improves the pacing of the gameplay but also gives players the flexibility to engage more deeply with the host of eclectic characters introduced throughout the story.

Visual and Aural Presentation

The distinctive visual flair that has become a hallmark of the Persona series is heightened in Persona 5 Royal. Character designs are sharp, animations are fluid, and the general aesthetic maintains a high level of polish. Complementing the visuals is the game’s soundtrack, which remains as infectious as ever, enhancing key moments with a blend of acid jazz and pop that perfectly fits the game's tone.

Conclusion

Persona 5 Royal is an expansive roleplaying experience that builds on an already impressive foundation. The game not only captivates with its stylish aesthetics and storytelling but also with thoughtful updates to gameplay and character development. While the additional content might feel somewhat separate from the original arc, it does not detract from Persona 5 Royal standing as a definitive version of the game.

Pros

• Additional semester provides new content and story
• New characters with deeper confidant arcs
• Refined battle mechanics and gameplay tweaks
• More free time for activities enhances social aspects
• Updated visuals and an engaging soundtrack

Cons

• Additional content may feel disconnected from the main story
• Ease of combat might not challenge experienced players