It seems that a Phantom Thief’s job is never done. Persona 5 Royal , created by Atlus Co, is the definitive version of the fifth game in the Persona series. More then simple just a DLC for the original game, Royal introduces new elements that take the game in an unexpected direction. Is it worth paying the extra money for more of what many people believe is one of the best RPG’s of all time?
A very brief recap of the original game: After being suspended from his school, the player character is sent to Tokyo to go to school for one year. Once there, the player learns that they have access o a strange mobile app that allows them to access the Metaverse. Taking the name of “Joker”, the player learns that he can destroy the wickedness of people by stealing their Treasure. Making a group of friends, the newly formed Phantom Thieves decide to make Tokyo a better place by targeting those who have evil in their hearts. The game spends time with battling through dungeons while also building connections with people in the real world.
In Royal, the story is immediately changed with the introduction of new character, Kasumi. She arrives at school at the same time as Joker. She is a new member of the Phantom Thieves and most of the new story revolves around her. Through another new character, Takuto, you will learn more about your teammates and what makes them tick. There are more people that you can make your confidants, new events through out the year, an entire new section to explore and a different story that adds a lot of playtime.
When you need a break form making the world a better place, check out the Thieves Den. Much like a interactive virtual museum, you can check out the musical score and view some art of your favorite characters.When you are ready to battle, check out the new moves and weapons. There are new Showtime moves as well as a powerful new form you can activate. See something just out of reach? Joker has equipped a grappling look so you can go anywhere.
So now to the big question, should you buy Royal if you already have the original? This is not an add on, you have to pay full price for the new game. If you don’t have the game, the choice is obvious. Persona 5 is one of the best games of this generation and should be in the discussion of best games of all time. If you do have the original, you should by this version if your love for it is high. There is much more content, but if you weren’t that big a fan, you won’t find anything here to change your mind.
10/10
Available on PS4
