Introduction

In the ever-evolving landscape of video games, certain titles stand out as exceptional pieces of art, combining gripping narratives, innovative gameplay mechanics, and stunning visuals to create an immersive experience. Among these, Persona 5 Royal unquestionably claims its spot as one of the best video games of all time. Released as an enhanced version of the critically acclaimed Persona 5, this game transcends its genre and captivates players with its compelling story, intricate characters, and refined gameplay mechanics.

Narrative Brilliance

At the core of Persona 5 Royal's excellence lies its narrative brilliance. The game takes players on a rollercoaster ride through the vibrant streets of Tokyo, intertwining the supernatural with the mundane aspects of daily life. The protagonist, a high school student codenamed Joker, becomes entangled in a web of corruption and conspiracy as he and his group of Persona users, the Phantom Thieves, strive to reform society by 'stealing the hearts' of the corrupt evildoers in the world. The story unfolds in a series of meticulously crafted arcs, each delving into the lives of the main characters and exposing the dark secrets that bind them.

One of the standout features of Persona 5 Royal (and the Persona franchise in general) is its ability to address complex and relevant social issues. The game fearlessly tackles topics such as societal expectations and pressure, corruption, the impact of technology on personal relationships/the world around us, and even heavier themes such as mental health issues, sexual assault and suicide. This narrative depth elevates Persona 5 Royal beyond a mere gaming experience, turning it into a thought-provoking exploration of contemporary societal challenges and social commentary.

Characters and Relationships

Persona 5 Royal boasts a cast of very memorable characters, each with their own unique personalities, backgrounds, and struggles. The game successfully establishes a deep connection between players and the characters, as their growth and development are intricately woven into the overarching narrative. The 'Confidant system' (a.k.a The Social Link system), a mechanic that popuralized the Persona franchise and that has been everpresent since Persona 3, allows players to build relationships with these characters; providing emotional depth, personal memories with said characters, and tangible gameplay benefits, up to a maximum "Confidant Rank' of 10. It also happens to be the case that 10 different unique Romance paths can be unlocked and explored, even simultaneously (although this can get messy, and I would not recommend it, especially so to the faint of heart and those with a good conscience).

Another selling point for this game is that the characters and cast feel very believable and 'alive', making for a that much more immersive experience. The top shelf, high quality, and realistic voice acting (both available in Japanese or English, although I recommend playing with English dub to any non-native-level-Japanese speaking player) sells these characters so extremely well and really makes you forget that you are playing a game or even looking at a piece of fiction in the first place. Because of this you're *right there* with these characters in the present moment, and you unavoidably grow fond of them the more personally you get to know them; and the more endeavours you undertake and overcome together.

The enhanced Royal version of Persona 5 also brings with it the inclusion of new characters, such as Kasumi Yoshizawa and Takuto Maruki, who add further layers to the narrative, introducing fresh perspectives and dynamics to the already established cast of characters, and besides this other characters were given additional screentime in this version of the game as well. The well-crafted character arcs, the humor that every character brings in their own way, and the emotional impact of their personal stories contribute significantly to the game's universal acclaim.

Incredibly Aesthetically Pleasing Design

Persona 5 Royal is a visual feast that combines a distinct art style with a vibrant color palette. The game's unique blend of Anime, cel-shaded graphics and stylish character designs creates a visually stunning world that sets it apart from other videogame titles. The attention to detail in the level design; which is based on real-life locations in Japan that have been recreated in-game in an almost 1:1 fashion, the beautiful and lively Anime cutscenes, the designs of the Personas - the manifestation of characters' inner selves - are also a treat to the eyes, and above all the imaginative settings of the 'Palaces' that you and your crew have to traverse through all contribute to the game's aesthetic appeal.

Moreover, the game is accompanied by a phenomenal soundtrack composed by the fantastic composer and music artist Shoji Meguro. The game's music and Original Soundtrack do not only enhance the atmosphere, but also becomes an integral part of the overall experience. The jazzy tunes and energetic beats, and above all the lead singer Lyn's super unique and smooth voice perfectly complement the game's stylish aesthetic; creating a synergy that further immerses players in the captivating world of this unforgettable masterpiece.

Gameplay Mechanics

The addition of new personas, confidants, game(play) mechanics, and locations expands the game's scope; providing players with even more content to explore than ever before. The revamped dungeons, known as Palaces, offer improved mechanics and challenges, keeping the gameplay engaging and dynamic for returning players and newcomers alike.

The inclusion of the Thieves' Den, a customizable hub for players to showcase their achievements and interact with the game's lore, adds a layer of personalization to the experience. These enhancements demonstrate the developers' commitment to delivering a polished and well-rounded fresh gaming experience for both returning players and new players alike.

Most of all, the game simply has an astounding amount of (gameplay) mechanics. When you're not saving the world, you can do things like read a book, hit a few homeruns in baseball, study, go out on a date, do fitness, go shopping, fishing, go to the arcade, watch a movie with someone, etc. But in the palaces, you're busy with stealth, planning, item management, and strategic turn-based combat. You feel like you're truly transported into the game's world because of the sheer amount of things you can do in it.


Conclusion

I absolutely recommend this game to anybody who can appreciate a videogame that has a fantastic memorable cast of characters, doesn't mind tons of dialogue to read/listen through, loves snappy, stylish and strategic turn-based combat, can really appreciate a good original soundtrack to listen to for days on end, loves an emphasis on a truly marvelously stylish artstyle, likes Anime, and can tolerate a game with extremely hype moments that are offset and juxtaposed with many moments of slow burn/some grinding here and there.

Persona 5 Royal stands as a testament to the potential of video games as an art form. Its narrative depth, well-developed characters, stunning design, and extensive gameplay mechanics collectively contribute to its status as one of the best video games of all time. The game's ability to tackle relevant social issues while providing an immersive and enjoyable experience cements its place in the pantheon of gaming masterpieces. Persona 5 Royal is not merely a game; it is a work of art that transcends the boundaries of its medium, leaving a truly indelible mark on the hearts of players worldwide. Pun intended.

P.S I still cry to this day when the credits roll. Take that for what you will.

Thanks for reading my review.
-lustY