Summary
- Release Year: 2009
- Genres: Adventure, Role-playing game (RPG), Strategy, Visual Novel
- Platforms: PlayStation Portable, PlayStation Vita
- Developers: Atlus
- Publishers: Atlus, Atlus USA, Ghostlight Ltd.
Persona 3 Portable: A Comprehensive Review
Introduction
Persona 3 Portable is an enhanced remake of the critically acclaimed PlayStation 2 JRPG, Persona 3. Originally released in 2009 for the PlayStation Portable, it brings the dark and atmospheric world of Persona 3 to a handheld platform, with a number of new features and enhancements.
Gameplay
At its core, Persona 3 Portable is a turn-based JRPG with a unique twist: the ability to summon and fuse Personas, powerful beings that represent the Jungian archetypes of the human psyche. Players control a customizable protagonist who leads a group of fellow students known as the Specialized Extracurricular Execution Squad (SEES) as they investigate a series of mysterious deaths and fight against the forces of evil.
The game’s combat system is a refined version of the one found in Persona 3, featuring a turn-based system with a focus on elemental affinities and弱点 (weaknesses). Players can attack enemies with physical attacks, elemental spells, or by summoning Personas to fight alongside them. Each Persona has its own unique abilities and skills, and players can fuse Personas together to create even more powerful beings.
In addition to the main story, Persona 3 Portable features a number of side quests and optional activities, including a social simulation element that allows players to build relationships with other characters. Players can spend time with their friends, go on dates, and participate in extracurricular activities, which can provide bonuses in battle and unlock new story content.
New Features
Persona 3 Portable introduces a number of new features and enhancements over the original PlayStation 2 release. The most significant of these is the addition of a female protagonist option. Playing as a female character alters some aspects of the story and allows players to experience the game from a different perspective.
Other new features include two new difficulty levels, a revised battle system that is closer to that of Persona 4, and a number of new story-related additions and changes.
Story
Persona 3 Portable’s story is set in the fictional Japanese city of Iwatodai, where a group of high school students known as the Specialized Extracurricular Execution Squad (SEES) investigate a series of mysterious deaths. As they delve deeper into their investigation, they uncover a hidden world of Shadows, malevolent creatures that prey on human minds.
The story of Persona 3 Portable is a dark and atmospheric tale that explores themes of death, grief, and the power of friendship. It is a complex and emotionally resonant story that will stay with players long after they finish the game.
Characters
Persona 3 Portable features a cast of memorable and well-developed characters. The protagonist, who is customizable by the player, is a silent protagonist who interacts with the world through dialogue choices. The other members of SEES include:
- Junpei Iori: A hot-headed but loyal friend of the protagonist.
- Yukari Takeba: A shy and reserved girl who is struggling to cope with the death of her parents.
- Akihiko Sanada: A skilled swordsman and the leader of SEES.
- Mitsuru Kirijo: The intelligent and resourceful president of the student council.
- Fuuka Yamagishi: A shy and timid girl who has the ability to heal others.
Graphics and Sound
Persona 3 Portable’s graphics are impressive for a PSP game, with detailed character models and environments. The game’s art style is dark and atmospheric, perfectly capturing the game’s tone and setting.
The game’s soundtrack is also excellent, featuring a mix of catchy pop songs and moody instrumental tracks. The music perfectly complements the game’s atmosphere and helps to create a truly immersive experience.
Conclusion
Persona 3 Portable is an excellent remake of the classic JRPG, Persona 3. It features a number of new features and enhancements that make it a must-play for fans of the series. With its dark and atmospheric story, memorable characters, and addictive gameplay, Persona 3 Portable is a game that will stay with players long after they finish playing it.
Score: 9/10
Review Score
9/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
