Amid the mysterious echoes of whispered secrets, we were recently treated to an extended announcement that reveals more than what simply meets the eye.
Diving straight into the heart of the matter, the latest Persona 5 Tactica trailer, spanning over thirteen minutes on Atlus’s Youtube channel, caught the eye of many a fan. The intriguing part wasn’t just the new turn-based strategy format that is reminiscent of XCOM, or even the fact that this game seemingly wraps the effortless style of Persona 5 around its mechanics like a well-tailored coat. No, it’s the latest additions to Persona 5 Tactica by way of downloadable content.
Enter Goro Akechi and Kasumi Yoshizawa, two characters already established as fan-favourites. Both of them shall grace the tactical grid as Day One DLC characters. But wait! Don’t dash off to gather your coins yet. There’s a twist to this tale. These beloved characters are a part of the “Repaint Your Heart” episode, one that revolves around the enigmatic artist, Guernica. This DLC introduces a mysterious artist who blankets the town with art overnight, some even showcasing Arsene – an entity known only to Persona users.
Keep in mind that Persona 5 Tactica isn’t just a mere spin-off. It’s set during the events of Persona 5 Royal, with the game’s trailer crafting a visual narrative where chibi heroes combat French-inspired demons and confront an ominously powerful foe. Our heroes, despite their small stature, remain just as mighty in their quest to purify corruption across the various Kingdoms – possibly alluding to the alternate Metaverse dimension. Old fans and new are eagerly awaiting this title’s drop on multiple platforms come November 17, with a special nod to Xbox Game Pass subscribers who can get in on the action as well.
However, it’s not all roses. The decision to position Akechi and Kasumi behind the DLC paywall hasn’t been welcomed in the community. Many argue the launch day DLC model is antiquated and puts characters crucial to the storyline behind an unnecessary paygate. Further, there’s a nagging suspicion among the fanbase. Akechi, donned in his Detective Prince outfit, and Sumire using the name Kasumi, hints at the narrative being set during December of Persona 5 Royal. This raises questions, and for some, exasperation, as the ending potentially suggests another memory wipe – a common trope that the franchise has relied on too much in recent outings.
A game like Persona 5 Tactica, rich with callbacks to its parent game, Persona 5 Royal, which by now is three years old, feels ripe for furthering the overarching narrative. And while many do enjoy the side adventures, the recurring theme of memory wipes feels repetitive if boring.
In the glow of neon lights and the depths of shadowy alleyways, Persona 5 Tactica stands as a testament to Atlus and its ability to blend genres and play with our emotions. From the chibi-styled heroes engaging in tactical warfare against its vividly depicted foes to the cool transitions leading to All-Out team attacks – the game has a unique charm. But, it’s also a reflection of the evolving gaming community’s expectations. They yearn for growth, depth, and respect for legacy characters.
As we wait for this next chapter in the saga of the Phantom Thieves, we’re left wondering how this new installment will shape the legacy of Persona 5? Only time will tell if Persona 5 Tactica will paint a masterpiece or merely be another beautiful brushstroke in the sprawling canvas of the Persona universe.
Atlus is investing big into the Persona franchise, putting a new team to work on a new installment and Persona 3 Reload coming out later this year.
