Persona 3 Reload proves that minor improvements to a much-loved title can reignite a beloved fire! If you somehow missed the PS2 classic JRPG, you now have the opportunity to dive into a thrilling and all-consuming experience. Furthermore, the modern finish and awe-inspiring audio will capture your attention.
This genre-defining RPG was developed by ATLUS and published by SEGA. Moreover, it breaks away from familiar genre tropes as you are free to take your time and explore as much as you wish. On top of this, some delightful party-building mechanics change the way you approach every encounter. As such, this will tick many boxes for fans of this time-consuming but incredible genre.
A recap of the Persona 3 Reload story.
I apologise if I tread on familiar ground, but I feel that I must set the scene. This lore-rich endeavour focuses on a transfer student and his special powers. Unbeknownst to him, his new school has a dark secret that must be uncovered. Using his magical ability, he can break the curse of the Dark Hour and explore its many mysteries. However, he is not the only gifted individual, and a group known as SEES help him to overcome every deadly foe he faces.
Though the story may not appear that original, the combination of exceptional characters, interesting dialogue, and well-timed objectives keeps you going. On top of that, you are sucked into an immersive world that is filled with mindless everyday activities and an unseen and seedy underworld. Accordingly, you can’t take your eyes off this fascinating addition to the genre.
Making friends and influencing people.
I’ve always adored RPGs. Yet, I found the opening moments of Persona 3 Reload to be tough to swallow. The slow-paced day-to-day activities didn’t resonate with me and I struggled to understand their relevance. However, I pushed through and discovered that my short-sighted opening opinion was so far off the reservation that it was embarrassing. The freedom to explore the daytime elements helps build relationships and level up the various Personas you meet.
This social link alongside your everyday school calendar can be tough to juggle. However, when you chuck in an element of Dark Hour dungeon crawling, things ramp up just a bit more. Furthermore, you get to explore elements of the SEES group that add a sense of realism and empathy to an otherwise cold-hearted bunch of misfits. These interactions improve your social links whilst increasing your academic stats. As such, you won’t want to miss these opportunities.
Working together.
The sense of normality and everyday activities enhances the believability of the groups’ relationships. However, it has a more important impact on your buffs and the ability to work together during those all-important turn-based battles. These battle perks make the daily grind rewarding and worthwhile.
In typical Persona fashion, Persona 3 Reload concentrates on elemental affinities and tactical advantages to gain extra turns. Additionally, the Theurgy attacks deliver character-specific effects to turn the tide of a battle in your favour. Moreover, the fusion system creates a bizarre arsenal of Persona attacks.
Tartarus!
Though you’ll spend a lot of time buttering up would-be party members, you won’t be able to avoid the seamlessly never-ending Tartarus tower. This deadly tower forms the dungeon-crawling element of Persona 3 Reload. Additionally, it has had a pleasant revamp that somehow removes some of the repetitive nature of the original. The fast-flowing combat and the inevitable boss battles are occasionally tough to manage. Yet, with some tactical planning, you should be able to cope with most situations.
Persona 3 Reload looks fantastic.
Every aspect of this anime-inspired adventure was great to look at. The cinematic delivers a sense of despair and doom as the fascinating story unfolds. Additionally, the modern polish and minor changes bring it in line with Persona 5. As such, if you love that game, you’ll adore how this remake has been brilliantly modernised without removing the early PS2 charms.
I found the voice acting to be mind-blowingly brilliant. When you combine this element with the spectacular soundtrack and the loud, fantasy sound effects, it is a real treat for the ears. On top of this, the varied songs and the brilliant dramatic timing create an immersive and impressive experience.
Excellent controls.
Though there are plenty of elements to master, the control system is extremely well-considered. If you played the original, it will feel familiar. However, if you are new to this, you’ll be grateful for the amazing and in-depth tutorial. Though the controls are easy to understand, you will have some trial and error as you try to master the best tactical approach for each encounter.
If you fall for Persona 3 Reload’s charms, you will not be able to put it down! This turn-based JRPG sucks you in and will not let you go until you see the end credits roll. Moreover, you are free to take your time or dive into the cruel Tartarus tower as you see fit. Either way, if you wish to witness the true ending, you will have to jump many hurdles and overcome plenty of obstacles. Consequently, this has plenty of replay value and longevity.
Persona 3 Reload is a brilliant remake.
Attempting to remake such an iconic title is a difficult ask. However, Persona 3 Reload has tweaked minor elements to improve every element. As such, this spectacular modern title will impress newcomers and veterans alike. Additionally, if you subscribe to Game Pass, you get to play this for free. Accordingly, I cherish this game and I recommend buying it here! Can you overcome the Shadows in the Dark Hour? Make some friends and climb that tower.
