The Persona series contains some of the best JRPGs of all time. However, even the Persona games can still be ranked accordingly.

When ranking the Persona games, it's important to clarify that we’re considering only the best version of each title. Therefore, remakes or enhanced editions are what we’ll be focusing on. We're also sticking to only main entry titles, so no spinoffs here.

Also, fair warning—there's a notable shift in the series starting with Persona 3. While some fans are nostalgic for the earlier games, I believe the series reached new heights with the later entries. So, if you're a fan of the older style, this list might not entirely align with your preferences.

Persona Ranked from Worst to Best

6. Shin Megami Tensei: Persona

The PSP remake of the original Persona offers a better English localization and restored content that was missing from the original Western release. While the game introduces some interesting ideas, its age is evident in the gameplay and storytelling. The pacing can be sluggish, and it lacks the polish and depth of later entries. Still, it’s worth playing to see where the series began, but it’s clear that everything that follows improves upon it.

5. Persona 2: Innocent Sin

Innocent Sin improves on almost every aspect of the original Persona. The cast is more developed, and the story is richer and more engaging. However, like its predecessor, it shows its age, especially in terms of gameplay mechanics. This is also the game that famously features Hitler, which is a major talking point for many. Despite its flaws, it’s a significant step up from the original but still falls short of the series' later masterpieces.

4. Persona 2: Eternal Punishment

Unlike Innocent Sin, the PSP remake of Eternal Punishment never made it to the West. Among the early Persona titles, this is undoubtedly the best. The story is exceptional, potentially even surpassing some of the later games in the series. The cast is phenomenal, and the narrative is gripping from start to finish. However, the game’s age and outdated mechanics hold it back. It’s a gem from the past, but it feels very much like a product of its time.

3. Persona 3 Reload The remake of Persona 3 adds modern polish to a game that was already a turning point for the series. The cast and story are top-notch, with themes that delve into darkness and mortality. The blend of social simulation and dungeon crawling was unique at the time and set the stage for future entries. While it sits right in the middle of this list, it’s a game that deserves every bit of praise it receives for being the bridge between the older and newer Persona games.

2. Persona 5 Royal Here’s where things might get controversial—Persona 5 Royal lands in the number two spot. It undeniably has the best dungeons in the series, the most refined gameplay, and a stylish presentation that’s unmatched. The music, visual design, and the heist-themed story arc are all top-tier. However, while the Phantom Thieves are a great cast, they don’t quite reach the depth of the characters in the top spot on this list. It’s an almost perfect JRPG with endless content to explore, but it just misses out on the top spot.

1. Persona 4 Golden Persona 4 Golden takes the crown as the best Persona game. The cast is unforgettable, with deep character development and relationships that feel incredibly real. The story balances light and dark themes masterfully, and the rural setting gives the game a unique atmosphere that sets it apart from the others. The murder mystery plot keeps you hooked from beginning to end, and the emotional beats hit hard. Persona 4 Golden is where the series truly perfected its formula, making it the best entry in the franchise.

In the end, the Persona series is one of those rare franchises where even the "worst" game is still a good experience. Each entry has its unique strengths, and while they may differ in gameplay style and storytelling approach, they all share a common thread of deep character development, compelling narratives, and unforgettable experiences.

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Steam is a literal treasure trove of JRPGs, arguably boasting the single best library of the genre on any platform. It's no surprise then that many JRPG enthusiasts enjoy PC gaming.

What makes Steam so remarkable is its collection of both newer titles and classic games. This means it is one of the only places you can experience an entire series worth of games in order.

This comprehensive selection below is a dream come true for JRPG enthusiasts.

The best JRPGs on Steam

• Almost Every Final Fantasy Game:

  • Steam hosts nearly every installment of the iconic Final Fantasy series, a monumental feature for fans. From the original Final Fantasy to Final Fantasy XV, you can experience the franchise all in one place. Final Fantasy VII and Final Fantasy IX are just a couple classics available, each offering a unique and unforgettable journey. The only title missing is Final Fantasy XVI, but it’s expected to arrive eventually, completing the collection. The availability of these games on Steam is a big deal. It allows new players and longtime fans alike to delve into one of the most beloved RPG franchises in history.

• The Trails Series

  • One of Steam’s biggest draws for JRPG aficionados is the Trails series. Unlike many other JRPG franchises, Trails tells a continuous story across its numerous installments. Steam is the only platform where you can play every game in the series. Thus, following the interconnected narrative fromTrails in the Sky to Trails through Daybreak. This continuity makes the Trails series a unique and rewarding experience for those who appreciate deep, long-term storytelling.

• Persona 3, 4, and 5

  • Persona 3, Persona 4 Golden, and Persona 5 Royal are all available on Steam. Three chance for players to immerse themselves in Atlus’ iconic blend of turn-based combat and social sim. Each game explores different themes and settings, from the dark, psychological Persona 3 to the vibrant, rebellious Persona 5. Steam’s accessibility makes it easier than ever to jump into these critically acclaimed titles.

• Dragon Quest XI

  • Dragon Quest XI: Echoes of an Elusive Age is another highlight in Steam’s JRPG library. This title is celebrated for its classic turn-based gameplay, charming characters, and stunning world design. It’s a love letter to fans of traditional JRPGs, blending nostalgia with modern polish.

• Octopath Traveler I & II

  • Both Octopath Traveler games are available on Steam, showcasing Square Enix’s innovative HD-2D art style. These games offer unique storytelling through the intertwining tales of different characters, each with distinct paths and gameplay mechanics. Additionally, the deep combat system and gorgeous visuals make them standout titles in any JRPG collection.

• Chrono Trigger

  • No list of the best JRPGs would be complete without mentioning Chrono Trigger. This timeless classic is available on Steam. Therefore, a new generation of players can experience one of the most beloved JRPGs ever. With its innovative time-travel mechanics, memorable characters, and multiple endings, Chrono Trigger remains a benchmark in storytelling and game design.

• Chained Echoes

  • Chained Echoes is a modern indie gem that pays homage to the golden age of JRPGs. With its pixel art style, deep story, and strategic combat, it’s a must-play for fans of the genre. Steam is the perfect platform to discover this and other indie titles that capture the spirit of classic JRPGs while bringing fresh ideas to the table.

So, with such a rich and diverse library, Steam is one of the best places to dive into JRPGs. This list could go on and on and on if I wanted. Whether you’re revisiting old favorites or exploring new adventures there's something to play at all times on Steam.

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Konami and Tokyo MX will hold a live concert to mark Tokimeki Memorial's 30th anniversary. Titled "Tokimeki Memorial 30th Anniversary Live Emotional," the concert will run for two days on May 18-19, 2024.

The organizers have also started selling tickets for the concert, with prices ranging from 8,000 yen (~$53) to 18,500 yen (~$123). The first two waves in late February 2024 and March 2024 will involve lotteries. The third and final wave, which has a first-come-first-served system, will run from April 5, 2024.

The original voice actresses for all thirteen heroines from the first Tokimeki Memorial entry will perform in the concert. Yuji Ueda, the voice actor behind the protagonist's best friend Yoshio Saotome, will complete the roster.

The full cast list for the live concert will be as follows:

• Mami Kingetsu (Shiori Fujisaki)
• Akiko Sekine (Mio Kisaragi)
• Tomoko Naka (Yuina Himoo)
• Masayo Kawaguchi (Ayako Katagiri)
• Sachiko Sugawara (Saki Nijino)
• Ayako Kurosaki (Yukari Koshiki)
• Ayako Sasaki (Nozomi Kiyokawa)
• Rei Igarashi (Mira Kagami)
• Youko Teppouzuka (Yuuko Asahina)
• Mikiko Kurihara (Megumi Mikihara)
• Kurin Yoshiki (Yumi Saotome)
• Shiho Kikuchi (Miharu Tatebayashi)
• Narumi Tsunoda (Rei Ijuin)
• Yuji Ueda (Yoshio Saotome)

Konami first released the inaugural Tokimeki Memorial game for PC Engine on May 27, 1994. While its 1995 PlayStation release was the most well-known, Konami also released the high school dating simulation game for Super Famicom (SNES) in 1996, Sega Saturn in 1996, Windows 95 PC in 1997, and Game Boy in 1999. The company later ported the PlayStation build to the PSP in 2006 and the PS3 via Game Archives in 2009.

Konami has been spotted building up anticipation for the Tokimeki Memorial series' 30th anniversary since 2023, when it opened a new official account on Twitter (now X). It is also working with Good Smile Company to produce Shiori Fujisaki's Nendoroid.

The Tokimeki Memorial 30th Anniversary Live Emotional concert will take place at Tachikawa Stage Garden in Tokyo, Japan on May 18-19, 2024.

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Due to the popularity of the Master Detective Archives: Rain Code booth at Tokyo Game Show 2023, Spike Chunsoft decided that a pop-up shop selling merchandise originally only available at the booth will appear at the AmiAmi Akihabara Radio Kaikan store starting on September 29, 2023 in Japan. At the shop, some Danganronpa curry varieties will also be available for purchase. Pink Junko Enoshima curry, white Nagito Komaeda curry, and black Kokichi Oma curry will be available only at the in-person store for 1,200 yen ($8.06) per box. [Thanks, Denfaminico Gamer!]

With each purchase of a box of Danganronpa curry, people get a bonus sticker. Each character has a different set of four possible stickers you can get. The pink Junko Enoshima curry has a color reminiscent of the unorthodox blood from the Danganronpa series, as well as Master Detective Archives: Rain Code. Both of these series were written by Kazutaka Kodaka.

As a reminder, Junko Enoshima is a world-class model from the first Danganronpa game. Nagito Komaeda is a "lucky" character from Danganronpa 2: Goodbye Despair. Kokichi Oma is the Ultimate Supreme Leader from Danganronpa V3: Killing Harmony.

A series of multi-color Danganronpa curries will be available for purchase at the Master Detective Archives: Rain Code pop-up store at the Amiami Akihabara Radio Kaikan store. The store will be open from September 29, 2023 through October 9, 2023. Master Detective Archives: Rain Code is available on the Nintendo Switch. The first two Danganronpa games are available on the PS4 and Steam as a bundle called Danganronpa 1.2 Reload, and both games are also available separately on Steam, Nintendo Switch, PSP, PSVita, Android and iOS devices, Xbox One and Xbox Series X. Danganronpa V3: Killing Harmony is available on the Nintendo Switch, PS4, PSVita, Xbox One, Steam, and Android and iOS devices.

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Spike Chunsoft and Sanrio are collaborating once again to produce a new line of Danganronpa 2 merchandise. This time, you can order them on the Sanrio anime store online via online lottery. One lottery ticket will cost 880 yen ($5.95). Tickets will be available until October 3, 2023. The goods are scheduled to ship out for delivery around mid-November 2023.

The characters from Danganronpa 2 are paired with the same Sanrio mascots they were for the last Danganronpa x Sanrio collaboration. However, this time, the theme is “Kawaii Parade.” All of them are pictured marching together in a pastel colors while holding colorful balloons.

As is standard for Japanese lotteries, there will be five tiers of items you can win: S, A, B, C, and D. The S prize is a “royal blanket” that has all of the characters printed on it. The A prize is a mug cup. There are two varieties. Prize B is an acrylic figure plate featuring one of 16 possible designs. The plate allows you to mix and match different acrylic parts to create an acrylic stand. If you win prize C, you’ll get any one of 16 possible acrylic keychains. Prize D will be any one of 16 holographic can badges. If you order 100 lottery tickets, you’ll receive an S prize, guaranteed. In addition, customers will receive a collaboration postcard as a purchase bonus.

You can view the new Danganronpa 2 x Sanrio Kawaii Parade merchandise in the gallery below:

[gallery link="file" columns="5" size="full" ids="986824,986825,986826,986827,986828"]

You can also purchase merchandise from the previous Danganronpa x Sanrio collaboration on the Sanrio online anime store.

The new Super Danganronpa 2 x Sanrio merchandise is available via online lottery on the Sanrio anime online store. You can order them until October 3, 2023, and they will be shipped around mid-November 2023. Danganronpa 2: Goodbye Despair is available on the PS Vita, PS4, Xbox One, PC, Nintendo Switch, and Android and iOS devices worldwide. It also appeared on the PSP in Japan.

The post New Danganronpa 2 Sanrio Collaboration Theme Is Kawaii Parade appeared first on Siliconera.

Mages and Nitroplus opened a new website for the Steins Gate 15th anniversary year project. This is to mark the upcoming 14th anniversary, since the game first came out for Xbox 360 in Japan on October 15, 2009. The companies will hold numerous projects and collaborations to prepare for the grand celebration of the 15th anniversary on October 15, 2024.

As the first collaboration project, Mages will enact Operation Gladsheim at the Akihabara Radio Kaikan building from September 23 to October 20, 2023. Store visitors who purchase at least 1,000 yen in a single receipt will receive a bonus Steins;Gate sticker that changes every week. Mages will also set up a special exhibit on the 10th floor on October 13-15, 2023. Kanako Ito, the singer of Steins;Gate's theme songs, will hold a live concert on the building's rooftop on the climax day on October 15, 2023.

Even before this 15th anniversary year project started, Mages has been working on multiple merchandise tie-ups with a focus on Kurisu Makise, the main heroine of Steins Gate. It revealed Kurisu's dress-up merchandise lottery with Magic Kuji Online in August 2023 and a wedding dress figure with Good Smile Company in July 2023.

Steins;Gate — including the enhanced Elite edition — is available on the Xbox 360, PS3, PSP, PS Vita, PS4, Switch, PC, iOS, and Android devices.

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After a ten-year hiatus, FromSoftware brought Armored Core back to life by producing a new mainline entry titled Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon. Series newcomers and veterans alike have been wondering where Armored Core 6 would be placed in the series chronology and timeline. But before we jump straight into the answer, we can look back at prior titles to notice a pattern in the chronology.

After gathering information from Japanese sources like Chotto Yorimichi and Yahoo! Japan Chiebukuro, we found out that FromSoftware created a new timeline every time it released two mainline entries. We can thus split the series timelines before Fires of Rubicon into Armored Core 1-2, Armored Core 3 with the rest of PS2-era games, and Armored Core 4-V.

Armored Core 1-2 Chronology

The inaugural Armored Core game that launched in Japan in July 1997 is not the first title in the chronology. That honor went to Armored Core: Project Phantasma, a stand-alone expansion released in Japan in December 1997 with a story that took place two years before in ED 156. The 1999 title Master of Arena had a story that ran concurrently with the original Armored Core in the year ED 158.

Armored Core 2, the series' first title released for PlayStation 2 in 2000, took place in the same universe in the year ED 223. In 2001, From Software released Another Age as a direct sequel with a story in the year ED 228.

1. Armored Core: Project Phantasma
2. Armored Core and Armored Core: Master of Arena
3. Armored Core 2
4. Armored Core 2: Another Age

Armored Core 3-Nexus Chronology

The PlayStation 2 era saw a golden age of the Armored Core series. Other than the Armored Core 2 series, From Software also released Armored Core 3 in 2002 with a completely new setting. The company then made multiple games for the same console, with most of them having interconnected stories. A majority of the titles in this generation (except Nexus and Nine Breaker) were also released for the PlayStation Portable.

In this series' universe, Armored Core 3 took place in the year 186. The 2003 direct sequel Silent Line moved on to the year 203. From Software treated the 2004 Armored Core Nexus as a new mainline title despite not using a number, but its story was still situated in the same universe in the year 260. Armored Core: Last Raven, the last entry for both the PS2 era and Armored Core 3 continuity released in 2005, took place in the year 261.

The 2004 arena-based spin-off titles Nine Breaker and Formula Front do not have a major storyline, but the Japanese community believes that both titles could be included in the Armored Core 3 universe between Nexus and Last Raven. Nine Breaker hinted at a plot that an organization made the arena training program due to a period of peace from corporate conflicts. Formula Front's unmanned Armored Cores also served as an inspiration for the AI opponents in Last Raven's VR Arena.

1. Armored Core 3
2. Silent Line: Armored Core
3. Armored Core: Nexus
4. (Armored Core: Nine Breaker and Armored Core: Formula Front)
5. Armored Core: Last Raven

Armored Core 4-5 Chronology

Armored Core 4 was the first series title that From Software produced for PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360. The new mainline entry came out in 2006 with a new storyline that was completely separate from the previous generations. Two years later in 2008, From released For Answer as its direct sequel.

When From Software revealed Armored Core V in 2010, it claimed that the 2012 title would not have any connections with the Armored Core 4 timeline. However, the 2013 direct sequel Verdict Day later revealed that the Armored Core V timeline did take place many years after Armored Core 4 and For Answer in the same universe.

1. Armored Core 4
2. Armored Core: For Answer
3. Armored Core V
4. Armored Core: Verdict Day

Armored Core 6 Chronology

During the Taipei Game Show 2023 held in February, Bandai Namco published an interview video with Armored Core VI's producer Yasutaka Ogura. One of the questions asked pertained to the new game's connection to past titles. Ogura answered that Fires of Rubicon's actual storyline would not have a direct connection with Armored Core V.

It remains to be seen whether From Software will add a story connection in the future. But as it stands as of the new game's release on August 25, 2023, Armored Core 6 has its own storyline unconnected to any other titles in the entire series chronology.

Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon is available on PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC.

The post Where Does Armored Core 6 Fall in the Whole Series Chronology? appeared first on Siliconera.

At WonHobby 37 Summer, Good Smile Company announced three new Persona 3 Portable, Persona 4 Golden, and Persona 5 Royal figures. The male leads from all three games are joining the Qset line. It also offered an update on the Persona 5 Royal Nendoroid Doll of Joker. Of the four, the Nendoroid Doll is furthest along in development, as it appeared as a painted prototype.

All three of the Persona 3, 4, and 5 Qset figures only appeared as concept art. Each one shows one of the protagonists in a chibi form sitting in a chair that looks like it is plucked from the Velvet Room.
[gallery size="full" ids="975217,975218,975216" link="file"]

As for the Nendoroid Doll, it shows Joker in his Phantom Thief attire. The pose features him brandishing his knife.
[gallery columns="1" size="full" ids="975220" link="file"]

As a reminder, one of the most recently available Good Smile Company Persona figures is one of Futaba Sakura that's being rereleased.

Persona 3 Portable can be found on the Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, PC, and PlayStation Portable. Persona 4 Golden released on the Switch, PS4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, PC, and Vita. Persona 5 Royal is available on the Switch, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, and PC.

The post New Persona 3, 4, and 5 Figures Announced appeared first on Siliconera.

It's a big week for The Legend of Heroes fans. We're at a period of time where every new entry gets localized. Trails into Reverie just appeared to give us more time with fan-favorites from the Erebonia and Crossbell regions. It's also a good opportunity to look back, given the change to reconnect with characters. With so many The Legend of Heroes games from Nihon Falcom out there, which one did you like best and would you recommend people play?

Nothing tops The Legend of Heroes: Trails in the Sky, as I wholeheartedly believe it is the best entry in the series. Estelle and Joshua's journey as new Bracers and two young adults out to discover truths about the world and themselves is fantastic. The progression is great. The world feels alive. Also, it doesn't wear out its welcome by taking four entries to tell its story. (I love Cold Steel, but it's so much.) -- Jenni

The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel 3 is narrowly the strongest game in the series for me. Rean taking on the role of teacher alongside a brilliant new Class VII was filled with my favorite characters in the series. The locations, combat, characters, side quests, and academy fire on all cylinders, feeling like the strongest in the franchise. However, Trails in the Sky and Trails from Zero also impress with their witty writing and terrific casts. -- Cody

The post Which The Legend of Heroes Game Did You Like Best? appeared first on Siliconera.

For years, Sony’s been releasing all sorts of consoles and handhelds worldwide. Each one does something special. From the beginnings with the PlayStation, all the way up through the PS5, there are plenty of reasons why each one could be consider “the best” by the players who loved them. Not to mention what the handhelds are capable of as well. So this week, let’s talk about them and which ones we love the most.

These days, consoles are a mishmash of a gaming machine, a YouTube machine, and a Blu-Ray player. You know, back in my day, consoles were just consoles. And that's why I think the PS2 was the perfect one. (Yes, I'm aware that the PS2 doubled as a DVD player but did anyone use it as that?) Honestly, I just like the PS2 because in my opinion, it had the best range and offering of games. No one does horror like how PS2 games did horror, and all of the best RPGs came out on it. Also, I really liked the little animation with the cubes whenever you started up a game. That little bit of whimsy was so early-2000s and we need to bring back that kind of aesthetic. — Stephanie

It might be nostalgia talking, but for me, nothing has really topped the PS1 for me. From the moment that bass-y startup sound blasted out of my TV for the first time, I knew it was something special. I could talk about all the usual classics, but we already know how great Final Fantasy VII is. Instead, I want to acknowledge how much the PS1 represents the Wild West that was late 90s gaming. No one knew what they were doing with CD-ROM tech or 3D graphics yet so it was an exciting and experimental time. As a result, its library is astoundingly weird in all the best ways. Sony certainly aren’t releasing at least four animal-based music games for the PS5, and that’s why the PS1 is still the better system. — Leigh

While I really enjoyed all the PS1 and PS2 games I played over the years and the PS5 is the best Genshin Impact machine Sony ever made, the PS3 is my favorite system. Honestly, it’s because of it being region-free. I always loved importing games, and this provided an opportunity to access so many games from Japan. I don’t even want to think about how many hours I spent playing The Idolmaster: One for All. Plus, it’s the home of the original Valkyria Chronicles and Tokyo Jungle. — Jenni

I was relatively late to jump on the Sony console train, with my first one being the PSP. While I feel like I skipped a lot of Sony hardware history, I think that the first Sony portable was a great way soaking up a condensed version of that history. I was able to catch up and play a lot of PS1 classics on it, and I loved discovering new releases (back then,) like the original Crisis Core FFVII, Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker, and starting my journey on the Monster Hunter series. — Daniel

While Sony's home systems have received the most acclaim, I'm a fan of the underdog handheld. The one with a devoted following, mostly in Japan, that wasn't given the chance it deserved. You know the one, yeah?

That's right! The PocketStation.

In all seriousness, the Vita is such a cool little handheld, often despite itself. The crisp PSP pixels on that screen are great! The PS1 classics are fun on the go! And it became quite the home of great ports. It undeniably lacked exclusives that took advantage of the platform, but there's enough in the library to enjoy.

Also, in all seriousness, I do like the PocketStation. — Graham

The post Which Sony PlayStation Console Do You Love Most? appeared first on Siliconera.

Persona is a series that's done super well for Atlus over the years. Basically, a Shin Megami Tensei spin-off turned into an IP that is more recognizable to some than the original RPGs that spawned it. This does mean it might seem a bit overwhelming to hop into the series. Especially since there are numbered installments and spin-offs. However, it's all really quite approachable, and it isn't too difficult to jump in if you're wondering how to start playing through the Persona games.

How to Play the Mainline Persona Games in Order

First, here is the full list of Persona games. Only certain entries really should be played in order.

You should play Revelations: Persona/SMT Persona before Persona 2: Innocent Sin, then Innocent Sin before Eternal Punishment. There are overarching elements that all tie together here, as well as recurring characters.

With the later Persona games, it’s best to start with a Persona 3 entry, then move on to Persona 4 and 5. However, all three are completely self-contained, so you don’t have to play them all in order or worry about losing context if you only choose to go through one.

• Revelations: Persona (PSX) or Shin Megami Tensei: Persona (PSP)
• Persona 2: Innocent Sin (PSX, PSP) - The PSX version only appeared in Japan.
• Persona 2: Eternal Punishment (PSX, PSP) - The PSP version only appeared in Japan.
• Persona 3 (PS2), Persona 3 FES (PS2), or Persona 3 Portable (PS4, PSP, Switch, Xbox One, XSX, PC) - I’d recommend Persona 3 FES, as it is the fullest experience, but Persona 3 Portable is the easiest one to find and play now.
• Persona 4 (PS2) or Persona 4 Golden (PS4, Switch, Vita, Xbox One, XSX, PC) - Go with Persona 4 Golden here, as it is the easiest to find and features the most lore and gameplay.
• Persona 5 (PS3, PS4) or Persona 5 Royal (PS4, PS5, Switch, Xbox One, XSX, PC) - Persona 5 Royal is the smart choice here, as it’s available on more platforms and includes additional story elements.

But What About the Persona Game Spin-Offs?

Okay, this isn’t too tricky. Mainly, because only one line of spin-offs actually has a consistent story to it. Even though the Dancing and Q games are considered sequels, there’s no overarching story.

Persona 4 Arena

These are the fighting games with Persona 3 and 4 characters. Ultimax takes place after the original, so play them in order to get the full story! Though if you’re getting one of the more modern remasters of Ultimax, you’re good and can already go through things properly in order.

1. Persona 4 Arena (PS3, Xbox 360) -
2. Persona 4 Arena Ultimax (PS3, PS4, Switch, Xbox 360, PC) -

Persona Dancing

All of the Persona Dancing entries are rhythm games. A good rule of thumb is to play the ones for entries whose soundtracks you enjoyed most.

1. Persona 4: Dancing All Night (PS4, Vita) - As this is the entry with a story mode, you’ll want to play it first.
2. Persona 3: Dancing in Moonlight (PS4, Vita) or Persona 5: Dancing in Starlight (PS4, Vita) - As these entries aren’t as story heavy and “take place” at the same time, you can go with whichever entry’s music you prefer first.

Persona Q

These are essentially Persona takes on the Etrian Odyssey dungeon-mapping formula. Each installment is self-contained. So play the original if you only like the Persona 3 and 4 characters, and go into Persona Q2 if you like the Persona 3, 4 and 5 folks. The sequel does build on mechanics, so you may want to go with that second if you play both.

• Persona Q: Shadow of the Labyrinth (3DS)
• Persona Q2: New Cinema Labyrinth (3DS)

Persona 5 Strikers

This is a weird one too! It takes place after Persona 5. Not Persona 5 Royal, to be specific. It’s a Musou-style beat’em up, so play and beat Persona 5 before getting into this PS4, Switch, and PC game for the best experience.

The post How to Get Started with the Persona Series appeared first on Siliconera.

Even more Persona soundtracks are making their way to select streaming services, including Spotify. The Persona Channel official website announced that the soundtracks for Persona 3 Portable, Persona 3 Dancing, Persona 5 Dancing, P3D & P5D Advanced Edition Soundtracks, and the Persona Super Live 2017 are available now on streaming. These five albums join a selection that is already jam-packed with the likes of Persona 5 Royal, and even classics like Persona 2, along with Persona 3 & 4.

The new soundtracks added to streaming services include some special tracks that were previously unavailable, such as “Soul Phrase”, the new opening theme included in Persona 3 Portable. Meanwhile, the soundtracks for Persona 3 Dancing and Persona 5 Dancing add new remixes of classic songs.

The “Advanced Edition” of the P3D & P5D soundtracks includes some exclusive tracks such as “Let's Go! Phoenix Ranger Featherman” and “Current Net Price Tanaka (ATLUS Kozuka Remix) feat. President Tanaka,” along with some other tracks, which were included in the Persona Dancing games as DLC. Additionally, Ryota Kozuka, the main composer of the Persona Dancing series, created new remixed exclusively for the Advanced Edition soundtrack.

Persona Super Live 2017 is the recording of a live performed at Yokohama in 2017. Because of this, it includes sounds captured during the concert, such as the cheering of the attendants.

In addition, these are not the only good news for the fans of the Persona series. In December 2022, iam8bit announced a new collection of Persona Dancing vinyls that will release in 2023.

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Sting announced that it will release Yggdra Union for PC on February 6, 2023, 15 years after the game launched on the PlayStation Portable (and 17 years since its original launch on the Game Boy Advance). Formally titled Yggdra Union: We'll Never Fight Alone, the game will arrive on PC via Steam's Early Access program. The game's Steam store page is already live.

Yggdra Union is part of Sting's "Dept. Heaven" series that includes titles like Riviera: The Promised Land and Knights in the Nightmare. Yggdra Union on PC is the first time that players outside Japan have been able to play the game on a current platform since the PSP era. Sting ported the game to iOS and Android in 2019, and then to Switch in 2020. However, those ports were never localized for overseas release. The PC edition will support English, Japanese, Traditional Chinese, and Korean language options. English and Japanese voice dubs will be included.

As for why the game is in the "Early Access" program, an FAQ states that Yggdra Union on PC itself is essentially complete. Players who buy it will be able to play through the story to its end and experience all other content. Sting is classifying the game as "Early Access" because bug fixes and feature improvements are still in progress, and the team wants "live" feedback to help the process along. Sting intends for the game to remain in Early Access for three to five months after release, and suggests that it may increase the price once the "full" release is set.

The PC edition itself will have a number of additional features. These include:

• Rewind function for undoing actions
• Auto-saving
• Save-Anywhere
• Conversation log
• A hint log to let players know where certain items can be found
• Battle speed adjustment (up to 5x speed)
• A special unit called "Flunky" that can participate in battle under certain conditions
• Sound testing
• Bilingual Japanese/English dub options
• Easy mode with infinite item uses
• Equipment removal
• Optional Unbreakable Equipment toggles
• Compatibility with mouse-and-keyboard controls in addition to modern gamepad support

Sting even plans to add "Tricks" or "Cheats" to the ported edition. These tricks will be activated by certain button combinations.

• A function to make Milanor look like Cruz
• Enemies and Allies do "no critical" damage
• A way to Max out the skill gauge at the start of a battle
• Reverse formation types between male and female

Yggdra Union launches on PC via Steam Early Access on February 6, 2023. The game can be found on PSP and Game Boy Advance. In Japan, it is available on mobile devices and Nintendo Switch, as well.

The post Yggdra Union for PC Launches in Early February 2023 appeared first on Siliconera.

Sword Art Online is a popular franchise with a vision of the future of video games lying at its core. And as might be expected of such a thing, a fair few real video games exist to cater to its fans. But where to start? The many game adaptations of Sword Art Online exist across multiple console generations and even multiple genres. In light of the recent announcement of Sword Art Online: Last Recollection, we've come up with a quick guide to help you find out the best place to start with SAO video games.

Where can I get Sword Art Online games?

SAO games are available on a variety of platforms, including the PSP, PS Vita, PS4, Nintendo Switch, PC, Xbox One, and once Last Recollection hits, PS5 and Xbox Series X|S. That said, right now the most convenient way to play all of the relevant Sword Art Online games is via PC or PS4. All the officially-released single-player SAO games are available via Steam or the PSN store, so you can play them in order on a single platform, if you wish. The PC versions do have a slight advantage in that they tend to go on sale more often than on PSN, too, which will help minimize your outlay if you have to buy them.

What order should I play Sword Art Online Games in?

With the exception of various mobile and free-to-play entries, the game adaptations of Sword Art Online form a distinct, alternative timeline to the novels and anime series. The games have a number of original characters, and incorporate events and storylines from the source material in unique ways. The departures from "canon" don't alter the fundamental context of Sword Art Online's narrative, but they may confuse someone coming from the anime expecting things to be the same across media.

Luckily, the distinct timeline makes the task of playing the games in order pretty simple: Just play them in the order they were released (with one exception). The Sword Art Online games' narratives proceed in chronological order. While they aren't closely linked, they do reference each other occasionally. Players interested in exploring exploring the SAO games' would do best to have at least some familiarity with prior titles if they intend to jump into one of the later ones.

Now, here's a description of each Sword Art Online game, in the order they should be played.

Sword Art Online: Re: Hollow Fragment

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rCaIap4PEQ0

Technically speaking, 2013's Sword Art Online: Infinity Moment was the first title in this particular timeline of SAO games. However, it wasn't actually released in the west. There's also no need to play it, because Infinity Moment has been completely replaced by its quasi-sequel, 2014's Sword Art Online: Hollow Fragment.

Hollow Fragment was an updated re-release brought to PS Vita that contains all of Infinity Moment's content as a base. It was further updated for PS4 (and later, PC) and titled Sword Art Online: Re: Hollow Fragment. In a way, this game lies at the root of the SAO games' alternate timeline. It asks "What if Kirito and the gang still had to clear the rest of the Aincrad tower before leaving the death game?" and uses that point as a springboard to introduce characters like Sinon, Leafa, and Yuuki to the story much earlier than they would've joined otherwise. It even adds an original character, Strea, to the mix.

Sword Art Online: Re: Hollow Fragment is available on PC via Steam and PS4.

Sword Art Online: Lost Song

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iMF0J9OH8Y4

Originally released for the PS Vita and PS3, then ported to PS4 and PC, 2015's Sword Art Online: Lost Song takes place in the fairy-themed Alfheim Online (ALO), the game Kirito, Asuna and their friends gravitate to after escaping from SAO and Aincrad. It also answers a slight continuity problem raised by Hollow Fragment by essentially skipping the whole "Fairy Dance" plotline (which couldn't have happened as originally written, anyway). Instead, the game leans in on an original adventure in a new expansion area to ALO called "Svart Alfheim".

Lost Song is notable for featuring the ALO character designs for most of the original SAO crew, as well as bringing in various ALO-based characters from the Fairy Dance arc (like Alicia Rue and Sakuya) and the Girls Ops spin-off manga. A rudimentary "original character" system is incorporated, but it really only allows you to create a templated NPC and has no effect on the narrative. That narrative features more game-original characters: Sumeragi, Seven, and Rain. Notably, the game also features an alternative, arguably happier take to the "Mother's Rosario" story arc, as well.

Sword Art Online: Lost Song is available on PC via Steam, PS Vita, and PS4.

Sword Art Online: Hollow Realization

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x-Jzb8HiVYo

Sword Art Online: Infinity Moment and Hollow Fragment developer Aquria returned to the helm for the next SAO game adaptation, and essentially decided to make a more fully realized take on Hollow Fragment for the occasion. They even return to Sword Art Online itself - or rather, Sword Art: Origin - a new, non-lethal title that reuses assets and quests from Aincrad. The release intrigues Kirito and the crew, who decide to jump in to see what's up, only to discover the seeds of new adventure in Premiere, a strangely intelligent NPC that wasn't in the original SAO.

Hollow Realization revisits a lot of Hollow Fragment's ideas, particularly the ones involving the quasi-simulation of the meandering MMORPG game rhythm. Its NPC interaction system allows Kirito to chat up and play alongside even random NPC characters, building bonds with them beyond his stable of named contacts. These mechanics show up as well in in The Caligula Effect, another Aquria-developed RPG. Premiere and Genesis join the roster of game-original characters, while Kizmel from the Sword Art Online Progressive series makes an appearance.

Hollow Realization is available on PC via Steam, PS Vita, Nintendo Switch, and on PS4.

Sword Art Online: Fatal Bullet

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DgnlWy1lFvo

Of the many ways that Sword Art Online games have departed from the narratives of the original novels and anime, Fatal Bullet might be the most dramatic separation of them all. For one thing, the base game doesn't even star Kirito and his pals, but instead involves a player-created protagonist and their buddies. This player protagonist is a resident of Gun Gale Online, the gun-based VR MMORPG that serves as the setting for the "Death Gun" story arc. Being based on Gun Gale Online makes for a dramatic departure in game mechanics, too. Fatal Bullet was developed by Dimps, creators of Freedom Wars, and more than a little of that game's DNA manifests in Fatal Bullet, with its gun-based play and its use of a powerful grappling hook-like device, as well as an "assistant" NPC that you can customize.

Kirito and company won't be left out, of course, and the story gives players a chance to experience a Sword Art Online story that views Kirito from the outside, a relatively rare perspective, as SAO goes. The "Death Gun" story is also featured as a separate plotline, though, and does put Kirito in similar circumstances, complete with his effeminate "Kiriko" avatar. Fatal Bullet also features GGO-based incarnations of the now-familiar SAO cast. Characters like LLEN, Pitohui, Fukaziroh, and others from SAO Alternative: Gun Gale Online manga also show up.

Sword Art Online: Fatal Bullet is available on PC via Steam, Nintendo Switch, PS4, and Xbox One.

Sword Art Online: Alicization Lycoris

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=whxHYYmgesU

The most recent of the Sword Art Online games, Alicization Lycoris represents something of a break from some of the ideas put forth in other SAO titles. Just like the Alicization story arc in the anime and novels feel like an SAO-flavored take on the popular "isekai" stories of the current age, Alicization Lycoris returns to the narrative roots of Infinity Moment by building off of what should've been the canonical "end" of a key story arc in the source material. Stuck in the virtual, AI-populated "Underworld", Kirito and his new buddy Eugeo work together to defeat its tyrannical "Administrator". But things don't go the way they did in the book, and essentially leaves Kirito in a position to adventure around in Underworld's Human Empire for the rest of the game, alongside many of his friends from the real world (and other games). The secondary plot also centers around Medina, a game-original Underworld resident, adding to the increasingly large cast of the SAO games' universe. Its sequel, Last Recollection, should expand the Underworld further, bringing in more elements from the "War for Underworld" storyline that closed out the most recent series.

Sword Art Online: Alicization Lycoris is available on PC, PS4, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch.

Sword Art Online vs. Accel World: Millennium Twilight

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6QIVqY9xMwU

You'll notice that I left out this game, though chronologically it came out in 2017, between Hollow Realization and Fatal Bullet. That's because even in a series of games that made its name by diverging from the source, Sword Art Online vs. Accel World is considered "non-canonical" by many of its players. Millennium Twilight is more of a tribute to another of SAO author Reki Kawahara's works: Accel World. Set (theoretically) a few decades into the SAO universe's future, Accel World stars a gang of kids that compete for territory in an Augmented Reality (AR) game called Brain Burst. Playable only by teenagers, Brain Burst unlocks a secret time-dilation function in every youth's cybernetic internet implant, allowing them to perform nearly superhuman feats in real life by paying "Burst Points" earned in-game. The contrivances of quantum mechanics and brand synergy come together to have Kirito and his pals hang out with a bunch of kids from a generation in the future. As ripe as the premise is for fan indulgence, the game is built on the creaky skeleton of Sword Art Online: Lost Song, and it isn't referenced much in subsequent games. Though an interesting curiosity, particularly for fans of Accel World (all several dozen of us!), it's largely inessential.

Sword Art Online vs. Accel World: Millennium Twilight is available on PC via Steam, PS4 and PS Vita.

The post Where to Play Sword Art Online Games in Order appeared first on Siliconera.

A new line of exclusive Uniqlo PlayStation shirts will go on sale in Japan starting on February 20, 2023. They're part of the company's "UT Collection" of brand and series-specific shirt designs.

The Uniqlo PlayStation shirt line will consist of four officially licensed T-shirts. All of them will cost 1,500 yen each (about $11.55 USD) and will be sold in Uniqlo retail stores and online.

The shirts emphasize the shapes and features of the various PlayStation consoles over the years, beginning with the first PlayStation. The white shirt shows the original PlayStation console outlined in rainbow with the PlayStation logo in black.

[gallery columns="1" size="medium" ids="947774" link="file"]

Another shirt shows off all the PlayStation hardware, including handhelds like the Vita and PSP, outlined in rainbow on the shirt back, with a more subtle PlayStation logo down the front.

[gallery columns="2" size="medium" ids="947776,947775" link="file"]

A third Uniqlo PlayStation shirt design focuses on the PS2, with the PlayStation button designs on the front and the PlayStation 2 hardware shown on the back.

[gallery columns="2" size="medium" ids="947779,947778" link="file"]

The last design emphasizes the different PlayStation controllers. The bright blue shirt just shows a white PlayStation logo on the chest, while the different PlayStation console gamepads line up on the back. The design is led by the PS5's DualSense, the PS4's DualShock 4, the PS3's Sixaxis/DualShock 3, the PS2's DualShock 2, and the PS1's original, pre-dual analog controller.

[gallery columns="2" size="medium" ids="947781,947780" link="file"]

The Uniqlo PlayStation Shirts go on sale in Japan on February 20, 2023. Other Uniqlo UT lines include those based on Spy x Family, Final Fantasy, and One Piece.

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