ThePersonaseries has historically included a variety of enhanced editions, spin-offs, and sequels that can be difficult to navigate for newcomers to the franchise. Originally itself a spin-off of theShin Megami Tenseiseries,Personahas developed its own identity in recent years. It’s important to note thatPersona 3 Portableis the third editionof the original, afterPersona 3andPersona 3 FES. This version initially launched on the PlayStation Portable and featured the option of a female player character and the ability to directly control party members.Persona 4 Golden, on the other hand, is the only enhanced edition ofPersona 4, launching originally on the PlayStation Vita.
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Previous Persona Games are Not a Requirement
Each entry in thePersonaseries stands on its own for the most part, meaning players can start with any title they choose. The first game the series,Revelations: Persona, originally launched on the PlayStation with later ports to PC and Playstation Portable, as well as a releaseincluded with the PlayStation Classic.Persona 2: Innocent SinandPersona 2: Eternal Punishmentboth originally released on the PlayStation with remakes releasing on the PlayStation Portable. These early entries in the series are not necessary to play in order to enjoyPersona 3 PortableandPersona 4 Golden,as they lack many of the features introduced the latter titles and aren’t directly related narratively.
AsPersona 3 PortableandPersona 4 Goldenare updated versionsof the original releases, many might wonder if it is necessary to play those entries before experiencing the enhanced versions. For the most part, there is no need to play the originalPersona 3andPersona 4as the enhanced versions improve on almost every aspect of the originals. The only exception is the additional post-game content included inPersona 3 FESthat is not present inPersona 3 Portable, but this addition is not required to startPortableand can be sought out later should the player decide they want morePersona 3content.
Game Pass Titles Subscribers Might Play to Prepare for the Upcoming Persona Releases
Aside from thePersonaseries, players looking to prep with another anime-style game might want to check out theDanganronpaseries on Game Pass. While these games lack the JRPG elements ofPersona, the story and life-sim aspects of the series will feel familiar to players jumping intoPersona. For a more traditional JRPG experience, players might want to check outYakuza: Like a Dragonor even an indie title likeChained Echoes,which are both available on the service.
Persona 3 PortableandPersona 4 Goldenare launching on January 19 for PC, PS4, Switch, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S, as well as on Xbox Game Pass.
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