Review of Persona 5 Royal​
Persona 5 Royal is a highly acclaimed JRPG that builds on the original game with expanded content and optimizations. While it has a few shortcomings, its overall performance is excellent, boasting high playability and collectible value. Here's a detailed review:​
Plot: The storyline has been expanded from the original, with the new third semester effectively addressing the rushed feel of the latter part of the original plot. This gives players more time to delve into the stories of characters like Goro Akechi. New characters Takuto Maruki and Kasumi Yoshizawa, though having limited screen time in the early stages, have a significant impact on the protagonist group's adventures. Maruki's exclusive Tarot skills are practical, and Yoshizawa receives impressive character development in the later stages. However, the boss battles and plot presentations in the New plot fail to reach a higher narrative level than the original ending, leading to divided opinions among players.​
Gameplay: It retains the two core gameplay loops of the original: dungeon exploration and daily life simulation. The daily life section is more substantial, adding two new confidants, Kasumi Yoshizawa and Takuto Maruki, to the existing 16, along with the new area of Kichijoji. Auxiliary systems like supplementary remarks after confidant events and activities such as darts and billiards in Kichijoji enhance social efficiency. In dungeon exploration, Ryuji Sakamoto's "Instant Kill" skill, unlocked at a certain level, can eliminate low-level mobs instantly, aiding in Persona collection and fusion. That said, some dungeons have overly long and repetitive combat sequences, and the side content in Mementos is rather simplistic, lacking innovation.​
Graphics and Music: Visually, it adopts a cel-shaded art style with a unique UI designed in a collage-like, street punk aesthetic. Performance varies across platforms: the Switch version runs steadily at 30 frames per second in TV mode, with slightly reduced brightness, while the handheld mode shows noticeable jagged edges and missing details. The PC version supports up to 8K resolution and 120 frames, offering clearer and smoother visuals. Music is a standout feature, with new tracks like the opening "Colors Fly High" and a reimagined "Rivers in the Desert." The soundtrack now includes 30 new pieces, effectively enhancing immersion and setting the mood.​
Characterization: The characters are charismatic, each with distinct personalities. Players can interact with numerous confidants to boost their relationship levels, and some female characters can even develop romantic relationships with the protagonist. The addition of new characters enriches the roster; although Yoshizawa joins late, resulting in less coherent early interactions with the protagonist, the overall character dynamics feel authentic and engaging. The abundance of life elements adds to the game's charm.​
Localization and Content: This port marks the first inclusion of Simplified Chinese support, with high-quality translations. Even crossword puzzles and mini-games have been reworked to fit mainland Chinese language habits, making it more accessible to local players. Additionally, the game includes over 40 paid and free DLCs, featuring items, costumes, and Persona packs. Longtime series fans will appreciate the Persona packs containing exclusive Personas from previous protagonists, though some powerful Personas may diminish early-game exploration and combat enjoyment, reducing the appeal of Persona fusion.​