Overview

is a leading Japanese video game developer and publisher known for creating critically acclaimed role-playing games (RPGs). Established in 1986, the company has gained a loyal following among gamers for its innovative gameplay, compelling storylines, and distinctive visual style.

History

1986: Founded in Tokyo, Japan, by Kazuyuki Yamai
1987: Released its first game, "Puzzle Boy," an action-puzzle game
1992: Debuted its first RPG, "Shin Megami Tensei," which went on to become a flagship series
1996: Released "Persona," a spin-off of the "Shin Megami Tensei" series that gained widespread popularity
2008: Acquired by Index Corporation, a Japanese game holding company

Key Franchises

Shin Megami Tensei

A dark and mature RPG series known for its complex ethical dilemmas and challenging gameplay
Includes titles such as "Nocturne," "Strange Journey," and "Apocalypse"

Persona

A spin-off series of "Shin Megami Tensei" focusing on social simulation and life experiences
Features titles like "Persona 3," "Persona 4," and the highly acclaimed "Persona 5"

Other Notable Games

Catherine: A unique puzzle-platformer with a suspenseful storyline
Etrian Odyssey: A turn-based RPG series known for its deep character customization and labyrinth exploration
Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE: A crossover game between and Nintendo’s "Fire Emblem" series

Corporate Culture

has a strong corporate culture that emphasizes innovation, creativity, and quality. The company is known for:

Employee Empowerment: Trusting its employees with decision-making and encouraging them to take risks
Artistic Freedom: Giving developers a high degree of freedom to pursue their creative visions
International Localization: Localizing its games to reach a global audience, including accurate translations and cultural adaptations

Financial Performance

has consistently performed well financially, thanks to the success of its popular franchises. In 2020, the company reported revenue of over 8 billion yen (approximately $74 million USD).

Collaborations and Partnerships

has actively collaborated with other companies, including:

Nintendo: Jointly developed titles such as "Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE" and "Shin Megami Tensei V"
Sega: Published "Catherine" and "Persona 4 Golden" for the Sega Vita console

Awards and Recognition

‘s games have received numerous awards and critical acclaim, including:

Golden Joystick Awards: "Game of the Year" for "Persona 5" (2017)
Japan Game Awards: "Game of the Year" for "Shin Megami Tensei V" (2021)
The Game Awards: "Best RPG" for "Persona 5" (2017)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is known for?
A: is primarily known for its critically acclaimed RPG franchises, including "Shin Megami Tensei" and "Persona."

Q: When was founded?
A: was founded in 1986.

Q: Who acquired in 2008?
A: Index Corporation acquired in 2008.

Q: What are some of ‘s other notable games?
A: Other notable games include "Catherine," "Etrian Odyssey," and "Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE."

Q: What is the key to ‘s success?
A: ‘s success is attributed to its focus on innovation, creativity, and quality.

References:

Table of Contents

Persona 5 Royal

Summary:

Persona 5 Royal is an enhanced version of the 2016 role-playing game Persona 5. It introduces new characters, a new story arc, and expanded gameplay features, including:

New Confidants: Engage with two new confidants, Kasumi Yoshizawa and Takuto Maruki, to unlock unique abilities and storylines.
New Palace: Explore a new dungeon, the "Palace of Desire," and confront the enigmatic Kasumi Yoshizawa.
Third Semester: Extend the game’s story by an entire semester, allowing players to experience additional character development and resolve the game’s plot.
Improved Gameplay: Enjoy enhanced combat mechanics, refined UI, and a redesigned Thieves Den, providing a more immersive and streamlined gaming experience.
Additional Content: Unlock new Personas, challenge yourself in the revamped Mementos dungeons, and engage in new mini-games for added depth and replayability.

Persona 5 Strikers

Persona 5 Strikers is an action role-playing hack and slash video game developed by Omega Force and published by . A spin-off and sequel to 2017’s Persona 5, it follows the protagonist, Joker, and the Phantom Thieves as they go on a road trip to uncover the truth behind a spate of mental shutdowns across Japan. The game was released in Japan on February 20, 2020, and worldwide on February 23, 2021, for PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, and Microsoft Windows.

The game features an expanded cast of playable characters, new story arcs, and a new combat system that combines elements from both the Persona and Dynasty Warriors series. Like its predecessor, the game has been praised for its stylish visuals, engaging story, and addictive gameplay, although some critics have found the combat to be repetitive.

USA

USA is an American video game publisher and developer headquartered in Irvine, California. It is the North American branch of the Japanese company Co. and its parent company Sega.

Known for its role-playing games, USA has localized and published several critically acclaimed series in the West, including "Persona," "Shin Megami Tensei," and "Etrian Odyssey." The company has also developed and published original titles, such as "Tokyo Mirage Sessions ♯FE" and "Catherine: Full Body."

USA is known for its strong relationships with fans and its attention to detail in its games. It has been recognized for its innovative gameplay, compelling storytelling, and stylish visuals, establishing itself as one of the leading publishers in the RPG genre.

Persona Series

The Persona series, a spin-off of the Megami Tensei franchise, is a Japanese role-playing video game series developed by . The series centers around high school students who form groups known as "Persona users" who can summon and control manifestations of their inner selves known as "Personas." The games typically involve a group of friends who investigate supernatural occurrences and fight against forces threatening the world. The series is known for its character-driven stories, social simulation elements, and turn-based combat system. Notable titles in the series include Persona 3, Persona 4, and Persona 5.

Games

Games is a Japanese video game developer and publisher founded in 1986. Known for its role-playing games (RPGs), has created popular franchises such as Shin Megami Tensei, Persona, and Etrian Odyssey. The company has also developed and published games in various other genres, including action-adventure, strategy, and simulation. Games is known for its unique gameplay experiences, well-developed characters, and memorable stories. Its games have received critical acclaim and have a loyal fan base worldwide.

Persona Q2: New Cinema Labyrinth

Persona Q2: New Cinema Labyrinth is a role-playing video game developed by for the Nintendo 3DS. It is the sequel to Persona Q: Shadow of the Labyrinth and features characters from Persona 3, Persona 4, and Persona 5, as well as new characters. The game was released in Japan in November 2018 and in North America and Europe in June 2019.

The story of Persona Q2 follows the characters as they are drawn into a mysterious movie theater and trapped in a series of labyrinths. To escape, they must team up with a group of strangers and overcome the challenges of the labyrinths. Along the way, they learn more about themselves and their relationships with each other.

The gameplay in Persona Q2 is similar to that of the previous Persona Q game. The player controls a party of four characters, each of whom has their own unique skills and abilities. The player must explore the labyrinths, fight enemies, and solve puzzles in order to progress. New to Persona Q2 is the ability to perform stylish attacks called Persona Q Skills. These attacks are more powerful than regular attacks and can be used to deal massive damage to enemies.

Persona 4 Golden

Persona 4 Golden is an enhanced and extended version of the 2008 PS2 RPG Persona 4, originally released for the PlayStation Vita in 2012 and later ported to PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and Microsoft Windows. The game follows the story of Yu Narukami, a high school student who moves to the rural town of Inaba and investigates a series of murders while forming bonds with a group of friends who possess the ability to summon Personas, manifestations of their inner selves.

Persona 4 Golden features several new additions compared to the original, including a new character, a revised story, and a number of gameplay enhancements. The game also received critical acclaim, with praise for its engaging story, memorable characters, and improved gameplay. The game’s success has led to it being considered one of the best JRPGs of all time.

Persona 4 Arena Ultimax

Persona 4 Arena Ultimax is a 2D fighting game developed by Arc System Works and published by . It is the sequel to Persona 4 Arena and features characters from Persona 3 and Persona 4. The game was released in arcades in Japan in November 2013, followed by console releases for PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, and Xbox One in September 2014.

The story mode of Persona 4 Arena Ultimax takes place two months after Persona 4 Arena. The Investigation Team from Inaba and the Shadow Operatives from the Shadow Operatives from the Shadow Operatives from the P-1 Grand Prix investigate a mysterious tower that has appeared in Inaba. They soon discover that the tower is a prison that holds all of the people who were kidnapped during the P-1 Grand Prix. The Investigation Team and the Shadow Operatives must team up to defeat the people responsible for kidnapping and defeat the new enemy known as the Shadow.

Persona 4 Arena Ultimax features a roster of 26 characters, including 19 returning characters from Persona 4 Arena and 7 new characters. The game’s combat system is based on Persona 4 Arena, but with several new additions and refinements. New features include the ability to use Burst Attacks, which are powerful attacks that can only be used once per round, and the ability to use Persona Assists, which allow players to call upon their Personas to assist them in battle.

Japan

Japan, a subsidiary of SEGA Sammy Holdings, is a Japanese video game company headquartered in Tokyo. Founded in 1986, has gained recognition for its role-playing games, particularly the "Megami Tensei" and "Persona" series.

is known for its innovative storytelling and complex character development, with games often exploring themes of psychology, morality, and the nature of identity. The company’s flagship titles have received critical acclaim and have sold millions of copies worldwide.

Persona 3 Portable

Persona 3 Portable is an enhanced version of the original Persona 3 game, released for the PlayStation Portable in 2009. It features:

New Female Protagonist: Players can now choose to play as a female protagonist, bringing a unique perspective to the story.
New Social Links: Several new Social Links are added, allowing for deeper character development and relationship building.
Revised Combat System: The combat system has been streamlined, making it more accessible and beginner-friendly.
Adjustable Difficulty: Players can now adjust the difficulty of the game, providing a customizable challenge.
Portability: The PSP version allows players to enjoy the game on the go, making it convenient to play anywhere, anytime.