Persona Series: A Comprehensive Guide to Games and Spin-Offs
The Persona series, which began as a spin-off of Shin Megami Tensei, has grown into a significant franchise within modern RPGs, expanding into multimedia adaptations. The series currently comprises 21 games, including major sequels, remakes, and various spin-offs. With official announcements for Persona 4 Revival and Persona 6, the franchise continues its expansion. For those new to the series, Persona 3 Reload, Persona 4 Golden, or Persona 5 Royal are recommended starting points. These titles are the latest versions of their respective mainline entries, widely available across multiple platforms, and feature self-contained stories that do not require prior knowledge of earlier games.
The Persona series, originally a spin-off from Shin Megami Tensei, has established itself as a major name in modern role-playing games. The franchise has diversified into various media, including anime adaptations and stage plays.
Currently, there are 21 Persona games in total. This count includes expanded versions of mainline entries, such as re-releases with new content or complete remakes, but excludes direct ports or remasters. Upcoming titles include Persona 4 Revival and Persona 6, both of which have been officially announced.
For new players seeking an entry point, Persona 3 Reload, Persona 4 Golden, or Persona 5 Royal are suggested. These are the most recent iterations of the third, fourth, and fifth mainline games. With the exception of Persona 3 Reload on Nintendo Switch, these titles are available on PC and most major consoles. Each game features a unique story with new characters, largely independent of previous entries, making them accessible starting points.
Below is a list of Persona games and spin-offs in their release order: Revelations: Persona (1996) Persona 2: Innocent Sin (1999) Persona 2: Eternal Punishment (2000) Persona 3 (2006) Persona 3 FES (2007) Persona 4 (2008) Persona 3 Portable (2009) Persona 4 Arena (2012) Persona 4 Golden (2012) Persona 4 Arena Ultimax (2013) Persona Q: Shadow of the Labyrinth (2014) Persona 4: Dancing All Night (2015) Persona 5 (2016) Persona 3: Dancing in the Moonlight (2018) Persona 5: Dancing in the Starlight (2018) Persona Q2: New Cinema Labyrinth (2018) Persona 5 Royal (2019) Persona 5 Strikers (2020) Persona 5 Tactica (2023) Persona 3 Reload (2024) Persona 5: The Phantom X (2025)
The chronological order of the series begins with Revelations: Persona (1996), which was developed by Atlus after the positive reception of Shin Megami Tensei: If…. It established core franchise elements such as Persona combat, the Velvet Room, and a teenage protagonist cast. The second entry, Persona 2: Innocent Sin (1999), follows a new group of high school students, led by Tatsuya Suou, as they confront a villain known as Joker and the cult of the Ma.
According to IGN, these lists provide a comprehensive overview of the Persona series for both new and returning fans.
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