The “Persona” series, developed by Atlus, has seen multiple versions, spin-offs, and expanded storylines over the years. Is Persona 5 Royal Canon? One of the most discussed topics among fans is the canonicity of the various titles, especially when it comes to “Persona 5” and its expanded version, “Persona 5 Royal.” So, is “Persona 5 Royal” considered canon? Let’s explore.
Is Persona 5 Royal Canon?
Is Royal canon?
by inPersona5
Understanding Canon in the World of “Persona”
To start, we need to understand what “canon” means in the realm of storytelling. A story or event is considered “canon” when it’s part of the official storyline recognized by its creators. Anything outside of this – like fan fiction or unofficial spin-offs – is non-canon.
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“Persona 5” vs. “Persona 5 Royal”: The Differences
“Persona 5,” released in 2016, captivated players with its intricate story, unique mechanics, and vivid characters. A few years later, “Persona 5 Royal” was introduced, offering an enhanced version of the original game with additional characters, new story arcs, and gameplay improvements.
The inclusion of new characters like Kasumi Yoshizawa and the school counselor Takuto Maruki, as well as an entire new semester of story content, differentiates “Royal” from the original “Persona 5.” These changes aren’t mere additions; they deeply intertwine with the central plot, creating an alternate experience for players.
What Does This Mean for Players?
For players, both games offer immersive experiences. Whether you’re playing the original “Persona 5” or diving into the expanded world of “Persona 5 Royal,” you’re engaging with a narrative crafted with care by Atlus.
Until there’s an official statement, or future games or media reference events specific to one version over the other, the debate on canonicity remains subjective.
The Value Proposition: Is Investing Time in “Persona 5 Royal” Worthwhile?
Many fans and new players alike often wonder if “Persona 5 Royal” offers a significant enough enhancement over the original to justify the investment in time and money. “Royal” is not just a game with a few added features; it’s a deep dive into an expanded universe.
With the addition of new characters, locations, and a richer storyline, it provides a fresh perspective, even for those who played the original. For many, this enriched narrative and gameplay experience make “Persona 5 Royal” not just worth it, but a must-play.
Unraveling the Original: The Canonical End of “Persona 5”
“Persona 5” is renowned for its engaging storyline that culminates in a series of dramatic events leading to various endings based on player choices.
The original ending revolves around the Phantom Thieves taking down the god of control, Yaldabaoth, and reclaiming their reality.
This ending, profound and impactful, has been discussed and dissected by fans and critics alike. It provides closure, yet leaves room for interpretation, making it a hot topic in discussions about the game’s canon.
The Connection: How “Persona 5 Royal” Relates to “Persona 5”
One of the biggest questions fans often pose is about the relationship between “Persona 5” and “Persona 5 Royal.” Simply put, “Persona 5 Royal” is an enhanced and expanded version of the original “Persona 5.” Think of it as the original game but with additional content, characters, and story arcs.
It’s not a sequel or a side story, but rather a reimagining of the original narrative, providing added depth and new perspectives to the story players thought they knew.
“Persona 5 Royal’s” Climax: The Pursuit of Truth in its Ending
“Persona 5 Royal” introduces a different climax, often dubbed as the ‘true ending.’ In this expanded narrative, the Phantom Thieves confront not just Yaldabaoth but also Dr. Maruki, a figure central to “Royal’s” new arc.
As the Thieves challenge Maruki’s ideal world and strive for their version of reality, players are offered a more intricate resolution. Is this ending the “true” canon? It’s a richer story, sure, but its canonicity is still a topic of much speculation among fans.
The Protagonist’s Identity: Canon Name of “Persona 5 Royal” MC
In the “Persona” series, the main character’s name can differ based on various adaptations. In the original game, players can choose a name for the protagonist.
However, for official adaptations, the protagonist of “Persona 5” is named Ren Amamiya in the “Persona 5” anime and most subsequent media.
However, it’s worth noting that in the manga adaptation, he’s called Akira Kurusu. Ren Amamiya is generally considered the canonical name, especially with its use in “Persona 5 Royal” and other spin-offs.
Platform Questions: “Persona 5 Royal” and the PS5
When we discuss if “Persona 5 Royal” is canon for the PS5, it’s crucial to clarify the context. “Persona 5 Royal” was initially released for the PlayStation 4.
However, with the PlayStation 5’s backward compatibility feature, players can enjoy “P5R” on the newer console. The game itself doesn’t have a dedicated PS5 version as of my last update in 2021, but it’s fully playable on the platform.
Whether playing it on a PS4 or PS5 doesn’t change the game’s narrative or canonical status; it merely offers players flexibility in their choice of platform.
So, Is “Persona 5 Royal” Canon?
The tricky part about defining canon in video games, especially those as multifaceted as the “Persona” series, is that they often have multiple endings and story paths. Both “Persona 5” and “Persona 5 Royal” provide valid narratives in their own right.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while “Persona 5 Royal” is an expanded and enriched version of “Persona 5,” the question of its canonicity is still up for debate among fans.
It ultimately boils down to personal interpretation and the weight you give to each version of the story. Until Atlus provides a clear stance, both versions coexist, offering players a chance to choose their preferred narrative path.
REF: https://steamcommunity.com/app/1687950/discussions/0/3600094457166714669/