Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Persona 4 Arena's release window narrowed to August 2012]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/03/persona-4-arenas-release-window-narrowed-to-august-2012/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/03/persona-4-arenas-release-window-narrowed-to-august-2012/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/03/persona-4-arenas-release-window-narrowed-to-august-2012/#comments Persona 4 Arena, Atlus and Arc System Works' confrontational extension of the Persona universe, was announced two weeks ago with a rather vague "summer" release window for its North American launch on the Xbox 360 and PS3. Apparently that meant "the tail end of summer," as Atlus has specified a slightly more specific August, 2012 window on the PlayStation Blog.

When it does launch, the game will include the prerequisite Online mode, as well as a console-only Story mode, which Atlus is attempting to populate with the English voice actors used in Persona 3 and Persona 4. In situations where English actors aren't available, we always recommend using Scottish or Welsh actors as a substitute. Their geological proximity to England often gives them a familiarity with local dialects that can be useful when replicating an accent.

... Oh, English.

JoystiqPersona 4 Arena's release window narrowed to August 2012 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 03 Mar 2012 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arc-system-worksatlusmicrosoftpersonapersona-4-arenapersona-4-the-ultimate-in-mayonaka-arenaplaystationps3release-daterelease-windowxboxSat, 03 Mar 2012 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Persona 2: Innocent Sin update announced for PSP]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/27/persona-2-innocent-sin-update-announced-for-psp/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/27/persona-2-innocent-sin-update-announced-for-psp/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/27/persona-2-innocent-sin-update-announced-for-psp/#comments Atlus is currently refreshing PSone RPG Persona 2: Innocent Sin for the PSP. Announced in Japanese mag Famitsu (via Siliconera), the release will be in line with that seen in Persona, adding widescreen visuals, gameplay tweaks and a new animation for the opening (the original movie will also be in there for purists). Shoji Meguro, who was in charge of the Persona remake, will direct this project.

Persona 2 actually released in two parts as Innocent Sin and Eternal Punishment. The latter made it to North America in late 2000, but Innocent Sin has never been officially localized for distribution. We're following up with Atlus to see if it plans on bringing Innocent Sin stateside this time around.

Update: Atlus has "no comment" on a North American release of Persona 2: Innocent Sin.

JoystiqPersona 2: Innocent Sin update announced for PSP originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 Oct 2010 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AtlusfamitsujapanPersonapersona-2-eternal-punishmentPersona-2-Innocent-SinplaystationpspsonyWed, 27 Oct 2010 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Persona 3 Portable video highlights all-new features]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/06/persona-3-portable-video-highlights-all-new-features/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/06/persona-3-portable-video-highlights-all-new-features/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/06/persona-3-portable-video-highlights-all-new-features/#comments The first Persona 3 Portable video walkthrough provided by Atlus summarized the story and gameplay of the original PS2 RPG. As promised, this second video highlights the new features of the enhanced PSP version.

The most significant difference is the ability to play as a female character, which changes various aspects of the game's overall story. The female avatar will unlock different social links, and new potential romances. There are also two additional difficulty settings: Beginner and Maniac. In addition, players can manually control their partners, something that was relegated to AI in the original console version. Do these features get you excited for P3P -- or are you as bored as this video's narrator sounds?

JoystiqPersona 3 Portable video highlights all-new features originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 May 2010 18:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atluspersonapersona-3persona-3-portablevideoThu, 06 May 2010 18:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Persona 3 Portable video recaps classic gameplay]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/15/persona-3-portable-video-recaps-classic-gameplay/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/15/persona-3-portable-video-recaps-classic-gameplay/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/15/persona-3-portable-video-recaps-classic-gameplay/#comments While Persona 3 Portable isn't quite an exact port of the original PS2 RPG, it retains most of the gameplay of the earlier release. This overview video provided by Atlus is a perfect way of understanding the mechanics of the original game, from attending school, to making friends, and eventually fighting with your Personas. Anyone that's played the original will find themselves in very familiar turf here; however, Atlus plans on releasing a follow-up video, chronicling everything new in P3P some time soon.

JoystiqPersona 3 Portable video recaps classic gameplay originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 Apr 2010 17:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlusjrpgpersonapersona-3persona-3-portablepsnThu, 15 Apr 2010 17:04:00 EST<![CDATA[NIS America to enter US anime market with Persona: Trinity Soul]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/12/nis-america-to-enter-us-anime-market-with-persona-trinity-soul/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/12/nis-america-to-enter-us-anime-market-with-persona-trinity-soul/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/12/nis-america-to-enter-us-anime-market-with-persona-trinity-soul/#comments NIS America isn't all about making niche video games. No, they're going to be making niche anime DVDs as well. Beginning mid-2010, NIS America will roll out their new anime line, beginning with these four titles: Toradora!, Persona: Trinity Soul, PandoraHearts, and Our Home's Fox Deity.

Jack Niida confirmed that these titles will be available exclusively on DVD at first, although didn't rule out the possibility of Blu-ray, PlayStation Network and Zune Marketplace releases in the future. These series will receive a limited print, and will be available through online specialty retailers -- brick and mortar stores, like Best Buy and Walmart, will not carry these titles. Series will be sold as box sets, with approximately half a season included in each package. The press release also states that "like its video game offerings, anime titles will be available with collector's items."

When questioned why NIS America would enter yet another niche market, Niida told us that "a lot of anime companies have shut down," leaving only Funimation, Bandai and VIZ Media to represent the entirety of the US anime market. NIS America wanted to pursue some of the smaller titles that would otherwise never find an English language distributor. Certainly, this is good news for Persona fans, but we wish NIS America the best of luck tackling an industry plagued with an even larger piracy problem than games.

JoystiqNIS America to enter US anime market with Persona: Trinity Soul originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Feb 2010 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animedvdnis-americaour-homes-fox-deitypandoraheartspersonapersona-trinity-soultoradoraFri, 12 Feb 2010 17:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Persona 3 Portable coming to North America on July 6]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/20/persona-3-portable-coming-to-north-america-on-july-6/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/20/persona-3-portable-coming-to-north-america-on-july-6/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/20/persona-3-portable-coming-to-north-america-on-july-6/#comments Atlus is bringing an English-language version of Persona 3 Portable to the US. The PSP version of Persona 3 isn't a direct port of the original PS2 RPG. Instead, it streamlines the experience for handheld play and adds a new playable female character, with her own "Social Links, special events, and unique romantic opportunities." In addition, P3P adds a few cameos from Persona 4, and introduces five difficulty settings, ranging from "beginner" to "maniac." The battle system has also drastically changed, with players able to directly control teammates.

The UMD version will be available at retail on July 6th, with a PSN version expected soon after. Check out the box art after the break.

Gallery: Persona 3 Portable

Continue reading Persona 3 Portable coming to North America on July 6

JoystiqPersona 3 Portable coming to North America on July 6 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Jan 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlusjrpgpersonapersona-3persona-3-portablepsnrelease-dateRPGShin-Megami-TenseiShin-Megami-Tensei-Persona-3umdWed, 20 Jan 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Persona teams reunite for new project in 2010]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/18/persona-teams-reunite-for-new-project-in-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/18/persona-teams-reunite-for-new-project-in-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/18/persona-teams-reunite-for-new-project-in-2010/#comments After the completion of Persona 4, the team responsible for the game at Atlus split in two, with one half tasked with creating Persona 3 Portable, while the other half got to work on "an original new game." According to a translation by Andriasang of the P3 Portable creator's blog, that first game is "nearing completion," and the two teams will re-form [insert Voltron reference here] in 2010.

Persona 4 producer Katsura Hashino says that the re-unified team will work on "an even bigger title" in the coming year, though no details have been formally announced. We'll just have to giddily think about the impending release of 3D Dot Game Heroes in North America, while we wait for Hashino to dish.

[Via Andriasang]

JoystiqPersona teams reunite for new project in 2010 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 Dec 2009 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlusjapanjrpgkatsura-hashinopersonapersona-3-portablepersona-4RPGShin-Megami-TenseiShin-Megami-Tensei-Persona-4Fri, 18 Dec 2009 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Persona 3 Portable features Persona 4 cameo]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/15/persona-3-portable-features-persona-4-cameo/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/15/persona-3-portable-features-persona-4-cameo/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/15/persona-3-portable-features-persona-4-cameo/#comments The upcoming PSP version of Persona 3 features a nice easter egg for fans of the franchise. According to Siliconera, Inaba, the town featured in Persona 4 will be a playable locale in the upcoming port. You must play as the female lead in order to visit the Amagiya Inn -- two years before the events of P4. There, you'll be able to meet a younger version of Yukiko.

Certainly, it's not the biggest news surrounding the game, but it gives us an excuse to post this video. P3P hits Japan next month.

JoystiqPersona 3 Portable features Persona 4 cameo originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 Oct 2009 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlusjrpgpersonapersona-3persona-3-portablepersona-4RPGShin-Megami-TenseiShin-Megami-Tensei-Persona-3Shin-Megami-Tensei-Persona-4Thu, 15 Oct 2009 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Persona 3 Portable DX bundle bonuses revealed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/21/persona-3-portable-dx-bundle-bonuses-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/21/persona-3-portable-dx-bundle-bonuses-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/21/persona-3-portable-dx-bundle-bonuses-revealed/#comments Alright, look. When Persona 3 Portable is released in Japan, it's going to be attached to an exorbitantly large 6,279 yen ($68) price tag. As long as you're shelling out so much dough for the title, why not kick that total up to 8,495 yen ($92) and spring for the game's limited edition bundle?

Siliconera recently uncovered the bonus items included in the aptly titled Persona 3 Portable DX bundle: A Persona-branded t-shirt (seen above), 12 PSP jacket-sized character posters, and a 2010 desk calendar. You know what would've been a great addition to this bundle? Some Persona 3 papercraft made out of three 1,000 yen banknotes. Now that's a collector's item.

JoystiqPersona 3 Portable DX bundle bonuses revealed originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 Sep 2009 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlusbonuscalendarlimited-editionpersonapersona-3-portablet-shirtMon, 21 Sep 2009 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Persona 3 Portable intro shoots awesome bullets into your eyes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/21/persona-3-portable-intro-shoots-awesome-bullets-into-your-eyes/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/21/persona-3-portable-intro-shoots-awesome-bullets-into-your-eyes/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/21/persona-3-portable-intro-shoots-awesome-bullets-into-your-eyes/#comments Do you know how cool Persona 3 is? It's so cool that it made shooting yourself in the head seem awesome.*

The upcoming PSP version of the game will have some significant changes, like this new opening intro sequence and new song done by Shuhei Kita (the same performer behind Persona: Trinity Soul's intro). In addition to being able to take control of a female lead, the gameplay has also been tweaked with brand new Beginner and Maniac modes. Players will also be able to move to any location they want from the menu -- a much improved experience for handheld play. Finally, you'll be able to issue commands to square mates directly, a pretty significant change from the original PS2 game.

All in all, we have to say we're very excited for Persona 3 Portable. Now, we just need Atlus to get working on an English version ASAP!

*Shooting yourself in the head is not awesome. Do not attempt at home. Persona 3 is a video game, and real-life results may differ. Please consult a physician before shooting yourself in the head.

JoystiqPersona 3 Portable intro shoots awesome bullets into your eyes originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 Aug 2009 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlusjrpgpersonapersona-3persona-3-portableFri, 21 Aug 2009 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Persona 3 coming to PSP with new female character]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/18/persona-3-coming-to-psp-with-new-female-character/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/18/persona-3-coming-to-psp-with-new-female-character/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/18/persona-3-coming-to-psp-with-new-female-character/#comments Atlus just isn't quite done with remaking Persona 3. A new issue of Famitsu has hit Japanese newsstands and one of the most notable entries is an advertisement for Persona 3: Portable. While details are slim, the ad prominently shows a new female character standing aside the nameless main character of Persona 3 and Persona 3: FES.

The ad proclaims the game will be available on November 1st, which, honestly, seems rather sudden. (No Q1 slump for Japan?) If it follows the model of the PSP port of the original Persona, we're bound to see a ton of extras remixed into the game.

[Via PS3Nation]

JoystiqPersona 3 coming to PSP with new female character originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 18 Aug 2009 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlusfamitsupersonapersona-3persona-3-portableRPGShin-Megami-TenseiShin-Megami-Tensei-Persona-3Tue, 18 Aug 2009 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Persona to launch simultaneously on PSN and UMD]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/05/persona-to-launch-simultaneously-on-psn-and-umd/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/05/persona-to-launch-simultaneously-on-psn-and-umd/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/05/persona-to-launch-simultaneously-on-psn-and-umd/#comments
Persona's September 22nd release is awfully close to the release of the all-digital PSP Go. So, what's Atlus to do? Release Persona on UMD and PlayStation Network simultaneously, of course! This will be the first PSP title in America to simultaneously launch in both physical and digital forms. Atlus' dual-format release circumvents Sony's earlier policy to disallow PSN/UMD releases until October 1st.

While we're entirely supportive of PSN releases, we recommend you buy the retail version if at all possible. Why? Only the retail version will include the bonus two-disc soundtrack; a digital version won't be bundled with the PSN game. Considering both the UMD and retail versions will cost the same at launch, it's a no-brainer as to which version of Persona you should buy.

For a full rundown on what's new in Persona, don't forget to check out Atlus' walkthrough video.

JoystiqPersona to launch simultaneously on PSN and UMD originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 Aug 2009 18:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atluspersonapsnumdWed, 05 Aug 2009 18:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Atlus provides video walkthrough of Persona PSP]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/05/atlus-provides-video-walkthrough-of-persona-psp/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/05/atlus-provides-video-walkthrough-of-persona-psp/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/05/atlus-provides-video-walkthrough-of-persona-psp/#comments Atlus has produced a lengthy seven minute video detailing all the features of its upcoming PSP port of the original Persona. While it's filled with some overzealous marketing talk, it does a good job of detailing the various gameplay mechanics of the game. One of the important aspects focused on in the video is the speed of battle. While you'll still be grinding and leveling up in Persona, each battle can go much faster, especially with the PSP "skip" feature.

Details of the game's "negotiation system," missing from later Persona releases, are offered. For the many that have only recently discovered the Persona franchise, this should feel like a particularly new feature. In addition to showing off the game's new cutscenes and overworld map, the video also reveals that Persona for PSP will be much more difficult (or as the video says, "satisfying") than the original PS1 release -- are you up to the challenge?

JoystiqAtlus provides video walkthrough of Persona PSP originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 Aug 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atluspersonavideowalkthroughWed, 05 Aug 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Persona to include two disc soundtrack with every copy]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/12/persona-to-include-two-disc-soundtrack-with-every-copy/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/12/persona-to-include-two-disc-soundtrack-with-every-copy/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/12/persona-to-include-two-disc-soundtrack-with-every-copy/#comments
Click to embiggen.
Atlus continues to package some of the coolest goodies with its games. The upcoming PSP version of Persona, Atlus' flagship RPG series, will include a two-disc soundtrack set ... with every copy of the game. No, this isn't some elusive pre-order bonus that you can only get from Retailer X (which, by the way, would be an awesome store to go to).

In addition to the soundtrack CDs, the US release of Persona will be coming with a nifty extra that didn't make the original Japanese cut. "We are able to confirm to series fans that in addition to the all-new localization, the 'Snow Queen' quest, game content never before available in North America, will be included in this new release," an Atlus PR e-mail told us.

Expect Persona on September 22nd.

JoystiqPersona to include two disc soundtrack with every copy originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Jun 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlusjrpgpersonasoundtrackFri, 12 Jun 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Atlus.com hacked, trojan may have spread to visitors' computers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/25/atlus-com-hacked-trojan-may-have-spread-to-visitors-computers/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/25/atlus-com-hacked-trojan-may-have-spread-to-visitors-computers/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/25/atlus-com-hacked-trojan-may-have-spread-to-visitors-computers/#comments
The folks behind our favorite high school lifestyle sim/dungeon crawler series, Persona, are apparently having some internet woes. It seems that yesterday, a "third-party entity" hacked Atlus' website (currently still down) and managed to embed a trojan that, "may have made its way" onto the system. The publisher is guessing that those who may have been affected by the trojan would have visited its website between 9AM PST and 2:30 PST, give or take.

While we're used to whacky press releases from Atlus, this is most certainly not one of those. If you believe you may have been affected by this trojan, the company implores you to "run malware removal software," though, more than likely, you probably aren't reading this if that's the case, eh? All jokes aside, Atlus does seem to sincerely apologize, stating, "The faith and trust of our fans is of the utmost importance to us, a responsibility we don't take lightly." Here's hoping the dirty, dirty haxxorz didn't get to you!

[image]

JoystiqAtlus.com hacked, trojan may have spread to visitors' computers originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 25 Apr 2009 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apologyatlushackerpersonawebsiteSat, 25 Apr 2009 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Persona's opening movie is catchy, stylish]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/17/personas-opening-movie-is-catchy-stylish/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/17/personas-opening-movie-is-catchy-stylish/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/17/personas-opening-movie-is-catchy-stylish/#comments With Persona's PSP port arriving in Japan soon, Atlus has just revealed the game's brand new intro -- and it's as stylish as those seen in the modern PS2 Persona games. The theme music also has that right Persona Jpop vibe -- classy, without being too upbeat. We're going to be listening to this track a few times during our blogging shift today.

[Via PSPHyper]

JoystiqPersona's opening movie is catchy, stylish originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 Apr 2009 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlusintrojpoppersonaFri, 17 Apr 2009 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[New Persona trailer highlights new cutscenes, battles]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/24/new-persona-trailer-highlights-new-cutscenes-battles/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/24/new-persona-trailer-highlights-new-cutscenes-battles/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/24/new-persona-trailer-highlights-new-cutscenes-battles/#comments It's amazing how much more clout the Persona name has now than when it originally launched in the PS1 era. The upcoming enhanced PSP port of the first Persona title is being met with newly revived interest, thanks to the critically acclaimed releases of Persona 3 and 4 on the PS2.

Our readers should be familiar with the new content of the upcoming PSP title: while the graphics remain largely intact, new cutscenes and music have been added. The gameplay has been tweaked, but you'll still have to wander through flat 3D corridors.

The latest Persona trailer shows off some more cutscenes from the game. Japanese gamers will be playing it in just a month, while the rest of us will have to wait until this Fall.

[Via PSPHyper]

JoystiqNew Persona trailer highlights new cutscenes, battles originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Mar 2009 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atluspersonaTue, 24 Mar 2009 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Persona battle video fuses old and new]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/11/persona-battle-video-fuses-old-and-new/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/11/persona-battle-video-fuses-old-and-new/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/11/persona-battle-video-fuses-old-and-new/#comments The upcoming PSP version of Persona isn't so much a remake as it is an enhanced port. Although this gameplay sounds more like Persona 3, it still features graphics from the PS1 era of games. The new widescreen presentation and character portraits look good, yes, but it still doesn't hide the rather antiquated look of the sprites.

Though this first look at gameplay is a little underwhelming, our excitement for Persona still remains. The franchise has seen quite a resurgence due to the last two PS2 games, and it'll be interesting to take a look at how the series began. Persona will be available on PSP this fall.

[Via PSPHyper]

JoystiqPersona battle video fuses old and new originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Mar 2009 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atluspersonaWed, 11 Mar 2009 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Persona PSP remake coming to the US this fall]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/24/persona-psp-remake-coming-to-the-us-this-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/24/persona-psp-remake-coming-to-the-us-this-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/24/persona-psp-remake-coming-to-the-us-this-fall/#comments What, you want more PSP news? Very well, how about the announcement that Atlus will be bringing the Persona PSP remake over to the US this fall. After the success of Persona 3 and 4, it was a no-brainer that Atlus would decide to bring the game over to an RPG-hungry western audience. The remake includes "a completely redone localization and content never before seen in North America," along with "gameplay enhancements and additions new to the remake."

Whether or not the title will head to Europe is slightly more nebulous, as Atlus doesn't have a publishing arm in the region. Hopefully sales of Persona 4 will be high enough to encourage Square Enix to go ahead and publish the PSP remake of the original, too.

JoystiqPersona PSP remake coming to the US this fall originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Feb 2009 14:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atluspersonapersona-psppersona-remakeTue, 24 Feb 2009 14:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Deal of the Day: Persona 4 for $26]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/23/deal-of-the-day-persona-4-for-26/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/23/deal-of-the-day-persona-4-for-26/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/23/deal-of-the-day-persona-4-for-26/#comments PS2 and BC-compatible PS3 owners, watch out! One of the best RPGs of 2008 is now available for cheap: Atlus' Persona 4 is amazon's Gold Box Deal of the Day, its price slashed from $40 to $26. This unique RPG goes away from the sci-fi and fantasy worlds of most RPGs and offers a mature look into rural Japanese life. Other PS2 games are expected to drop in price today as well, so expect a Yakuza 2 discount later on.

JoystiqDeal of the Day: Persona 4 for $26 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 Feb 2009 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonAtlusdealpersonapersona-4RPGShin-Megami-TenseiShin-Megami-Tensei-Persona-4Mon, 23 Feb 2009 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Persona 4 comes to Europe in March]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/13/persona-4-comes-to-europe-in-march/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/13/persona-4-comes-to-europe-in-march/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/13/persona-4-comes-to-europe-in-march/#comments Much like its predecessor, Atlus' Persona 4 is coming to Europe via another big-name publisher. This time Square Enix is picking up the dungeon-crawler and releasing it in European and other PAL territories on Friday the 13th. That's quite a suitable date for a murder mystery tale like P4. And no that "Friday the 13th" is not today; we're talking about the 13th of next month -- March.

It'll come in a two-disc set including the game and a 24-track music CD. It's similar to the bundle released in North America; however, unlike the NA release, it looks like the European version won't be getting the added 100-page art book. Pricing for P4 wasn't mentioned, though we suppose it won't break the bank.

JoystiqPersona 4 comes to Europe in March originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Feb 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atluspersonapersona-4RPGshin-megami-tenseiShin-Megami-Tensei-Persona-4square-enixFri, 13 Feb 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Persona features new soundtrack and expanded dungeons]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/10/persona-features-new-soundtrack-and-expanded-dungeons/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/10/persona-features-new-soundtrack-and-expanded-dungeons/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/10/persona-features-new-soundtrack-and-expanded-dungeons/#comments The upcoming PSP version of Persona is not quite a full remake, but it's not really a port either. The debut trailer revealed new anime cutscenes for the game, but that's not all that's changed.

Siliconera reports that the PSP version of Persona will also add a new rearranged soundtrack by Shoji Meguro. Persona 3's Yumi Kawamura will perform the vocal tracks in this new soundtrack. Dungeons from the Sebek Chapter and Snow Queen Chapter have been expanded, and gameplay has been tweaked throughout. There are multiple levels of difficulty, and battles will go by much faster than in the original game.

Extra save points have been added in addition to a "quick save" feature to make the experience more palatable for on-the-go play. Finally, the city map has been revised to make things easier.

JoystiqPersona features new soundtrack and expanded dungeons originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Feb 2009 19:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>personaTue, 10 Feb 2009 19:45:00 EST<![CDATA[This is Persona for PSP]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/08/this-is-persona-for-psp/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/08/this-is-persona-for-psp/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/08/this-is-persona-for-psp/#comments From the looks of this new trailer, Persona is more a remake than a simple port to PSP. The classic PS1 game is being revived on Sony's handheld with new visuals and brand new anime cutscenes. It looks impressive, to be sure, but we're wondering if the somewhat archaic gameplay of the original game will be updated in any way to make it more accessible for the masses.

JoystiqThis is Persona for PSP originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 08 Feb 2009 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atluspersonaSun, 08 Feb 2009 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Persona remake confirmed, hitting Japan in April [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/04/persona-1-psp-remake-confirmed-hitting-japan-in-april/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/04/persona-1-psp-remake-confirmed-hitting-japan-in-april/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/04/persona-1-psp-remake-confirmed-hitting-japan-in-april/#commentsThe latest issue of Famitsu, which is due to hit Japanese news stands on Friday, confirms everyone's suspicions regarding a Persona 1 PSP remake. The game will be available in Japan on April 29 and will include new animated cutscenes and an improved user interface. No word yet on whether Atlus will bring this to other regions, but if the success of Persona 3 and 4 are anything to go by, we wouldn't be surprised.

So, if you're a relatively new Shin Megami Tensei convert and were thinking about firing up your old PS1 to try out the original Persona, it might be worthwhile to wait a couple of months. Hopefully we'll hear more from Atlus soon.

Update: A scan can be found here. Growlanser is also getting a PSP remake.

JoystiqPersona remake confirmed, hitting Japan in April [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Feb 2009 09:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atluspersonapersona-1remakeshin-megami-tenseiWed, 04 Feb 2009 09:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Atlus sends mystery image, asks '???']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/23/atlus-sends-mystery-image-asks/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/23/atlus-sends-mystery-image-asks/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/23/atlus-sends-mystery-image-asks/#commentsFiled under: ,


Atlus just sent one of the most mysterious e-mails we've received in quite some time. The subject line simply reads "???" and the body contains a single image. We see a mysterious silhouette with the words Shin Megami Tensei projected in the back.

We're not sure who this shadowy figure is. We recently reported on a possible Persona remake on PSP. Could this be related? Or, perhaps it's the unreleased Devil Summoner: Raidou 2 for PS2? Let us know what you think.

JoystiqAtlus sends mystery image, asks '???' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 23 Jan 2009 23:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atluspersonashin-megami-tenseiFri, 23 Jan 2009 23:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Atlus preparing Persona remake for PSP]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/16/rumor-atlus-preparing-persona-remake-for-psp/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/16/rumor-atlus-preparing-persona-remake-for-psp/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/16/rumor-atlus-preparing-persona-remake-for-psp/#commentsFiled under: ,


It may look like an isometric-view depiction of the "Thriller" video featuring flight attendants, but the game pictured above is actually the original Revelations: Persona -- which, according to a rumor reported on 1UP, is being remade by Atlus for PSP.

Hong Kong games mag GameWave reports that said remake of the game -- which eventually spawned last year's superb Persona 4 -- will release in Japan on April 30, 2009 for ¥5,040 ($57). 1UP points out that GameWave has been dead-on with previous reports on pending PSP announcements, lending this rumor a little more weight than usual. We've followed up with Atlus' US branch, who remained tight-lipped.

JoystiqRumor: Atlus preparing Persona remake for PSP originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Jan 2009 02:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlusmegami-tenseipersonapsprevelations-personarumorFri, 16 Jan 2009 02:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Persona coming to PSP]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/15/rumor-persona-coming-to-psp/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/15/rumor-persona-coming-to-psp/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/15/rumor-persona-coming-to-psp/#commentsFiled under:


The Persona franchise has never been hotter. The incredible success of Persona 3 and 4 on PlayStation 2 has propelled the series into the limelight. Atlus may be revisiting some of the earlier Persona games, according to a report by Play Online. They claim that Hong Kong magazine GameWave notes a Persona release for PSP on its cover (pictured).

The PSP game is supposedly based on the original Persona, which released on PlayStation 1, released in 1996. Whether or not this will be a full remake or an enhanced port is unclear. However, until Atlus officially announces the game, we're going to classify this as a rumor.

JoystiqRumor: Persona coming to PSP originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 Jan 2009 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atluspersonarumorThu, 15 Jan 2009 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview -- Persona 4 (PS2)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/09/metareview-persona-4-ps2/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/09/metareview-persona-4-ps2/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/09/metareview-persona-4-ps2/#commentsFiled under: , ,

You might look at this metareview's title and think we've made a mistake. No one makes PS2 games anymore. Not so, and as any RPG player worth their elixir knows, Atlus has been prepping the latest in its acclaimed Persona series for release on the last-gen system. Now it's here, and the reviews - praising everything from its characters to its gameplay and voice acting as best-of-breed - are absolutely glowing. (In the sense that they're really good, not "turn off your monitor and back away slowly.")
  • Game|Life (100/100): "The truly stunning thing about Persona 4 is that it just doesn't have any glaring flaws. Even though it doesn't stand up to the graphics of the Xbox 360 or PlayStation 3, the clever art style makes up for that. Those who despise reading large blocks of text in games will be pleasantly surprised by the solid voice-over work applied to almost every conversation."
  • 1UP (A+): "What really sets Persona 4 apart, though, is its endearing, relatable cast. "
  • GamePro (100/100): "I can't recommend this innovative experience highly enough, and from first time visitors to the Velvet Room to jaded MegaTen fanatics, Persona 4 is an absolute must buy."
  • WorthPlaying (95/100): "Everything - from the story to the combat system to the dungeon crawling and Social Links - has been improved. Considering that Persona 3 was already an excellent game, Persona 4 is a true standout.

JoystiqMetareview -- Persona 4 (PS2) originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Dec 2008 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlusmetareviewpersonapersona-4PS2RPGshin-megami-tenseiShin-Megami-Tensei-Persona-4Tue, 09 Dec 2008 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: Persona 2 reprint exclusively on Amazon]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/13/persona-2-reprint-exclusively-on-amazon/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/13/persona-2-reprint-exclusively-on-amazon/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/13/persona-2-reprint-exclusively-on-amazon/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

persona 2
While the prospect of ever seeing an official, localized release of Persona 2: Innocent Sin remains bleak, those who missed the second chapter, Persona 2: Eternal Punishment, when it was first released on PlayStation (yes, PS1) eight years ago, now have a second, albeit seriously limited chance to score a copy of the reprint. Bet you never thought you'd be buying a brand new (and full-priced!) PS1 game again, did you?

To commemorate the December 9th release of Persona 4, Atlus has announced an "ultra limited" reprint of Persona 2, including a bonus disc featuring the trailer and a video interview with the developers, to be sold exclusively through Amazon.com and Amazon.ca.

When, you ask? Right now! Sold out!

[Thanks to Christian, Daniel & Jay!]

JoystiqPSA: Persona 2 reprint exclusively on Amazon originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 13 Nov 2008 16:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonatluseternal-punishmentpersonapersona-2persona-2-eternal-punishmentplaystationps1PS2PS3reprintThu, 13 Nov 2008 16:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Joyswag: Persona shirts, signed art books]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/18/joyswag-persona-shirts-signed-art-books/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/18/joyswag-persona-shirts-signed-art-books/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/18/joyswag-persona-shirts-signed-art-books/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Our initial plan was to give you excellent readers brand new copies of Atlus' upcoming Persona 4, a desire which those purveyors of quirk deemed noble, but overly contingent on them finishing the game. Sensing our outraged impatience regarding the anticipated RPG's December 9th release, they instead granted us some Persona 3 art books (signed by character designer Shigenori Soejima!) and Persona 4 t-shirts (tagless!). The chance to wear Persona on your person, eh?

To enter this giveaway:
  • Leave a comment telling us who your summoned Persona is! It could be anyone or anything from Cthulhu to something infinitely more evil, like TV's Patrick Duffy.
  • You must be 18 years or older and a resident of the US or Canada (excluding Quebec and sprawling, otherworldly dungeons).
  • Limit 1 entry per person per calendar day (comment more than once and you'll be kept in detention).
  • This entry period ends at 7:00pm ET on Friday, August 22nd. We'll randomly select three winners at that time, who will receive a signed art book and t-shirt, valued at $50 (can you really put a value on that signature?). Please check your e-mail!
  • For a list of complete rules that you can peruse or shoot in the head, click here.
If you're really set on winning, sign up for the Atlus Faithful spam ... err, mailing list -- another three winners will be randomly selected from Faithful members.

Update: Entries closed! Keep an eye on your inbox over the next few days!

JoystiqJoyswag: Persona shirts, signed art books originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Aug 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AtlusJoyswagPersonaPersona-3Persona-4PS2RPGShin-Megami-TenseiShin-Megami-Tensei-Persona-4Mon, 18 Aug 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Atlus bringing Persona 4 to North America on December 9]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/06/atlus-bringing-persona-4-to-north-america-on-december-9/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/06/atlus-bringing-persona-4-to-north-america-on-december-9/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/06/atlus-bringing-persona-4-to-north-america-on-december-9/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

While Japanese audiences will be playing Persona 4 this July, North American gamers won't have to wait long to wander the halls of Gekkoukan High. Atlus USA has taken time away from blowing things up with small explosives this holiday weekend to announce plans to bring Persona 4 to North America on December 9.

Sweetening the deal even further, the publisher also notes that each copy of the game will come bundled with a soundtrack CD featuring "select music" from the title, which represents the sixth in the role-playing series, and the latest to cling tightly to Sony's aging last-gen console. If, however, you're having trouble waiting until this holiday season to get your Persona fix, check out the game's English announcement trailer after the break.

Continue reading Atlus bringing Persona 4 to North America on December 9

JoystiqAtlus bringing Persona 4 to North America on December 9 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 06 Jul 2008 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atluspersonapersona-4PS2RPGShin-Megami-TenseiShin-Megami-Tensei-Persona-4Sun, 06 Jul 2008 09:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Check out 17 minutes of Persona 4 footage]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/20/check-out-17-minutes-of-persona-4-footage/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/20/check-out-17-minutes-of-persona-4-footage/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/20/check-out-17-minutes-of-persona-4-footage/#commentsFiled under: ,

The issue of Famitsu announcing Persona 4 also included a bonus DVD insert, with a whopping 17 minutes of cutscenes and in-game footage of the highly-anticipated RPG.

The footage reveals the return of Igor, and the departure of the pistol-like "Evoker" used to summon Personae. Instead, it appears that the player-characters all wear glasses, which they remove in order to summon helpful spirits. Televisions will also play a major role in the game, which otherwise does not appear to diverge much gameplay-wise from Persona 3. Not that that's a bad thing, of course.

Check out the entire 17 minutes of footage after the break.

[Via Siliconera]

Continue reading Check out 17 minutes of Persona 4 footage

JoystiqCheck out 17 minutes of Persona 4 footage originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 20 Mar 2008 07:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlusfamitsupersonapersona-4PS2RPGshin-megami-tenseiShin-Megami-Tensei-Persona-4shinmegamitenseiThu, 20 Mar 2008 07:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Persona 4 to school Japan in July]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/18/persona-4-to-school-japan-in-july/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/18/persona-4-to-school-japan-in-july/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/18/persona-4-to-school-japan-in-july/#commentsFiled under: ,

Repetitively suicidal magical teenager news now, with Atlus Japan lifting the lid on its PlayStation 2 follow-up to Persona 3. Confirming earlier reports, Siliconera has revealed that Persona 4 is scheduled to arrive in Japan on July 10th, complete with a new weather system. Though a meteorological forecast might not sound like the most exciting addition to an RPG (unless its the name of a spell), consider that misty days will signal someone's untimely demise in Persona 4.

There's no word yet on whether Atlus USA will bring the game to English audiences, but with Persona 3: FES preparing to make the jump, we'd be surprised if this one remained in Japan. In the meantime, you can pop by insert credit for some Famitsu magazine scans showcasing the franchise's recognizable art style.

JoystiqPersona 4 to school Japan in July originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 18 Mar 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AtlusJapanPersonaPersona-4PS2RPGShin-Megami-TenseiShin-Megami-Tensei-Persona-4Tue, 18 Mar 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Atlus announces Persona 3 FES for the US on April 22]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/25/atlus-announces-persona-3-fes-for-the-us-on-april-22/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/25/atlus-announces-persona-3-fes-for-the-us-on-april-22/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/25/atlus-announces-persona-3-fes-for-the-us-on-april-22/#commentsFiled under: ,

True to its word (or at least to the word of a timer clicking down to zero), Atlus USA has lifted the shroud of secrecy off of its intentions surrounding Persona FES, announcing that it's bringing the RPG expansion to the US on April 22 for $29.99. The new package will feature both an "enhanced version" of Persona 3 with new bonus features alongside a new chapter -- promising an impressive 30+ hours of gameplay it says here.

Even better, Atlus notes that the new chapter will be able to be played independently of the core game, though players with Persona 3 game saves will be able to use their save data in the new chapter. We'd like to come up with something witty with which to close out the story, but honestly we're too busy already plotting out how exactly we're going to get our hands on the game before it disappears forever.

[UPDATE: Oops, looks like the game is coming one one disc instead of two as previously reported...blame it on lack of caffeine]

JoystiqAtlus announces Persona 3 FES for the US on April 22 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 Feb 2008 13:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlusfespersonaPersona-3-FESpersona3PS2RPGShin-Megami-TenseiShin-Megami-Tensei-Persona-3-FESMon, 25 Feb 2008 13:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Bloomberg: Persona 4 dev sticks with PS2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/19/bloomberg-persona-4-dev-sticks-with-ps2/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/19/bloomberg-persona-4-dev-sticks-with-ps2/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/19/bloomberg-persona-4-dev-sticks-with-ps2/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Already finding critical and commercial success with Persona 3 on a noticeably last-gen console, it looks like developer Atlus doesn't see any reason to jump ship for the sequel. An article at Bloomberg Japan (via Siliconera) listing upcoming Atlus titles has Persona 4 coming next fiscal year for the PlayStation 2. (Note: image above from Persona 3.)

The word doesn't come directly from Atlus, so there could be a typo or miscommunication (major news outlets are prone to mistakes every now and then). The platform, however, would not be surprising given the company's comfort with developing for the PS2 and Sony's continued success with the now value-priced system. As Siliconera notes, the timing of Persona 4's release could make it a tie-in with Persona -trinity soul-, an anime series due out next year.

JoystiqBloomberg: Persona 4 dev sticks with PS2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 19 Dec 2007 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>asiaatlusbloombergjapanjapanesepersonapersona-4PS2RPGShin-Megami-TenseiShin-Megami-Tensei-Persona-4Wed, 19 Dec 2007 20:00:00 EST