Reader’s Question:
I just started playing Persona for the first time with P5X. I want to play Persona 5, but I’m wondering if I should watch the anime or play the game first. I’m leaning towards watching the anime, but I’m concerned that it might spoil the game for me. Would
it be better to play the game first for a more enjoyable experience? Please let me know!

The Great Persona Dilemma: Anime or Game First?

Hey there, fellow gamers and anime lovers! So, I recently got a question about diving into the world of Persona, specifically with the new Persona 5 X (P5X) making waves. It’s such a great series, and I remember my first encounter with it like it was yesterday. Trust me, it feels like stepping into a whole new universe. But here’s the million-dollar question: should you watch the anime or play the game first? Buckle up, because I’m about to share my two cents on this.

My Journey into the Persona Universe

Let me take you back to when I first stumbled upon Persona 5. I was a bit skeptical at first; I mean, who has the time to invest in a game with such a rich, sprawling narrative? But I remember my friends raving about it, and hey, I’m a sucker for immersive storytelling. I decided to dive in. My first playthrough was a whirlwind of emotions—exciting battles, gripping character arcs, and those classic life-sim elements that leave you feeling all warm and fuzzy inside. Now, I get it. The anime can seem like a shortcut. It’s pretty easy to just settle into your couch and binge-watch a series. However, here’s where I stand on the matter: the game is where the magic truly happens.

Why the Game is the Way to Go

Let me spill the tea. The anime adaptation of Persona 5, while visually appealing, tends to gloss over a lot of the nuanced storytelling and character development that make the game so engaging. Think about it: the game has all these intricate relationships, side quests, and moments that allow you to really connect with the characters. When you’re playing, you’re not just observing; you’re a part of the story. You’re making decisions, forming bonds, and—most importantly—feeling the weight of your choices. If you watch the anime first, there’s a real risk of losing out on that intimate experience. The pacing in the anime feels rushed, like it’s trying to cram an entire novel into a short story. I mean, sure, you get to see the main plot points, but what about all the smaller, heartfelt moments that make the characters feel like friends rather than just pixels on a screen? Also, be warned: if you watch the anime first, it might spoil some of the twists that hit harder when you experience them firsthand in the game. There’s something special about figuring out the mysteries and conflicts as you play. It’s like piecing together a puzzle; the satisfaction you get when you finally complete it is unmatched.

The Case for Persona 5 Royal

If you’re leaning towards starting with the game, I highly recommend going for Persona 5 Royal (P5R) instead of the original. Not only does P5R include everything from Persona 5, but it also adds new characters, expanded storylines, and enhanced mechanics that make for a richer experience. Trust me, playing Royal feels like getting an upgraded version of a game you already love, and it’s basically a must-play if you’re diving into the series. Imagine this: You’re exploring the vibrant streets of Tokyo, forming friendships, battling Shadows, and—oh, the thrill when you finally win over that one character you’ve been working on! It’s moments like these that are so beautifully fleshed out in the game, and you simply can’t replicate that feeling through the anime.

Wrapping It Up

At the end of the day, I truly believe that the game offers a much more fulfilling and immersive experience than the anime. If you’re seeking the depth and emotional connection that Persona is known for, playing the game first is the way to go. So, to answer your question: yes, play the game first. Experience the rich narrative, develop those relationships, and engage with the world. Save the anime for later, as a fun way to revisit the story after you’ve conquered the game. You’ll appreciate it much more that way, trust me. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to go back to my P5R file. There are still some confidants I need to max out! Happy gaming, everyone!