Revelations: Persona

"Hey, Persona!"

I just can't believe I missed this game when it first came out (then again, being a high school student without a job can really do it to you!) Thankfully, there are stores that still carry this game (used, but with instructions nonetheless!) Even though I'm not a diehard RPG freak, I must say this is truly one of the best games I've ever played!


Graphics: 10/10
Really puts the PlayStation to the test! A 3/4 view of each room allows you to see what's going on as you (a teenage boy from a high school in Japan whom you name yourself) explore and interact with friends. In corridors, you see everything from a first person view while you roam. Outside, you have an overhead view. When a battle starts, the screen will fade away in one of many different ways. What's really cool is when your Persona attacks. They come to you in a great effect and attack!


Sounds: 10/10
The music is amazing. Each song truly matches the mood of the area and helps you feel it. You even hear little noises like people talking or footsteps as you walk around in corridors. During battle, when your characters attack, they'll let out a battle cry or yell 'Persona!' if they need their spiritual helper. Instead of Japanese voices, these are done in English (not that I have anything against Japanese, but it's nice to hear something in English!) and they actually sound great!


Controls: 9/10
Ok, so maneuvering around the 3/4 view takes a little getting used to! Otherwise, the easy controls make fighting, walking in 3D, and arranging your party and items a breeze! It's simpler than Final Fantasy, yet has features that would be standard to that series.


Replay: 10/10
There are several different endings, all depending on how you play. You can even communicate with certain enemies to change their moods to see if they'll go peacefully, or even join you. However, be careful how you treat them or they may get angry! Another good thing is how if a player goes down in battle, they'll return afterward with a little HP (no need for extra reviving potions!)


Overall: 10/10
If you like RPGs, Persona is truly a game that deserves a look at. Even if you don't, I suggest giving it a try and see how it fares with you!

Reviewer's Score: 10/10, Originally Posted: 04/23/00, Updated 07/16/01