Are All Persona Games Connected?

The Persona series is a long-running JRPG series developed by Atlus. The games are famous for their focus on social interaction, character development, and turn-based combat. While each Persona game is a standalone experience, there are a number of connections between the games that suggest that they are all set in the same universe. So, are all Persona games connected? Read on as we answer just that. 

Elements That Connect All Existing Persona Games

The Velvet Room

One of the most obvious connections between the Persona games is the Velvet Room. The Velvet Room is a mysterious realm where the protagonist can summon and fuse Personas. The Velvet Room houses Igor, a mysterious man in a top hat. He always comes with an assistant, who changes gender and appearance depending on the game. This atmospheric and tone-setting room has been a staple across Persona games. So much so that many believe every game moving forward should feature it still.

Recurring Themes

Another connection between the Persona games is the recurring themes of self-discovery, personal growth, and facing one’s fears. In each game, the protagonist must learn to accept their Shadow, a dark aspect of their personality, in order to grow and become stronger. On top of that, there is also always a central mystery that players should try and solve throughout the whole game. This keeps them on their toes piecing out every clue they get with each story chapter.

Characters

There are also a number of recurring characters in the Persona games. For example, Elizabeth, a character from Persona 3, appears as a supporting character in Persona 4 Arena. Additionally, there are a number of references to events from previous games in later games. One of the most famous examples of this is in Persona 4. The gang travels to the school where the events of Persona 3 took place as part of their school trip. Apart from serving as a magnificent fanservice to those that follow the series enthusiastically, it also cements that the two games really do exist in the same universe.

Canonicity

The Persona series has a complex canonicity. Some games are more involved than others. For example, Persona 1, Persona 2: Innocent Sin, and Persona 2: Eternal Punishment are all directly connected, forming a single story arc. Persona 3 and Persona 4 as well. However, they are not as directly connected as the Persona 1-2 games.

Additional Connections Among Persona Games

In addition to the connections above, there are a number of other ways in which the Persona games connect to each other. For example, the Persona games all use the same mythological and religious references. Additionally, the games all feature similar gameplay mechanics, such as the use of Personas and the fusion of Personas.

The Persona games are a rich and complex series with deep lore. The connections between the games are just one of the things that make the series so appealing to fans. If you are a fan of the Persona games, I encourage you to explore the connections between them and learn more about the series’ lore.

Are Persona Games In The Same Time Period?

It is important to note that the Persona games are not all set in the same timeline. Persona 1 and Persona 2 are set in the 1990s, Persona 3 is set in the early 2000s, Persona 4 is set in the mid-2000s, and Persona 5 is set in the late 2010s. However, the games are all set in the same universe and share a number of common elements, such as the ones mentioned above.

It is also worth mentioning that the Persona games are not from the same time period. This is because they are not meant to be a realistic portrayal of the real world. Instead, they are a stylized version of the real world that allows the developers to explore themes of personal growth and identity without the constrictions of realism.

For example, Persona games often feature characters who are able to summon Personas, which are manifestations of their inner selves. These Personas allow the characters to tap into their hidden potential and overcome challenges that they would not be able to face on their own.

The Persona games also often feature supernatural elements, such as demons and other creatures from mythology. These elements add to the sense of mystery and intrigue that is central to the Persona experience.

Conclusion

While the Persona games are not directly connected in the same way that the Final Fantasy games are, there are a number of connections between them that suggest that they are all set in the same universe. Such is the case for the direct connections between some entries, such as Persona 1 and 2 and Persona 3 and 4. Going by this pattern, it’s safe to assume that the inevitable Persona 6 will directly connect to Persona 5, right? 

Whether or not the Persona games are officially canon to each other is up for debate. However, there is no doubt that they are all part of a larger story.