Persona 3 is a role-playing video game developed by Atlus and released in 2006 for the PlayStation 2. The game has since been ported to other platforms, including the PlayStation Portable, PlayStation 3, and PlayStation Vita. As it currently stands, there are three Persona 3 versions. Persona 3: the original game, Persona 3 FES, and Persona 3 Portable. If the rumors are true, we can add the Persona 3 Remake here at a later date.
In this article, we will give you a quick overview of the three Persona 3 versions in existence, why they were made in the first place, and the best version of Persona 3 for you to play.
Original Persona 3 (2006)
The original Persona 3 was released in Japan in 2006 and in North America and Europe in 2007. The game follows a group of high school students who fight monsters called Shadows during a time known as the Dark Hour. The game features a unique battle system that combines turn-based combat with elements of social simulation. Many see the original Persona 3 as the catalyst that put the Persona series on the map of the gaming space worldwide. Without it succeeding, maybe the excellent Atlus series won’t be as famous outside Japan as it is now.
Persona 3 FES (2007)
Persona 3 FES is an enhanced version of the original game that released in Japan in 2007 and in North America and Europe in 2008. The game features a new epilogue called The Answer, which tells the story of what happens after the events of the original game. FES also includes a new playable character named Aigis, as well as new features such as a female protagonist and a controllable party. This Persona 3 version is basically an expansion of the original, compelling many to believe that this is the definitive version of the Persona 3 property.
Persona 3 Portable (2009)
Persona 3 Portable is a port of the original game for the PlayStation Portable that released in Japan in 2009 and in North America and Europe in 2010. The game features a new female protagonist, as well as new features such as a controllable party and a new dungeon called Tartarus. Recently, the game became available on PC as well.
While it is indeed great that people can now take Persona 3 wherever they go as long as they have the PSP, many were disappointed with how Atlus handled Persona 3 Portable. For one, they made the game like a visual novel. Players no longer have the ability to walk around the map, they just have to push a few buttons and get to where they want automatically. Yes, such a change will help those who thought the free time exploration of Persona games was monotonous. However, the same number of people, perhaps more, were down by this change.
Why Are There Three P3 Versions
Persona 3 has different versions for a few reasons.
- To add new content. Persona 3 FES added a new epilogue called The Answer. It tells the story of what happens after the events of the original game. It also included a new playable character named Aigis. Persona 3 Portable, on the other hand, changed the gameplay loop drastically. It has several new features such as a female protagonist and a controllable party.
- To make the game more accessible. Persona 3 Portable is available for the PlayStation Portable, which was a more portable console than the PlayStation 2. This made the game more accessible to players who wanted to play it on the go.
- To appeal to a wider audience. Persona 3 Portable features a playable female protagonist. This was the first time in the series players were tasked to pick their main character. This made the game more appealing to female players.
Ultimately, the different versions of Persona 3 offer players a variety of ways to experience the game. Whether you want to experience the original game, the enhanced version, or the portable version, there is a version of Persona 3 that is right for you.
Whether or not Persona 3 having different versions was necessary is a matter of opinion. Some people might argue that it was unnecessary, as the original game was already a great game. Others might argue that the different versions were necessary to provide players with more options and appeal to a wider audience.
Which Version Should You Play?
The best version of Persona 3 for you will depend on your personal preferences. If you want to experience the original game, then the original Persona 3 is a good option. If you want to experience the game with a female protagonist, then Persona 3 Portable is a good option. However, if you want to play Persona 3 at its best, then Persona 3 FES is for you.
In our honest opinion, it is the best game among the three Persona 3 versions. People are right. It is the definitive version of the Persona 3 property. Maybe because we just hate how it effectively became a visual novel. That said, Persona 3 Portable comes a close second in our recommendation.
With all that said, no matter which of the Persona 3 versions you choose, you are sure to enjoy Persona 3. The game is a classic JRPG that features a great story, memorable characters, and an addictive battle system.
