Casey Mitchell
The Persona Franchise Expands into the Strategy Genre with Persona 5 Tactica
The Persona franchise, known for its adaptability, is once again venturing into a new genre with the upcoming release of Persona 5 Tactica. This strategy game showcases the franchise’s ability to excel in different genres, thanks to its stylish nature, vibrant visual style, and charismatic characters.
Genre-Bending at Gamescom
During Gamescom, Sega/Atlus provided a sneak peek at Persona 5 Tactica, offering a unique twist on the familiar world of Persona. In this game, players will guide the beloved Phantom Thieves, including Joker, Ryuji, Lady Ann, Morgana, Futaba, and more, as they embark on a new adventure. However, instead of the usual RPG social-sim gameplay, this time their escapades will take the form of tactical, strategic, and turn-based action.
A New Take on Turn-Based Strategy
While the Persona series is known for its turn-based combat, Persona 5 Tactica introduces a top-down, turn-based tactics approach similar to games like XCOM or Valkyria Chronicles. Players will still utilize melee, firearm, and Persona-based abilities, but the gameplay mechanics will be more focused on strategic positioning and planning.
An Alternate Fantasy World
Set concurrently with the events of Persona 5, Tactica immerses players in an alternate fantasy world inspired by Medieval Europe. The Phantom Thieves find themselves caught up in a historical revolution led by the Rebel Corps and its courageous freedom fighter, Erina. Determined to fight against the oppressive forces, Joker and his friends join the rebellion in hopes of freeing the kingdom and returning home in time for their everyday responsibilities.
Gameplay Mechanics
In the demo showcased at Gamescom, players had the opportunity to experience several battles, commanding Joker, Morgana, and Erina as they navigated through enemy soldiers. The gameplay follows the typical turn-based tactics formula, requiring players to plan their moves carefully and secure advantageous positions on the battlefield. Each character has their own unique abilities and movement limitations, allowing players to strategically place them on the battlefield, take cover, retreat, or attack as needed. Cover plays a crucial role in both offense and defense, requiring players to find the best line of sight while avoiding enemy fire.
Additionally, the characters’ Personas play a significant role in battle, whether it’s destroying enemy cover, boosting ally abilities, or setting up devastating attacks. The iconic battle elements from the Persona series, such as ‘1 More,’ ‘Shift,’ and ‘All-Out Attack,’ are also present in Persona 5 Tactica, ensuring that fans of the franchise will find familiar mechanics in this new genre.
A Charming Art Style
Similar to the Persona Q titles, Persona 5 Tactica features a chibi art style that perfectly complements the game’s tabletop feel. The characters’ personalities are exaggerated, resulting in comical and goofy reactions from the squad. The voice cast from Persona 5 returns, bringing life to the jovial dialogue. One notable boss introduced in the demo is Lady Marie, who arrives in a peculiar bridal roadster, accompanied by her troops and her signature ‘Noblewoman’s Laugh.’ Her presence adds an extra layer of charm to the game.
A Fresh Chapter for P5 Fans
Persona 5 Tactica promises to be another exciting spinoff release for fans of the franchise. While players’ interest in the strategy genre may influence their enjoyment of the game, the fully-established cast, stylish aesthetic, and the introduction of new allies, villains, and locales ensure an engaging and fresh experience. Persona 5 Tactica is set to launch on November 17 for PC, PlayStation 4 and 5, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch.
Source: [PCGamesN](https://www.pcgamesn.com/persona-5-tactica/preview)
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