If you loved Persona 5 and are craving more games that offer a similar experience, you’re in luck! We’ve compiled a list of 20 games that capture the essence of Persona 5’s unique blend of gameplay, storytelling, and character development.
From other entries in the Persona series to titles that explore similar themes, here are some recommendations to keep you entertained for many hours to come!
Persona 4 Golden
Persona 4 Golden, a remastered version of the PlayStation 2 classic, is widely regarded as one of the best RPGs of all time.
Set in the rural town of Inaba, it follows a group of high school students as they uncover a series of mysterious murders. With its captivating storyline, memorable characters, and engaging social links, Persona 4 Golden offers a rich and immersive experience that fans of Persona 5 are sure to enjoy.
Players take on the role of a transfer student who has recently moved to the quiet town of Inaba. As the protagonist, you quickly become entangled in a string of bizarre incidents that have been plaguing the town.
With the help of your newfound friends, you must navigate the treacherous world of the Midnight Channel, a mysterious television program that seems to hold the key to the murders.
One of the standout features of Persona 4 Golden is its unique blend of dungeon crawling and social simulation.
During the day, players can explore Inaba and interact with various characters, building relationships and uncovering their personal stories. These social links not only provide valuable information and assistance in battle but also add depth and emotional weight to the overall narrative.
With its stunning visuals, memorable soundtrack, and hours upon hours of gameplay, Persona 4 Golden is a must-play for any RPG enthusiast.
Persona 3 FES
Before there was Persona 5, there was Persona 3, and its enhanced version, Persona 3 FES, is another great choice for fans of the series.
Set in a modern-day Tokyo boarding school, the game follows the protagonist as they navigate the balance between their daily life and battling supernatural creatures known as Shadows.
Featuring an emotional and thought-provoking narrative, Persona 3 FES offers a unique blend of dungeon crawling and social simulation.
The protagonist, along with a group of classmates who possess the ability to summon powerful manifestations of their inner selves called Personas, must explore Tartarus and fight against the Shadows that dwell within. These Shadows are the physical manifestations of negative emotions and are a threat to both the protagonist and the people of Tokyo.
The game also places a heavy emphasis on the protagonist’s daily life. During the day, players must attend classes, build relationships with other students, and engage in various activities to improve their character’s stats and social links.
Building social links is a crucial aspect of the game as it not only enhances the protagonist’s abilities in battle but also allows for deeper character development and story progression.
Each social link represents a unique relationship with a different character, and by spending time with them and getting to know them better, players can unlock special abilities and gain insight into their personal struggles.
The game’s narrative is filled with themes of life, death, and the meaning of existence. It explores the characters’ struggles with their own mortality and the choices they make in the face of inevitable death.
Shin Megami Tensei Series
The Shin Megami Tensei series, the parent franchise of the Persona series, is another treasure trove for fans craving captivating stories and challenging gameplay.
With a focus on moral choices and dark themes, these games offer a more mature take on the RPG genre.
From exploring post-apocalyptic Tokyo in Shin Megami Tensei III: Nocturne to unraveling the secrets of demon summoning in Shin Megami Tensei IV, these titles provide a fresh and exciting experience for players.
One of the defining features of the Shin Megami Tensei series is the demon negotiation and fusion system.
Throughout the games, players can recruit and negotiate with various demons they encounter, convincing them to join their party or provide valuable information.
The fusion system allows players to combine demons to create more powerful allies, offering a deep level of customization and strategic possibilities.
With its mature storytelling, thought-provoking themes, and challenging gameplay, the Shin Megami Tensei series has garnered a dedicated fanbase over the years. The games’ dark and atmospheric worlds, combined with their complex decision-making mechanics, provide a unique and immersive experience that keeps players coming back for more.
Tokyo Xanadu eX+
If you’re looking for a game that combines the stylish visuals and engrossing storytelling of Persona 5 with action-packed gameplay, Tokyo Xanadu eX+ is a fantastic choice.
Set in modern-day Tokyo, the game follows high school student Kou Tokisaka as he battles demons within a mysterious parallel world.
With its fast-paced combat, deep character customization, and captivating plot, Tokyo Xanadu eX+ is a must-play for fans of the Persona series.
Fire Emblem: Three Houses
Fire Emblem: Three Houses is not just your typical turn-based strategy game; it also offers a rich narrative and character-driven experience that will keep you engaged for countless hours.
As a professor at the prestigious Officer’s Academy, you must guide your students through their academic and personal lives while preparing them for battle.
With its complex relationships, strategic battles, and deep lore, Fire Emblem: Three Houses is a game that fans of Persona 5 won’t want to miss.
Danganronpa Series
If you enjoyed the thrilling murder mysteries of Persona 5, then the Danganronpa series is definitely worth checking out.
This visual novel franchise puts you in the shoes of high school students trapped in a deadly game of deceit and survival.
With its gripping storyline, memorable characters, and challenging puzzle-solving, the Danganronpa series will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.
The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel Series
The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel series offers a similar blend of engaging storytelling and deep character development, making it a great choice for Persona 5 fans.
Set in the fantasy world of Erebonia, these games follow the journey of Class VII, a group of students at the prestigious Thors Military Academy.
With its intricate plot, well-written dialogue, and strategic turn-based combat, The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel series is a must-play for any RPG enthusiast.
Blue Reflection
Blue Reflection is a visually stunning RPG that focuses on the lives of high school girls and their struggles with everyday problems.
As Hinako Shirai, a young ballet dancer with the power to transform into a magical Reflector, you must balance your school life, friendships, and battles against mysterious forces.
With its beautiful music, captivating story, and unique gameplay mechanics, Blue Reflection offers a refreshing take on the RPG genre.
Catherine
Catherine, developed by the same team behind the Persona series, is a unique blend of puzzle-solving, adventure, and romance.
The game follows Vincent Brooks, a man torn between his longtime girlfriend, Katherine, and a mysterious woman named Catherine.
With its branching narrative, challenging puzzles, and adult-oriented themes, Catherine offers a thought-provoking experience that will keep you guessing until the end.
13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim
13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim is a narrative-driven game that seamlessly blends together elements of visual novels and real-time strategy battles.
Set in a world on the brink of destruction, the game follows the intertwining stories of thirteen protagonists as they uncover a conspiracy surrounding massive mechs known as Sentinels.
With its stunning hand-drawn art, deep character development, and engaging gameplay, 13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim is a standout title for fans of Persona 5.
Atelier Ryza Series
The Atelier Ryza series offers a compelling mix of traditional JRPG gameplay and a heartwarming coming-of-age story. Players follow the adventures of Ryza, a young alchemist with dreams of exploring the world.
As you embark on Ryza’s journey, you’ll find yourself immersed in a vibrant and enchanting world.
The turn-based combat system adds an extra layer of strategy to the gameplay. You’ll need to carefully plan your actions, utilizing the unique abilities of each character to overcome challenging foes.
The battles are fast-paced and exciting, keeping you on your toes as you navigate through the game’s various dungeons and encounter powerful bosses.
Similar to the beloved Persona 5, the Atelier Ryza series places a strong emphasis on character development and interaction. As you progress through the games, you’ll have the opportunity to deepen your relationships with the various characters, unlocking special events and side quests that provide further insight into their lives.
Digimon Story: Cyber Sleuth
For those who enjoy the blend of virtual worlds and supernatural elements found in Persona 5, Digimon Story: Cyber Sleuth is a must-play.
In this game, players take on the role of a hacker who can traverse between the real and digital realms.
With its captivating storyline, strategic turn-based battles, and a vast array of Digimon to collect and train, this title offers a unique and thrilling experience.
The game’s intricate plot will keep you on the edge of your seat, as you uncover dark secrets and unravel a web of mysteries.
One of the highlights of Digimon Story: Cyber Sleuth is its strategic turn-based battles. As a hacker, you’ll have to rely on your tactical skills and carefully plan your moves to outsmart your opponents.
Each Digimon in your team has unique abilities and strengths, allowing for a wide range of strategic possibilities. Whether you prefer to go on the offensive or adopt a more defensive approach, the game offers plenty of options to suit your playstyle.
As you progress through the game, you’ll encounter various challenges and obstacles that will test your skills as a hacker. From solving complex puzzles to infiltrating heavily guarded digital fortresses, Digimon Story: Cyber Sleuth offers a wide range of gameplay experiences that will keep you engaged and entertained for hours on end.
Valkyria Chronicles
If you’re drawn to the strategic combat and the richly detailed worlds in Persona 5, consider giving Valkyria Chronicles a chance.
This tactical RPG combines turn-based battles with real-time action, allowing players to plan their moves strategically and immerse themselves in a war-torn alternate reality.
Set in the fictional continent of Europa, Valkyria Chronicles takes place during a time of conflict between two powerful nations, the Atlantic Federation and the East Europan Imperial Alliance.
The game introduces players to a unique blend of fantasy and realism, as it incorporates elements of World War II-era weaponry and tactics, while also incorporating fantastical elements such as Valkyria, individuals with supernatural abilities.
As players progress through the game, they will not only engage in thrilling battles but also uncover a deep and engaging narrative. Valkyria Chronicles explores themes of love, friendship, sacrifice, and the horrors of war.
The story is expertly crafted, with unexpected twists and turns that will keep players invested until the very end.
Conception II: Children of the Seven Stars
Similar to Persona 5, Conception II: Children of the Seven Stars explores the theme of forging meaningful social connections.
Set in a school where students battle monsters together, players must build relationships with their classmates to strengthen their abilities in battle.
The game features turn-based combat, dungeon exploration, and an intriguing story that revolves around uncovering the mysteries of the world.
As players progress through the game, they will have the opportunity to engage in deep and meaningful conversations with the Disciples and other characters.
These conversations not only provide valuable insights into the characters’ personalities and backgrounds but also allow players to strengthen their bonds and unlock new abilities for the Star Children.
Aside from the social aspect, Conception II: Children of the Seven Stars offers challenging turn-based combat.
Players must strategically plan their moves and utilize the unique abilities of their Star Children to overcome formidable enemies.
The game also features dungeon exploration, where players can uncover treasures, solve puzzles, and encounter powerful bosses.
Death end re;Quest
With its blend of RPG elements and visual novel-style storytelling, Death end re;Quest is a compelling choice for fans of Persona 5.
The game follows the journey of a game developer who becomes trapped in her own creation, where she must battle through a dangerous virtual world.
The unique twist of merging the digital and physical realms, along with complex characters and immersive gameplay, sets this title apart.
Caligula Effect
For fans of Persona 5 who appreciate psychological themes and thought-provoking narratives, Caligula Effect offers a mind-bending experience.
Set in a virtual world called Mobius, players must navigate a society where people are trapped by their desires and fears.
With its turn-based combat system and deep exploration of human psychology, this game is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Tales of Berseria
Tales of Berseria stands out as a fantastic choice for those who enjoy the immersive storytelling and dynamic characters of Persona 5.
This action RPG follows the journey of Velvet, a young woman seeking revenge against a powerful figure.
The game features fast-paced battles, a richly detailed world, and an emotionally charged narrative that explores themes of redemption and sacrifice.
Xenoblade Chronicles Series
For players who appreciate sprawling open worlds and epic tales, the Xenoblade Chronicles series offers an unforgettable experience.
These action RPGs feature a seamless blend of real-time combat, exploration, and a deep narrative that spans across vast landscapes.
With its immersive gameplay, diverse cast of characters, and intricate storytelling, this series is a must-play for fans of Persona 5.
Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster
If you’re seeking a captivating JRPG with unforgettable characters and a compelling narrative, Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster is an excellent choice.
This remastered edition brings two beloved classics together, immersing players in the fantasy world of Spira.
With its strategic turn-based combat, emotional storytelling, and stunning visuals, this title provides a memorable journey that is sure to captivate fans of Persona 5.
Yakuza: Like a Dragon
For those who enjoy the blend of RPG mechanics and a modern-day setting found in Persona 5, Yakuza: Like a Dragon is a must-play.
This game follows the story of Ichiban Kasuga, a low-ranking yakuza member who embarks on a quest for redemption.
With its dynamic turn-based combat, vibrant open world, and a compelling narrative, this title offers a unique and captivating experience.
Conclusion
If you’re craving more games like Persona 5, these 20 titles provide a diverse range of immersive experiences.
Whether you’re drawn to the rich storytelling, strategic combat, or character-driven narratives, each game on this list is sure to captivate and entertain.
So grab your controller and embark on a new adventure, as these games offer countless hours of entertainment for fans of Persona 5 and JRPG enthusiasts alike!
