Persona 5: Royal feels like a love letter to fans of the original, but with so much extra heart packed into it. The biggest change is obviously Kasumi Yoshizawa—she’s not just a new face; her story intertwines with Joker’s in a way that adds emotional depth to the narrative. Her Confidant arc is one of the most touching in the game, and her persona, Cendrillon, is visually stunning in battle.
Then there’s Akechi. Oh man, they fleshed him out way more. In the original, he was intriguing but kinda one-note. Royal gives him a third-semester arc that completely recontextualizes his actions, making him feel more tragic and layered. The new scenes with him and Joker—especially in the jazz club—add so much to their dynamic. Plus, the added showtime attacks and the grappling hook mechanic make palace exploration way more fun.