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MONSTER

Persona 3 Portable

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Persona 3 Portable
Item: Persona 3 Portable
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, RPG, Visual Novel, Anime and JRPG, Drama, Strategy, Single Player

AvailableJan 19, 2023

PlatformXbox One, PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X

DeveloperAtlus

Overview

Persona 3 Portable is an enhanced remake of Persona 3 for the PlayStation Portable. The game features an option to play as a female character, which alters some aspects of the story. In addition to the new playable character, there are two new difficulty levels to select from alongside the original game's three. The game also features some other story related changes regardless of the player character gender. The battle system is also updated to be closer that of Persona 4.

Elsewhere

8.3

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Shin Megami Tensei: Persona 3 Portable is critically acclaimed for its moody atmosphere, sharp writing, and deep exploration of themes like mortality and depression. Reviewers praise its compelling narrative, character development, and the addition of a female protagonist that enhances engagement. While some note slow pacing and uneven plot flow, the game's rich storytelling and emotional depth solidify its status as a standout in the JRPG genre.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

94%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story of Shin Megami Tensei: Persona 3 Portable has garnered widespread acclaim from critics, who praise its moody atmosphere, sharp writing, and compelling narrative. Reviewers from PC Invasion and PC Gamer highlight the game's exploration of heavy themes such as mortality, existential dread, and depression, showcasing the depth of character interactions and relationships. Critics like Noisy Pixel and NintendoWorldReport commend the effective pacing of the plot, particularly in the latter parts of the game, where character development shines through. The addition of a female protagonist, as noted by Xbox Achievements and Hey Poor Player, enriches the narrative experience, offering unique perspectives and social links that enhance engagement with the story. Overall, the narrative is described as captivating, with a blend of supernatural elements and relatable high school experiences that resonate with players. Despite the overwhelmingly positive reception, some critics have pointed out certain shortcomings in the storytelling. For instance, KeenGamer mentions that the narrative can feel like a slow burn, particularly in its initial stages, which may deter some players from fully immersing themselves in the experience. Additionally, Nintendo Life notes that the pacing can be uneven at times, with moments of slow plot development that might disrupt the overall flow. While the game is celebrated for its darker themes and serious atmosphere, as highlighted by INVEN and Hobby Consolas, there are suggestions that some concepts may feel dated compared to the innovations introduced in later entries of the series. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Persona 3 Portable offers a rich and engaging narrative that stands out in the JRPG genre. The combination of a compelling story, strong character development, and the exploration of profound themes resonates with players, making it a significant entry in the Persona series. Critics like Areajugones and Tech-Gaming emphasize the game's ability to tackle weighty issues while maintaining a captivating narrative. While some pacing issues and the slow start have been noted, the majority of reviewers agree that the story's depth and emotional resonance make it a worthwhile experience, solidifying its reputation as one of the best narratives in the medium.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Persona 3 Portable offers a compelling blend of social simulation and turn-based combat, praised for its character interactions and strategic gameplay. However, it faces significant backlash for its monotonous and repetitive dungeon design, leaving critics divided. While many enjoy the engaging mechanics and nostalgic elements, the outdated dungeon crawling detracts from the overall experience, leading to a mixed consensus.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

52%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

48%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Persona 3 Portable has received a variety of opinions, with several critics highlighting its strengths. Many reviewers appreciate the blend of social simulation and dungeon crawling, which creates a unique gameplay loop that encourages players to balance their time between school life and combat. For instance, WellPlayed notes the rewarding nature of this loop, emphasizing how players build relationships during the day and engage in strategic turn-based battles at night. Critics like XboxEra and Pure Xbox commend the combat system for its engaging mechanics, such as the ability to exploit enemy weaknesses and the introduction of co-op attacks, which enhance the overall experience. Additionally, TouchArcade and Gaming Nexus point out that the game features enjoyable and challenging mechanics, with the social link system being integral to the gameplay. However, the gameplay has also faced significant criticism, particularly regarding its dungeon-crawling elements. Reviewers such as NME and Xbox Achievements express disappointment over the monotonous and repetitive nature of the dungeon design, which contrasts unfavorably with the more polished experiences found in later titles like Persona 4 and Persona 5. Critics like Worth Playing and PC Gamer echo these sentiments, highlighting the grindy experience that can arise from the repetitive dungeon layouts. Furthermore, Tech-Gaming mentions that while the turn-based battles are engaging, the extensive number of procedurally generated floors in Tartarus can become tedious, leading to a sense of fatigue during exploration. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed, with a clear divide between those who enjoy the social simulation aspects and those frustrated by the outdated dungeon design. While many reviewers, such as Vooks and Nintendo Life, appreciate the engaging gameplay mechanics and the nostalgic elements of the game, others, like The Games Machine and GamingTrend, point out the limitations and repetitiveness that hinder the overall experience. The combination of strong character interactions and strategic combat is praised, yet it is often overshadowed by the criticisms of the dungeon-crawling segments, which many feel have not aged well. Thus, while Persona 3 Portable retains its charm and appeal, it also struggles with certain gameplay aspects that detract from its overall enjoyment.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Persona 3 Portable features a blend of improved graphics and distinct aesthetics, with some critics praising its character designs and handheld presentation. However, many reviews express disappointment over downgraded visuals and the loss of animated cutscenes, leading to a lack of immersion and dramatic impact. While the game retains charm, it ultimately struggles to meet modern expectations, leaving critics divided on its visual appeal compared to predecessors.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

10%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

85%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of Persona 3 Portable have garnered a mix of opinions, with some critics highlighting notable improvements and a distinct aesthetic. For instance, DualShockers praises the game for its significant graphical enhancements compared to the original release, noting "crisp and vivid character designs and environments" that contribute positively to the overall aesthetic experience. Similarly, WellPlayed commends the game for its distinct visual style, which translates well to handheld formats, maintaining high-quality presentations with animated menus. Critics such as Nintendo Insider and Siliconera also acknowledge that while some backgrounds may have been poorly upscaled, the character art and 3D models have held up well, suggesting that there are elements of the visual design that resonate positively with players. Conversely, a substantial number of reviews express disappointment regarding the game's visual presentation, particularly when compared to its predecessors. Critics like TouchArcade and Attack of the Fanboy lament the downgraded visuals, emphasizing that the transition to a visual novel format has diminished the impact of the game's dramatic moments and overall atmosphere. XboxEra and Push Square echo these sentiments, pointing out the lack of animated cutscenes and the reliance on low-resolution images that detract from immersion. Many reviewers, including GameCritics and KeenGamer, note that the graphics show their age, with some environments appearing lifeless and repetitive, indicating a clear sense of nostalgia that does not translate well into modern gaming expectations. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Persona 3 Portable retains some charm and aesthetic appeal, it ultimately suffers from its visual limitations and compromises made during its transition from the PSP. The removal of animated cutscenes and the shift to static visuals have left many feeling that the game does not live up to the legacy of its predecessors. Critics like PC Gamer and Gaming Nexus highlight the contentious nature of the visual design, suggesting that while some aspects are improved, the overall experience is marred by the game's history and the constraints of its original platform. The mixed reception indicates that while the game has its merits, it may not fully satisfy those seeking a visually compelling experience akin to more modern titles.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Persona 3 Portable boasts a largely praised soundtrack, celebrated for its diverse mix of genres and emotional depth, with new tracks for the female protagonist's route enhancing the experience. However, some critics note issues like repetitive music loops and lower audio quality in voice acting. Overall, the sound design significantly enriches the game's atmosphere, making it a standout feature despite minor flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

73%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

27%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Persona 3 Portable have garnered a predominantly positive reception from critics, with many praising the quality and diversity of the soundtrack. Reviewers like Push Square and Areajugones describe the soundtrack as a "masterpiece" and "phenomenal," emphasizing its ability to embody the essence of the Persona series through a mix of genres, including hip-hop, jazz, rock, and pop. Critics such as Gaming Nexus and Xbox Achievements commend the soundtrack for its catchy and memorable tracks, which enhance the emotional depth of the game and fit well with the narrative. The incorporation of new music for the female protagonist's route has also been highlighted as a significant enhancement, with PC Gamer noting that it enriches the overall experience. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, some critics have pointed out certain shortcomings in the sound design and music. For instance, Attack of the Fanboy mentions that the music loop in Tartarus becomes monotonous, detracting from the gameplay experience. Additionally, NME criticizes the soundtrack for being repetitive and less memorable compared to previous entries in the series. GamingTrend raises concerns about sound effects and voice acting suffering from compression issues, which may affect the overall audio quality. Furthermore, Nintendo Insider notes that while the audio quality is generally acceptable, the English voice acting seems to be of slightly lower quality. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Persona 3 Portable features a strong and engaging sound design and music that significantly contribute to the game's atmosphere and storytelling. While there are some criticisms regarding repetitiveness and audio quality, the majority of reviewers, including WellPlayed and God is a Geek, affirm that the soundtrack is a standout feature that enhances the player experience. The combination of quality voice acting and a rich, diverse soundtrack has left a lasting impression, solidifying Persona 3 Portable as a notable entry in the series.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Shin Megami Tensei: Persona 3 Portable boasts strong voice acting, particularly in Japanese, enhancing the game’s emotional depth and storytelling. However, the English voice acting receives mixed reviews, with some performances criticized as subpar, leading to a split reception. The dual-language option is a plus, but the lackluster English dub may disappoint some players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

53%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

42%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Shin Megami Tensei: Persona 3 Portable has garnered a generally positive reception among critics, particularly for its dual-language options, which include both English and Japanese voiceovers. Many reviewers, such as Digital Chumps and RPG Fan, praised the high quality of the voice acting, highlighting how it effectively conveys emotions and enhances the storytelling experience. Critics like God is a Geek and WellPlayed emphasized the top-notch quality of the Japanese voice acting, noting that it significantly enriches character interactions and overall narrative immersion. The inclusion of both English and Japanese tracks has been appreciated by various reviewers, including Nintenderos and Nintendo Insider, who mentioned that this feature adds depth to the gaming experience. However, the reviews also reveal notable criticisms, particularly regarding the English voice acting. GamingTrend pointed out that while the English version is mostly enjoyable, certain performances, such as Fuuka's, received specific criticism. NME went further to describe the English dub as "god-awful," indicating a significant drawback in the voice acting quality. This sentiment is echoed by other critics who noted that while most voice actors performed well, there were a few odd performances that detracted from the overall experience, as mentioned by PlayStation Universe. Such inconsistencies in the English voice acting have led to a mixed reception, especially for players who prefer that version. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while the voice acting in Persona 3 Portable has its strengths, particularly in the Japanese version, there are considerable shortcomings in the English dub. Reviewers like RPGamer and TheXboxHub highlighted the emotional depth and character engagement provided by the voice acting, yet the negative feedback from critics like NME and GamingTrend suggests that the English performances may not meet the expectations of all players. Thus, the dual-language feature is a significant asset, but the quality of the English voice acting remains a contentious point, affecting the overall enjoyment for some players.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Shin Megami Tensei: Persona 3 Portable performs well across platforms, with solid 60fps and improved features, earning praise from critics. However, it falls short of fully utilizing modern hardware, facing issues like a cumbersome interface on Xbox, visual limitations on Switch, and minimal upgrades on PC and PS4. While enjoyable, the game feels more like a nostalgic port than a true remaster, leaving some critics wanting more.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

58%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

42%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Shin Megami Tensei: Persona 3 Portable has garnered a generally positive reception across various platforms. On the Xbox Series X, critics like XboxEra and Pure Xbox highlight the game's smooth performance, high-resolution graphics locked at 60fps, and the inclusion of features such as quick save options, enhancing the overall experience. Similarly, the Nintendo Switch has received commendations for its stable performance, with reviewers from Nintendo Life and The Mako Reactor noting that the game runs at a solid 60fps and loads quickly, showcasing significant improvements over the original PSP version. On PC, critics like Tech-Gaming and PC Gamer praise the game's flawless performance, customizable controls, and support for high resolutions, indicating a smooth experience regardless of hardware. However, there are notable criticisms regarding technical performance across platforms. The Xbox Series X version, while performing well, has been criticized for a cumbersome user interface when using a mouse and keyboard, as noted by XboxEra. On the Nintendo Switch, several reviewers, including Hardcore Gamer and Comicbook.com, mention visual limitations due to the game's original design for handheld play, which can lead to awkward experiences on larger screens. The PC version, while generally praised, has been pointed out by The Games Machine for lacking significant improvements and still feeling like a port of a PSP game with limitations from its original hardware. Critics like KeenGamer and INVEN also highlight that the game does not fully utilize the capabilities of modern consoles, particularly on PS4. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Persona 3 Portable performs well across all platforms, it does not fully capitalize on the potential of modern hardware. Many reviews, such as those from GamersRD and Digital Chumps, indicate that the game runs smoothly with improved controls and quality-of-life features, yet they also acknowledge the presence of visual and technical compromises that detract from the experience. The remastering efforts have been described as minimal, particularly on platforms like PS4 and Switch, which leads to a sense of nostalgia rather than a significant upgrade. Thus, while the game is enjoyable and runs well, it remains tethered to its origins, leaving some critics wanting more from this remastered experience.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Persona 3 Portable offers a mixed bag for replay value: praise for its diverse content and female protagonist enhances replayability, appealing to both newcomers and veterans. Critics note the engaging social links and extensive playtime (60-100 hours), but many point out the game's repetitive gameplay and dungeon design could deter multiple playthroughs. Some reviewers even label it the "most skippable" series entry due to its limited content compared to earlier versions. While the game has strengths that can entice players, its grindy elements may undermine long-term engagement, leading to a split in opinions on its lasting appeal.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

48%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

50%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The opinions surrounding the replay value of Persona 3 Portable reveal a mix of positive sentiments, particularly regarding the game's diverse content and character options. Many critics highlight the appeal of playing as a female protagonist, which adds a fresh perspective and new social links, enhancing the replayability for those who have experienced previous iterations. For instance, The Mako Reactor and Digital Chumps emphasize that the inclusion of different protagonist routes encourages multiple playthroughs, allowing players to explore various story dynamics. Additionally, the game’s extensive playtime of 60 to 100 hours, as noted by Hobby Consolas, further suggests that players can immerse themselves in the world and its characters, making it a worthwhile experience for both newcomers and veterans alike. Conversely, several reviewers express concerns about the game's limited replay value due to its repetitive gameplay and dungeon design. Critics like Attack of the Fanboy and Gaming Nexus point out that while the game offers various social links and character interactions, the grindy nature of dungeon crawling may deter players from engaging in multiple playthroughs. Furthermore, Nintendo Life describes Persona 3 Portable as the "most skippable" entry in the mainline series, indicating that it may not hold the same allure as its successors. The sentiment is echoed by XboxEra, which notes that the lack of content compared to the original version may limit replayability for some players, especially those who are familiar with the franchise. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Persona 3 Portable does provide significant replay value through its character choices and social link systems, there are notable limitations that may affect long-term engagement. Critics like RPGamer and GamersRD acknowledge the game's potential for replayability, but many also caution that the repetitive elements could diminish the experience for some players. Ultimately, the game seems to cater well to both new players and series veterans, though the latter group may find themselves less inclined to return after their initial playthroughs. The mixed opinions highlight a divide between those who appreciate the depth of content and those who feel the gameplay may not sustain interest over time.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

75%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

25%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment regarding Persona 3 Portable reveals a mix of appreciation for its unique storytelling and character development, alongside acknowledgment of its nostalgic value. Critics like Digital Chumps and GameCritics highlight the game’s engaging narrative and solid gameplay mechanics, emphasizing that it retains the charm of the original while appealing to both new and returning players. The remaster is praised for its compelling story and memorable characters, with reviewers such as RPGamer and GLHF on Sports Illustrated noting its status as a classic RPG and a standout in the series. Additionally, many critics, including Tech-Gaming and Hey Poor Player, commend the game for its rich narrative and engaging music, suggesting that it remains relevant and enjoyable despite its age. Conversely, a significant number of critics express disappointment regarding the port's outdated design and lack of enhancements compared to modern standards. Attack of the Fanboy and The Games Machine point out that the adaptation feels underwhelming and lacks ambition, which detracts from the overall experience. Critics like Nintendo Life and Vandal mention that the game suffers from missing content and design choices that may not resonate with contemporary expectations. Moreover, while some reviewers appreciate the nostalgic elements, others, such as Hardcore Gamer and Noisy Pixel, note that the game hasn't aged as gracefully as desired, with repetitive gameplay and visual presentation being common points of criticism. The overall consensus among critics is that while Persona 3 Portable is a worthwhile experience for fans of the series and newcomers alike, it is marred by its limitations and dated elements. Many reviewers, including XboxEra and SomosXbox, recommend the game primarily for those interested in the franchise, acknowledging its rich narrative and engaging gameplay. However, they also caution that players familiar with newer entries in the series may find it lacking in comparison. Ultimately, Persona 3 Portable is seen as a commendable, albeit flawed, entry in the Persona series, with a strong narrative and character development that may resonate more with dedicated fans than with those seeking a polished modern experience.

TL;DR

Persona 3 Portable garners mixed reviews, celebrated for its rich storytelling and character depth that appeals to fans and newcomers alike. Critics praise its nostalgic charm but criticize its outdated design and lack of modern enhancements, leaving it feeling underwhelming compared to newer titles. While it remains a noteworthy entry in the series, its flaws may deter those expecting a more polished experience.

MONSTER

Reviews

149 reviews found

100

Hey Poor Player

Nintendo Switch

Jan 17, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Persona 3 Portable is praised as a phenomenal title that balances modern and classic elements, making it a standout in the series.

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100

SomosXbox

Xbox Series X

Jan 17, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Persona 3 Portable is recommended for newcomers to the series, providing a rich experience despite its age, and remains enjoyable for fans of JRPGs.

CGMagazine

Xbox Series X

Jan 17, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Persona 3 Portable remains a masterpiece with its iconic music, art style, characters, and a well-executed blend of storyline and combat elements. The game holds up even on modern consoles and PCs.

Generación Xbox

Xbox Series X

Jan 18, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Persona 3 Portable is praised for its engaging story, character development, and depth, making it a significant entry in the series, despite some graphical limitations.

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GLHF on Sports Illustrated

Nintendo Switch

Mar 9, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review concludes by stating that Persona 3 is the best Persona game and that Persona 3 Portable is the best way to play it, despite some questionable choices in the storyline and social links. It also mentions that it may not have high-end graphics and animations like Persona 5 Royal, but it offers a touching story and one of gaming's best-ever soundtracks.

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Areajugones

PlayStation 4

Jan 18, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Persona 3 Portable meets high expectations, offering a captivating experience despite some limitations compared to the FES version.

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TheXboxHub

Xbox Series X

Jan 30, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The reviewer puts their worries about Persona 3 Portable to rest, praising the deep combat and Persona systems, as well as the juggling of social links. They recommend the game to any fans of the RPG genre.

Oyungezer

Feb 15, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Persona 3 Portable is a fantastic game for newcomers, but offers little for those who have already experienced the original on PSP.

RPG Fan

Xbox Series X

Jan 17, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Persona 3 Portable is a dark masterpiece that offers a unique and emotional experience. It is a must-play for fans of the series and a great entry point for newcomers.

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Vooks

Nintendo Switch

Jan 17, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Persona 3 Portable is a compromised but wonderful game with a fantastic story and some frustrating gameplay aspects.

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