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Persona 3 Reload

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

2024

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

AvailableFeb 2, 2024

PlatformPC, Xbox Series X, PlayStation 5

DeveloperP-Studio

Overview

Step into the shoes of a transfer student thrust into an unexpected fate when entering the hour "hidden" between one day and the next. Awaken an incredible power and chase the mysteries of the Dark Hour, fight for your friends, and leave a mark on their memories forever. Persona 3 Reload is a captivating reimagining of the genre-defining RPG, reborn for the modern era.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Persona 3 Reload garners mostly positive reviews, praised for its deep, thematic exploration of death, loss, and adolescence. Critics commend the emotional weight and character development, with social links enriching the narrative. However, some note slow pacing—taking over 20 hours to engage—and the absence of features from previous versions, like the female protagonist route, which could have enhanced the experience. Despite these drawbacks, the game’s rich story and compelling characters resonate widely, solidifying its status as a significant RPG entry.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

91%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment surrounding the story of Persona 3 Reload is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its depth and thematic richness. Reviewers like Vandal and IGN Deutschland highlight the narrative's exploration of heavy themes such as death, loss, and the struggles of adolescence, which resonate powerfully with players. Critics such as Dexerto and GameSpot commend the emotional weight of the story, noting its balance between darker elements and character development. The incorporation of social links and character interactions, as mentioned by Malditos Nerds and TechRadar Gaming, adds layers to the narrative, making it a compelling experience that feels both engaging and relevant. However, some reviewers have pointed out certain drawbacks in the storytelling. Critics like Riot Pixels and Vooks mention that the pacing can be slow, with significant engagement taking over 20 hours to develop. This slow progression may frustrate players seeking a faster-paced narrative. Additionally, some critics, such as Hobby Consolas and RPGamer, lament the absence of certain content from previous versions, like the female protagonist route, which could have provided a more comprehensive experience. Moreover, the narrative's initial lack of cohesion, as noted by ComicBook, can detract from the overall impact, leaving some players feeling disconnected early on. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among critics is that Persona 3 Reload offers a rich and impactful story that stands out in the RPG genre. Many reviewers, including Game Informer and Pure Xbox, affirm the game's ability to engage players with its well-written narrative and unforgettable characters. The themes of mortality and personal growth resonate with a wide audience, making it a timeless tale. As a result, while some pacing issues and content omissions are noted, the majority of critics agree that Persona 3 Reload successfully captures the essence of its predecessor while enhancing the narrative experience, solidifying its place as a significant entry in the series.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

TL;DR: Persona 3 Reload impresses with revamped combat and strategic depth, earning praise for its engaging gameplay and improved social simulation. Critics highlight fun mechanics like direct party control but note some grindy dungeon exploration and performance issues on the Switch. Overall, it revitalizes the classic formula, delivering a compelling experience despite a few flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

81%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

18%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Persona 3 Reload has garnered a predominantly positive reception from critics, highlighting several key improvements and engaging mechanics that enhance the overall experience. Many reviewers, such as Push Square and IGN Benelux, praised the revamped combat system, which includes new features like direct control of party members and the introduction of the Theurgy mechanic, adding depth and strategic options to battles. Critics like GamingTrend and VideoGamer noted that the turn-based combat is both engaging and rewarding, allowing players to exploit enemy weaknesses effectively. The integration of social simulation elements with dungeon crawling, as highlighted by Inverse and Nintendo Life, creates a balanced gameplay loop that appeals to fans of the genre, making the experience feel dynamic and multifaceted. However, despite the numerous strengths, some critics pointed out notable shortcomings that detract from the gameplay experience. Reviewers such as Dot Esports and NME criticized the grindy and repetitive nature of certain aspects, particularly the dungeon exploration in Tartarus, which some felt lacked excitement and variety. The removal of the fatigue system, mentioned by Inverse, was seen as a double-edged sword, contributing to a sense of monotony in gameplay. Additionally, the performance issues reported by Vgames on the Nintendo Switch 2 further complicate the experience, as they detract from the overall enjoyment of the game. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Persona 3 Reload successfully revitalizes the classic gameplay formula with significant improvements while still retaining its core essence. While some reviewers noted repetitive elements and performance issues, the majority, including RPG Fan and PlayStation Universe, found the enhancements to combat and social simulation to be compelling. The combination of strategic depth in battles and the engaging life simulation aspects has resonated well with players, making it a worthy addition to the Persona franchise. Critics largely agree that, despite its flaws, the game delivers a rich and rewarding experience that stands out in the genre.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Persona 3 Reload receives praise for its stunning visual overhaul powered by Unreal Engine, including improved character models and vibrant environments, drawing comparisons to Persona 5. However, some critics note issues like poor lighting, inconsistent environmental design, and performance problems on the Nintendo Switch 2. Overall, it’s a visually rich upgrade that appeals to both newcomers and series veterans, despite some shortcomings.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

80%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

20%

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 Reload have garnered a largely positive reception from critics, with many praising the significant enhancements made to the original game. Reviewers like Easy Allies and GGRecon highlight the stunning visuals, noting that the game benefits from a complete visual overhaul utilizing Unreal Engine, which results in beautifully reimagined character models and environments. Critics such as GameMAG and Gamepressure echo this sentiment, emphasizing the improved character designs and vibrant colors that contribute to an engaging visual experience. The art direction, which aligns closely with Persona 5, has been particularly well-received, with Nintendo Insider and Cultura Geek commending the stylish UI and polished artistic direction that elevate the overall presentation. However, not all feedback is positive, as several critics pointed out notable shortcomings in the graphics and visual design. Inverse criticized the game for missing features, careless lighting, and inconsistent environmental scaling, while Eurogamer expressed disappointment with the game's inability to reach the visual heights of Persona 5, describing it as stuck in an awkward middle ground. Additionally, some critics, such as Digitally Downloaded and GameSpew, mentioned that while character models and animations are exceptional, certain environments, particularly the dungeons, lack visual creativity and feel drab or boxy. The performance issues on the Nintendo Switch 2, as noted by Gamer Escape and RPG Site, further detract from the overall experience for players on that platform. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Persona 3 Reload presents a visually appealing experience that successfully modernizes the original's aesthetic while retaining its core elements. While there are criticisms regarding specific aspects of the graphics and some inconsistencies in quality, the majority of reviewers, including Push Square and LevelUp, agree that the game showcases impressive visual upgrades and artistic direction. The blend of enhanced character models, vibrant environments, and stylish animations has created a visually rich experience that resonates well with both new players and fans of the franchise.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Persona 3 Reload boasts a predominantly positive reception for its revamped soundtrack and voice acting, enhancing gameplay and emotional depth. Critics praise the blend of genres and high-quality performances, creating an engaging audio experience. However, some note that the new tracks lack memorability compared to Persona 5, with a few finding them repetitive. Overall, the sound design is deemed a successful upgrade, appealing to both longtime fans and new players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

95%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the sound design and music of Persona 3 Reload is predominantly positive, with many critics praising the remade soundtrack and voice acting. Reviewers like RPGamer and IGN highlight the catchy and engaging nature of the original tracks alongside new compositions, enhancing both the atmosphere and emotional depth of the game. Critics such as TheSixthAxis and SpazioGames commend the high-quality re-recorded dialogue and soundtrack, noting that the music effectively complements the gameplay, particularly during battles and key story moments. The new English voice cast has also received accolades for their performances, adding depth to character interactions, as pointed out by Inverse and Cubed3. The blend of genres, including jazz, hip-hop, and pop, creates a vibrant audio landscape that many reviewers feel enhances the overall gaming experience. Despite the praise, some critics express reservations about certain aspects of the soundtrack. For instance, Riot Pixels and Pure Nintendo note that the remade soundtrack lacks the memorability of Persona 5, with fewer standout tracks that may not leave a lasting impression. Additionally, Pure Nintendo mentions that the pop songs can become repetitive over time, detracting from the overall experience. While many appreciate the new arrangements, a few like TouchArcade feel that some tracks do not resonate as strongly as the originals, indicating a mixed reception for the new vocal performances, as highlighted by Everyeye.it. The overall consensus among critics is that Persona 3 Reload delivers a commendable audio experience, with the majority praising the revamped soundtrack and voice acting. While there are some criticisms regarding the memorability and repetitiveness of certain tracks, the positive feedback far outweighs the negatives. Critics such as God is a Geek and Windows Central emphasize that the new and remixed tracks contribute significantly to the game's immersive atmosphere, making the soundtrack a standout feature. Ultimately, the sound design and music of Persona 3 Reload are seen as a successful enhancement to the beloved franchise, appealing to both nostalgic fans and newcomers alike.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Persona 3 Reload boasts stellar voice acting, praised for its emotional depth and humor from both the English and Japanese casts. Highlights include Zeno Robinson’s performance as Junpei and full voiceovers for social links that enhance player experience. However, some critics lament the silent protagonist and nostalgia for the original cast, alongside mixed reviews on translation quality. Overall, the new voice work significantly elevates the game's storytelling despite minor criticisms.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

79%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

21%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in Persona 3 Reload has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics, who have praised the quality and depth of performances across both the English and Japanese casts. Many reviewers noted that the new English voice cast, including standout performances by actors like Zeno Robinson as Junpei, significantly enhances the emotional resonance of the game's narrative. Critics such as GAMINGbible and PC Gamer highlighted the strong performances that add humor and emotional depth, making character interactions more engaging. The addition of full voiceovers for social links, a first for the franchise, was also celebrated, with reviewers like RPGamer and Cubed3 noting how this enriches the player's experience and deepens the impact of character relationships. However, there are some criticisms regarding the voice acting in Persona 3 Reload. A notable point of contention is the absence of a voice for the protagonist, which MGG described as a missed opportunity. Additionally, while many praised the new English cast, some reviewers expressed nostalgia for the original voice actors, with VG247 mentioning that certain iconic performances are missed. The translation quality also received mixed feedback, with Hobby Consolas and Vandal pointing out inconsistencies that may detract from the overall experience for some players. Furthermore, while the new cast was generally well-received, there were mentions of a few flat deliveries, as noted by WellPlayed. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the voice acting in Persona 3 Reload is a significant improvement over previous entries in the franchise, effectively enhancing the storytelling and character development. The majority of reviewers, including Game Informer and Metro GameCentral, emphasized that the re-recorded lines and new cast bring a modern touch to the beloved characters, creating a more immersive experience. While some fans may have reservations about the changes, particularly regarding the absence of the original cast and certain translation issues, the general sentiment is that the voice acting contributes positively to the game's overall quality, making it one of the standout features of Persona 3 Reload.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Persona 3 Reload shines on PS5 and Xbox Series X with smooth 60 FPS and improved visuals, earning high praise from critics. However, the Nintendo Switch 2 version is plagued by frame rate issues and subpar performance, leaving fans disappointed. Overall, the game excels on current-gen consoles but falters significantly on Switch.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

43%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

48%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

In analyzing the technical performance of Persona 3 Reload across various gaming platforms, it is evident that the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X versions are generally praised for their robust performance. Critics like Impulsegamer and Softpedia highlight that the game runs smoothly at 60 FPS on PS5, with improved visuals and quick loading times, contributing to a polished experience. Similarly, Xbox Series X reviewers such as Windows Central and Gamereactor UK commend the game for maintaining a stable 60 FPS at 1080p resolution without framerate drops, indicating a high level of technical execution. The PC version also garners positive feedback, with critics like But Why Tho? noting improved performance with up to 120 FPS and quick loading times, although some minor issues with camera controls were mentioned. Conversely, the Nintendo Switch 2 version faces significant criticism regarding its technical performance. Reviewers such as Final Weapon and Gaming Age point out persistent frame rate issues, stuttering, and an overall lack of stability, which detracts from the gameplay experience. Critics like Meristation and Gamer Escape echo these sentiments, noting that the game is locked at 30 FPS, with frame drops particularly pronounced in handheld mode. While some reviewers like Nintendo Insider and Gamereactor UK acknowledge that the game runs smoothly without noticeable slowdowns, the consensus remains that the Switch 2 version is inferior compared to its counterparts on other platforms. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Persona 3 Reload excels on the PS5 and Xbox Series X, showcasing impressive technical performance and visual fidelity. However, the Nintendo Switch 2 version struggles with significant performance issues, leading to a mixed reception. While some critics like SpazioGames and Nintendo Life recognize that the game performs adequately on the Switch 2, the overall sentiment leans towards disappointment given the expectations for a modern remake. The game’s technical performance, therefore, varies widely across platforms, with the Switch 2 version notably lagging behind.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Persona 3 Reload has mixed reviews on replay value: praised for its 80-100 hours of gameplay, rich narrative, and new content that entice multiple playthroughs. However, critics lament the absence of the female protagonist route and other features from Persona 3 Portable, leading to concerns about repetitiveness and limited activities. While many fans will find enough to revisit, key omissions may deter some players from diving back in.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

61%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

38%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Persona 3 Reload is mixed, with many critics highlighting several positive aspects that contribute to its replayability. Many reviewers, such as IGN Deutschland and Gamer Escape, emphasize the game's extensive playtime of around 80 to 100 hours, which is filled with numerous social links and character interactions that encourage players to engage in multiple playthroughs. Critics like Hobby Consolas and Pure Nintendo also point out the game's rich narrative and engaging gameplay mechanics, which create a compelling experience that many players would want to revisit. The inclusion of new content, quality-of-life improvements, and the ability to explore different paths and character interactions, as noted by XboxEra and TechRadar Gaming, further enhance the appeal for both newcomers and returning players. However, several reviewers express concerns regarding the limitations in replay value due to the absence of content found in previous iterations of the game. Critics like Cubed3 and Digital Spy highlight the lack of the female protagonist route and other features from Persona 3 Portable, which they view as missed opportunities that could have enriched the experience. Additionally, But Why Tho? and Gamersky mention that after a certain point, the limited activities can become repetitive, potentially leading to fatigue for returning players. The absence of DLC content, as noted by Meristation and Gfinity, also raises questions about the game's definitive status, suggesting that the lack of additional content may deter some players from engaging in multiple runs. In conclusion, while Persona 3 Reload offers a substantial amount of content and engaging gameplay that many critics praise, it also faces criticism for its limitations in replay value due to missing features from earlier versions. The overall consensus indicates that while there is enough to warrant multiple playthroughs, especially for fans of the series, the absence of certain key elements may leave some players feeling less inclined to dive back into the game. Critics like MGG and Tech-Gaming encapsulate this sentiment well, acknowledging the rich experience while also noting the potential drawbacks that could affect long-term replayability.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

94%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding Persona 3 Reload is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its stylish presentation, engaging gameplay, and modern enhancements. Reviewers like Noisy Pixel and TechRadar Gaming highlight the heartfelt and meticulously crafted nature of the remake, noting that it successfully updates the original while maintaining its charm. Critics from various platforms, including IGN Spain and PC Invasion, emphasize the game's engaging characters and immersive experience, making it a standout title for both newcomers and veterans of the series. The visual and audio upgrades have also been well-received, with many reviewers noting that the game captures the essence of the original while providing a fresh take on its mechanics. Despite the overall acclaim, several critics have pointed out notable drawbacks that temper their enthusiasm. Performance issues on the Nintendo Switch 2 have been a recurring theme, with reviewers like Final Weapon and RPG Site expressing disappointment in the handheld experience, which detracts from the game's potential enjoyment. Additionally, some critics, including TierraGamer and MGG, mention the absence of certain content from previous iterations, such as the female protagonist option, which may leave some long-time fans wanting more. The pacing and grindy nature of the gameplay have also been criticized, suggesting that while the game is enjoyable, it may not appeal to everyone. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Persona 3 Reload is a strong and well-executed remake that revitalizes a classic JRPG, making it a must-play for fans of the genre. While there are some technical limitations and content omissions that have been flagged—particularly in the Switch version—most reviewers agree that the game's strengths far outweigh its weaknesses. Critics like RPGamer and PlayStation Universe encapsulate this sentiment by describing it as an essential experience that balances nostalgia with modern enhancements, solidifying its place as a noteworthy entry in the Persona series.

TL;DR

Persona 3 Reload impresses with its stylish presentation and engaging gameplay, receiving praise from critics for its heartfelt remake and modern enhancements. While performance issues on the Nintendo Switch and missing content like the female protagonist option are drawbacks, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive. It’s a must-play for JRPG fans, balancing nostalgia with fresh mechanics despite some pacing criticisms.

MONSTER

Reviews

223 reviews found

100

GGRecon

PlayStation 5

Jan 30, 2024

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

Persona 3 Reload is hailed as one of the best remakes, successfully capturing the essence of the original while enhancing it with modern improvements. It appeals to both veterans and newcomers.

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100

Eurogamer Poland

Xbox Series X

Feb 1, 2024

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

Persona 3 Reload is a phenomenal game that captivates and entertains while addressing deep themes of friendship and empathy. It is highly recommended.

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100

Dexerto

PlayStation 5

Jan 30, 2024

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

Persona 3 Reload is a successful remake that modernizes the game for a new generation, despite some disappointment over missing content.

100

Gaming Age

Jan 30, 2024

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

The reviewer highly recommends Persona 3 Reload, considering it one of the best JRPGs they've ever played and an absolute joy. They praise ATLUS for their game development and hope many people pick it up.

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100

PlayStation Universe

PlayStation 5

Jan 30, 2024

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

Persona 3 Reload is a phenomenal remake that maintains the complexities of the original game while addressing complaints and providing a convenient and special RPG experience for both new and old players.

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100

TheXboxHub

Xbox Series X

Jan 30, 2024

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

The review recommends playing Persona 3 Reload and praises its visuals, gameplay, and story.

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100

Windows Central

Xbox Series X

Jan 30, 2024

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

Persona 3 Reload is a textbook example of a successful remake, enhancing the original's best aspects while introducing new content, making it a must-play for both new and returning fans.

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100

SomosXbox

Xbox Series X

Jan 30, 2024

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

Persona 3 Reload is a highly anticipated remake that successfully modernizes the original while retaining its core elements, making it a must-play for fans of the franchise.

100

The Enemy

Xbox Series X

Feb 7, 2024

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

Persona 3 Reload is praised as a refined version of the original game, offering a standout RPG experience with captivating visuals and a memorable soundtrack.

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100

Gfinity

PlayStation 5

Jan 30, 2024

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

Persona 3 Reload is a must-play for newcomers and veteran Persona players alike, despite some missing content. It is the best way to play Persona 3.

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