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Persona 5 Tactica

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Persona 5 Tactica
Item: Persona 5 Tactica
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Simulation, RPG, Top-Down Perspective, Anime and JRPG, Strategy, Military and Warfare, Single Player

AvailableNov 17, 2023

PlatformPlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, PC, Nintendo Switch

DeveloperP-Studio

Overview

After a strange incident, the Phantom Thieves wander into a bizarre realm where its citizens are living under tyrannical oppression. Surrounded by a military group named Legionnaires, they find themselves in grave danger until a mysterious revolutionary named Erina rescues them and offers an enticing deal in exchange for their help. What truth lies behind Erina and the deal she offers to the Phantom Thieves.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

TL;DR: Persona 5 Tactica receives mixed reviews; while some critics praise its engaging characters and themes of change, many highlight flaws like rushed pacing, shallow relationships, and a bland storyline. The sidelining of the beloved Phantom Thieves in favor of new characters detracts from the experience. Overall, it entertains but fails to meet the high bar set by the mainline series, leaving fans feeling underwhelmed.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

45%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

47%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of Persona 5 Tactica has received a mixed reception from critics, with several reviewers highlighting some positive aspects. Critics such as Eurogamer and PC Gamer praised the narrative for its engaging character development and fresh take on the Persona universe. The introduction of new characters like Erina and Toshiro has been noted to add depth and intrigue, with some critics like Destructoid and GamingTrend appreciating the blend of familiar and new elements. Additionally, themes of change, revolution, and social critique resonate throughout the narrative, as noted by critics from Screen Rant and SECTOR.sk, which contribute to an overall engaging experience for some players. However, a significant number of reviews pointed out various shortcomings in the story. Critics like Digital Trends and LaPS4 expressed disappointment with the pacing and depth of character relationships, suggesting that the narrative feels rushed and lacks the emotional weight found in previous entries of the series. Many reviewers, including Guardian and Shacknews, described the storyline as bland and overly simplistic, focusing on clichés and predictable twists that detract from the overall experience. The sidelining of the Phantom Thieves in favor of new characters was also a recurring point of contention, leading to a less engaging experience for fans of the original game, as noted by IGN Italia and Push Square. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while Persona 5 Tactica offers some engaging moments and character interactions, it falls short of the high standards set by its predecessors. Critics like Softpedia and GameSpew found the story entertaining and filled with mystery, but the majority echoed concerns about pacing issues, lack of depth, and insufficient character development. As a result, many reviewers view the game as a spin-off that, while enjoyable, does not fully capture the essence of the mainline Persona series, leaving a sense of underwhelming potential unfulfilled.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Persona 5 Tactica impresses with its strategic depth and engaging tactical turn-based gameplay, winning praise for its unique mechanics like the 'One More Turn' system that enhances combat. Critics highlight its need for strategic thinking and character customization. However, it faces criticism for combat repetitiveness and lack of encounter variety, leading to potential tedium over time. Lengthy tutorials also detract from the experience. Overall, while the game offers a solid RPG experience, it falls short of fully satisfying genre fans, leaving room for improvement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

65%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

34%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Persona 5 Tactica has garnered a range of positive feedback from critics, highlighting its strategic depth and engaging mechanics. Many reviewers, such as Pure Xbox and PlayStation Universe, praised the tactical turn-based gameplay, noting the emphasis on positioning and character abilities that allow for intricate strategies. The incorporation of unique mechanics like the 'One More Turn' system, which encourages chaining attacks, has been particularly well-received, with critics like Gfinity and WellPlayed noting that these elements add a satisfying layer to combat. Additionally, the game's design encourages strategic thinking and creativity, as highlighted by RPGamer and Nintendo Insider, who appreciated the variety of mission objectives and the depth provided by skill trees and character customization. However, the game is not without its criticisms. Several reviewers expressed concerns about the repetitiveness of combat and a lack of variety in encounters. CGMagazine and Gamer.no pointed out that while the tactical mechanics are solid, they can feel bare-bones and lead to padded-out fights. Critics like Riot Pixels and NME echoed this sentiment, indicating that the gameplay can become tiresome over time, especially as the novelty of the tactical systems wears off. Additionally, some reviewers noted that the tutorials can be overly lengthy, detracting from the overall experience, as mentioned by Guardian. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Persona 5 Tactica offers a solid tactical RPG experience with engaging mechanics and strategic depth, but it struggles with issues of repetitiveness and a lack of variety. While many reviewers, such as PlaySense and Digital Trends, found the gameplay enjoyable and well-crafted, others like Metro GameCentral and Shacknews highlighted the need for more depth and innovation to keep players engaged throughout the game. The blend of familiar Persona elements with tactical gameplay has been appreciated, but the execution leaves room for improvement, suggesting that while the game is a step in the right direction, it may not fully satisfy all fans of the genre.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Persona 5 Tactica’s visuals split critics; some praise its vibrant chibi style and charming design, while others slam it for poor execution and lack of depth. While the aesthetic captures a playful spirit, it detracts from the series' serious themes and suffers from bland environments, leading to a mixed reception overall.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

36%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

58%

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 5 Tactica have garnered a range of opinions from critics, with several praising the vibrant and stylish aesthetic that aligns with the series' identity. Reviewers like PC Gamer and TechRadar Gaming highlight the impressive menus, fluid animations, and the overall visual experience that retains the charm of the original Persona 5. Critics such as GameSpot and Nintendo Insider commend the playful and cartoonish chibi art style, which, despite being a departure from the series' traditional visuals, adds a unique flair to the game. Additionally, Press Start Australia mentions the well-realized environments and charming character designs, suggesting that the art direction, while different, still contributes positively to the game's appeal. Conversely, a significant number of reviewers express disappointment with the visual execution, citing various flaws that detract from the overall experience. Critics like PC Games and Riot Pixels criticize the chibi art style for being poorly executed and not fitting within the established Persona universe, leading to a visually jarring experience. Furthermore, ComicBook and Guardian point out issues with level design and environmental variety, describing them as bland and lacking in detail. The repetitive nature of the environments and the limited enemy variety, noted by PlayStation Universe and Hardcore Gamer, contribute to a sense of visual fatigue, undermining the otherwise vibrant aesthetic. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed, with a clear divide in opinions regarding the chibi art style and its effectiveness in conveying the game's themes. While some reviewers, such as IGN and Nintendo Life, appreciate the unique aesthetic and its playful nature, others like Impulsegamer and Games.cz find it detracts from the serious narrative elements. The game’s visuals evoke a sense of charm and playfulness, yet many critics argue that this comes at the cost of depth and engagement, particularly in storytelling. Thus, while Persona 5 Tactica showcases a vibrant and stylish presentation, its execution leaves room for improvement in aligning with the franchise's established visual identity.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Persona 5 Tactica boasts an engaging and energetic soundtrack praised for its lively quality and strong vocal performances, particularly from Lyn Inaizumi. However, critics agree it lacks the standout memorability of previous entries, with some tracks feeling repetitive and not significantly enhancing the gameplay experience. Overall, while enjoyable, the music fails to leave a lasting impact compared to the iconic score of Persona 5.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

72%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

28%

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 5 Tactica have garnered a mix of praise from various critics, highlighting several positive aspects. Many reviewers have noted the engaging quality of the soundtrack, with IGN describing it as "hard rocking, energetic, and jazzy," while Gamer.no appreciates its funky vibe that contributes to the game's atmosphere. Critics like DualShockers and Game Informer have lauded the new vocal tracks and impressive performances, particularly from Lyn Inaizumi, which enhance the overall experience. The music is often described as lively and fitting, with Multiplayer.it and PC Invasion emphasizing the soundtrack's ability to complement gameplay effectively and even elevate it to a stellar level. Despite the positive remarks, there is a notable consensus regarding the soundtrack's shortcomings. Several critics, including Wccftech and IGN Brasil, have pointed out that the music lacks the standout quality and memorability of previous entries in the series, particularly Persona 5. Hardcore Gamer echoes this sentiment, indicating that some themes feel overused by the end of the game. Additionally, Gamer.no and CGMagazine mention that while the music is enjoyable, it does not significantly enhance the overall experience, suggesting a sense of repetitiveness in some tracks. The voice acting, while praised for its quality, has also received mixed feedback, with Guardian noting that it may not appeal to all players due to its saccharine nature. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Persona 5 Tactica features a solid soundtrack that captures the essence of the series but falls short of the high standards set by its predecessors. While many reviewers, such as LevelUp and Areajugones, acknowledge the energetic and engaging nature of the music, they also agree that it lacks the memorable impact of earlier titles. The combination of familiar themes and new compositions has been appreciated, yet the overall sentiment leans towards a recognition that the soundtrack, while enjoyable, does not leave a lasting impression compared to the iconic music of the original Persona 5.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Persona 5 Tactica boasts highly praised voice acting that enriches the game's narrative, especially from returning cast members and newcomers alike. Critics laud the performances for their depth and engagement, enhanced by both English and Japanese options. However, issues like inconsistent volume levels and many dialogue sequences lacking voice work have drawn criticism. Overall, while some flaws exist, the strong voice performances significantly elevate the gaming experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

63%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

37%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in Persona 5 Tactica has received widespread praise from various critics, highlighting its overall quality and the depth it adds to the gameplay experience. Reviewers like Impulsegamer and Game Informer commended the performances of the returning cast, emphasizing how their familiarity with the characters enhances the narrative. Critics such as PC Gamer and Gfinity noted that the voice acting feels engaging and well-realized, contributing positively to the immersive experience of the game. Newcomers like Leeanna Albanese have also been highlighted for their strong performances, bringing fresh energy to the cast, as noted by IGN and DualShockers. The inclusion of both English and Japanese voice options, as mentioned by Multiplayer.it and Hobby Consolas, further enriches the experience for a diverse audience. Despite the overall acclaim, there are notable criticisms regarding the voice acting in Persona 5 Tactica. Some reviewers pointed out inconsistencies in volume levels, which detracted from the experience, as highlighted by Impulsegamer and Gfinity. Additionally, while the game features fully-voiced cutscenes, many dialogue sequences lack voice acting, leading to a reliance on subtitles, which some critics, including WellPlayed and NintendoWorldReport, found overwhelming. Furthermore, Guardian mentioned that the overly sweet tone of some performances could detract from the overall experience for certain players, indicating that not all aspects of the voice acting were universally appreciated. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Persona 5 Tactica features strong voice acting that enhances the game's narrative and character development. While there are some criticisms regarding volume inconsistencies and the lack of fully voiced dialogues in certain sequences, the quality of the performances, especially from the returning cast, has been well-received. Critics like Eurogamer and Noisy Pixel encapsulate this sentiment, noting that the voice acting brings the characters to life and adds depth to the story. Ultimately, while there are areas for improvement, the voice acting remains a significant highlight of the game, contributing to its appeal across various platforms.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Persona 5 Tactica shines in technical performance across platforms, particularly on PC with smooth 144fps at 1440p, but suffers from loading time issues on Nintendo Switch and PS5. Critics praise its stability and minimal bugs on PC, while noting the Switch's lengthy loads disrupt gameplay. PS5 and Xbox Series X versions are solid, though PS5 faces criticism for longer loading times. Overall, a polished experience with some caveats needing attention.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

45%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

50%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of Persona 5 Tactica has garnered a largely positive reception across various platforms. On PC, reviewers such as PC Invasion and Wccftech praised the game for its flawless performance, with PC Invasion noting it maintained a smooth 144fps at 1440p. GameGrin and INVEN also reported solid performance, with minimal load times and a stable 60 FPS on mid-tier systems. For the Nintendo Switch, critics like God is a Geek and Multiplayer.it highlighted that the game runs well with steady framerates, despite some longer load times compared to other platforms. The PS5 version received generally favorable feedback, with GameSpew and Everyeye.it reporting no significant performance issues and brief loading times, although some reviewers noted longer loading screens. On the Xbox Series X, Atomix and Windows Central confirmed that the game performs well, running at 1440p and 60 FPS, indicating a polished experience on current-generation consoles. Despite the overall positive impressions, some notable negatives were reported across platforms. On PC, Player 2 pointed out frustrating issues such as the game minimizing when clicking outside the window, which detracted from the experience. For the Nintendo Switch, several reviewers, including GameSpot and SpazioGames, mentioned frequent and lengthy loading times that disrupted gameplay flow, with NintendoWorldReport highlighting issues with transitions in and out of battles. The PS5 version faced criticism from Metro GameCentral and MeuPlayStation, who noted long loading times that could detract from the overall experience. Meanwhile, Xbox Series X reviews were less critical, but there were no specific mentions of issues, suggesting a more consistent performance. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Persona 5 Tactica delivers a solid technical performance across all platforms, though with some caveats. The PC version is generally praised for its smooth framerates and minimal bugs, despite some audio mixing issues and minor inconveniences. The Nintendo Switch version is well-received for its gameplay stability but suffers from notable loading times, which some critics found disruptive. The PS5 and Xbox Series X versions are regarded as performing well, though the PS5 version's long loading times were a common concern. Ultimately, while the game excels in many areas, particularly on PC and current consoles, the loading times on the Switch and PS5 are issues that developers may need to address in future updates.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Persona 5 Tactica offers decent replay value with a robust New Game+ mode, side missions, and character customization, praised by some critics. However, concerns about its repetitive gameplay, lack of challenge, and short length (20-30 hours) may deter players from multiple playthroughs. While it appeals to dedicated fans, many find the experience formulaic and lacking in depth.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

22%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

67%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

12%

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of Persona 5 Tactica exhibit a mix of positive aspects that highlight the game's potential for multiple playthroughs. Critics such as PC Gamer and Nintendo Insider praise the game for its robust New Game+ mode and the inclusion of side missions and optional quests, which provide opportunities for players to revisit missions with different strategies and team compositions. Game Revolution also notes the generous replaying of missions with rewards such as extra experience points and cash. Furthermore, PC Invasion emphasizes the layered skill tree and character customization options that enhance the overall experience, suggesting that players can tailor their gameplay to their preferences, which can contribute to replay value. However, a significant number of critics express concerns about the game's replayability, primarily due to its perceived lack of challenge and repetitive gameplay. For instance, VideoGamer and WellPlayed point out that the tedious nature of visual novel segments and the limited variety in encounters may lead to a monotonous experience. Critics like Destructoid and Gamer.no also highlight that the game may not have significant replay value beyond the initial playthrough, with repetitive enemy types and a linear mission structure cited as factors that could deter players from returning. Additionally, several reviews note that the game's relatively short runtime of around 20-30 hours could limit the incentive for multiple runs. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Persona 5 Tactica offers some replay value through its New Game+ mode, side missions, and character customization, the lack of challenge and repetitive gameplay may hinder long-term engagement. Critics such as IGN Italia and Metro GameCentral acknowledge the potential for replayability through optional missions and unique character abilities, but many share concerns about the overall experience feeling formulaic or lacking depth. Ultimately, the game appears to cater more to dedicated fans of the series who may appreciate its nuances, while others may find it less compelling for repeated playthroughs.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

55%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

45%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding Persona 5 Tactica is notably mixed, with several critics highlighting its strengths. Many reviewers appreciate the engaging gameplay mechanics and the tactical elements that allow for strategic depth, particularly praising the combat system. For instance, Checkpoint Gaming mentions it as a successful blend of the Persona series with tactical gameplay, while GameSpew describes it as a must-have for fans of tactical role-playing games, emphasizing the fast-paced and exciting combat. Additionally, PC Invasion commends the game for effectively translating the style and essence of Persona 5 into a tactical RPG format, suggesting that it captures the charm and character development that fans have come to love. The visuals and character interactions also receive positive remarks, with Gfinity noting the engaging story and stellar soundtrack, contributing to an overall enjoyable experience for many players. However, the negatives are significant and cannot be overlooked. Critics frequently point out that Persona 5 Tactica struggles to capture the narrative depth and emotional weight of its predecessors. Gamer.no describes it as the least interesting tactical game in recent years, criticizing its repetitive gameplay and unengaging story. Similarly, PC Games refers to it as a low-effort spin-off that fails to resonate with the essence of the original game. Many reviewers, including Guardian and Softpedia, echo these sentiments, highlighting a bland story and monotonous pace as major drawbacks. The game’s reliance on knowledge of the main series also limits its appeal to newcomers, as noted by Wccftech and TechRadar Gaming. In summary, while Persona 5 Tactica offers enjoyable gameplay and tactical elements that may appeal to dedicated fans, the consensus among critics leans towards disappointment regarding its narrative and overall depth. The game is seen as a mixed bag; some, like Game Informer, find it a fun experience for fans, while others, such as Riot Pixels and ComicBook, argue that it lacks the charm and depth of previous entries in the franchise. Ultimately, the game seems to cater primarily to die-hard fans of the series, as many critics suggest it does not stand on its own as a compelling title for a broader audience.

TL;DR

Persona 5 Tactica delivers engaging tactical gameplay and vibrant visuals, winning over some fans and critics with its combat system and charm. However, it falls short on narrative depth and emotional resonance, often being labeled as a bland, low-effort spin-off. While it may entertain dedicated fans, the game struggles to attract newcomers and fails to capture the essence of its predecessors, leaving many reviewers disappointed.

MONSTER

Reviews

162 reviews found

100

PC Invasion

Nov 14, 2023

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

Persona 5 Tactica is lauded as an immaculate game that successfully translates the style and essence of Persona 5 into an SRPG. It is commended for its unique gameplay mechanics, compelling story, fantastic characters, and incredible style, earning endless praise.

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100

TheXboxHub

Xbox Series X

Nov 15, 2023

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

Persona 5 Tactica is praised for being a bold new direction for the Persona franchise, offering a unique tactical experience within the established universe. The game's strong art style, engaging story, well-implemented gameplay mechanics, and high replay value make it a highly rewarding and enjoyable experience for both new players and fans of the series.

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Gaming Age

Nov 14, 2023

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

Persona 5 Tactica is a fantastic experience that is highly recommended to fans of tactical RPGs or Persona games. It has something for everyone.

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God is a Geek

Xbox Series X

Nov 14, 2023

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

Persona 5 Tactica is unlike any other tactics game, constantly throwing new things at the player and providing a charming and stylish experience.

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PC Gamer

Nov 15, 2023

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

Persona 5 Tactica offers a revolutionary take on the genre with engaging gameplay, compelling storytelling, and high replay value, making it a must-play for Persona fans and turn-based strategy enthusiasts.

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Noisy Pixel

PlayStation 5

Nov 14, 2023

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

Persona 5 Tactica is a strategic and narrative gem within the Persona 5 series, a must-try for fans and newcomers alike.

GamingTrend

Nov 14, 2023

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

Persona 5 Tactica offers a compelling and engaging experience, capturing the hearts of both fans and new players.

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The Games Machine

Xbox Series X

Nov 14, 2023

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

Persona 5 Tactica is praised for its passionate design, strategic depth, and successful integration of X-Com-like strategic vision, making it a highly recommended experience on the Xbox Series X platform.

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Gfinity

Nintendo Switch

Nov 14, 2023

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

Persona 5 Tactica has an engaging story, great gameplay, mixed graphics, stellar soundtrack, and solid voice acting. The slow pacing and time required to unlock all options are the major drawbacks.

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Twinfinite

Xbox Series X

Nov 14, 2023

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

Persona 5 Tactica is a stylish and enjoyable tactical adventure that can be enjoyed by both old and new players. The story is camp and surprising, and the gameplay offers strategic battles. The graphics are bold and engaging, although repetitive voice lines can be annoying. Overall, it is a recommended game.

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