All Persona Games, Ranked

With a franchise as long-lasting and beloved as the Persona franchise, there are many fan-favorite games to name. Each of the titles within this series, in their own way, shapes the franchise into what it has become. This can be seen reflected in not only the quality of these games but also their staying power. So, no matter where you stand, there is something for everyone to enjoy here. That said, we hope you enjoy our picks for All Persona Games, Ranked. 

5. Revelations: Persona

Every long-running franchise has to begin somewhere, and those beginnings for the Persona franchise can be found within Revelations: Persona. Released in 1996, this title has not only stood the test of time through its influence but also remains solid in its design to this day. Revelations: Persona takes a familiar formula for those who enjoy JRPG storylines and completely flips them in a bold new way. This brave direction would not only make the title stand out at the time of its release but also embolden the title to remain relevant to this day.

In fact, throughout the games following this title, its influence can be felt. Despite, or perhaps because of, this title's more understated success, it remains a beloved title for Persona fans, both old and new. So, if you are someone who wishes to see where the groundwork for the later games in the franchise was laid, check out Revelations: Persona. While it may be difficult to track down, the journey present in this title is one that is well worthwhile. For its innovative nature and legacy, we consider it to be one of the best games on our list of Persona games, ranked.

4. Persona 2

As we inch closer to the more modern releases in the franchise. Now is a great time to look back on a Persona title that might have gone underappreciated. The world of Persona 2 is one that, through its use of dark aesthetics and style, manages to feel sleek and foreboding. This style permeates many of the design decisions in the game, which not only still hold up but, in many ways, are enhanced through the passage of time. The story of the game, when compared to its predecessor and successors, still feels distinct enough to carry its own weight as well.

The popularity of this title can also be seen in the fact that it was released both for a Japanese audience and worldwide. This is a testament to not only the quality present in the game but also its impact on the franchise. Players are able to delve into dungeons and fight meaningful and memorable bosses. In many ways, this would set up the core formula that later titles would follow. All around, Persona 2 is one of the games in the franchise that deserves to be accounted among the best.

3. Persona 3 FES

We are moving right along on our list of Persona games, ranked with Persona 3 FES. One of the most commercially impressive titles in the franchise when it was released, Persona 3 FES still plays remarkably well today. At the same time, the game may have taken the core experience from Persona 3. It still manages to fill in the gaps in many ways and bring a more conclusive experience to the player. This makes it feel much more like a concise title. It also benefits from many modern changes to the game, which improve not only the core gameplay but also the presentation of the game in general.

For many American fans of the Persona franchise, this title includes content that many players would have seen for the first time. This not only makes it a more conclusive experience but also adds to the game stupendously. The game's use of time as both a core centerpiece of the gameplay and narrative is a fantastic decision here. This not only inherently places more weight on the player's decisions but also makes Persona 3 FES one of the best games in the franchise.

2. Persona 4 Golden

We are continuing on with our list of the Persona games, ranked with Persona 4 Golden. This title, for many, serves as either a fond memory of their first Persona title or a brilliant new discovery. No matter when players discover this game, what they find is a treasure trove of quality. Players will find many of the Persona staples here, including time management mechanics, a stellar soundtrack, and much more. Players are able to undergo a journey alongside memorable and iconic characters. Additionally, the player's choices throughout make a world of difference in the game.

The game, as with many other titles in the franchise, doesn't shy away from darker themes. This makes it one of the most thematically-rich entries in the phenomenal game series. In addition to this, the game manages to pull this off with an astronomical amount of style and pizzazz. While we won't spoil anything here, needless to say, Persona 4 Golden holds a special place in many hearts. For these reasons, as well as others, we consider it to be one of the best Persona games.

1. Persona 5 Royal

Our final entry is one that many players no doubt could have seen coming. The praises of Persona 5 Royal have been sung time and time again. This is a testament not only to the phenomenal sense of polish the game possesses but also to its collection of content, which is some of the best in the franchise. Players will once again take on the role of a Phantom Thief. However, this version of the game not only fleshes out many of the game's characters and events but also does so in a stylish way.

New Personas are added, new characters to interact with, and many new reasons to love the game. In addition to this, the player is given more time to spend within the game's world. This not only gives the game more breathing room but also enriches the player's experience further. For players who enjoy more of a challenge, this title also incorporates that wonderfully as well. To conclude, Persona 5 Royal is one of the most beloved games in the franchise, for good reason. In short, we consider it the best in the long-running franchise.

So, what's your take on our picks for All Persona Games, Ranked? Do you agree with our picks? Let us know over on our socials here or down in the comments below.