Gaming Persona 4

[Magus]

Some hands-on stuff from IGN first.

[quote=IGN][size=1]November 7, 2008 - What if you were able to awaken an aspect of your character, such as your protective nature or your anger, which granted you incredible power and abilities? What's more, what if you could physically manifest these feelings into creatures so you could defeat monsters in strange dungeons and environments? If you've played a Shin Megami Tensei: Persona title, you know exactly what I'm talking about, because the characters in these games battle shadowy figures and deal with personal demons while they handle the difficulties of everyday life. In a month, Atlus will release its latest installment in the Persona series, and I was able to check out the game at a recent press event to see what twists would be included in the new iteration of the franchise.

Persona 4 is not a continuation of the events of the previous game, nor does it take place in a modern city like Persona 3 did. Instead, the game is set in the rural town of Inaba, where the main character is sent to live with his uncle and cousin for a year. However, things won't be laid back and easy in this distant village. Shortly after he arrives, a young woman is murdered in a horrific way, leaving no clues for the police and no possible suspects to the crime. Surprisingly, this one incident starts to develop into a series of baffling crimes which only the main character and his school friends seem to be able to explain. It's up to the player to hunt down the perpetrators of these crimes and protect the other citizens of Inaba, all while still attending class in high school and solving cases.

In some ways, that might sound like a mild variation of Persona 3 set in the country, but that's not accurate at all. For one thing, there is no longer a Dark Hour, the mysterious period of time where those unable to summon Personas are entombed in coffins while Shadows roam around. Instead, Persona 4 focuses much more attention on cycles of weather to dictate the supernatural events that occur in the game. See, the schoolchildren of Inaba have a rumor that if a person looks into a television at midnight when it's raining, they'll see their soulmate. In reality, the situation is much more severe: if a person looks into the television during this time period, they'll see someone that's been trapped in an alternate world inside the television. These people have been dragged from the real world and are held in this otherworld for a number of days until the weather is foggy. It's then that a person is killed and their body is ejected to the real world. As the protagonist quickly discovers early on, he and his friends have to track down these people in the otherworld before they die.

Obviously, there's more of a murder mystery theme to Persona 4 and you'll find -- at different moments throughout the adventure -- that your character will be immediately put on the spot to solve a mystery. The answers that you give will inevitably affect what kind of ending you'll wind up receiving at the game's conclusion, so you'll need to pay attention to your choices as you go through the title. This is particularly true because the days that you venture into the otherworld have an impact on the environments that you explore. In fact, you'll find that unlike Persona 3, where you could continually visit Tartarus and explore its sprawling dungeons, rainy days will strengthen the Shadows inside the television world, making it harder to find what you need. That adds to the tension, because if you make a poor decision during these days, you could potentially sign that character's death warrant, leading them to be killed by the Shadows that inhabit the TV world.

To combat this fate, you'll need to enter the TV world and fight the Shadows on their own territory. For the most part, you'll do this by going to a store known as Junes, which is run by the father of Yosuke, one of the main character's friends. The store has a large flat screen television that's big enough to accommodate the characters moving from the real world to the otherworld and vice versa, so you and your party can go and search for clues and missing people. However, unlike Persona 3, where the dungeons were larger and somewhat confusing, Persona 4 focuses more on story driven scripted sequences with smaller environments (albeit still randomized) to help you explore this strange dimension. This is important because many of the dungeons aren't simply an amalgamation of rooms that have no connection from one level to another; instead, the dungeons that you'll run into are related to some hidden fear or issue kept in the psyche of the person that's disappeared. For example, one of the dungeons I saw revolved around a girl's issues with betraying her family business to work for another, more prosperous company, while another dungeon was based off the insecurities of a girl interacting with men.

Along with this focus on the psyche of the potential victims of the Shadows, Persona 4 focuses more attention on the psyche of the main characters in your party. The characters discover their powers and their Personas by facing down and defeating their "other selves," the shadowy sides to their personality that host their darker, baser instincts. For instance, one of the sections that I saw featured Chie facing down her issues with a fellow classmate, while Yosuke had to deal with some of his fears. Of course, these shadow selves inevitably transformed into large, more powerful monsters, and it was up to the party (and ostensibly, that character) to face their inner demons and defeat them. By doing so and embracing their specific issues, they were able to unlock and acquire Personas that could be wielded in battle. However, there are no Evokers to be held at a temple or wielded during summons; these Personas are held solely within cards and are symbolically cast like a spell in any RPG.

However, even with this kind of change made to the Persona summoning, there's a number of other changes to consider as well. For one thing, in Persona 3, players were only in control of the main character, which meant that they had to rely upon luck that their party members would cast the right spell, attack a downed enemy or perform intelligently in battle. That's been solved in Persona 4, because now, players have a couple of choices as to how they want their party members to behave. If you happened to like that old mechanic, you can keep it, but if you'd rather have more control over the actions of your party members and what they perform in battle, you can directly command each person individually instead of setting tactics. Another change that's been included in battle is the inclusion of a guard, which allows you to reduce the amount of damage that your characters take from an enemy, regardless of the elemental weaknesses they seem to have against a particular attack. For example, the main character seems to be weak against wind, but guarding can defend him from monsters that try to exploit this for quick "1 more" strikes against him.

Succeeding in battle is important, but just as important in any Persona game is working on your Social Links with friends, which allows you to summon new Personas and gain new abilities. The Social Link system is much deeper than before, with more elements that you can exploit based on your interactions with different people. For one thing, the main character has five character traits instead of three, meaning that you have the ability to have deeper interactions based on your communication, knowledge, perserverance, tolerance and courage stats. On top of this, I was told at the demo that players will have the ability to dream of different characters in their circle, allowing them to boost their links even when they're sleeping. Strengthening the links is important primarily because it will provide additional perks on top of summoning stronger Persona. For instance, characters with strong social links to party members may find that their friends will leap in front of potentially fatal attacks and absorb these strikes, giving them a chance to heal themselves and continue the fight.

Obviously, you'll wind up gaining these links by talking to your friends and interacting with them in school, but there will be plenty of other ways to gain these links or augment the main character. For example, players will still be able to join clubs during after school to boost their stats, but now you can also gain part time jobs to work on improving your skills. On top of that, you'll be able to cook food to gain items or build models within your room to work on your stats (along with improving the look of the room itself). Fishing even plays a role, as you can catch different kinds of fish and either sell it for cash or keep it for future use. Weapon crafting, Persona Fusion, dating, making friends -- as you can see, there's a lot that you'll wind up doing over the course of the game.

Technically, Persona 4 might appear to be rather similar to that of Persona 3 or FES, but there is one big change I picked up on -- there is a significant increase in the amount of dialogue used in the game. I was told that there were at least 15,000 lines of dialogue littered throughout Persona 4, including cutscenes and other segments, which adds to the atmosphere of the game. It also brings out a lot more of the humor of the title, such as characters finding themselves stuck in television sets or running into strange beings in the otherworld. While I haven't had a lot of time with Persona 4, it definitely appears as though the game will have more than enough to keep anyone playing for a couple playthroughs, which is a great thing in the last days of the PS2.[/size][/quote]

Even though I've yet to play P3 or FES, from reading (both) I find this one to be more intriguing. I've never played these types of games. (Involve dating, going to school... Basically a daily routine) I think the closest I've gotten to playing a game that involves going through a daily routine is Shenmue. You get a part-time job and whatnot.

Anyway, I liked the idea of having a job while in a game, and more games should involve something similar to it. As I said, I haven't played P3. What turned me away from the game was that I heard that you don't have control over the other characters. That may be a small issue for many, but I like being in control. I may still get it in the end, though, because I haven't read, too many complaints about it. So I'm assuming the A.I.s not that stupid?

But then again, I may just bypass P3 altogether to get P4.

Any others interested in the game?

[Meggido]

[SIZE="1"]I'm highly interested in P4. While I've yet to complete the last2.5 months of P3 I have left I'm eagerly waiting for P4. Just out of interest what's the exact release date for the game in the US since I'm having to import? It gives me a date to focus on when I go down to my local store that imports certain games from the US legit.[/SIZE]

[Magus]

I believe it comes out between Dec 8 or Dec 9. I'm not entirely sure about that though. (I know it's no later than the 12th)

[Vigilance]

Do you know how much its going to cost to buy the game? And is there a special edition or something when you buy the game? If you don't get the special edition, is there like edition or something? Tell me because I'm kinda confuse about it.

[Magus]

Are you talking about something like Person 3: FES? The answer is no. According to IGN, there will be no expanded version.

[url]http://ps2.ign.com/articles/927/927794p1.html[/url]
[quote=IGN]November 6, 2008 - Atlus U.S.A., Inc. today announced to eager fans awaiting the release of the upcoming RPG epic Persona 4 that there will in fact be no enhanced or expanded version of the game released, as was the case with the game's predecessor, Persona 3.

"We are today able to announce that at no point in the future will we announce the release of a "FES" version of Persona 4," said Tim Pivnicny, Vice President of Sales and Marketing. "The very finest, most definitive version of Persona 4 will be the one released on December 9, 2008."

This groundbreaking preemptive anti-announcement puts to rest concerns among many Atlus devotees that an improved version would be announced and released shortly following the release of Persona 4.

Persona 4 will release for PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system on December 9, 2008. Each and every copy of the game will include Side A of the Persona 4 soundtrack for free, which features the work of famed composer Shoji Meguro. Fans who pre-order from select retailers will also receive Persona 4: Visual Data, a 100-page, full-color art book loaded with designs from master artist Shigenori Soejima (at GameStop, Amazon.com, EB Games (Canada), Game Crazy, and other fine retailers, while supplies last).

In addition, hardcore fans can pick up the Persona 4 Social Link Expansion Pack (exclusively at Amazon.com), a bundle of rare North American-exclusive goodies unavailable anywhere else, like the Teddie plushie, 2009 Calendar, Side B disc of the P4 soundtrack, and more!

About Persona 4
Shortly after an urban youth begins a year-long stay in the countryside town of Inaba, the rural town's peace is shattered by a horrific murder that leaves no clues or suspects. As the lone incident develops into a series of bizarre crimes, he discovers that only he and his friends have the power to solve the baffling case, bring those responsible to justice, and restore harmony to his new home.

Key Features
• Balance your double life – Beyond intense battles, Persona fusion, and new weapon creation exists a normal high school life of friends, classes, and part-time jobs. The way you manage and integrate your activities within each day will determine how you progress through the game.
• Unprecedented team control – With a greater emphasis on developing bonds in the fight to solve the mysterious murders, strong friendships are key to your success. Directly control teammates in battle, earn greater party support for combat, and master individual Social Links to unlock your party's true potential.
• Find the true ending – 60+ hours of gameplay thrusts you into a deep mystery where midnight television leads to serial killings. You must investigate murders, rescue those who can be rescued, and unmask the culprit behind it all—or risk being forever shrouded in the fog of doubt.
[/quote]

As far as cost.. Somewhere between $36-$39.

[Meggido]

[SIZE="1"]I'm counting down the days till this actually comes out (mainly that involves looking for it to appear on the top 10 list of gamefaqs PS2 games). I plan on going down to my local import store in the next couple of days to see if they've got it in.[/SIZE]

[Magus]

So has anyone gotten their hands on this game yet? I'm curious to hear some opinions here. I'm short on money at the moment, and probably will be for quite some time.

I'm liking what I've been reading from the reviews so far. Numbers don't really matter to me since I look for more detailed information, but both IGN and Gamespot gave the game a 9/10.

I know this will probably be the next game on my to buy list since the only other Shin Megami Tensei game I've played a little bit of was Nocturne. About 10-20 minutes of it. I won't get into the details about why I traded that in. So please don't ask. However, I really want to play the DDS games.

[Vigilance]

I got mine when this game was release. I haven't played it very much right now, but most of the thing in Persona 4 is a little different. I'm not go to spoil it right here for people who haven't played it yet. The gameplay is like Persona 3 or persona 3 FES, but it has a little battle system that is a little much better. For now, thats all I can tell you for now.

[Charles]

Persona 3 is probably my favorite RPG ever (thanks Tony). So, of course, I've picked up Persona 4.

Some early observations:

[B]+[/B] Your characters no longer become tired while exploring dungeons.

[B]+[/B] The social link system is improved; your friends will develop new skills based on the bonds you form with them (i.e., they will take a mortal blow for you).

[B]+[/B] Controlling your teammates in battle leads to a much more enjoyable experience

[B]+[/B] Much better dungeon variety (there is more than one)

[B]+[/B] The characters and story are engrossing

[B]-[/B] Too much exposition at the start of the game (You won't really touch the controller much for the first hour or so).

[B]-[/B] The game needs more exit/save points in the dungeons.

[Magus]

That's what I needed to hear.

[quote name='Charles']+ The social link system is improved; your friends will develop new skills based on the bonds you form with them (i.e., they will take a mortal blow for you).[/quote]
That right there is perhaps the most interesting way I've heard of characters learning new skills. Dragon Quest VIII (and perhaps a Tales game, if I can put up with their main character) is perhaps the only rpg where I actually like to level grind, because it rewards you with skills the further you build up and whatnot. (I like to earn my skills) To hear that you have to spend time with friends sounds like it can be frustrating, depending on what can be done.

Edit: [strike]Now I just gotta hope that by the time I get the money that there will still be enough copies of the game so the price don't go up. Stupid Atlus and their short stock of games.[/strike]
Turns out I had $44 on my card and I just purchased the game today. Now I just gotta wait for the game to arrive.

[Charles]

One interesting thing I've noticed:

It seems that you can no longer have your team split up and explore the dungeons/fight on their own (unless I've not unlocked that ability yet).

However, so far, at about nine hours in, I can say that the game seems to be at least on par with Persona 3 in terms of plot. I constantly want to see what is going to happen next.

The main improvement lies in how streamlined everything is. In order to improve various player attributes (understanding, diligence) you can simply get part-time jobs and perform them from your desk at home.

Also, navigating the world is a breeze because you can simply press the square button to bring up every location in a menu and teleport there.

[Vigilance]

Can someone help me if they already did some or most of the quest already, and it is real important to me. So if you already own Persona 4 and played through most of the quest already, then can someone tell me where to find the Angel Statue and the Demon Statue? For some reason I can't find them and I can't figure out what place they are talking about, so any place you could think of?

[DeathKnight]

[quote name='Blitz_Kid']Can someone help me if they already did some or most of the quest already, and it is real important to me. So if you already own Persona 4 and played through most of the quest already, then can someone tell me where to find the Angel Statue and the Demon Statue? For some reason I can't find them and I can't figure out what place they are talking about, so any place you could think of?[/QUOTE]

[color=crimson]Pretty sure they were in Yukiko's Castle somewhere.[/color]

[Ikillion]

[COLOR=#35160f][SIZE="1"][FONT="Trebuchet MS"][quote name='Blitz_Kid']Can someone help me if they already did some or most of the quest already, and it is real important to me. So if you already own Persona 4 and played through most of the quest already, then can someone tell me where to find the Angel Statue and the Demon Statue? For some reason I can't find them and I can't figure out what place they are talking about, so any place you could think of?[/QUOTE]

Angel Statue -> kill Avenger Knight in Yukiko's castle 6-7 Floor.

Demon Statue -> kill Magical Magus on 6-7 Floor of Yukiko's Castle.
[/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR]

[Vigilance]

[quote name='DeathKnight'][color=crimson]Pretty sure they were in Yukiko's Castle somewhere.[/color][/QUOTE]

Oh ok, thanks for the information, now I know where to now.

[Suikojin]

I got this game and it is really fun! So far I like the battle system and the use of these Personas. The only thing is, as I continue through the game the characters start to get on my nerves. Right now I am at the part where Rise is about to appear on the Midnight Channel. Hopefully Rise is a cool character.

[Animepunk420]

This game is pwnage my favorite Persona thus far right now im steadly lvling Yukiko & Kanji also I want my rank up with her but for certain things to say or do I need more courage & diligence, diligence im workin on can some1 tell me whats the best way to get more courage

[Ikillion]

[SIZE="1"][FONT="Trebuchet MS"][quote name='Animepunk420']tell me whats the best way to get more courage[/QUOTE]

Defeat bonus bosses / read certain books / eat at Aiya on Rainy days / eat food in the refrigerator at night. [/FONT][/SIZE]

[Meggido]

Picked up an import copy of this from my local import store today since they finally got it in. I've been waiting since the US release (in fact currently listening to the A-side OST that came with it) and I must say that only a few hours in this is shaping up to be one of the best persona games (hell best rpg's) I've played. I loved P3 and am gonna love this. I've heard however that Persona; Trinity Soul acts as a link between P3 and P4 (even though being set 10 years after the end of the first game and 9 after the start of the second) so I think I'm gonna stop P4 for a little while, finally finish the last month and a half of P3 and re-watch trinity Soul.

[Suikojin]

[quote name='Animepunk420']This game is pwnage my favorite Persona thus far right now im steadly lvling Yukiko & Kanji also I want my rank up with her but for certain things to say or do I need more courage & diligence, diligence im workin on can some1 tell me whats the best way to get more courage[/QUOTE]

Also do that rainy day challenge in town when it is rainy. That levels up a lot of stats including courage.

Also a lot of the books you buy in the book store at the will raise your courage.