February 24th 2024.
When it comes to the Persona games, it seems like there are always new versions popping up. As a reader, I can't help but feel frustrated with this trend. It's like Atlus is constantly releasing updated editions with extra content, making it seem pointless to buy the original version.
Last year, I came across an interesting Reader's Feature titled "I'm a huge Persona fan and I won't be buying Persona 6". As a fellow Persona fan, I was initially confused by the title, but as I read on, it all made sense. The author wasn't saying they weren't excited for the new game, but rather that they were aware of Atlus' tendency to release special editions with improved features and content a year or so later.
It's not just about not wanting to buy the same game twice, it's also about the fact that the newer versions are usually superior. And let's be real, these games require a significant time commitment, so it's important to make the most of our limited free time. As a fan of the series, I can't help but feel resentful about spending hours on a game that will eventually be replaced by a better version.
But it's not just a one-time thing. Since that Reader's Feature was published, Atlus has released two more updated versions. For example, Persona 3 Reload is missing some important content, making it far from the definitive edition it was marketed as. And just this week, they announced Shin Megami Tensei 5: Vengeance, which is essentially a new and improved version of the original Switch-only game. As a consumer, it's hard not to feel cheated when we've already invested time and money into the first version.
The more I think about it, the more I realize that this isn't a one-time occurrence. In fact, it seems to happen with every new game and sometimes even more than once. At first, I thought maybe it was because the game was a huge success and they had the budget to add more features. Or perhaps it was because the game was on a new platform, allowing them to take advantage of better technology. But now, I can't help but feel like it's all just a ploy to make more money.
I understand that making a profit is important for any company, but it feels dishonest and underhanded. I wouldn't be surprised if they purposely leave out certain content in the original version, just to add it back in later as DLC or in a special edition. It's like when Capcom used to include DLC on the game disc.
I have no issue with a director's cut or a re-release that adds new features, especially if it's been a few years since the original. But that's not what's happening here. Persona 3 is 18 years old and they had more than enough time to plan a remake that includes all the content from the various versions. And yet, they still left out crucial elements on purpose.
So what's the point of buying the latest version of a game, like Metaphor: ReFantazio, when we know there will be a special edition released a year later? They may have fooled me as a Persona fan, but I'm not going to take that risk with a new franchise when I know how they operate now.
It seems like this trend has caused a lot of distrust among fans, and I'm not the only one who feels this way. If Atlus was a struggling indie developer, I might be more understanding. But they don't have that excuse. They're taking advantage of loyal fans who just want to enjoy their games, and it's disheartening.
I shouldn't be surprised, though. This is how most companies operate, but now that I'm aware of their tactics, I'll definitely think twice before buying any of their games in the future. It's a shame that our loyalty as fans is being exploited instead of rewarded.
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