Fans of the "Shin Megami Tensei: Persona" franchise will be glad to know that the next installment in the series, "Persona 5," is confirmed to be arriving this summer.
According to Gematsu, the news came from no less than the game's developer. Reportedly, the latest issue of Japanese gaming magazine Dengeki PlayStation features an interview with Atlus CEO Naoto Hiraoka.
The interview delved into the game development company's 2015 run and what it means for future releases. The CEO said that the company's run last year was a successful one since, "we were able to develop existing IP like 'Persona 4: Dancing All Night' and 'Etrian Mystery Dungeon.'"
Meanwhile, Hiraoka also stated that this bodes well for future releases, starting with their 2016 lineup. In the interview, the CEO added, "In 2016, starting with 'Odin Sphere: Leifthrasir,' we plan to release a large number of titles. In the summer, we'll launch the long-awaited 'Persona 5.' Of course, in addition to that we have several unannounced titles. I have no doubt this will be a year Atlus' popular series all gather together."
"Persona 5" is one of Atlus's most-awaited releases, and fans previously expected the game to launch in late 2015 but it was not released. However, with Hiraoka's statements, it is now confirmed that the latest upcoming installment will have a summer 2016 outing.
While fans wait for "Persona 5," numerous teasers and details have already leaked about the game. According to Crossmap, while the upcoming title will still feature characters with their different inner selves called Persona, the story for "Persona 5" will delve deeper into how personal choices affect a person's surroundings.
In "Persona 5," the group of main protagonists will always be on the run, and as lead designer Katsura Hashino said, "We're writing [the story] to convey a thrilling everyday life in the shoes of these characters, that are as large as life, in this juvenile school setting."
