Although Atlus has delayed the release of its upcoming franchise installment, "Persona 5," the developer is confident that the title will still sway the western audience the way it did its Japan market.
"Persona 5" is now available in Japan, and Atlus says that it is overwhelmed with the response of its fans. It is confirmed that the new game is the fastest-selling game for Atlus, as it sold 437,929 units for the first two weeks since its release last September.
Atlus Chief Executive Naoto Hiraoka is all smiles, as he ponders on the success of the new game. Speaking with MCV UK, Hiraoka says, "We could not imagine how players would react to 'Persona 5' at first. However, it has obliterated all expectations in Japan. The game's unique style and aesthetic appeals to so many people beyond our traditional fanbase."
With the game a hit for its Japanese fans, Hiraoka and his team are confident that "Persona 5" will also translate as a success when it releases in Western markets, even if the game has been delayed. Hiraoka continues, "Obviously we have very high expectations for it in the West, and feel that it will become a representative title of Atlus, not only in Japan but in the West as well. Each and every staff member is working extremely hard to ensure it sets the gold standard for our localisations and culturalisations."
Previously, "Persona 5" is supposed to release on Feb. 14 next year. However, Atlus confirmed that the game is now launching on April 4 instead.
The release of "Persona 5" is deemed to be Atlus' crowning glory for a successful year-long run, and an impressive launch for U.S. and Europe audiences will cement it. Aside from the new franchise sequel, Atlus has also worked on "Odin Sphere Leifthrasir," "Ace Team's Deadly Tower of Monsters," and SNK's "The King of Fighters XIV."
