Why RAIDOU Remastered is a Must-Play for Persona Fans

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Initially, the popularity of the Persona series might lead one to believe it was a recent phenomenon, but its beginnings were quite modest. Originally, it emerged as a spin-off from the Shin Megami Tensei series on the original PlayStation, focusing on a high school setting and weaving Jungian psychology into its storyline. For quite some time, Persona was recognized only by ardent fans of Japanese role-playing games (JRPGs), but with the launches of Persona 3, 4, and especially Persona 5, the franchise gained widespread acclaim on a global scale. Today, Persona stands unquestionably as developer Atlus’ most celebrated intellectual property (IP), even outshining its parent franchise, Shin Megami Tensei, in terms of recognition.

Despite the frequent release of new games in the Persona series since the debut of Persona 5 in 2016, there’s been no confirmation yet about a fresh mainline installment. The whispers about Persona 6 have been circulating for quite some time, but Atlus hasn’t provided any details on the upcoming game as of now. Assuming they don’t suddenly announce Persona 6 in 2025, it seems that we might still be waiting a few more years before the game hits the shelves. Fortunately, Atlus has other games planned to keep fans of the Persona series entertained until the inevitable arrival of Persona 6.

RAIDOU Remastered May Tide Persona Fans Over Until Persona 6’s Launch

RAIDOU Remastered is an Enhanced Version of a Cult Classic PS2 JRPG

In the March 2025 Nintendo Direct event, Atlus unveiled their upcoming project – a revamped version of the game titled “RAIDOU Remastered: The Mystery of the Soulless Army“. Originally developed by Atlus for the PS2, this isn’t an entirely new game but rather a reimagined edition of “Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Summoner – Raidou Kuzunoha vs. the Soulless Army“, a beloved JRPG from their back catalog that hasn’t received enough recognition. Despite its lengthy title, it is one of Atlus’ lesser-known masterpieces from that time period.

Raidou Kuzunoha vs. the Soulless Army” refers to a 2006 role-playing game that is the third installment in the “Devil Summoner” series, which is part of the broader “Shin Megami Tensei” universe. Unlike many games within the “SMT” series, which are predominantly set in contemporary times, “Raidou Kuzunoha” is set in 1931 during Japan’s Taisho era. This game tells the story of Raidou Kuzunoha XIV, a young detective who possesses the ability to capture and command demons. The narrative, though entirely fictional, includes real-life historical figures such as Grigori Rasputin, the enigmatic Russian mystic. “Raidou Kuzunoha” is one of the shorter games in the “SM T” franchise, offering approximately 25 to 30 hours of gameplay.

RAIDOU Remastered Aims to Improve Upon the Original Game in Several Ways

In the majority of Shin Megami Tensei games, including those from the Persona series, you’ll find turn-based battle systems. However, unlike these games, Raidou Kuzunoha vs. the Soulless Army features an action-based combat system instead. While this is a unique twist on the standard Shin Megami Tensei approach, the combat in the game was rather lackluster, even for its era. Fortunately, Atlus plans to revamp Raidou Kuzunoha’s battle system in RAIDOU Remastered. This updated version of the game not only promises enhanced graphics, but also numerous user-friendly enhancements and new voice acting. Contrary to its name, RAIDOU Remastered is essentially a full-scale remake, similar to Metroid Prime Remastered and Dead Rising’s Deluxe Remaster.

Despite Its Historical Setting and Action Battle System, RAIDOU Remastered May Still Appeal to Persona Fans

For some “Persona” fans, the unique environment and real-time combat system in RAIDOU Remastered might not be instantly appealing. However, anyone who enjoys Atlus’ RPG style and is a fan of the Shin Megami Tensei series in particular will probably find aspects they enjoy in this game. Unlike the still-unrevealed “Persona 6”, RAIDOU Remastered: The Mystery of the Soulless Army does have a confirmed release date. It’s scheduled to launch on all contemporary platforms, except for the Xbox One, on June 19, 2025.

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2025-04-09 03:36