Persona 5: Getting Started Guide#

Welcome to our Persona 5: Getting Started Guide, the ultimate resource for diving into one of the most captivating role-playing games of all time! Whether you’re a newcomer or just need a refresher, this guide will walk you through everything you need to begin your journey in the vibrantly mysterious world of Persona 5. We’ll cover the essentials, from Creating Your Character and Understanding Basic Controls to Navigating the Game World and Starting Your First Day. Plus, don’t miss our Tips for New Players section to get a head start on mastering the game. Read on to unlock the secrets and unleash your inner Phantom Thief!

Persona 5: Getting Started Guide#

Creating Your Character#

Alright, let’s get into the nuts and bolts of setting up your character in Persona 5. This game throws you into the shoes of a high school student who’s living a double life. By day, you’re a regular student, but by night, you become a Phantom Thief, fighting shadows and hunting down evil-doers.

Choosing Your Name#

First things first, naming your character. While the game doesn’t lock you into a specific name, many fans tend to stick with the protagonist’s canonical name: Ren Amamiya. However, feel free to put your own spin on it! Whether you want to carry on the canon or make up something entirely new, the choice is yours.

Understanding Stats#

Your character will have five major social stats you’ll need to boost over time:

• Knowledge
• Guts
• Proficiency
• Kindness
• Charm

These stats are crucial for various activities and can impact how you interact with other characters and unlock certain story elements.

Raising Knowledge#

Boost your Knowledge by studying in the library, answering questions correctly in class, or acing exams. Every little bit helps, and being smart can lead to some impressive bonuses later on.

Building Guts#

Guts can be a bit tougher to raise. You’ll need to do things outside your comfort zone like ordering the scariest thing on the menu at the milk bar, watching scary movies, or participating in certain story-driven events. It might be nerve-wracking, but bravery pays off.

Enhancing Proficiency#

Want to be good with your hands? Build your Proficiency by crafting tools or playing a few rounds at the local batting cages. This is extra important for making infiltration tools that can be a lifesaver in dungeons!

Boosting Kindness#

Need to be a nicer person? Spend time planting flowers, reading heartwarming books, or cleaning up the attic in Leblanc. Kindness opens up so many more connection opportunities with others.

Increasing Charm#

Charm kinda speaks for itself, right? It can be improved by taking baths, watching romantic DVDs, or getting part-time jobs that require social interaction. Being charming isn’t just about looks; it’s how you interact with the game’s many characters.

Balancing Your Day and Night#

The dual life of a Phantom Thief means you need to master balancing school life and combat. During the day, focus on attending classes, hanging out with friends, and boosting those social stats. In contrast, your evenings (and sometimes afternoons) are perfect for fighting shadows, exploring Palaces, and getting lost in Mementos – the game’s almost never-ending dungeon.

Building Relationships#

One of the most rewarding parts of Persona 5 is forging relationships with your confidants – from childhood friends to classmates sneaking out after school to train in martial arts. As you build these bonds, you’ll unlock new skills and abilities that will help you in both your high school and Phantom Thief lives.

Making Important Choices#

Persona 5 constantly throws decisions at you that shape your journey. Do you spend your time studying, bonding with a friend, or fighting shadows? There’s no right answer, but it’s all about balancing what you need and what you want to achieve. Each playthrough can be different, reflecting the choices you make.

So there you have it! Creating your character in Persona 5 isn’t just about picking a name; it’s about laying the foundations for the epic double life you’re about to lead. With the right balance between raising your stats, maintaining relationships, and fighting the forces of evil, you’ll become the ultimate Phantom Thief in no time!

Persona 5: Getting Started Guide#

Understanding Basic Controls#

Hey there, Phantom Thief in the making! If you’re just diving into the world of Persona 5, getting a grip on the basic controls can make your journey through Tokyo’s twisted Palaces a lot smoother. Here’s a handy guide to help you master the art of navigating the game’s menus, combat, and daily activities. Let’s get you up to speed!

Movement and Camera#

• Left Analog Stick: Moves your character. Whether you’re exploring Shujin Academy or sneaking through shadows in a Palace, this is your main mode of getting around.
• Right Analog Stick: Controls the camera. Use this to look around and get a better view of your surroundings.
• L1/R1 (LB/RB on Xbox Controllers): Quickly swings the camera left or right. Useful for quick look-backs or peeks.

Interacting with Objects and People#

• X Button (A on Xbox): This is your action button. Use it to talk to people, open doors, and perform various other interactions.
• Circle Button (B on Xbox): Cancels your action. This button is your back-out key when you’re in menus or need to cancel an interaction.
• Triangle Button (Y on Xbox): Opens up your menu. Here, you can access your items, Persona, stats, and save game options. This button is your gateway to managing your team and progress.
• Square Button (X on Xbox): Activates your third eye. This detective mode highlights interactive objects and hidden paths, helping you spot clues and treasures.

Combat Controls#

• Command Menu: During combat, you’ll be using the d-pad and face buttons to pick your actions.
  • X Button (A on Xbox): Confirms your choices, like attacking or using skills.
  • Circle Button (B on Xbox): Cancels your choice or step back in menus.
  • Triangle Button (Y on Xbox): Brings up your Persona skills.
  • Square Button (X on Xbox): Opens your item menu.
• R1 (RB on Xbox): Targets a weak point automatically. Super handy when you’re mid-battle and need to hit an enemy’s weak spot.
• L1 (LB on Xbox): Toggles between gun and melee modes (when applicable).
• L2 (LT on Xbox): Guards against enemies’ attacks. Essential when you need to protect your HP.
• R2 (RT on Xbox): Rapid fire for your gun.

Daily Life Navigation#

• Map Screen: Press the touchpad (PlayStation) or View button (Xbox) to bring up the map. This helps you find your way around Tokyo, schedule activities, and plan who you’re going to hang out with.
• Fast Travel: Open the map and move the cursor to one of the fast travel points. Select it with X (A on Xbox) to jump directly there.

Miscellaneous#

• Options Button: Press this button to open up the system menu, where you can adjust settings, view tutorial hints, and more.
• Pause Menu: Access this by hitting the Start Button. It gives you control over saving and loading games, checking system settings, and other in-game functions.

Quick Tips#

• Save Often: Don’t forget to save regularly, either through safe rooms in Palaces or at various spots in the real world. It’s a lifesaver!
• Use Your Third Eye: Press that square button (X on Xbox) often to reveal hidden goodies and puzzle hints.
• Pay Attention to Text Prompts: The game often gives you tips and context-specific controls at the bottom of the screen. Keep an eye on it!

And there you have it! With these basic controls in your arsenal, you’re ready to explore the dual lives of a regular high school student and a Phantom Thief. Good luck, and may your heart be your guiding key.

Navigating the Game World – Persona 5 Guide#

Alright, Phantom Thieves, let’s dive into the vast, vibrant world of Persona 5. Knowing your way around Tokyo and the Metaverse is essential to master this game. Here’s how to make the most of your explorations.

The Real World#

Tokyo Exploration#

When you’re not dungeon-crawling in the Metaverse, you’ll be spending a lot of your time exploring Tokyo. Tokyo in Persona 5 is divided into several key areas you’ll frequent, each brimming with activities and shops. Here’s a quick guide:

• Yongen-Jaya: Your home base where Café Leblanc is located. You can study, make coffee, or chill here to boost your stats.
• Shibuya: A hub for everything from shops and restaurants to the bustling underground mall. Here, you can shop for new gear at Untouchable or catch a movie to increase your social stats.
• Shinjuku: A nightlife hotspot. Visit the bookstore to grab new books, check out the Crossroads Bar for confidant interactions, and buy rare items.
• Akihabara: This area opens up later in the game and is perfect for tech and gadget lovers. Don’t miss out on the retro video game stores.

Keeping Track of Time#

Persona 5 operates on a calendar system, with each day divided into segments: morning, afternoon, and evening. Balancing your activities is crucial. During school days, afternoons are mostly occupied by classes. Evenings, on the other hand, are ideal for strengthening social stats, working part-time jobs, or engaging with confidants.

The Metaverse#

When it’s time to dive into the heart of your Phantom Thief activities, you’ll be navigating various Palaces and Mementos in the Metaverse.

Palaces#

Each Palace is a twisted cognitive world formed by the desires of a specific target. Here’s what to expect:

• Layout: Palaces are more straightforward compared to Mementos. Each has a unique design, themed puzzles, and enemies.
• Security Levels: Getting spotted by enemies raises the Palace’s security level. If it gets too high, you’ll be forced out and need to come back later.
• Treasures and Items: Scour each corner for chests and hidden treasures. Don’t rush; every little item counts in building a stronger team.

Mementos#

Mementos is a vast and ever-changing labyrinth that acts as the game’s version of procedurally-generated dungeons:

• Requests: Undertake side missions from confidants and NPCs, which often send you into Mementos to change the hearts of minor villains.
• Resources: Use Mementos to gather resources, level up, and complete optional missions.
• Depths: The further you go, the stronger the enemies. Make sure your team’s in top shape before plunging into the deeper layers.

Tips & Tricks#

1. Use the Map Wisely: The in-game map is your best friend. It can be accessed at nearly any time and will provide you with useful info about your whereabouts, objectives, and confidants available for hangout.
2. Utilize Fast Travel: Once you’ve been to a location, fast travel options make returning a breeze. This is essential for making the most of your limited time.
3. Check Confidant Availability: Use your phone to quickly see which confidants are available. Building these relationships is key to gaining new abilities and improving battle effectiveness.
4. Plan Your Days: Every interaction, event, and activity uses up time. Always plan out your days to ensure you’re maximizing gains in social stats and confidant ranks.
5. Keep an Eye on Deadlines: Palaces have deadlines, so don’t delay. Spread out your infiltration to avoid rushing right before the deadline. It’s crucial to manage your time effectively.

By understanding these key components, traversing the world of Persona 5 becomes much smoother and more enjoyable. Happy exploring, and may your hearts be ever true!

Starting Your First Day#

Welcome to Persona 5! The journey you’re embarking on is full of excitement, challenges, and a bit of teenage drama. As you start your first day, there are a few key things to know that will help ease you into the game’s mechanics and open up the world of the Phantom Thieves.

The Prologue: Setting the Stage#

When you first boot up Persona 5, you’ll be thrown into an intense prologue that’s designed to both grab your attention and teach you some basic controls. Pay close attention to these early moments as they’ll introduce you to the game’s combat system and the stealth mechanics. Don’t worry if it feels a bit overwhelming. You’ll get plenty of practice as the game progresses.

Remember:

1. Combat: Persona 5 uses a turn-based system. Key details like exploiting enemy weaknesses and conserving SP (Spirit Points) are crucial for survival.
2. Stealth: Moving undetected by enemies helps you get the upper hand. Sneak attacks are your best friend.

Arriving in Tokyo: A New Beginning#

After the intense prologue, you’ll find yourself in the bustling city of Tokyo, living under probation after a messy incident. Your new life starts now, and it’s time to settle into your new surroundings.

1. Meeting Sojiro Sakura: This easy-going yet stern man is your caretaker. Listen to him. He may seem gruff, but he’s got some great advice.
2. Living Space: Your initial room is dusty and cluttered. Cleaning it up will not only make it look nicer, but it also helps you feel more at home. Plus, it might unlock a few surprises.

First Day of School: Shujin Academy#

Your first day at Shujin Academy is crucial for a few reasons. You’ll familiarize yourself with the school and meet key characters who will play significant roles throughout the game.

1. Navigating the School: Learn the layout of Shujin Academy. Knowing where key rooms (like your classroom and the faculty office) can save time.
2. Introduction to Characters:
   • Ann Takamaki: Bright and caring, she’s more important than she first appears.
   • Ryuji Sakamoto: This rebellious fellow is rough around the edges but has a heart of gold.
   • Kamoshida: The P.E. teacher with a dark side. Pay attention to him.

Afternoon and Evening: Making the Most of Your Time#

Unlike some games, Persona 5 operates on a calendar system, meaning how you spend your time matters. In the afternoons and evenings, you’ll start taking control over your schedule. Here’s a brief guide on how to use your time wisely:

1. Exploration: Check out your neighborhood, explore local shops, and get familiar with public transport. This early exploration is key to building your navigation skills.
2. Cafe Leblanc: This café, run by Sojiro, will be your home base. Spend time there to not only bond with Sojiro but also improve your skills and earn some income later.

Evening at the Velvet Room#

As you head to bed, you’ll be transported to the Velvet Room — a mysterious place that will become fundamental to your journey. Here, you meet Igor and his assistants, who will help you with your Personas.

Key Points:

1. Persona Compendium: Keep track of your collected Personas.
2. Fusion: Combine Personas to create stronger ones. This is pivotal for becoming more powerful in battles.

Pro Tips for Your First Day#

• Save Often: Persona 5 doesn’t have an autosave feature, so save whenever you can, especially before making significant decisions or entering dungeons.
• Dialogue Choices: Your responses matter and can affect your relationships (Social Links) with other characters.
• Monitor Your Stats: As you progress, keep an eye on your personal stats (Knowledge, Guts, Charm, Kindness, and Proficiency). Balancing these will help you in various aspects of the game.

Starting your journey in Persona 5 is like opening a good book — it’s got a slow burn that will quickly become an engrossing tale you won’t want to put down. Take your time, enjoy the story, and don’t stress if things seem complicated at first. You’ve got a whole adventure ahead!

Tips for New Players#

Welcome to the thrilling world of Persona 5! Whether you’re a seasoned RPG fan or new to the genre, this game has a lot to offer. Here are some tips to ensure you get the most out of your time as a Phantom Thief.

Manage Your Time Wisely#

In Persona 5, time management is key. Every day in the game offers limited opportunities to improve your social stats, build relationships, and get stronger. Here’s how to make the most out of it:

1. Prioritize Social Links: Building relationships with your Confidants is crucial. Each Confidant provides unique bonuses and new abilities. Spend time with these characters to unlock powerful benefits that will help you in dungeons and battles.

2. Boost Your Stats: Activities like studying, working part-time, or reading can boost your social stats (Knowledge, Courage, Charm, Proficiency, Kindness). These stats unlock new dialogue options and Confidant opportunities.

3. Balanced Routine: Try to balance between exploring dungeons (Palaces and Mementos) and engaging in day-to-day activities. You can’t do everything in one day, so plan ahead.

Combat Tips#

Combat in Persona 5 can be challenging, but learning the basics will make it more manageable:

1. Exploit Weaknesses: Each enemy has a weakness to specific attacks. Use skills that target these weaknesses to knock them down and gain extra turns. This mechanic is crucial for defeating tougher enemies.

2. Use Baton Pass: When you exploit an enemy’s weakness or land a critical hit, you get the chance to pass the baton to another party member. This grants extra turns and increases the damage of their attack. Use it strategically to chain attacks for maximum damage.

3. Stock Up on Items: Always keep healing items and status ailment cures on hand. You never know when you might need them during a tough battle.

Exploration Tips#

Exploring the metaverse can be exciting but also overwhelming. Here’s how to navigate efficiently:

1. Search Thoroughly: Always explore every nook and cranny of a dungeon. You’ll find treasure chests with valuable items, rare enemies, and hidden paths that might lead to shortcuts or secrets.

2. Save Points and Fast Travel: Use save points often to avoid losing progress. Don’t forget to make use of the fast travel option to move quickly between familiar locations.

3. Check Your Map: The map is your friend. It will highlight unexplored areas, marks important locations, and indicates where you might find potential treasures or encounters.

General Advice#

These broader tips will help ensure you’re playing efficiently and having fun:

1. Fuse Personas Regularly: Merging Personas in the Velvet Room can create stronger allies with better abilities. Don’t get too attached to any one Persona; keep fusing to keep your lineup powerful and versatile.

2. Read Books and Watch DVDs: In-game books and DVDs can boost your social stats and are often quicker than other activities. Take advantage of downtime to enjoy these.

3. Take Your Time: Don’t rush through the game. Enjoy the story, get to know the characters, and immerse yourself in the world of Persona 5. There’s no need to rush!

Final Thoughts#

Persona 5 is a game meant to be savored. Its rich story, deep combat system, and engaging gameplay all combine to create a memorable experience. Follow these tips, and you’ll be well on your way to becoming a master Phantom Thief. Good luck!