With a series of large and small improvements to its story, visuals and gameplay, Persona 3 Reload is the definitive version of the PlayStation 2 classic. This is one of the best remakes of the year.

COGconnected - James Paley - 87 / 100

I loved this game when it first released on the PS2. It felt almost too cool for console gaming, too crisp for the era in question. Even now, Reload carries a timeless charm that keeps me engaged. The battle system has been polished, the visuals are totally overhauled, and the game is bigger than ever. There’s pacing problems to be sure, and the gameplay loop isn’t for everyone. Plus, fans of certain versions will find this edition somewhat lacking in features. But maybe that’s okay? I’d rather judge this game on what it is, rather than what it isn’t. And Persona 3 Reload is an excellent evolution of a PS2 classic that fans new and old will almost certainly love.

Cerealkillerz - Nick Erlenhof - German - 8.7 / 10

Persona 3 Reload is such a splendidly reworked version that it can almost feel like a completely new Persona. Gorgeous visuals, a perfectly remixed soundtrack, an improved battle system and a finally updated, albeit still in parts boring, trip through Tartarus really leave little to be desired when embarking on a trip to the Gekkoukan school. It's just a shame that the female protagonist and the additional chapter "The Answer" are still missing.

Chicas Gamers - Raúl Pinto - Spanish - Unscored

Persona 3 Reload is a turn-based RPG, as well as a narrative adventure, that brings back the acclaimed ATLUS game in a magnificent remake full of content. We find a game that is based on Persona 5 in terms of gameplay and appearance, having incredible gameplay and graphic style, in addition to a very good job with the old soundtrack and the new pieces introduced. The only problem is being completely overwhelmed by the FES content, an aspect that should not happen in a remake.

ComicBook.com - Logan Moore - 4.5 / 5

Persona 3 Reload definitely still feels dated in some areas, which isn't always expected from a modern remake. Despite this, some of these older aspects of Reload are what I came to appreciate the more that I played.

ComingSoon.net - Tyler Treese - 9 / 10

Remaking a legendary title is often a recipe for failure, but Persona 3 Reload lives up to its legacy and wonderfully updates the 2006 gem.

Console Creatures - Matt Sowinski - Essential

Persona 3 Reload is a fantastic way to experience a classic. The graphical and gameplay enhancements are meaningful, while the base story still shines years later. While the missing features from FES and Portable are missed, this is the definitive way to experience Persona 3.

Dexerto - Noelle Corbett - 5 / 5

If the goal of Persona 3 Reload is to modernize a classic JRPG from the PlayStation 2 era for a new generation of players, then it is undeniably a success. While there may be some legitimate disappointment over the lack of content from Persona 3 FES and Portable, what is here is more than enough to cement Reload’s status as a solid remake that delivers the now definitive version of Persona 3.

Digital Chumps - Will Silberman - 9.5 / 10

Persona 3 Reload is not a carbon-copied remaster of Persona 3 Portable or even Persona 3. It’s a refreshed perspective of Persona 3 that removes a good bunch of pain from older RPGs while retaining the charm and character of the original. It feels like many thoughtful decisions were made to better the game’s flow without compromising on its core experience or watering it down. My only concern is that owners of 2023’s Persona 3 Portable might feel like there aren’t enough changes to warrant a replay. But, if you haven’t yet experienced its source material, Persona 3 Reload is without a doubt the best version of the game to play.

Digital Spy - Jess Lee - 4 / 5

It's dark at times, but has a hopeful message. Through all the devastation, the cast learn to be there for each other and try to make the most out of life.

Digital Trends - George Yang - 4.5 / 5

Persona 3 Reload is a win-win of a remake for old and new Persona fans alike.

Digitally Downloaded - Matt Sainsbury - 5 / 5

While I personally prefer the more textured narrative of Persona 4, the unrelenting focus and intensity of Persona 3 means that it still stands out as one of the greatest and most intelligent video game narratives. The developers haven’t done too much to mess with that (the decision to leave out a “post-game” chapter that was both technically unnecessary but yet well-regarded notwithstanding), and have otherwise focused on modernising both the look and flow of the game to make it the most enjoyable and “clean” version of Persona 3 yet. Persona has a habit of attracting purists, and I foresee the discourse around this remake being particularly volatile. However, personally, I’ll be over there looking forward to the inevitable announcement that Persona 4 will get this treatment too.

DualShockers - Emma Ward - 9 / 10

Dive into the Dark Hour and awaken the depths of your heart. Persona 3 Reload is a captivating reimagining of the genre-defining RPG, reborn for the modern era with cutting-edge graphics and gameplay.

Eurogamer - Kaan Serin - 4 / 5

Reload adds welcome modernisations to the wonderfully deadly coming-of-age story that captured hearts in 2006, though visual tweaks undermine the thematic coherence.

FandomWire - Osama Farooq - 8 / 10

Persona 3 Reload takes the concept of remaking a beloved title and goes all the way through with it, especially when it comes to the visual finesse and the excellent presentation. The social simulation, interactions, and activities are some of the best ever put into a video game, making it feel immersive from the very first day at Gekkoukan High School.

There is always something to do in this wonderful city, ranging from the grand reopening of an old bookstore at the mall to heading to numerous restaurants to spend time with friends.

While the social links stand out as the undisputed highlight in Persona 3 Reload, it is the monotonous Tartarus and generic enemy designs that ironically slow things down and make the combat feel a bit dull compared to the other aspects of the game. The storyline is gripping and intriguing at the beginning and stays that way later on too, but because of the more serious elements that are never fully realized, it starts to lose its hold as time goes on.

However, the stunning animation, fluid gameplay, wide palette of character types, great soundtrack, and bustling setting make Persona 3 Reload a highly enjoyable remake.

GAMES.CH - Sven Raabe - German - 90%

Persona 3 Reload is a fantastic remake of an already great cult game. All kinds of clever gameplay innovations and an enormous amount of style make this a gripping JRPG that you shouldn't miss out on. The remake of the PlayStation 2 classic is even now a hot contender for the best role-playing game of the still quite young year.

GGRecon - Ben Williams - 5 / 5

Persona 3 Reload is one of the best remakes I’ve ever seen - a faithful but stunning reimagining of a classic JRPG that will please Persona veterans and newcomers alike.

With the only small negatives coming from Atlus’ dedication to recapturing the experience of the original, fans will without a doubt debate this being the best in the series after being reminded why Persona 3 is so spectacular.

Game Rant - Drew Swanson - 4.5 / 5

Overall, Persona 3 Reload is a fantastic package that offers enough new content to satisfy fans of the original, while remaining faithful to what made that entry so special. It's also an incredibly approachable entry for newcomers thanks to the myriad of enhancements to the Persona series' combat and social mechanics. It's clear that Persona 3 Reload isn't just a remake of an outdated game, it's an entry that is entirely its own and signals a bright future for the franchise in the post-Persona 5 era.

GameBlast - Farley Santos - Portuguese - 9 / 10

Persona 3 Reload stands out as an example of how to modernize a classic, remaining faithful to the original while introducing significant innovations, such as revamped visuals, additional events and new mechanics. However, some concepts remain in the past, such as repetitive dungeon exploration. With its strengths far outweighing its flaws, the game is a recommended experience for both longtime fans and newcomers to the Persona series.

GameSpew - Richard Seagrave - 8 / 10

Even with the issues you can pick at in this remake, though, there’s no denying that Persona 3 Reload is one hell of game. Its story is as engaging as ever, and now its gameplay has been notably improved, giving you more options in combat and out. Along with the new visuals and soundtrack, Persona 3 has never looked, sounded or played as good. It’s just silly that it’s arrived so close to the remaster of Persona 3 Portable: if you’ve played that recently, it might not grab your attention throughout due to its authenticity. For those who are yet to jump in or are keen to relive the classic yet again, however, simply play and enjoy.

GameSpot - Jess Cogswell - 9 / 10

Persona 3 Reload succeeds in elevating an unforgettable story with smart combat changes and drastically improved visuals.

Gameblog - KiKiToes - French - 9 / 10

Persona 3 Reload is an excellent remake and truly modernize the game by harmonize it with Persona 5. A truly impressive graphical leap that which brings new perspectives and brings some new features. The Tartarus still feels outdated and could have benefited from some tweaks. But Persona 3 Reload is still a memorable game and one of the best of the beginning of the year.

Gamer Guides - Chris Moyse - 75 / 100

One of the most esteemed and cherished RPGs of all time returns, smoother and smarter than ever. Unfortunately, Persona 3 Reload deals an incomplete hand, with disappointing omissions, stunted evolution, and a contentious price tag. Nonetheless, its indelible cast retain their infectious social spirit, set to break your heart and burn your dread all over again.

GamingTrend - David Flynn - 95 / 100

Persona 3 Reload is the best Persona game to date. It reimagines a fan favorite to be the best it can be, even if it does stumble in some ways. There are a few Social Links that could have used overhauling, and the game is a bit too faithful to the original in these ways. However, the overall experience is transcendent and took me straight back to hanging out with my virtual friends in high school, getting to know them and slicing up Shadows. There really is nothing out there like Persona.

Generación Xbox - Javier Gutierrez Bassols - Spanish - 90 / 100

Persona 3 Reload is everything a remake should be. A title that respects the essence of the original game and that, in addition to presenting a new graphic section, has several new features. This respect for the original, even though it has been remade from scratch, allows us to focus on improving and expanding some elements that were already good.

God is a Geek - Lyle Carr - 9.5 / 10

Persona 3 Reload improves the original version of the game in so many ways, and is absolutely essential for all RPG fans.

Hobby Consolas - Álvaro Alonso - Spanish - 92 / 100

Although it lacks two key pieces to be the "definitive version", Persona 3 Reload modernizes a classic to the level of today's great RPGs and includes enough new features to tempt those who already knew it once again. The best of both worlds, as they say.

IGN - Michael Higham - 9 / 10

With a stellar visual overhaul and countless small but impactful changes, Persona 3 Reload tells a timeless story of tragedy and hope with sharp emotional sincerity.

IGN Italy - Majkol Robuschi - Italian - 9 / 10

Persona 3 Reload is a pleasure to play. Throughout the adventure you switch between fighting and school activities with great fluidity, and it is safe to say that the 2000s JRPG that defined the entire genre is back in better shape than ever.

IGN Spain - Esteban Canle - Spanish - 8 / 10

Persona 3 needed a facelift, and Atlus has delivered. This adaptation respects the source material, and brings an iconic title that now has the opportunity to reach many more people into the modern age.

Metro GameCentral - GameCentral - 8 / 10

A solid, if strangely incomplete, remake which matches Persona 5 for presentation and has some of the most interesting and varied social link options of the whole series.

Noisy Pixel - Bailey Seemangal - 8.5 / 10

Persona 3 Reload is a highly-anticipated remake that doesn't deliver on all fronts. Still, it tries to do so with plenty of meticulous care. The added character scenes and new activities make the experience even more compelling, while the modernized visuals and new English voice cast live up to this classic's legacy. However, some of the new gameplay features make the experience too easy and forgiving. Additionally, the exclusion of some elements, like The Answer from Persona 3 FES, makes this launch less definitive than it could have been.

One More Game - Vincent Ternida - Buy

Persona 3 Reload is a triumph, considering the degree of difficulty that Atlus was challenged with when they decided to remake such a classic. Through a combination of thoughtful upgrades and leaving behind dated mechanics, this title is ready to satisfy the evolving taste of franchise fans while catering to newcomers and introducing them to the world of Persona.

Persona 3 Reload proves that you can have both a challenging and accessible JRPG without losing Persona 3’s core identity, as it refines the dated designs and systems of the original by bringing it in line with Persona 5, offering a modern take that stands tall among its peers.

PSX Brasil - Thiago de Alencar Moura - Portuguese - 90 / 100

Persona 3 Reload is an imperfect remake in which, although the lack of content from previous expanded versions bothers it, its novelties and the necessary (and very well executed) combat rework make this the best way to play the best narrative the series has ever had in a package with a great localization in PT-BR.

PlayStation Universe - Joe Richards - 10 / 10

Persona 3 Reload is a flawless reimagining of one of the most impactful RPGs of the PS2 generation and manages to carefully preserve just about everything I loved about the original game in a stylish bombastic package. The approach to modernising the gameplay is a masterclass and should be the gold standard going forward for RPGs of this ilk. For players who have only experienced modern Persona through Persona 5 and Persona 5 Royal, you would be doing yourself a disservice by skipping this title. An equally wonderful cast and effective story lift this into one of the most impactful games that I have ever played and this new version means it can be enjoyed by a completely new generation.

Press Start - Harry Kalogirou - 9 / 10

Persona 3 Reload is a confident remake of a truly seminal RPG that cements itself as the definitive way to play Persona 3. It's clear that careful thought and deliberation has gone into every aspect of Reload to respect the legacy of Persona 3 while preserving its timeless charm and atmosphere. An absolute must play for any fan of the franchise, and a great point to jump in for those looking to take the plunge into Persona.

Prima Games - Patrick Souza - 10 / 10

Reload feels like a new game without deviating from the original. Almost every aspect has been improved, and it might be the new best point of entry for the series.

Push Square - Robert Ramsey - 9 / 10

Persona 3 Reload is a brilliant remake. In terms of gameplay, it's easily the best incarnation of a classic RPG, boasting countless quality of life and mechanical adjustments that place it alongside the outstanding Persona 5 Royal. Storytelling enhancements make the plot even more impactful, and the remade visuals are a joy to behold. Reload is borderline essential if you're yet to experience Persona 3, while also providing a near perfect way for existing fans to relive a seminal release.

Rectify Gaming - 9 / 10

Despite being a remake, Persona 3 Reload is undoubtedly at the forefront of mainline Persona titles. Fans have been asking for a re-imagining of Persona 3 for the longest time and Atlus has finally answered their calls. The game appeals to both fans and newcomers of the series, as it offers a compelling story, memorable characters, and addictive gameplay, all through a modern lens.

Rock, Paper, Shotgun - Matt Cox - Unscored

A repetitive journey through a year of quirky yet cheesy high school relationships, interspersed with tedious turn-based combat.

Shacknews - Donovan Erskine - 9 / 10

Persona 3 Reload is a treat for not only fans of the 2000s classic, but newcomers as well. ATLUS does an excellent job at preserving everything that made the original game special while modernizing it for those that may be experiencing it for the first time. It’s JRPG excellence at every turn, and one I’ll be sinking many hours into between now and the release of the next mainline Persona game.

Siliconera - Jenni Lada - 9 / 10

While I miss the female protagonist and the dungeon-crawling element may feel a bit dated, Persona 3 Reload is a joy to play and offers everything I could want from it.

Spaziogames - Gianluca Arena - Italian - 8.7 / 10

We disagree with the people at Atlus and their decision to leave Tartarus as it was, but nonetheless this is one of the best JRPGs of the modern era, and this remake makes it shine like it deserves. The one for this review was our fifth run in eighteen years and we still didn't feel any fatigue playing it. Let's just hope the devs will include Persona 3 FES and Portable content later down the road.

The Games Machine - Nicholas Mercurio - Italian - 9.5 / 10

Persona 3 Reload is a sensational work that is not just satisfied with being a remake but is, consequently, something that reformulates the development of ATLUS video games for an even wider audience. Choosing one of the greatest and most powerful works of the JRPG genre, thus forging a title to improve and revisit a work of the genre, was by no means an easy and immediate task. Indeed, it was something extremely complex. An incredible great return that can be summed up in the term "Masterpiece".

The Nerd Stash - Nat Collazo - 8.5 / 10

Persona 3 Reload is perfect for new and veteran fans alike and is sure to get fans of turn-based JRPGs turned on to the rest of the Persona series.

The Outerhaven Productions - Todd Black - 4.5 / 5

Persona 3 Reload is everything that fans of the franchise wanted from a remake and more. It doesn't change the story but builds upon the various gameplay elements that have become staples in the games that came after. Plus, the story and characters are incredible, and you'll love getting to know them more.

TheGamer - Jade King - 4 / 5

Inconsistent graphics and the lack of a female protagonist we had in Portable aside, however, this remains a solid means of enjoying one of the finest RPGs of the past two decades. Its writing is sharper, combat is more satisfying, and it brings this world to life in ways that just weren’t possible several generations ago. Reload might lack its signature rough edge, but those coming around for the first time will find plenty to love.

TheSixthAxis - Nic Bunce - 9 / 10

Persona 3 Reload is a dream come true for Persona fans. With far more than just a visual uplift, this is very much the best possible edition of the game, even if it can't quite be called 'definitive'.

Twinfinite - Zhiqing Wan - 4.5 / 5

Persona 3 Reload is an outstanding and worthy remake of a game that’s proven it can withstand the test of time. Welcome back to the dorm.

VG247 - Alex Donaldson - 4 / 5

At a certain point you have to step back and judge a game for what it is rather than what it isn’t. After all, if you want the female protagonist there’s Portable, and if you want the epilogue there’s FES. But as a stand-alone thing – as a convenient, modern, and attractive way to experience a truly great RPG classic – Persona 3 Reload is a wonderful offering.

VideoGamer - Antony Terence - 9 / 10

P3R’s poignant tale of acceptance is bolstered by smart combat refinements, deeper friendships, and a soundtrack you already love.

WhatIfGaming - Ali Hashmi - 9 / 10

Persona 3 Reload is a fantastic remake that cleverly integrates mechanics from subsequent entries to provide an experience that's polished, expertly paced, and full of heart. Its fast-paced combat, quality-of-life additions, and host of activities always keep you engaged no matter where you are in the story. The darker tone lends to an overall narrative that feels more consequential, and Tatsumi Port Island is a joy to explore. It's an excellent place for newcomers to the series and a must-buy for RPG fans.

XboxEra - Genghis Husameddin - 9.5 / 10

"But what I think Persona 3 Reload does best is that it brings one of my favourite Persona games to a new audience and excels at it. The visuals are gorgeous, the pacing isn’t overtly stretched out, the combat is fun and fluid, and the story is still great. Anyone can get in on this game’s excellent blend of school life and role-playing genres and I can wholeheartedly recommend this game, not just because Persona 3 is a classic for me, but because Persona 3 Reload is genuinely fantastic."

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[–] chaorace@lemmy.sdf.org 9 points 9 months ago* (last edited 9 months ago) (3 children)

I tend to prefer clicking through the unscored reviews first since I find that it's generally a mark of a quality outlet. Rock Paper Shotgun in particular is an old favorite of mine, so their's is the first review that I clicked on and let me tell you guys: it's a real firecracker!

Matt clearly didn't have a good time and I had to respectfully disagree with a lot of the points he's made, but even so... his points are well-articulated and sensible. I'm rather glad for his uncommon perspective on the topic and I do think that RPS ultimately picked the right writer for the job. He hasn't particularly changed my mind about a day-one purchase, of course -- the main difference is now I'll have a more nuanced and realistic expectation for what's inside.

[–] Ashtear@lemm.ee 6 points 9 months ago* (last edited 9 months ago) (1 children)

Mm, "it plays itself" is a common, reductive argument against turn-based combat that I don't think is helpful.

Otherwise, I think this review is mostly okay for those new to the series (or the genre). Saying that he had a motivated start is interesting, as the story's notoriously slow start is a frequent complaint about the earlier versions (and the series in general).

It's good to see a new player in the mix, though the reviewers who are familiar enough with the original games to outline what is missing were the most valuable to me. The missing content makes this a "wait for a sale" purchase for me.

[–] chaorace@lemmy.sdf.org 6 points 9 months ago* (last edited 9 months ago)

I took his criticisms of the combat as basically saying "this system is not interesting enough to form a satisfying gameplay loop". That's a critical statement which I actually agree with, though from my perspective that's a key part of Persona's core design: neither the combat system nor the social link system are endlessly enjoyable, so the player is intrinsically motivated to avoid lingering for too long and properly close the core gameplay loop by advancing the calendar. It's that sort of pendulum-like cadence which gives the series its unique sense of momentum.

I do think that it's a shame RPS's Matt was unable to find joy in P3R's gameplay loop due to disliking the social-link system... but I also see it as an opportunity to better understand the game as a holistic package in a way that can't be achieved through a more carefully measured, quantitative analysis. The way I see things, the game is the game -- I'm much more interested in understanding what's in the game rather than what's not, if that makes any sense.

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