Persona 3 Reload looks like a faithful remake of the PS2 original with much-needed QOL improvements. It’s so faithful that exploring Tartarus feels just as empty as the PS2 original, which might be positive or negative depending on your fandom.
Various previews for the remake have been released and many agree that it’s a faithful remake with good changes. The Persona 5-esque visuals are a treat and being able to control party members during combat is just as good as it was in Persona 3 Portable.
However, Polygon pointed out how exploring Tartarus feels just as empty as it did on the PS2 original. Even the game’s gorgeous facelift can’t hide the fact that this long tower just isn’t any fun to go through, addictive battles and all.
On one hand, Persona 3 Reload is a remake, and keeping the environment faithful will keep fans happy. After all, making Tartarus more vibrant and interesting would have ruined how moody this game’s story is.
With all that being said, this means players will be going through a Mementos-style dungeon for most of their playthrough. Having flashier battle animations and new music definitely helps but it can make going through the main plot a slog.
Keeping Tartarus empty and hollow will divide fans, though anyone who loved the original will be fine with this move. Still, fans who preferred the more vibrant and energetic dungeons from Persona 4 and 5 might be disappointed.
Tartarus staying the same was expected, though there are other disappointing aspects to Persona 3 Reload. Atlus didn’t bother adding the female protagonist or the FES epilogue but chose to keep AEGIS' Social Link. It shows that the developers cherry-picked what would be added in this remake, adding to the disappointment.
Read More: Persona 3 Reload makes it easier to keep Social Links
Persona 3 Reload will be coming to PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series, and PC on February 2, 2024.