ATLUS producers demand Persona 1 and 2 remakes

Ten years after the explosive debut of Persona 5, the world of Atlus has become a vibrant landscape of side-projects, re-releases, and ambitious remakes. As the franchise continues to evolve, questions naturally arise about the classics—specifically, what stories should be revisited?

Amidst the excitement surrounding the upcoming Persona 4 Revival, producer Kazuhisa Wada was asked to weigh in on other potential projects. While the focus was rightly on rebuilding Inaba, Wada turned his attention to the foundational entries of the series: Persona 1 and Persona 2.

The prospect of tackling these original titles has generated significant buzz. When pressed about remaking the first two games, Wada offered a clear, passionate stance: “At this point, I can’t say for sure, but personally, I think it’s something we should definitely do. I think we have to do it.”

This conviction stems from a crucial understanding of the history. Remaking Persona 1 and 2 presents unique creative challenges. As these games were developed for the PlayStation 1, they possess a distinct structure and feel that differs significantly from the later installments, making them uniquely challenging to rebuild in modern environments.

Yet, this very structural difference is arguably what makes them so deserving of attention. The constraints of the original design offer a rich opportunity for developers to explore new ways of translating classic narratives and aesthetics into contemporary experiences, honouring the heart of the originals while embracing new technology.

While the immediate focus remains on bringing Persona 4 back into the modern era, the idea of revisiting these early entries sits as a compelling narrative in Atlus’s long-term creative planning. It suggests a desire not just to remaster the past, but to truly explore its roots.

Looking ahead, with Persona 6 still likely years away from release, this appetite for retrospective creation ensures that the legacy of Persona will continue to unfold, promising fresh, engaging experiences long after the initial success of the main series.