Watch PERSONA5 the Animation

PERSONA5 the Animation is a Japanese animated television series produced by CloverWorks and Toho Animation, based on the popular video game Persona 5 by Atlus. The show premiered on Tokyo MX in April 2018 and ran for 26 episodes, concluding in September the same year.

The series follows the story of a high school student named Ren Amamiya, who moves to Tokyo after being falsely accused of assault. Ren is put on probation and is forced to attend Shujin Academy, where he meets a group of students who become his close friends. Together, they discover a supernatural power called "Persona", which allows them to access their alter-egos and battle otherworldly creatures called "Shadows".

As Ren and his friends delve deeper into the mysterious world of Persona, they uncover a hidden conspiracy that threatens to destroy not only their world but also the entire universe. They must use their powers to fight against the villains who seek to control everything and save humanity from their dark fate.

One of the strengths of PERSONA5 the Animation is its stunning animation and visual design. The show features a unique and stylish aesthetic inspired by Japanese pop culture, with vibrant colors, striking visuals, and eye-catching character designs. The animation is smooth, dynamic, and captures the action and drama of the story perfectly, making for an immersive viewing experience.

Another aspect of the show that stands out is its strong and compelling characters. Each character has their unique personality, backstory, and motivations, making them more than just mere archetypes. Ren, for example, is a complex and interesting protagonist who is calm, cool, and collected, but also struggles with his past and a sense of alienation. The rest of the cast is equally well-developed, with their own arcs, relationships, and conflicts that add depth to the story.

The plot of PERSONA5 the Animation is engaging and thrilling, with plenty of twists and turns that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. The series balances action, comedy, and drama, creating a good mix of emotions that never feels overwhelming or out of place. The overarching conspiracy is intriguing, with many layers of complexity and intrigue that keep the viewer invested in the story. The pacing is well-done, allowing enough time for character development while also keeping the plot moving forward.

One of the show's weaknesses, however, is that it can be confusing at times, especially for viewers who are not familiar with the video game or the Persona series in general. The show is steeped in lore and mythology, and some of the terms and concepts may require some explanation for those not familiar with the franchise. Additionally, some of the plot elements may feel rushed or underdeveloped, particularly towards the end of the series.

Despite its flaws, PERSONA5 the Animation is a great series that will appeal to fans of the Persona games and anime in general. It has excellent animation, compelling characters, and an engaging plot that will keep viewers hooked from start to finish. It's a testament to the quality of the source material and a must-watch for fans of the franchise.

PERSONA5 the Animation is a series that ran for 1 seasons (27 episodes) between April 7, 2018 and on Tokyo MX