Is Persona 5 Tactica canon?

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A close up view of Persona 5 Tactica characters including Erina and Morgana

Fanatics of the Persona video game series have eagerly awaited the release of the latest spin-off, with one specific question regularly ringing through the hearts and minds of this particular player base – is Persona 5 Tactica canon? On November 17, 2023, Persona 5 Tactica became available to enjoy through various gaming platforms such as Steam, Nintendo Switch as well as PlayStation and Xbox consoles, with many people searching for the answer to this query about the game’s storyline.

In this brief article, we’ll be explaining the canonical nature of this tactical role-playing title. It shall also explore how Persona 5 Tactica fits in with the overarching story and what things the game will be adding to what players already know about the series.

Should you be new to the Persona series of games, then we definitely suggest you read our comprehensive beginner’s guide with various tips and tricks on how to play the game, or how you can get to the popular marriage scene in the game.

One of the scary villains the Phantom Thieves must face in Persona 5 Tactica
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Credit: Steam

Is Persona 5 Tactica canon?

Persona 5 Tactica is canon in the sense that its storyline takes place in the aftermath of the original game’s ending, which happens to be prior to the new trimester from Royal. The official story synopsis says that Persona 5 Tactica is "shortly before the third-years' (Makoto/Haru's) graduation", so it would be at some point between Joker being released from prison and Shujin's graduation day.

What this means is that Persona 5 Tactica comes in after Persona 5 Royal’s third semester and the collapse of the MetaVerse, but before Persona 5’s actual conclusion.

What makes Persona 5 Tactica a unique spin-off?

Although Persona 5 Tactica is canon, just like every single Persona game in the series, this title will provide a different kind of offering. Instead of the turn-based battle system that many are familiar with, you’ll be part of the Phantom Thieves and have to navigate grid-based maps and make more strategic decisions out in the field in order to progress.

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What this means is that making smart combat decisions is the only way to survive in the incredibly demanding Persona game universe. This can come in various forms, whether that involves using full cover to negate damage, exploiting elemental strengths and weaknesses or even using firearms or close-range attacks to stun enemies. All in all, you can rest assured that this game will sweep you off your feet, as you work to assemble an all-star team of protagonist heroes in a brand-new story.

That's all you need to know about Persona 5 Tactica's place in the popular franchise's timeline. For more content on the game, check out if Persona 5 Tactica has romance.

For more articles like this, take a look at our Guides and Persona page.