Is Persona 5 Tactica turn-based?

Even just a glance at Persona 5 Tactica will tell you that it's vastly different from what we're used to from the mainline Persona games. And this difference isn't just in the game's new, simpler art style; the biggest distinction is by far in its brand new gameplay system.

Persona 5 Tactica takes the many systems of the Persona world and implements them in a new dynamic environment that even allows you to move characters before using their personas. But with such a huge change, one very important question comes up: is Persona 5 Tactica turn-based?

For more on Person 5 Tactica, read whether the game is canon as well as if the has romance.

Is Persona 5 Tactica turn-based?

Yes, Persona 5 Tactica is still a turn-based tactical RPG. However, even this element of Tactica works differently from the turn-based combat of the mainline games. This is because Tactica introduces our beloved Phantom Thieves to grid-based tactical combat, similar to that found in games from the Mario + Rabbids and Fire Emblem franchises.

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What this means is that Person 5 Tactica’s maps are divided into a series of squares on a grid, which creates a structured space where Joker and friends can move around and fight enemies. These enemies will also be navigating on the same grid, allowing each party to take turns positioning themselves and attacking the other.

So, with each turn, you'll want to position your respective characters where they can both hit the maximum number of enemies and remain behind cover that can defend them from oncoming attacks. Players will have to stay on their toes when considering where to end their turns in order to maintain an advantage against their enemies.

Of course, the game also incorporates tons of other gameplay elements that the Persona franchise is known for, such as summoning Personas, merging them together, and exploiting the elemental strengths and weaknesses of your enemies. All of this results in a very dynamic turn-based gameplay system with more than enough strategic elements to keep fans of the mainline Persona gameplay satisfied.

That's all you need to know about Persona 5 Tactica's gameplay style. For more info on the game, take a look at our other Persona 5 Tactica guides, such as tips and tricks for players and how long it takes to beat the game.