The extent to which Persona 6 will tie itself into the previous games is a major point of speculation among fans. While the current mainline Persona titles can be played as standalones, they do reference each other to varying degrees. Persona 3 Portable and Persona 4 Golden are heavily intertwined, with the two teams crossing paths on multiple occasions. In contrast, Persona 5 kept its nods to the past games more subtle. Given the popularity of Persona 5, it would make sense for Persona 6 to highlight it in some way. One possibility could be introducing Jose, a character from Persona 5 Royal who, despite being peripheral to the plot, offers interesting potential for a new party member and a bridge between the modern Persona era and its lore.
Jose Felt Like a Half Measure in Persona 5 Royal
Jose's potential as a character in Persona 5 Royal was not fully realized despite his significant contributions to the game. While his shop in Mementos provided players with access to rare items and improved loot, he remained a peripheral character who only briefly touched upon the larger issues facing the game's world. However, his potential as a rich and complex character should not be overlooked. If Atlus chooses to bring Jose back as a main character in Persona 6, there is a real opportunity to explore his character more deeply and reveal his secrets. With his knowledge of the human heart and unique abilities, he would be well-suited to guide players through the Shadow world. And by delving into his hinted-at connection with Philemon, Persona 6 could recapture the storytelling magic that made the franchise so beloved in the first place.
Jose Could Offer Persona 6 a Unique Party Member in Combat
Jose has the potential to become a captivating playable character with his unique skillset. As seen in his secret boss battle in Persona 5 Royal, he excels in dealing elemental damage using fireworks and explosives. This skillset sets him apart from his teammates, who rely on their Personas. In Persona 6, Jose could be a non-Persona-using party member with an entirely different set of spells, giving players a refreshing gameplay experience. Alternatively, he could take on the role of the Navigator and interact with the protagonist in a more engaging way. Players could spend resources to draw from Jose's treasure trove, allowing him to change weapons and accessories, hurl explosives at enemies, or provide healing items in a pinch. With his intriguing design and mysterious past, Jose is a character that demands a bigger role in Persona 6.
Persona 6 is in development.