Time to Face the Music (Again)
Just when you thought your journey through the Dark Hour was complete, Atlus is pulling you back in. In a surprise move, a free update for the critically acclaimed ‘Persona 3 Reload’ has been released, and it’s aimed squarely at the hearts of longtime fans. The patch, which coincides with the game’s launch on the new Nintendo Switch 2, adds a dose of pure nostalgia by bringing back some of the most iconic vocal tracks from the original ‘Persona 3’ and ‘Persona 3 FES’.
This means that the legendary voice of ‘Persona 3’s original singer, Yumi Kawamura, is returning to the game. It’s a fantastic treat for veterans who grew up with these songs and a great way for new players to experience the music that helped define a generation of JRPGs.
The Ultimate Throwback Playlist
The update allows players to swap out the new ‘Reload’ battle and dungeon music for eight classic tracks. This feature lets you customize your Tartarus runs with the sounds that started it all. According to Atlus, you can toggle these songs in the system settings, giving you control over your personal ‘Persona 3’ vibe.
Here is the full list of songs making their grand return:
- Burn My Dread -Last Battle-
- Mass Destruction
- Deep Mentality
- When The Moon’s Reaching Out Stars
- Want to Be Close
- Memories of You
- Mass Destruction -P3fes Version-
- Brand New Days
It’s a powerful lineup that includes some of the most beloved themes in the entire series. Having the option to fight Shadows while the original ‘Mass Destruction’ blasts in the background is something fans have been asking for since ‘Reload’ was first announced.
A Heartfelt Message from a Legend
To celebrate the update, Atlus shared a message from Yumi Kawamura herself. Her words capture the excitement and nostalgia that this update brings: “It’s been a while! I’m truly overjoyed and grateful to be reunited with everyone again. ‘Persona 3’ is a treasure to me as well – I can’t help but feel excited. Old friends, will you fight alongside me once more? New friends, how about letting my songs aid you in battle? Let’s celebrate together. Thank you for your continued support!”
Her message highlights the deep connection between the music, the game, and its passionate community. It’s a reunion that many are thrilled to see.
Fan Reactions and Perfect Timing
The fan reaction has been largely positive, though not without some debate. Many are ecstatic to get these classic tracks for free, seeing it as Atlus listening to the community. However, some players feel these songs should have been included in the base game from day one, alongside other missing content like the female protagonist from ‘P3P’.
The timing of the update has not gone unnoticed. Releasing it on the same day ‘Persona 3 Reload’ launches for the Nintendo Switch 2 is a savvy marketing move. It gives the new version of the game an extra feature to celebrate and encourages existing players on other platforms to jump back in. While the Switch 2 version is getting these songs from the start, Atlus is also patching the PS4, PS5, Xbox, and PC versions, ensuring no one is left out.
FAQs
What is in the new ‘Persona 3 Reload’ update?
The free update adds eight classic vocal tracks from the original ‘Persona 3’ and ‘Persona 3 FES’, performed by original vocalist Yumi Kawamura. These can be used as alternate background music in dungeons and during battles.
Is this update free?
Yes, the update and the eight songs are completely free for all owners of ‘Persona 3 Reload’.
Which platforms is the update available on?
The update is available for all platforms where ‘Persona 3 Reload’ has been released: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and PC (Steam). It is also included in the game’s launch version for the Nintendo Switch 2.
How do I use the new songs?
You can enable the classic tracks in the game’s configuration menu under the system settings. There will be options to change the dungeon and battle background music.
Who is Yumi Kawamura?
Yumi Kawamura is the original vocalist who performed many of the iconic songs for the ‘Persona 3’ soundtrack, including the fan-favorite battle theme ‘Mass Destruction’.
Are these new recordings of the songs?
The announcement implies these are the original recordings from ‘Persona 3’ and ‘Persona 3 FES’, not new versions.
Conclusion
This free update is a fantastic gesture from Atlus that honors the legacy of ‘Persona 3’ and its unforgettable soundtrack. It’s a celebration of the music that captured a generation of gamers and a welcome addition that enhances an already brilliant remake. Whether you’re a seasoned member of SEES or a new recruit joining on the Switch 2, the chance to battle to the sound of these classic anthems is an absolute treat. Now, if you’ll excuse us, we have a date with Tartarus and some classic tunes.