This is a main game, released in 2016, available on PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 3. It is a role-playing and adventure game that blends turn-based combat with visual novel elements. The narrative centers on a high school student who, after being falsely accused of a crime, is transferred to a new school in Tokyo. Here, he encounters other students who feel similarly ostracized and suppressed by their environment.

Together, they discover a hidden, metaphysical realm known as the "Palace." Within these Palaces, which are manifestations of corrupted desires, the group transforms into the "Phantom Thieves of Hearts." Their mission is to infiltrate these mental fortresses, steal the "ill intent" from the hearts of wrongdoers, and bring about a change in their actions. This vigilante lifestyle pits them against oppressive adult authority figures and a larger, more sinister enemy that emerges as their activities gain attention.

Story, Setting, and Atmosphere

The game immerses players in the vibrant, yet often stifling, urban landscape of Tokyo. Players will navigate the daily life of a high school student, attending classes, building relationships, and managing their social calendar, all while secretly operating as a vigilante. The atmosphere shifts dramatically between the mundane reality of school life and the surreal, stylized environments of the Palaces. These dungeons are visually distinct, reflecting the distorted desires and psyches of their owners, creating a unique aesthetic for each one. The game explores themes of rebellion, freedom, and the struggle against societal corruption.

Core Gameplay Mechanics

The gameplay loop is divided into two distinct phases: the daily life simulation and the dungeon-crawling/combat phase. During the day, players manage their time, choosing activities that can strengthen their bonds with other characters (known as "Confidants") or improve their own stats. These relationships are crucial, as they provide tangible benefits in combat, such as new skills or the ability to perform follow-up attacks.

When venturing into Palaces, the game transitions into a turn-based JRPG combat system. Players control a party of characters, each with unique abilities and elemental affinities. A key mechanic is the use of "Personas," which are manifestations of the characters' inner selves. These Personas can be switched during battle, offering a strategic layer to combat. Exploiting enemy weaknesses and executing powerful "All-Out Attacks" are central to overcoming challenges.

Social Simulation and Progression

The social simulation aspect is as vital as the combat. Building relationships with a diverse cast of characters through dialogue choices and shared activities directly impacts the protagonist's power and capabilities in the Metaverse. This integration of social links with combat effectiveness is a defining characteristic of the game.

Exploration and Combat

The Palaces are intricate dungeons filled with puzzles, traps, and enemies. Players will engage in turn-based battles, utilizing a variety of skills and Personas to defeat their foes. The combat system emphasizes strategic planning and exploiting enemy vulnerabilities.

Available Content

This is a main game release. There are currently no DLCs or expansions available for this title.

Basic Game Information

Release Year

2016

Platforms

PlayStation 4, PlayStation 3

Genres

Role-playing (RPG), Adventure