Persona Director Talks Atlus' 25th Anniversary

It's time to burn your dread, Atlus fans, because it seems that the company is intent on reaching their 25th Anniversary in one piece.

In a recent blog post by Persona director Katsura Hashino, Hashino seems to say that they are going to bounce back - and better than ever! Fortunately for all of us Westerners there's an English translation thanks to Siliconera:

"Before we realized it, it (Persona) had become a series that is the topic of many people out there," Hashino says. "From television anime adaptations, live-action stage plays, and now a musical live event on the big stage. We are very blessed. Again, looking at it from the development side, it’s been almost 10 years(!) since the same team that was in charge of Shin Megami Tensei: Nocturne and Digital Devil Saga began work on Persona 3 in 2004. We’ve been able to make it this far because of the encouragement fans have given us. And we truly appreciate it."

Hashino goes on to discuss Atlus' recent financial struggles but nonetheless remains hopeful that things are going to improve and encourages fans to have a little faith.

"Due to certain circumstances as of late, we really regret to have caused you to worry. Next year is the 25th anniversary of the Atlus brand, and there is some news we’d like to share; however, we ask if you can be patient just a little longer... The new titles we’ve yet to announce are all currently being developed zealously. The only issue at the moment is simply how we can further better these titles. While we have been spending our busy days tackling various issues as usual, we’re still doing our best to not lose focus."

So it seems that Atlus are doing their best to keep afloat and that they may even have a few new games in mind. Could Persona 5 be one of them? I suppose that time will tell. In any case, Atlus' approaching anniversary should be cause for celebration for all RPG gamers.

Hashino closes with a few words about the current state of gaming today and how he's determined to continue to deliver great games, no matter what:

"Lately, it appears that the way games are valued has greatly diversified," he comments, "but with the sentiments of those who love video games, and our feelings that go into the making of the games along with our accumulated know-how, as long as there are continued challenges and expectations, I believe that the future of gaming will be something great that is full of fun and stimulation.

As part of a creator, it would bring me great pleasure to know that we are contributing to said value. And to those of you who are already part of the “pleasure” in our work, nothing brings me greater joy than that."