We want to get Persona 3 Reload to Switch 2 users as soon as possible. Switch 2 Developer Interview [TGS2025]
Note: the original Japanese article can be found at:
https://www.4gamer.net/games/933/G093322/20250926041/
Editorial Department: Junpoco | 2025/10/01 06:45 (UTC)
At the Sega Atlus booth during Tokyo Game Show 2025, the RPG “Persona 3 Reload” (hereafter P3R), scheduled for release on October 23, 2025, for the Nintendo Switch 2, was available for playable demo.
This title is the Nintendo Switch 2 port of the same-named RPG originally released in February 2024 for other platforms (PC/PS/Xbox). It’s a beautifully redesigned and more accessible remake of “Persona 3” (hereafter P3), which established the foundational gameplay mechanics and systems that now define the current Persona series.
At TGS 2025, we spoke with Kazuhisa Wada, General Producer at P-STUDIO, and Akihiro Komori, Director of this title.
Left to right: Akihiro Komori and Kazuhisa Wada Thumbnail image No.002 / Want to deliver “Persona 3 Reload” to Switch 2 users as early as possible. Developer interview on the Switch 2 version [TGS2025]
Official Website for “Persona 3 Reload”
4Gamer:
Today, we’re glad to have you here. Let’s start by discussing the game “P3R” itself. The previous release on other platforms (PC/PS/Xbox) in February 2024 received widespread acclaim and earned numerous award nominations and wins. How do you feel about that response?
Kazuhisa Wada (hereafter, Wada):
It’s truly heartwarming to see “P3R” embraced by so many people and receiving such high praise. For us, one of the most important goals was ensuring fans who played the original “P3” would enjoy this remake—and their immediate support meant a lot. That initial positive reaction gradually expanded to newer players who had discovered the series through titles like “Persona 5” (hereafter P5) or those new to gaming altogether. Recently, I’ve noticed more people are being drawn in by Let’s Plays and streaming content.
4Gamer:
That makes sense. As we’ve discussed before, Atlus has adopted a strategy of releasing titles simultaneously across platforms and regions. This lack of regional or language delays allows players worldwide to experience the game together at once—an important factor.
Wada:
Exactly. Previously, our releases tended to be “explosive launches,” where early adoption came primarily from dedicated gamers and long-time fans. But lately, we’ve seen more gradual sales growth. Since adopting simultaneous global release as a standard practice, we’ve felt much stronger the sense of worldwide excitement building at once. This is actually the first time we’ve taken such a major title through this approach—and it’s worked out wonderfully for spreading the game.
4Gamer:
Given that “P3R” forms the foundation of today’s Persona series, I imagine expectations and pressure were especially high.
Wada:
That was certainly true from the start. We received excellent feedback from players who had played the original “P3,” particularly regarding where we chose to focus our remake efforts—and new players seemed to enjoy it as a fresh, modern experience. Many also praised it all the way through, which reinforced how valuable this remake truly is.
4Gamer:
How did you feel about the announcement of the Switch 2 version?
Wada:
We’ve long received requests from fans asking for a release on Nintendo hardware. So, being able to officially announce it during a Nintendo Direct event was very satisfying. Seeing positive reactions both in Japan and abroad made us incredibly happy.
4Gamer:
Could you tell us about how the decision to develop the Switch 2 version came about?
Wada:
We’ve always wanted to bring this game to Nintendo hardware, but simultaneous development across platforms wasn’t feasible at first. After the Switch 2 was announced, we decided that our top priority should be acquiring development kits as early as possible so we could deliver it quickly to players eager to experience it on the new system.
4Gamer:
What’s the reasoning behind making this a Switch 2 exclusive?
Wada:
The core reason is simple: we wanted to get it into players’ hands as fast as possible. We aimed to minimize the gap between releases on other platforms. However, when we tested running it on standard Switch hardware, we realized that doing so would delay release by about a year compared to our original plan.
Akihiro Komori (hereafter, Komori):
When we tried porting it directly to Switch, performance was simply too challenging. To achieve the smooth controls and high-quality visuals that work well on Switch hardware, we had to completely rebuild the UI and artwork from the ground up—which would have added another year to our timeline.
Wada:
Given our strong desire to deliver this game as soon as possible, we ultimately decided it was best suited for Switch 2 exclusively. Originally scheduled for release after the new year, thanks to smooth progress in development, we’re now able to launch by October of this year. I’m genuinely happy that we’ve been able to release it earlier than planned.
4Gamer:
Since this is your first time speaking with us as a 4Gamer interviewee, could you tell us how you came to become the director?
Komori:
Ah yes—first of all, hello! I joined Atlus straight out of university and have been involved in game development for nearly 20 years now. But actually, I haven’t had much involvement with the Persona series before. My only prior contribution was helping write English lyrics for “Burn My Dread”—a rather unusual role, where someone asked me to review a specific section.
4Gamer:
Personally, I associate you most closely with the “Mystery Dungeon: Shiren the Wanderer” series.
Komori:
That’s right. I’ve served as main programmer on nearly all of those titles. I’ve also been involved in many Nintendo hardware-focused games such as Shin Megami Tensei Devil Survivor, Shin Megami Tensei DEEP STRANGE JOURNEY, and Shin Megami Tensei V. Most recently, I served as Sub-Director on Shin Megami Tensei V: Versus, overseeing overall project management, patch implementation, and experience version direction.
4Gamer:
I see. Before considering your work on a Persona series title—given that you’re now developing for the Switch 2, which is Nintendo’s platform—I wonder if you were approached specifically because of your background with games like “Mystery Dungeon”?
That was my first thought when I saw your name as director of the Switch 2 version: “He built an RPG world on handhelds—the kind players can play on their own—so maybe that’s why he’s handling this now.”
Komori:
Ah, clever thinking (laughs). But actually, it wasn’t exactly because of those titles. What really mattered was my experience working with Unreal Engine on the Switch during Shin Megami Tensei V: Versus. That knowledge proved invaluable.
Wada:
Komori had already accumulated significant expertise with the Switch long before this project. So when we considered who would be best for evaluating and developing the Switch 2 version, it was clear that Komori and his team in Production Group 1 were the ideal choice.
4Gamer:
The Switch 2 has unique characteristics distinct from PCs or other consoles. What aspects did you focus on during development?
Wada:
Undoubtedly, its hardware features are central. If someone picks up “P3R” for the first time on Switch 2 without having played any previous version, they’ll likely expect to play it in both handheld and docked modes—using handheld mode during commutes or school trips, then switching to a large TV screen at home for relaxed gameplay. We made sure that both modes would feel comfortable and visually appealing.
4Gamer:
It’s great that you can take a more relaxed approach to the game in some moments. With handheld devices becoming popular even on PC, and PS Portal available for PlayStation, it seems many people enjoy this kind of flexible gaming style—especially with Switch 2.
What was most challenging during development?
Komori:
As Wada mentioned, making sure both modes felt comfortable and seamless was difficult. The Switch allows instant switching between handheld and docked mode just by plugging in or out—without any loading screens interrupting the transition.
4Gamer:
Ah yes… we’ve become so accustomed to this that it feels natural now—but really, that instantaneous switch is what makes it feel smooth and uninterrupted.
Komori:
Exactly. Even though handheld and docked modes use different hardware performance levels, we had to ensure both looked balanced visually—so neither mode felt like a downgrade. If one seemed inferior in graphics, it would break immersion. Achieving this balance was actually quite a complex technical challenge.
4Gamer:
It really makes you appreciate how much we take for granted. “P3R” supports so many different play styles—what would you say is a recommended way to enjoy it on Switch 2?
Wada:
Of course, everyone should play however they like—but personally, I’d use handheld mode during commutes for leveling up or grinding, and switch to the TV screen at home when diving into serious story progression.
4Gamer:
I do exactly that—so I totally understand. For RPG fans, it’s already become standard: quick tasks like gathering materials or leveling up on the go; deeper story moments with full focus on a big screen. That style is now deeply ingrained.
Wada:
Also, since many people play Switch 2 together as families, even though it’s a single-player game, there’s a common enjoyment in watching someone else play alongside you.
4Gamer:
Earlier we mentioned streaming videos—there’s also the joy of sharing. The experience doesn’t stop at playing; it extends to showing and discussing with others.
Wada:
Exactly. When people get interested this way, family members can create their own save files and start playing too. If someone who never touched the game before starts enjoying it because of this—well, as a developer, that’s truly one of the happiest feelings imaginable.
4Gamer:
I’ve actually experienced something similar: when I was playing the PS5 version on my PS Portal, my child became curious. Watching with me, asking questions about gameplay mechanics, and even hiding scenes they weren’t ready for yet—“You can’t show that!”—we ended up having fun together. Now my kid’s totally in love with “Jack Frost,” saying he’s so cute!
Wada:
Ah, that kind of organic spread is wonderful.
4Gamer:
Time’s nearly up, but let’s talk briefly about what comes next. The remake of “Persona 4”, titled “Persona 4 Reload” (hereafter P4R), is already confirmed and in development. While we can’t reveal specific details yet, could you share a message for fans?
Wada:
Yes… “P4” was already packed with so many elements—especially in Persona 4 The Golden—so when creating the next “Reload” title, it’s not enough to just add more content. We need to offer an entirely new kind of experience. That part is honestly quite challenging in terms of scale and scope—but I can feel that we’re on track for something really great.
4Gamer:
We understand you can’t reveal the release date or specific details yet—can fans still look forward to it?
Wada:
Absolutely—we’re committed to delivering a game worthy of your expectations. While we can’t share the release timing just yet, I’d like everyone first to focus on the Switch 2 version of “P3R.” We’re actively developing multiple projects including P4R—so please stay tuned.
By the way, next year marks the 30th anniversary of the Persona series. Our goal is to make it an even more memorable and enjoyable year for all fans.
4Gamer:
Lastly, could you give a message to players who have played the original “P3” but haven’t yet experienced “P3R” on other platforms—and are planning to play it for the first time on Switch 2?
Wada:
When remaking “P3,” we focused especially on usability and graphics. While incorporating evolved UI elements and systems from later Persona titles, we preserved what makes “P3” uniquely P3—while also integrating new features. A clear example is the “Social Link” system: it’s no longer as strict or demanding as in the original—it’s much more accessible now.
Of course, this doesn’t mean the game has become less deep or casual—we’ve kept its core challenge intact. And remember, this isn’t just for Switch 2—there’s also a demo available. If you’re curious, we encourage you to try it first. After all, no matter how much you hear about a game, nothing beats actually playing it yourself (laughs).
4Gamer:
Absolutely true (laughs). Once you play, you’ll surely notice things like “Oh, this part works differently now” or “It’s so much easier to use!”—there are many such moments.
And for first-time players: one last message?
Wada:
Many people discovered the Persona series through “P5,” but “P3R” is a completely different kind of Persona experience. If you’re interested in the franchise, I truly hope you’ll give “P3R” a try. It’s an old game from 19 years ago—but it feels utterly fresh and new.
The journey of meeting characters, growing alongside them—it can inspire small but meaningful insights about life. As a developer, there’s nothing more rewarding than knowing players have had such moments through our game.
4Gamer:
Thank you very much.