Persona 5 came out first, being released in Japan in September 2016 and worldwide in April 2017. Persona 5 Strikers, on the other hand, was released in Japan in February 2020 and worldwide in February 2021. Therefore, Persona 5 was released several years before Persona 5 Strikers. **

Before playing Persona 5 Strikers, it is recommended to have played Persona 5 or at least be familiar with its story and characters. Persona 5 Strikers is a direct sequel to Persona 5, and it continues the story of the Phantom Thieves. Having knowledge of the events and characters from Persona 5 will enhance the overall experience and understanding of the narrative in Persona 5 Strikers. Additionally, familiarity with the gameplay mechanics and Persona fusion system from Persona 5 will also be beneficial when playing Persona 5 Strikers. **

Persona 5 Royal is an enhanced version of the original Persona 5 game. It includes new characters, story arcs, locations, gameplay mechanics, and an additional semester in the school year. The Royal version also features new music, improved graphics, and quality of life enhancements. Overall, Persona 5 Royal offers a more refined and expanded experience compared to the original Persona 5. **

Persona 5 can be considered complicated due to its intricate gameplay mechanics, deep storylines, and complex social simulation elements. The game requires strategic planning, time management, and decision-making skills to progress effectively. Additionally, the various systems such as Persona fusion, social links, and combat mechanics may take some time for players to fully understand and master. Overall, while Persona 5 may seem complicated at first, many players find the depth and complexity to be part of its charm and appeal. **

Persona 4 and Persona 5 are both part of the Persona series, but they have some key differences. Persona 4 is set in a rural town and has a murder mystery theme, while Persona 5 is set in a bustling city and focuses on a group of high school students who become vigilantes. The gameplay mechanics and social simulation elements are similar in both games, but the overall tone and themes of the stories are distinct. Additionally, Persona 5 has a more stylish and modern aesthetic compared to Persona 4. **

The Persona 5 manga is a comic book adaptation of the popular video game Persona 5. It follows the story of a group of high school students who gain the ability to enter a supernatural realm called the Metaverse and change the hearts of corrupt individuals. The manga closely follows the plot of the game, but also includes additional scenes and character development. It is a way for fans of the game to experience the story in a different format and for newcomers to enjoy the Persona 5 universe. **

If you are new to the Persona series, I would recommend starting with Persona 5 Royal. It is an enhanced version of the original game with additional content, improved gameplay mechanics, and new characters. However, if you are a fan of the original Persona 5 and want to experience the game with a fresh perspective, then Persona 5 Strikers might be a good choice. It is a sequel to the original game with a different gameplay style, focusing more on action combat. Ultimately, the choice depends on whether you want to experience the original story with enhancements or explore a new adventure in the same universe. **

No, it is not necessary to have played previous Persona games in order to understand Persona 5. Each game in the series features its own unique story and characters, so players can jump into Persona 5 without any prior knowledge of the series. While there may be some references or Easter eggs that longtime fans will appreciate, the game is designed to be accessible to newcomers as well. Persona 5 stands on its own as a complete and engaging experience. **