Global Launch of Persona 5: The Phantom X Confirmed

The controversial mobile spin-off of Persona 5, entitled Persona 5: The Phantom X, will be globally released on June 26th, according to recent listings on the app stores for iOS and Android. Developed by Perfect World Games in partnership with Atlus, the free-to-play title was already available in parts of Asia since 2023 and is now preparing for its debut in the West.

The game follows the traditional social RPG model of the series, with dungeon exploration, turn-based combat system, and character interactions. However, the typical calendar system of Persona 5 has been replaced by an energy system — recharging in real time, as in other gacha titles. The game is free, but monetized through microtransactions, something that has generated criticism since its initial release.

On the official Twitter/X of Atlus West, the company started teasers with an owl emoji, a reference to the character Lufel, the protagonist's companion and an alternative to Morgana, reinforcing the connection with the narrative universe of Persona 5.

Despite the current focus being on the mobile version, Perfect World had previously stated that they are working on a version for consoles. It is still unclear if this version will arrive on the PlayStation 5 on the same day as the smartphones. However, considering the success of games like Genshin Impact and Honkai: Star Rail on the platform, it is likely that The Phantom X will also make an appearance on Sony's console.

According to recent financial reports from SEGA, the game will be released in Japan during the summer of 2025, but the international expansion will be anticipated. A new livestream is scheduled for later this week, where more details about the global debut and possible console version announcement should be revealed.

Persona 5: The Phantom X uses the same established visual aesthetic of the franchise, with stylized menus, original soundtrack, and character design consistent with the original universe. However, the idea of transforming an acclaimed JRPG into a gacha experience has divided the fan base. Many see the project as a commercial extension that is not well aligned with the original narrative experience of Persona 5, originally released in 2016 and later expanded with Persona 5 Royal and spin-offs like Persona 5 Strikers.

It remains to be seen if The Phantom X will be just another fleeting title in the mobile universe or if it will be able to sustain the legacy of the franchise, now in a format focused on microtransactions and continuous engagement.