But there are different degrees to redemption – as we see in countless examples of popular media. There’s a basic flow to these kinds of arcs – the mistake, the enlightenment, the atonement/punishment, and of course, the resulting redemption. This doesn’t have to be a complete 180 – a villain can still be a villain, perhaps just making a singular choice to aid the heroes, or a decision that seems at odds with their (evil) characterization. Starting with basics: in writing, the premise of a ‘redemption arc’ is the element of a narrative that (loosely) takes a certain character from being one of the ‘bad guys’, to one of the ‘good guys’. Persona 5′s writing fails to execute a satisfying redemption arc for the games’ chief anti-hero, and in doing so, creates an oddly unearned sense of tragedy for his character. Since his story has been changed significantly in Royal, I thought a discussion was in order – namely, how does Persona 5 Royal set up Akechi’s redemption arc? And is it handled well? The short answer, in my opinion, would be no (the long answer being absolutely not). Though acting at the behest of would-be Prime Minister, Masayoshi Shido, Akechi is a villain in his own right. However, in one of Persona 5‘s final twists, Akechi is revealed to be the culprit behind dozens of murders, and the “mental shutdown” cases. I’ve always been fascinated with Akechi’s character – he’s presented as clever, charismatic, and endearing. You get to hang out with the games’ most contentious anti-hero – you can play pool, grab a coffee, or unwind at the bathhouse. The progress of your relationship with this character (who I lovingly refer to as Light Yagami, because, come on now) used to be tied to story progression, but in Royal, he’s now a confidant like any other. One of my favourite initial changes was to the Justice confidant, Goro Akechi. Jumping back into the world of Persona 5 with Royal was a great experience – a lot of quality-of-life changes and additions made the vanilla game even better. You’ve been warned! Akechi’s first battle finisher. Satiated the tongue better than any other thirst ever could.Įxcerpts from a fanfic my partner and I are writing together, called “Pillow Talk.MASSIVE spoilers for Persona 5 Royal ahead. That overwhelming flavored scent that, somehow, tasted better than any food ever would. Allowed that foreign tongue into his mouth. The brief lapse between the corner of both of their mouths where it was allowed, he took in another hitched breath, but he gave in. His eyes naturally had closed upon impact, perhaps a bit tightly, as if bracing for something with more of a kick to it. Goro’s feet remained where they had been firmly planted. But that was all the moment would allow for him to do, before their lips were meeting. The exact instant Ren tilted his own head, there was a sudden surprised sharp intake of breath caught and held within the same confines of his chest, where that fluttery thing resided. And yet, this turn ( despite giving the same exact energy back ) was something entirely earnest and sincere. He had all but been assuming some sort of challenge, picking up from the tensions he, himself had created. Goro’s frazzled mind wasn’t quite sure what was happening. But the soft voice that practically brushed sweet breath against his lips whispered softened gratitude. That fiery gaze he received emanated an intensity that demanded recognition. ![]() His mind went into an instant fight or flight response, and it was choosing fight. He held his full few centimeters that he had over the other, and competitively glared back. And right when Amamiya got right up in his face, Akechi did not back down. ![]() ![]() Whether that be another jaw-clenched argument, or a brawl. Akechi, having not moved from his spot ( which was already right near the base as is ) competitively stood his ground as if bracing for impact. There was the sudden rush of shuffled feet as Leblanc’s only other current inhabitant rushed back down the steps.
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