'Persona 5' characters, release date: Atlus unveils first 18 minutes of the game

Atlus

Developer Atlus has dropped new details on the upcoming "Persona 5" sequel.

In a recent live-streamed event, the studio shared some new details on the upcoming sequel to the original "Shin Megami Tensei: Persona" franchise. Along with the opening animation, Atlus has also published the first 18 minutes of the game (SPOILER ALERT). While the new gameplay footage only shows some of the daily activities of the main protagonist, there are also some sequences which showcase new features for the game.

The new details drop highlights and seven additional seven Cooperation Characters for players. These in-game characters interact with the player's team of Phantom Thieves and build rapport with them. Over time, deep bonds by building up relationships will unlock a co-op relationship between the characters. This means that players will be able to use the Cooperation Characters' abilities, skills, and knowledge throughout the game.

In addition, it is also revealed that aside from the spawned dungeons in the main campaign, "Persona 5" will also feature Mementos Dungeon, which containts free quests separate from the main game.

Aside from the new gameplay footage, Atlus also dropped more game-related content for fans. There are at least a number of introductory videos for the new Cooperation Characters, as well as a preview of the TV spots for "Persona 5." Atlus also confirmed game events (restricted to Japan) and the game's attendance at the Tokyo Game Show 2016. Since the release and the event coincide, Atlus may be planning a big presentation at the trade show. The Tokyo Game Show runs from Sept. 15 to 18.

"Persona 5" will release for the PlayStation 3 and PS4 on Sept. 15 in Japan. Meanwhile, the game will roll out early next year, Feb. 14, in the Americas. Although the game is confirmed to have a European release, a specific release date has yet to be announced.