Casual Friendships Blossoming Into Love:

A part of Persona 5’s theme is about how the Phantom Thieves, our rag-tag group of friends, were simply just children who were failed by the adults in their lives. Arguably, none of them had much in common with each other besides that. But they’ve got each other’s back and are as thick as thieves. (I’m sorry it was right there!)

And it’s in those interactions with each other that you see the female members of your group showcase their personalities. In the anime, it’s less explored but their character arcs are incredibly well written in the video game.

For example, one of my favorite characters was Ann Takamaki. She is one of the first people your character, ren, meets when they arrive at Shujin Academy. At first, she’s secretive and isolated, but as she opens up you realize just how fun and colorful, she can be. She’s the heart of the group.

Alternatively, there is Haru, one of the last additions to the Phantom Thieves. An heiress whose father ends up being corrupted, you see her go from this meek and polite little girl to becoming a congenial woman with a wicked attitude.

Again, these romance options work well with Ren because they are roughly the same age, and their struggles are relatable to one another. Even if you end up rejecting them, it doesn’t feel inorganic.

Why The Adult Romances In Persona 5 Suck:

Here is the crux of the issue: I acknowledge this is fiction. But even fiction ought to hold some responsibility. And the adult romance options are just so unnecessary. Especially with Kawakami, who is Ren’s homeroom teacher that moonlights as a maid for a service.

You don’t need me to tell you why an adult shouldn’t be cozying up to a teenager, no matter how much they help them get through the trauma. It’s just weird and uncomfortable, with her character arc being a literal drag to get through.

All of the adult romance options are bad, but Kawakami being in love with Ren is just so forced. I can’t deal with it.