Hey everyone.

After a long time we have decided to separate the runs on the original version from the runs done on the english translation patch. Main part of the reasoning for that is the somewhat major discrepancy in speed between the original version and the english fan translation. Personally, I'm an advocate of "play the fastest version available." when it comes to speedrunning. However, given the circumstances of the english version not being an official release version, it is needless to say that this mindset doesn't quite apply in this scenario, therefore we've decided to split them now that there's more of an impact due to an influx of new runners for this game.

As an added piece of info; Neither version obsoletes each other meaning you can have a time in both sub categories if you feel like it.

There was also an update to the rules section for both, the game in general as well as the (sub-)categories to clarify certain things a little more. Keep in mind, some of these could be subject to change in the future but for the time being they appear quite appropriate so make sure to read through them.

As for some general information updates.

Somewhat recently there have been new extra patches for the english translation that actually alter the gameplay (e.g. double EXP, Manicure being sold in Mercury's solo arc in chapter 2, etc.). Some of you might unknowingly be using those versions, so make sure to double check that if you plan to do a run on an english translated version.

Edit 2021/11/12:

Minor update to the emulator rules happened a few hours after initially posting it so make sure to re-read them if you haven't already.

Another thing I want to point at is that it's approaching the end of the year and people are generally more busy during these times, especially given that a lot of game releases are happening soon as well. If any of your submissions are sitting in queue for a bit longer do not be alarmed. We will get to them eventually even if it'll take a bit of extra time.

I figured it might be useful to have a couple of explanations regarding some things that people may have questions about.

-- True End Definition --

Some people might be confused as to why Akechi's Confidant is required in the True Ending run. While it is true that simply beating Maruki gives you almost the exact same ending you will be missing a scene during the ending cinematic if you haven't maxed Akechi's Confidant, therefore not making it the "true" ending. Akechi's 3rd awakening is NOT required for this scene to trigger.

To sum it up, you'll be required to complete the following.

• Councillor Rank 10
• Justice Rank 10
• Complete Maruki's Palace

-- DLC --

Similar to Persona 5, all DLC is banned from speedruns again. Some people may argue "But there's free DLC accessible for everyone" which is a fair point, but not a good reason to allow it. There's multiple reasons behind banning all DLC and not just specific ones.

• No DLC means base game. Anybody should be able to pop in their disc or Download their game on a fresh system and be able to do a run without any extra steps required.

• Sony's DLC system on PS4 is just really bad. There's no way to enable or disable downloading specific DLC. As soon as you own it, you'll have it. While there's a workaround for physical copies it, once again, is either all or no DLC.

• No one will ever know what may or may not happen to certain DLC, or online services in general. This may put later runs at disadvantages if certain DLC might become unavailable.

• Allowing DLC trivializes the run immensely, removing a lot of the actual appeal of running or routing the game for a lot of people.

Should DLC be installed on the system it won't be a problem as all of the items and costumes are stored inside the cardboard box in Joker's room. So as long as the box isn't interacted with, no DLC will be obtained. As far as DLC Persona are concerned those obviously can't be used either. While it may inconvenience fusion routes for some people it is an unfortunate side effect that can however be worked around. If a DLC Persona ends up being obtained from a fusion accident there are two choices.

• Reload the latest save file.

• Release the DLC Persona immediately without utilizing it in any shape or form and continue the run.

• Everything that was DLC on Legacy versions will be considered DLC on Remaster versions as well and therefore is not allowed.

-- Version Specifics --

Legacy version runs may be performed on both, PS4 and PS5. Runs of the PS5 Remaster version however have to be submitted to the Remaster category instead.

-- Misc --

Turbo controllers may be used.

Last edit: 2022/11/15