Atlus producer Kazushi Wada reiterates the unlikelihood of Persona 3 Portable's female protagonist (FeMC), Kotone Shiomi/Minako Arisato, appearing in Persona 3 Reload. This decision, explained in a recent PC Gamer interview, stems from significant development costs and time constraints.
Initially considered during Persona 3 Reload's post-launch DLC planning (Episode Aigis - The Answer), incorporating the FeMC proved too demanding. Wada emphasized the infeasibility, stating that the required development time and budget were unmanageable. Even DLC inclusion was deemed impossible within the release timeframe.
Released in February, Persona 3 Reload is a complete remake of the 2006 JRPG. While the remake faithfully recreates many core features, the FeMC's absence disappointed numerous fans. Despite this, Wada's statements firmly close the door on future inclusion. He previously told Famitsu that adding the FeMC would have required significantly more time and resources than Episode Aigis, presenting insurmountable obstacles.
The FeMC's popularity fueled expectations for her appearance in Persona 3 Reload, either at launch or as DLC. However, Wada's comments effectively eliminate this possibility. The development challenges and costs associated with her inclusion were simply too substantial.
