Kazuhisa Wada identifies the 2006 release of Persona 3 as a pivotal moment. Prior to this, Atlus operated under a philosophy Wada calls "Only One," characterized by a "like it or lump it" attitude prioritizing edgy content and shocking moments over broad appeal.
Wada notes that market considerations were previously considered inappropriate within the company culture. However, Persona 3 prompted a shift to a "Unique & Universal" approach. This strategy focuses on creating original content accessible to a wider audience, marking a change where Atlus began actively considering market viability and user experience.
Wada uses a striking metaphor: "It's like giving players poison that kills them in a pretty package." The "pretty package" represents appealing aesthetics, likable characters, and humor designed for mass appeal, while the "poison" signifies Atlus' continued commitment to intense and surprising narrative elements. This "Unique & Universal" strategy, Wada asserts, will underpin future Persona titles.
