This Underrated 2022 RPG That Is Persona Meets XCOM Is A Must-Play

May 13, 2026 - 02:40

I have spent far too much time searching for games that scratch the same itch as Persona. All too often, I stumble across something that feels as if it might deliver the same compelling combination of life sim and turn-based RPG gameplay, but rarely does it turn out to be quite as good. It is a rare thing to find a title that truly captures that magic. However, one game from 2022 has quietly done just that, and it deserves far more attention than it got.

The game in question is a tactical RPG that mixes the social calendar and relationship-building of Persona with the grid-based, cover-oriented combat of XCOM. You are not just fighting battles. You are managing your time, deciding which allies to bond with, and unlocking new abilities through those connections. The combat is punishing but fair, forcing you to think several moves ahead rather than just charging in. Every decision outside of battle directly impacts your performance in the field, creating a tight feedback loop that keeps you engaged.

What makes it stand out is how well it balances these two halves. The life sim segments never feel like a chore, and the tactical fights never drag on too long. The story is dark and mature, dealing with themes of trauma and survival without feeling preachy. If you missed this one when it launched, now is the time to pick it up. It is a hidden gem that delivers exactly what fans of both genres have been craving.