The Controversy Surrounding Persona 2 and Hitler: Exploring the History and Backlash

Introduction

Persona 2, a popular video game series developed by Atlus, has stirred up a lot of controversy with its portrayal of Adolf Hitler in one of its games. This has led to heated debates, with some defending the inclusion of Hitler as a fictional character, while others find it deeply offensive. In this article, we will explore the history of Persona 2 and Hitler and the backlash it has faced.

The History of Persona 2

Persona 2 is a roleplaying video game series that was first released in 1999 for PlayStation. The game is known for its complex storyline and unique characters. The second installment of the game, titled “Persona 2: Innocent Sin,” was released in 1999 in Japan and later in North America and Europe.

The game follows a group of high school students who use Persona, mythical beings that represent the characters’ inner psyche, to battle demons that have taken over the city. The plot of the game revolves around a rumor that if a person calls their own cellphone number at midnight, a wish will be granted.

Hitler’s Inclusion in Persona 2

In Persona 2: Innocent Sin, Hitler is included as a fictional character. He is portrayed as a shadow, a manifestation of the character’s negative emotions, rather than as a historical figure. The game also features other famous figures such as Vincent van Gogh and Tatsuya Suou.

While most players consider Hitler’s inclusion as a mere plot device, some have criticized the game for using such a controversial figure. Some argue that Persona 2 trivializes the crimes of Hitler and the Nazis.

The Backlash

The inclusion of Hitler in Persona 2 has faced a considerable amount of backlash from the gaming community. This has led to Atlus removing the reference to Hitler in the North American version of the game. However, the original Japanese version still contains the reference.

Many players argue that video games should be taken as what they are- entertainment- and not as a medium for political messages. Others argue that video games have the power to educate and create awareness, and, as such, should take responsibility for portraying historical figures accurately.

Conclusion

The controversy surrounding Persona 2 and Hitler highlights the complexities of fiction and its relationship with real-life events. While some argue that games like Persona 2 trivialize the crimes of historical figures, others consider them as a fictional medium to grapple with and make sense of history. Ultimately, it’s up to the players to decide what they want to take away from the game and how they want to judge the inclusion of Hitler as a fictional character.