Not well known until the 3rd game "PERSONA 3" released on PS2.
This is 1 of the coolest RPG.
Most RPGs storyline are fantasies, magic, sword arms, monsters, dark & light & all that mystical stuff.
But PERSONA defies all that.
the stories set in real world 2-3 years in the future which not very different from the present. It's dark, deep, & dark but also have many funny moments. It involve around human nature & psycological stuff.
The battle system is very good & fast but might be a bit repetative but that's the beauty. You would wish to use the same strategy with same enemy. Example. If your attack missed once the whole scene could flip over to enemy's favor.
This game's soundtrack also really cool. It's not those orchestral like final fantasy. It's more into present day's style like Pop, Rock, & HipHop.
Be warned actually Rate M 17+
The 4th game "PERSONA 4" will be released in English next month.