Netflix bets on live-action Persona, a video game franchise with more than 30 years

The renowned Persona game series, developed by Atlus, will have a live-action adaptation on the Netflix platform, with the participation of Shawn Levy, known for his work on Stranger Things, on the project’s team of producers. The announcement was made on July 27, 2026.

The scene of video game adaptations for the screen has proven to be fertile ground for Hollywood, serving as a great inspiration for film and television productions. Recent examples such as The Last of Us and Fallout have demonstrated the feasibility of converting major game titles into critically and popularly acclaimed successes.

With this panorama, Netflix seeks to strengthen its presence in this genre, after facing an unsatisfactory result with the Resident Evil series. The streaming platform is developing a live-action version of Atlus’ classic Persona franchise, which celebrates more than three decades of existence in the world of video games.

The team behind the project includes Shawn Levy, known for his work on Stranger Things, and The Ringer’s Robert Atwood, both serving as executive producers. Christopher Monfette, who starred in Star Trek: Picard, will take on the role of writer and showrunner for the new attraction.

Which of the Persona games will be adapted by Netflix?

One of the biggest questions among fans of the series is exactly which title in the vast saga will be adapted. Currently, the franchise consists of five main games, as well as several remasters and a sixth episode already confirmed. Although each game features different protagonists, the narrative structure generally remains consistent.

The central premise involves young Japanese students who, in their apparently normal school routine, must confront supernatural dangers. They use “Personas”, which are physical representations of their own psyche, invoked to aid in battles.

Persona 5’s success could influence Netflix’s adaptation

All signs point to Persona 5 as the most likely choice to base the adaptation. Released in 2016, this game is the most successful title in the franchise to date, consolidating the elements most appreciated by fans and making it the main candidate for the streaming giant’s first live-action production.

Historically, Persona narratives have already been transposed into anime format, which is natural considering that the games themselves incorporate Japanese-style animated sequences into their structure. The new Netflix series will represent the first time that the Persona universe will be transported to a live-action production.