This alternate scene begins with the trio standing on a platform in the then-unidentified palace. Kasumi begins talking about a “flag parade,” they had passed through earlier in the day, referring to the Japanese flags she and the two other boys are holding in their hands. Akechi accuses Kasumi of feigning innocence about the situation, asking, “Are you acting? I have my doubts about you, and you still haven’t proven your innocence.”
Before Kasumi can properly respond, a voice calls out to the trio. The three look down to discover Dr. Maruki standing below them. Maruki confirms that he is this palace’s ruler, and explains he is here “to resolve misunderstandings.”
Kasumi then begs Maruki to state whether or not he is their enemy. In response, Maruki says, “Instead of explaining, it will be better to show it.” Maruki then snaps his fingers and the camera pans upwards to a screen, presumably leading into the animated cutscene depicting Kasumi’s death and revealing Sumire’s true identity.
Compared to the scene in the game, many fans have agreed that this version is very anticlimactic and leads into Sumire’s memories with no real buildup. Additionally, many have stated that this scene depicts Maruki as a stereotypical villain, which feels very out of character for his sympathetic character.
Regardless of Atlus’ official reasons for changing the scene, it can now be viewed online.
Persona 5 Royal is available now, exclusively for the PlayStation 4.
Source: YouTube
