The White House Referenced Persona 5 and It’s Absolutely Embarrassing

The White House has received widespread criticism after posting an animated video to social media that awkwardly references the popular video game Persona 5. The edit, which features Donald Trump and other Trump administration members, repurposes the game’s iconic “all-out attack” command, specifically the scene where the character Futaba says the phrase. For the game’s dedicated fanbase, the decision to lift specific scenes from such a beloved title felt cringeworthy and out of touch.

Key reasons for the backlash include:

  • Misappropriation of tone: Persona 5 is a stylish, rebellious RPG about fighting corrupt authority figures—making its use by a political administration deeply ironic.
  • Lack of context: The video simply snatches the “all-out attack” sequence without understanding its narrative significance, reducing a dramatic moment to a cheap meme.
  • Fan embarrassment: Many fans expressed second-hand embarrassment, noting the administration’s attempt to appear “cool” only highlighted their disconnect from gaming culture.

Ultimately, the reference failed to resonate positively, with most viewers calling it an awkward and embarrassing attempt to co-opt youth culture. The White House has not commented further on the controversy.

Source: The Mary Sue – The White House Referenced Persona 5 and It’s Absolutely Embarrassing