Yes, I recall that contest. It was won by a game so few had ever played that your rules disallowed anyone to vote against it. People not playing a game doesn't equate to it being any good.
I think you vastly underestimate Persona. It has done well this contest in general and you know very well it is popular on this board. Don't sell the "it's really hip, I bet few have played it" crap when this is board 8.
--
Still smilin'
:>