Review: Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance (Switch) - Even Better Than The Stellar Original
What new storyline does Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance introduce, and how does it differ from the original game's plot?
Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance introduces a new storyline called "Canon of Vengeance." This storyline is a full-length plotline that players can choose from instead of the original storyline, "Canon of Creation." The Canon of Vengeance begins much the same way as the original release, but mere minutes into the plot, things diverge into new and interesting territory. In a bizarre dream sequence, the protagonist is presented with the spectral form of a young woman, Yoko Hiromine, and must choose whether to leave her there or take her hand. This choice determines the fate of the world and sets the stage for the Canon of Vengeance. This new plotline focuses more on the interactions between the various human characters, making the narrative easier to connect with than the original release.
How do the Qadistu antagonists influence the storyline and gameplay in Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance?
The Qadistu antagonists play a significant role in Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance, both in terms of storyline and gameplay. They offer a new perspective on the nature of truth in the world of Da'at and become increasingly more central to the story as events gradually diverge from the original plot. Their designs are visually striking, and they each have unique boss fights that add to the overall challenge of the game.
In terms of gameplay, the Qadistu's presence affects the choices players make throughout the game, as their actions and beliefs have a direct impact on the story's progression. This adds a new layer of depth to the gameplay, as players must consider the consequences of their actions in relation to the Qadistu's goals and motivations. Additionally, the Qadistu's influence on the alignment system and the new demon negotiation options make for a more engaging and dynamic experience for players.
Overall, the Qadistu antagonists serve to enhance the story and gameplay of Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance, providing players with a more immersive and challenging experience.
What are some of the key gameplay and balance adjustments made in Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance compared to the original release?
Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance introduces several key gameplay and balance adjustments compared to the original release. Some of these adjustments include:
- New Storyline: The addition of a new storyline called "Canon of Vengeance," which features new characters and a different plot that diverges from the original "Canon of Creation" storyline.
- Demon Haunt: A new feature where players can interact with demons in their party, build relationships, and receive stat boosts.
- Grind Rails: These are connections between two points in the Da'at, allowing for faster travel and access to new areas.
- Level Cap Increase: The level cap for the Nahobino and demons can now be raised to 150, up from the original cap of 99.
- Save Anywhere: Players can now save their progress anywhere, rather than having to find save points.
- Miracle Adjustments: Some Miracles can now be toggled ON or OFF from the status screen.
- Demon Conversations: Variations in demon conversations have been added, including quizzes and escaping with gifts.
- First Strike Adjustment: Players can now gain the initiative in battle even after being detected by an enemy, by striking them from behind.
- Additional Subquests: New subquests have been added, including timed quests and subquests where the player temporarily controls a demon instead of the protagonist.
- Demon Navigators: The number of quest navigation demons has been increased from 6 to 17, and their movements are now highlighted with a pillar of light.
- Estoma Skill: Estoma, a skill to avoid enemy encounters, has been changed to consume the Magatsuhi Gauge instead of MP and is no longer limited by the moon phase.
- New Demons: Over 40 new demons have been added to the compendium.
- Virtual Trainer: A bonus challenge content feature allowing players to battle bosses encountered during the game and level up to 999.
- Guest Characters: Human companions can now fight alongside the player as allies.
- New Difficulty Mode: A new difficulty mode called "Godborn" has been added, which can be unlocked after fulfilling certain conditions.
These adjustments aim to improve the gameplay experience and provide players with more options and variety in their playthroughs.