Shin Megami Tensei 5: Vengeanceis the definitive version ofShin Megami Tensei 5, originally released in 2021 exclusively for the Nintendo Switch. Now, with its re-release, the game is available on other platforms such as PC, Nintendo Switch, Xbox, and PlayStation, bringing new monsters, plots, and various quality-of-life updates.
However, surviving in this version of Tokyo, devastated by a war between angels and demons, is not easy. Players, especially newcomers to the franchise, may encounter difficulties during their initial hours of journeying through this universe.Avoiding these beginner mistakes is essential for a good experience, and fortunately, they are easy to overcome.
10Don’t Overtrain Demons
Better Ones Will Appear Soon
UnlikePokemon,Shin Megami Tensei 5 Vengeancedoesn’t reward players for training monsters to the highest levels. In the beginning, demons serve primarily as tools tailored to specific areas of the map. As the story progresses, these early demons quickly become underpowered and less useful.
Even if a summoned demon has a cool design, once all its abilities are learned, there is no practical reason to continue leveling it up,since they level up differently from Nahobino.The process is time-consuming and the attribute gains are minimal, making it inefficient.
9Don’t Neglect Fusions
Transform Demons Into Others
Early in the game, Nahobino gains access to the World of Shadows, a crucial area for upgrading the recruited demons.One of the most important functions here isthe ability to fuse demons, creating even stronger allies for the team.
By selecting two or more demonsand fusing them, players can craft new allies that inherit abilities from their predecessors and gain access to an even broader range of powers. This method keeps the group’s power level consistently high. It also provides a meaningful role for lower-level demons, ensuring they remain useful throughout the journey.
8Don’t Forget Essence Fusions
Another Great Utility Of The World Of Darkness
The World of Darkness inShin Megami Tensei 5: Vengeanceoffers numerous tools vital toNahobino’s survival in the post-apocalyptic Tokyo. Among these is Essence Fusion, which allows players to transfer new abilities to both the protagonist and the demons.
While it might seem wise to save these resources for stronger demons encountered later,it is important to use them as they become available.Essence Fusions are plentiful and tend to improve as the player advances, making them a valuable asset for enhancing the team’s abilities continuously.
7Don’t Keep Nahobino’s Affinities The Same
Adapt The Protagonist To Various Situations
Essence FusionsinShin Megami Tensei 5 Vengeanceprovide a critical function:they allow Nahobino to adapt his weaknesses and strengths according to the enemies he faces. This adaptation is possible only if the character has learned the miracle “Divine Amalgamation,” which should be a priority.
When accessing the essence menu, instead of transferring powers to Nahobino, consider transferring the affinities of demons to him. This strategy enables the protagonist to adjust his attributes to better counter enemies, especially bosses, who wield powerful attacks and require tailored strategies.
6Don’t Ignore Guest Characters
One Of The Main New Features In Canon Of Vengeance
The journey inVengeanceprimarily focuses on recruiting and strengthening demons. However, the Canon of Vengeance introduces Guest Characters, other humans who can assist Nahobino in various ways. These characters bring a wide range of powers and can manipulate inventory items, which demons cannot do.
Whenever a Guest Character joins the team, it is wise toconsider placing them among the primary characters for battles.Their unique abilities enhance the team’s overall effectiveness, providing significant advantages in challenging encounters.
5Don’t Forget To Seek Charm Resistances
Many Enemies In Canon Of Vengeance Have This Ability
Players choosing the Canon of Vengeance storyline inVengeancemay encounter a significant problem. Some enemies and bosses at the beginning of the game have the Charm ability, which can easily complicate battles.
Thus, having a demon equipped with the Patra spell is important.This ability can not only cure Charm, but also other ailments.One of the best early game summons for this isApsaras, who has immunity to Charm and can also use Patra. Apsaras isobtainable through missionsor fusion.
Ways to get Apsaras
4Don’t Forget To Save Frequently
It Is Now Possible To Save Anywhere
In the previous version ofShin Megami Tensei 5, it was only possible to save the game when Nahobino found Leyline Founts. ForVengeance,Atlus removed this restriction, allowing players to save progress anywhere in the game.This enhancement offers much-needed flexibility and convenience.
Use this function frequently, as the game does not save automatically, and a small mistake can lead to a game over. Losing several hours of progress and Nahobino’sprecious maccasobtained due to an unexpected defeat or error is highly frustrating, so regular saving is crucial to maintain a smooth and enjoyable gameplay experience.
3Don’t Fail To Protect Nahobino
The Protagonist Must Be A Priority
Nahobino is the central character inShin Megami Tensei 5: Vengeance.If he dies in any battle, the game will go to the Game Over screen, even if other characters are still standing.
It is important that, above all, playersuse resources to protect Nahobino, recovering his health points or even improving his stats. Demons and Guest Characters are of secondary priority here, as losing them in battle does not have as severe consequences as the protagonist’s death.
2Don’t Ignore The Demon Haunt
Easily Gain Items And Status Bonuses
One of the new additions thatVengeancebrought to the game is the creation of Demon Haunts, where Nahobino and his demons can interact with each other. They can also offer other benefits to players,such as gifts or status boosts when interacting with Aogami.
Whenever a notification appears about a demon wanting to talk, go to a Leyline Fount and enter the Demon Haunt to receive its benefits. Additionally, interacting with Aogami on the bench, besides bringing some dialogues that complement the story, also grants Nahobino important attribute points.
1Don’t Underestimate Buffs And Debuffs
These Powers Change The Course Of Battle
Inengeance,it is crucial to consider the benefits of abilities that provide buffs and debuffs in status. These abilities can significantly improve the group’s overall performance and power in battles, offering advantages against enemies.Also, use Magatsuhi Skills to maximize party effectiveness in combat.
Focusing solely on raw damage abilities may seem effective initially, but incorporating buffs and debuffs can bring better long-term benefits. Usually, they last for three turns. Consider using them whenever possible, especially against bosses, to make the fight easier.
