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Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance
Item: Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2024

GenresAdventure, Action, RPG, Anime and JRPG, Single Player

AvailableJun 13, 2024

PlatformXbox Series X, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, PC

DeveloperAtlus

Overview

Embark on this definitive version of the critically acclaimed Shin Megami Tensei V, massively expanded with a brand-new storyline featuring new locations, demons, and choices to make that will dictate the fate of all existence.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance is largely acclaimed for its deep narrative and engaging new characters like Yoko Hiromine, enhancing the overall story experience. Critics celebrate its exploration of vengeance and morality, marking it as a stronger entry in the series. However, some voice concerns over pacing and character development, suggesting there's room for improvement. Overall, it’s a compelling upgrade that captivates both newcomers and veterans.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

85%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

15%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The overall sentiment regarding the story of Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance is predominantly positive, with many critics praising the depth and complexity introduced in the new narrative paths. Reviewers such as Dexerto and Pure Nintendo highlight the enhancements made in the Vengeance Canon, particularly the introduction of new characters like Yoko Hiromine, which adds richness to character interactions and the overall narrative experience. Critics from CGMagazine and Checkpoint Gaming emphasize the strong character-driven elements and significant changes that enhance the storytelling, making it more engaging than the original release. The thematic exploration of vengeance, morality, and existentialism resonates well with many, as noted by Hey Poor Player and Game Informer, who appreciate the depth and philosophical undertones of the narrative. Despite the overall acclaim, some criticisms have emerged regarding pacing and character development. Noisy Pixel expressed disappointment with the Vengeance route, citing issues with pacing and a lack of personal investment in the narrative. Similarly, TheSixthAxis described the plot as "paper thin," suggesting that while the narrative offers intriguing elements, it requires effort to fully unlock its potential. Twinfinite also pointed out that while new demons are introduced, the character detail may not be as fleshed out as desired. These critiques indicate that while the story has improved, there are still areas where it could have been more robust. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance presents a significant improvement over its predecessor, with many praising the new story routes and character developments. Critics like GameSpot and IGN noted that the addition of the Canon of Vengeance enhances the original narrative, making it more engaging for both new and returning players. While some reviewers did point out flaws in pacing and character depth, the majority view the story as a compelling and worthwhile experience, solidifying its place as a strong entry in the Shin Megami Tensei series.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance is a critically acclaimed JRPG that enhances gameplay with major quality-of-life improvements like anytime saving, new traversal options, and faster cutscene navigation. Reviewers praise its expanded exploration mechanics and rewarding combat system, which now includes human allies and unique demon abilities. However, some critiques highlight the unforgiving nature of its turn-based combat, which may frustrate newcomers. Overall, the game successfully balances accessibility with traditional challenges, solidifying its status as a standout in the franchise.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

97%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics across various platforms. Many reviewers highlighted significant quality-of-life improvements that enhance the overall experience, such as the ability to save anytime outside of combat, which was praised by Dexerto and GameSpot. The introduction of new traversal options and the ability to skip or speed up cutscenes, as noted by Pure Nintendo, contribute to a more fluid and engaging gameplay loop. Critics like Universo Nintendo and Vooks emphasized the expanded exploration mechanics, including vertical level design and new areas for social interactions with demons, which enrich the dungeon-crawling experience. The combat system, described as challenging and rewarding, remains a focal point of the game, with enhancements like the introduction of human allies and unique demon abilities adding depth, as mentioned by Checkpoint Gaming and Stevivor. Despite the many positives, some critiques were noted regarding certain aspects of the gameplay. While the turn-based combat system is generally well-received, some reviewers, such as Movies Games and Tech, pointed out that the combat can be brutally unforgiving, requiring players to exploit enemy weaknesses and engage in strategic planning. Additionally, while the game introduces new mechanics and improvements, a few critics, including ZTGD, mentioned that certain elements may feel overtuned, which could potentially frustrate players who are less familiar with the series' challenging nature. The balance between accessibility and maintaining the series' traditional difficulty has been a point of discussion, with some critics expressing concerns about how well these elements are integrated. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance delivers a compelling and rewarding gameplay experience that successfully builds upon the series' legacy. The majority of reviewers, including those from IGN and Game Informer, appreciated the blend of traditional turn-based mechanics with new features and improvements that cater to both newcomers and returning fans. The game’s strategic depth, coupled with its engaging exploration and demon management systems, has resonated well with players, reinforcing the title's status as a standout in the JRPG genre. Critics largely agree that the enhancements have made the game not only enjoyable but also a worthy addition to the Shin Megami Tensei franchise.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance dazzles with its stunning visuals and immersive world, earning widespread acclaim for its unique aesthetic and art direction, particularly on next-gen consoles. Critics praise the breathtaking world of Da'at and improved graphics, though some note that certain NPC designs and environmental details feel dated. Overall, while there are criticisms, the game delivers a captivating visual experience that resonates with fans, especially on powerful platforms like PS5 and PC.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

68%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

32%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The overall sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its unique aesthetic and immersive world-building. Reviewers like Pure Nintendo and Digitally Downloaded highlighted the stunning visuals of the game, particularly the world of Da'at, which is described as both beautiful and compelling to explore. Critics such as GameCritics and PCGamesN noted significant improvements in graphics on next-gen consoles, with enhancements like higher resolutions and smoother frame rates, which contribute to a more engaging gameplay experience. The art direction received accolades as well, with Hobby Consolas emphasizing that it elevates the RPG experience, and Movies Games and Tech praising the character models and world design that evoke a comic book or animated style. Despite the overall praise, there are some criticisms regarding the visual fidelity and detail in certain aspects of the game. Critics like Metro GameCentral and ZTGD pointed out that while the art design is commendable, the graphics can sometimes appear low-tech or dated compared to modern standards. Specific issues were raised about the lack of intricate detail in some environments and NPC designs, as noted by RPGamer, who mentioned that generic NPCs could benefit from more expressive designs. Additionally, Hey Poor Player remarked that while technical performance improved on PS5, the graphics were not the game's strongest suit, indicating a mixed reception in terms of visual quality across platforms. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance delivers a visually impressive experience, especially on more powerful consoles like the PS5 and PC, where enhancements significantly elevate the game's aesthetic appeal. While some detractors pointed out areas for improvement, particularly in terms of NPC design and environmental detail, the majority of reviews reflect a strong appreciation for the game's artistic direction and immersive world. As highlighted by critics like Game Informer and IGN, the combination of high-resolution graphics, stable frame rates, and a unique visual style contributes to a compelling experience that resonates well with fans of the series.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance boasts a stunning sound design and music that critics rave about for amplifying its dark themes and immersive atmosphere. Praise pours in for its dynamic soundtrack featuring intense rock and atmospheric synth tracks, with highlights on the quality of voice acting and sound effects. While minor criticisms exist—like repetitive dialogue from demon navigators and lack of Spanish voice acting—the overall consensus is clear: the game excels audibly, creating a captivating experience that solidifies its place in the franchise.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

88%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

12%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance have garnered widespread acclaim among critics, who consistently highlight the game's ability to enhance its dark themes and immersive atmosphere. Critics like Digitally Downloaded and GameCritics praised the discordant yet striking music that complements the game's aesthetic, with GameCritics specifically noting the addition of new rock and atmospheric synth tracks that elevate the overall mood. The soundtrack is described as phenomenal by LevelUp, who emphasizes the quality of both the voice acting and sound effects, while Movies Games and Tech lauds the “badass synth metal” for battles and eerie tones for exploration, further contributing to the game's immersive experience. The incorporation of new tracks, as noted by GamersRD and RPGamer, adds depth to the gameplay, enhancing the cinematic experience during battles and dialogue sequences. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, some minor criticisms have emerged regarding the sound design. Push Square pointed out that while the voice acting is well-executed, the repetitive nature of the demon navigators' barks can detract from the overall experience. Additionally, while the English voice acting is generally praised, Hey Poor Player mentions that the tutorial section, although comprehensive, may feel overwhelming for new players. Generación Xbox also notes the absence of Spanish voice acting, which could limit accessibility for some players. These points, while not significantly detracting from the overall sound design, highlight areas where the game could improve. In conclusion, the overall consensus among critics is that Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance excels in its sound design and music, with the majority praising its ability to create a captivating atmosphere that aligns with the game's dark themes. Critics like IGN and PCGamesN commend the soundtrack for its unique blend of synth-infused metal and ambient tunes, which effectively enhance the gameplay experience. The combination of high-quality sound production, memorable music tracks, and strong voice acting contributes to an immersive auditory experience that resonates well with players. Overall, the sound design and music stand out as a significant strength of the game, reinforcing its status as a compelling entry in the Shin Megami Tensei series.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance impresses with technical enhancements, especially on PS5 and Xbox Series X, delivering smooth 60 fps and improved visuals. Critics praise quality-of-life features like save-anywhere. However, the Nintendo Switch struggles with frame rate drops and quest issues, leading to mixed reviews. While the game shines on more powerful platforms, the Switch's problems can't be ignored. Overall, it’s a solid entry in the franchise, but not without its flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

82%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

18%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance has garnered generally positive feedback across various platforms, with most critics praising the enhancements made, particularly on more powerful hardware. On the Nintendo Switch, Pure Nintendo highlighted quality-of-life improvements, such as the ability to save progress at any time, which enriches the overall gameplay experience. Similarly, on the PlayStation 5, multiple reviewers, including GameCritics and Hey Poor Player, noted the game’s smooth performance at 60 fps, faster load times, and the introduction of new features like save anywhere and Magatsu Rails, which streamline navigation. The Xbox Series X version also received commendations from Generación Xbox for its stable 60 fps and 4K resolution, showcasing significant technical advancements. However, there are notable negatives, particularly for the Nintendo Switch version, where critics like Universo Nintendo pointed out persistent technical issues, including frame rate drops and problematic quest distribution, which detract from the overall experience. While Vooks acknowledged performance improvements through stability tweaks, they mentioned that these came at the cost of visual fidelity. On the PlayStation 5 and PC, although the performance is generally praised, some critics, such as PCGamesN, noted occasional instances of pop-in and frame rate drops, suggesting that while the game is improved, it is not entirely free from technical inconsistencies. ZTGD also remarked on the barebones nature of the PC port, lacking modern support features, indicating room for further enhancements. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance demonstrates significant technical improvements across all platforms, with the majority expressing satisfaction with the game's performance. While the Nintendo Switch version still grapples with some technical issues, the enhanced experiences on the PS5, PC, and Xbox Series X|S have largely overshadowed these concerns. Reviewers like GameSpot and Noisy Pixel emphasized the smooth gameplay and improved visuals on these platforms, contributing to a positive reception. The game’s quality-of-life enhancements have been universally appreciated, further solidifying its standing as a well-received title in the franchise, despite the varying experiences across different hardware.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance scores high on replay value with around 200 hours of content, multiple story routes, and diverse gameplay paths, making it enticing for both new and returning players. Critics praise its extensive features, but some caution that familiar elements and design flaws may deter a few. Overall, despite minor criticisms on value and repetition, the game stands out as an engaging experience loaded with replay potential.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

73%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

27%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance is predominantly positive, with many critics praising the game's extensive content and multiple gameplay paths. Notably, several reviewers highlighted the dual story routes, each offering around 80 hours of gameplay, which significantly enhances replayability. Critics like Universo Nintendo and Hobby Consolas emphasized that the game provides a total playtime of approximately 200 hours, making it highly appealing for both newcomers and returning players. Additionally, the inclusion of various difficulty settings, new demons, and side quests, as mentioned by CGMagazine and Game Informer, ensures that players have ample opportunities to explore different aspects of the game, catering to diverse player preferences. However, some critics raised concerns regarding certain aspects that could limit replay value. For instance, Vooks pointed out that the new content may not justify a full-priced purchase for those familiar with the original game. Metro GameCentral echoed similar sentiments, suggesting that underlying design flaws and the similarities between the new and original campaigns might deter some players from fully engaging with the game again. Furthermore, while some critics appreciated the new features, others like Twinfinite noted potential limitations in replayability due to the absence of upgrade files or party porting, which could affect the overall experience for veteran players. Despite these criticisms, the consensus among reviewers is that Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance offers substantial replay value, making it a worthwhile experience for fans of the series. Critics such as Dexerto and Stevivor highlighted the game's multiple endings and exploration opportunities, which encourage players to revisit the narrative. The addition of quality-of-life improvements and new gameplay mechanics, as noted by ZTGD and LevelUp, further solidifies its appeal. Overall, while there are some concerns regarding repetitive elements and the justification for a full-priced purchase, the majority of critics agree that the game provides an engaging and rewarding experience that is rich in content and replayability.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

96%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment regarding Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance is predominantly positive, with many critics praising the game for its significant improvements over the original release. Reviewers like CGMagazine and Digitally Downloaded highlight the game as a strong contender for game of the year, particularly for fans of turn-based RPGs. The addition of new content, characters, and quality-of-life enhancements has been widely recognized, with critics such as Dexerto and Pure Nintendo emphasizing that these changes make it an ideal experience for newcomers to the series. The engaging narrative, improved graphics, and refined gameplay mechanics have also been commended, with critics like Movies Games and Tech and LevelUp noting that the game offers a well-rounded package that appeals to both veterans and new players alike. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, some critics have pointed out notable shortcomings. Vooks raises concerns about the game's justification as a full-priced release, suggesting it could have been better suited as paid DLC. Additionally, some reviewers, including Noisy Pixel and TheSixthAxis, mention that while the gameplay excels, the narrative execution may not meet the expectations set by other titles in the genre, particularly when compared to the Persona series. Technical issues have also been mentioned, with Universo Nintendo acknowledging that while the game is compelling, it does suffer from some performance problems that detract from the overall experience. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance is a highly recommended title that successfully builds upon its predecessor, offering a definitive version of the game. The majority of reviews reflect a strong appreciation for the enhancements made, with many asserting that it is a must-play for both fans and newcomers alike. Critics like Hooked Gamers and IGN encapsulate this sentiment by affirming that the game not only addresses previous issues but also provides a rich and engaging experience that is hard to overlook. Overall, while minor criticisms exist, the positive aspects far outweigh them, solidifying Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance as a standout entry in the JRPG genre.

TL;DR

Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance is receiving praise for its major upgrades over the original, making it a strong Game of the Year contender for turn-based RPG fans. Critics applaud its new content, enhanced graphics, and refined gameplay, appealing to both veterans and newcomers. However, some argue it may not justify its full-price tag, and there are minor narrative and technical issues. Overall, it's a highly recommended title that addresses past shortcomings and offers a rich JRPG experience.

MONSTER

Reviews

112 reviews found

100

Digitally Downloaded

PlayStation 5

Jun 13, 2024