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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, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, 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 has garnered mostly positive reviews for its deep narrative and character development, praised for exploring themes of vengeance and morality. Critics highlight the engaging Canon of Vengeance and new characters like Yoko Hiromine. However, some point out issues with pacing and depth, suggesting the story could be more compelling. Overall, it improves on its predecessor, delivering a richer, more engaging experience despite some critiques.

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 story of Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance has been met with largely positive feedback from critics, who appreciate its depth and character development. Many reviewers, including Dexerto and Pure Nintendo, highlight the introduction of the new Canon of Vengeance, which is praised for its engaging narrative and the addition of new characters like Yoko Hiromine, who enrich the interactions within the game. Critics such as CGMagazine and GameSpot emphasize the strong character-driven elements and the significant changes that enhance the overall storytelling experience. The narrative's exploration of complex themes such as vengeance, morality, and human agency within a post-apocalyptic setting resonates well with players, as noted by Hey Poor Player and Movies Games and Tech. However, not all feedback is overwhelmingly positive. Some critics, like Noisy Pixel and TheSixthAxis, express disappointment with certain aspects of the Vengeance route, citing issues like pacing and a lack of personal investment in the narrative. TheSixthAxis describes the plot as "paper thin," suggesting that while the game introduces new characters and twists, it may not fully capitalize on these elements to create a compelling story. Additionally, Twinfinite points out that while new demons are introduced, there is a perceived lack of detail regarding character development, which could detract from the overall narrative experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance presents a significant improvement over its predecessor, offering a rich and engaging story that appeals to both newcomers and returning players. The majority of reviewers, including RPGamer and PCGamesN, commend the game's ability to address previous criticisms of thin plots and flat characters, resulting in a narrative that feels more alive and compelling. While there are some critiques regarding pacing and character depth, the prevailing sentiment remains positive, indicating that the new story paths and character developments have successfully elevated the game's narrative experience.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance impresses with quality-of-life upgrades and new mechanics, like anytime saving and fast travel, that enhance gameplay. Critics praise its exploration, strategic combat, and engaging narrative, though some warn the challenging, turn-based system may deter casual players. Overall, it’s a compelling evolution of the series, offering a rewarding RPG experience for both newcomers and veterans.

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 garnered a largely positive reception from critics, who have highlighted several quality-of-life improvements and new mechanics that enhance the overall experience. Reviewers from Dexerto and Pure Nintendo praised the ability to save anytime outside of combat, which alleviates the frustration often associated with traditional RPG save systems. The introduction of new traversal options, such as Magatsuhi rails for fast travel, and the option to skip or speed up cutscenes were also noted as significant enhancements. Critics like Universo Nintendo and Vooks emphasized the game’s focus on exploration, dungeon crawling, and the strategic depth of combat, which is enriched by new mechanics like playable human allies and unique demon passive skills. The overall sentiment is that these improvements make the gameplay loop more engaging and enjoyable, allowing for a satisfying blend of exploration, combat, and narrative. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, some critics pointed out areas where the gameplay could be improved. While the combat system is generally praised for its strategic depth, some reviewers, such as Movies Games and Tech, noted that the turn-based combat can be brutal and unforgiving, which may deter casual players. The challenge level, while appealing to hardcore fans, might feel overtuned to others, as mentioned by ZTGD. Additionally, while many welcomed the new features, a few critics expressed that certain elements, like the introduction of guest characters and additional mechanics, could feel overwhelming or convoluted, potentially complicating the experience for newcomers to the series. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance successfully builds on its predecessors while introducing thoughtful enhancements that elevate the gameplay experience. With a strong emphasis on tactical combat, demon fusion, and exploration, the game appeals to both veteran players and newcomers alike. Critics such as GameSpot and Checkpoint Gaming highlighted the engaging nature of the gameplay, emphasizing that the quality-of-life improvements and new mechanics contribute to a more rewarding experience. The game is seen as a compelling addition to the series, addressing previous criticisms and providing a fulfilling RPG experience that many players will find addictive, as noted by TheXboxHub.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance impresses with stunning graphics and immersive world-building, especially on PS5 and PC, earning widespread acclaim from critics. The unique world of Da'at shines with 4K resolution and 60 FPS, while art direction is celebrated as top-tier. However, the Nintendo Switch version faces criticism for lower visual fidelity and inconsistent textures. Despite minor flaws, the game is hailed as a visual standout in the RPG genre, with significant improvements over its predecessor.

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 graphics and visual design of Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance have garnered a largely positive reception from critics across various platforms. Many reviewers praised the game's unique world of Da'at, noting its stunning visual appeal and immersive environments. Pure Nintendo highlighted the compelling nature of the world as players progress, while Digitally Downloaded emphasized the impressive character models and dark ambience that enhance the overall experience. Critics like GameCritics and Game Informer pointed out significant graphics improvements on current-gen consoles, with resolutions reaching 4K and smooth frame rates of 60 FPS. The art direction received accolades as well; Hobby Consolas described it as "at another level," contributing to a fabulous RPG experience, while Movies Games and Tech commended the beautiful world design that resembles a comic book aesthetic. Despite the overall praise, some criticisms emerged regarding the game's visual fidelity, particularly on the Nintendo Switch. Vooks noted that while performance was improved with stability tweaks, it came at the cost of visual fidelity. Additionally, Metro GameCentral pointed out that while the artwork is great, the visuals could still be perceived as low-tech. Some critics, like GamersRD and ZTGD, mentioned that certain textures and character models felt dated or inconsistent in quality, especially when compared to modern standards. RPGamer also pointed out that while the expressive human characters and well-designed demons were impressive, generic NPC designs lacked the same level of detail and care. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance presents a visually compelling experience, especially on more powerful hardware like the PS5 and PC. The majority of reviewers agree that the game excels in its art design and immersive world-building, with significant improvements noted in graphics and performance compared to its predecessor. Critics such as Voxel and IGN emphasized the high-resolution graphics and enhanced frame rates, which contribute to a more engaging gameplay experience. While some minor criticisms about texture quality and NPC designs exist, they do not overshadow the game's overall positive reception in terms of graphics and visual design, making it a standout title in the RPG genre.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance wows critics with its striking sound design and diverse soundtrack, featuring over 80 new tracks that amplify its dark themes. While praised for its immersive atmosphere and innovative blend of rock and synth music, some minor issues—as highlighted by Push Square and Hey Poor Player—include repetitive voice lines and lack of Spanish voice acting. Nonetheless, the overwhelming consensus is that the game's audio elements are exceptional, enhancing the overall player experience and solidifying its place as a standout title.

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 from critics, with many praising the game's ability to create an immersive atmosphere that complements its dark themes. Digitally Downloaded noted the "discordant and striking music" that enhances the game's aesthetics, while GameCritics highlighted the addition of new rock and atmospheric synth music that deepens the game's mood. The soundtrack's diversity is further emphasized by RPGamer, who pointed out the impressive array of over 80 new tracks that effectively complement gameplay. Critics like Movies Games and Tech and IGN also praised the soundtrack's blend of synth-infused metal and ambient tunes, contributing to a unique and haunting atmosphere that resonates throughout the game. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, some critics pointed out minor drawbacks in the sound design. Push Square mentioned that while the voice acting is generally well executed, the repetitive nature of the demon navigators' barks can detract from the overall experience. Moreover, while the English voice acting received praise from several reviewers, Hey Poor Player noted that the tutorial section could be overwhelming, suggesting that the delivery of information might not be as seamless as desired. Generación Xbox also pointed out the absence of Spanish voice acting, which may limit accessibility for some players, although this was not a widespread concern among the majority of critics. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance excels in its sound design and music, significantly enhancing the player's experience. The game is celebrated for its masterful soundtrack, with critics like LevelUp and TheSixthAxis emphasizing the immersive qualities of the sound effects and voice acting. The combination of new and reworked tracks, as noted by GamersRD and Worth Playing, contributes to a rich audio landscape that supports the game's narrative and emotional depth. While there are a few criticisms regarding repetition and accessibility, the majority of reviewers agree that the sound design and music are standout features that elevate the game to a higher level of quality.

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 scores big on PS5, Xbox Series X, and PC with smooth 60fps and stunning visuals, thanks to major technical upgrades. Critics praise quality-of-life features, but the Nintendo Switch version struggles with frame rate drops and quest issues, highlighting a need for further improvements. Overall, while the game shines on powerful platforms, the Switch’s performance lags behind.

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 a largely positive reception across various platforms. On the Nintendo Switch, critics like Pure Nintendo and Vooks noted quality-of-life enhancements such as the ability to save progress at any time, which significantly improves the overall gameplay experience. While some reviewers acknowledged the presence of frame rate stability tweaks, GameCritics and Metro GameCentral highlighted the improved performance on more powerful hardware like the PS5, where the game achieves smoother 60fps gameplay and faster load times. The Xbox Series X version also received commendations for its stable performance, 4K resolution, and overall enhancements, as noted by Generación Xbox. PC gamers experienced a similarly smooth performance, with IGN praising the higher resolutions and frame rates that enhance the gameplay without sacrificing challenge. Despite the overall positive sentiment, there are notable technical issues, particularly on the Nintendo Switch. Universo Nintendo pointed out persistent frame rate drops and problematic quest distribution, which detracts from the experience. Critics like PCGamesN and ZTGD also mentioned occasional pop-in and frame rate inconsistencies on the Switch version, indicating that while improvements have been made, some issues remain. On the PS5 and PC, while the performance is generally praised, GamersRD noted that some visual inconsistencies from the Switch version persist, suggesting that not all technical issues were fully resolved in the transition to more powerful platforms. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance showcases significant technical improvements, especially on the PS5, Xbox Series X, and PC, where the game runs smoothly and delivers enhanced visuals. Critics like GameSpot and Hey Poor Player emphasized the smooth 60fps experience, while others highlighted the quality-of-life improvements that contribute positively to gameplay. However, the Switch version still suffers from some technical shortcomings, which have been acknowledged by several reviewers. Overall, the majority of critics agree that the game offers a commendable technical performance across platforms, with the exception of the Switch, where further refinements are needed to match the quality found in the other versions.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance boasts strong replay value thanks to dual story paths (80 hours each), diverse gameplay, and multiple endings. Critics praise its rich content and improvements, appealing to both veterans and newcomers. However, some express concerns over whether the new content justifies full price and note design flaws that could limit replay appeal. Overall, it's seen as a solid RPG investment, especially for series fans.

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 highlighting the game's extensive content and diverse gameplay options. Several reviewers, including Dexerto and Universo Nintendo, noted the dual story paths, each offering around 80 hours of gameplay, which significantly enhances replayability. Critics like CGMagazine and Checkpoint Gaming emphasized the value of new content, including additional demons, DLC, and various difficulty settings, which cater to both hardcore fans and newcomers. The inclusion of multiple endings and narrative routes, as pointed out by RPGamer and Hey Poor Player, further incentivizes players to explore the game multiple times, making it a rich experience for those invested in the series. However, some critics did express reservations about the replay value. For instance, Vooks mentioned that the new content may not justify a full-priced purchase for players familiar with the original game. Metro GameCentral pointed out that while improvements have been made, the underlying design flaws could limit replay value for some players. Additionally, Twinfinite raised concerns about the lack of upgrade files or party porting, which could diminish the incentive for players to replay the game. These critiques suggest that while there is substantial content to explore, certain elements may deter some players from fully engaging with the game multiple times. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance offers a commendable replay value, primarily due to its rich narrative structure and varied gameplay options. Most reviewers, including Hobby Consolas and LevelUp, agree that the dual storylines, extensive demon roster, and strategic depth make the game appealing for both returning players and newcomers. Despite some criticisms regarding potential limitations in replayability, the majority view the game as a worthwhile investment, particularly for fans of the franchise. The combination of new content, quality-of-life improvements, and a plethora of choices solidifies its standing as a highly replayable title in the RPG genre.

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 overwhelmingly positive, with many critics praising the game for its substantial improvements over the original release. Reviewers such as CGMagazine and Digitally Downloaded highlight the game's new content, enhanced graphics, and refined gameplay mechanics, positioning it as a definitive version that appeals to both newcomers and returning fans. Critics like Hobby Consolas and LevelUp commend the game for addressing previous flaws while elevating the overall experience, making it a must-play for JRPG enthusiasts. The engaging narrative, quality-of-life improvements, and captivating character designs are frequently noted as significant strengths, contributing to a compelling RPG experience. Despite the many accolades, some reviewers express reservations about certain aspects of the game. Critics like Vooks and Noisy Pixel point out that while "Vengeance" is an improved iteration, it may not justify its full-priced release, suggesting it could have been better suited as paid DLC. Additionally, some critics, including TheSixthAxis and Voxel, mention that the narrative depth falls short compared to other titles in the genre, particularly when compared to the Persona series. Technical issues are also noted by Universo Nintendo, indicating that while the game offers a compelling Dungeon RPG experience, it still has some room for improvement. Overall, the consensus among critics is that "Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance" is a significant step forward for the franchise, delivering a polished and engaging RPG experience that is well worth exploring. Reviewers like GameSpot and IGN emphasize that the game successfully builds upon its predecessor, making it an ideal entry point for newcomers while also providing enough depth and challenge for seasoned players. The majority of critics agree that despite some minor shortcomings, the enhancements and new content make "Vengeance" a highly recommended title, solidifying its place as one of the best JRPGs in recent years.

TL;DR

"Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance" scores high with critics for its improved graphics, gameplay, and engaging narrative, making it a must-play for JRPG fans. While some argue its full price may not be justified and note a lack of narrative depth compared to the Persona series, the overall reception is overwhelmingly positive. It's a polished, compelling RPG that builds on its predecessor, ideal for newcomers while challenging for veterans. A strong contender for one of the best JRPGs recently, despite minor flaws.

MONSTER

Reviews

112 reviews found

100

Digitally Downloaded

PlayStation 5

Jun 13, 2024