Search for games

Type three or more characters to search...

Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance cover image

Links

Twitch

MONSTER

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

PlatformNintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, PC, Xbox Series X, Xbox One, PlayStation 4

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.

Elsewhere

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance is receiving strong acclaim for its improved narrative and character development, with critics praising the new Canon of Vengeance and engaging characters like Yoko Hiromine. While the game's storytelling is noted for its depth and existential themes, some criticisms point to pacing issues and underdeveloped plot elements. Overall, the consensus is positive, marking a significant narrative upgrade that captivates both newcomers and series veterans, despite minor flaws.

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 game's enhanced narrative structure and character development. Reviewers like Dexerto and Pure Nintendo highlight the introduction of the new Canon of Vengeance, which they believe significantly improves the storytelling experience. The addition of characters such as Yoko Hiromine is noted for adding depth to interactions, making the narrative more engaging and dynamic. Critics like CGMagazine and Checkpoint Gaming emphasize the strong character-driven elements and the successful integration of new gameplay mechanics that complement the narrative, while Digitally Downloaded and GameCritics appreciate the thematic depth and existential motifs that resonate throughout the story. Despite the overall praise, there are some criticisms regarding the narrative's execution. For instance, Noisy Pixel found the pacing of the Vengeance route to be disappointing, suggesting that it lacked personal investment and mishandled character choices. Additionally, while some critics like Vooks and TheSixthAxis acknowledged the new story paths, they pointed out that certain aspects of the plot felt thin or required significant effort to unlock. Twinfinite also mentioned that while the Vengeance route introduces new demons, it does not provide much detail about the characters, which could detract from the overall narrative experience. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance offers a compelling and enriched story compared to its predecessor, with many praising the new characters and the engaging narrative paths. Most reviewers, including those from GameSpot and IGN, agree that the enhancements address previous criticisms, making the game feel more alive and immersive. While some critiques exist regarding pacing and character depth, the majority sentiment leans towards a positive reception, indicating that the game successfully delivers a meaningful narrative experience for both newcomers and returning players alike.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance impresses critics with its enhanced gameplay, featuring quality-of-life improvements like anytime saving and improved navigation, making exploration more rewarding. The combat remains challenging yet rewarding, with new mechanics that deepen party management and demon interactions. However, some find the difficulty might alienate newcomers, and certain elements can feel overtuned. Overall, it’s a solid evolution of the series that balances challenge and strategy, appealing to both veterans and newcomers, while addressing past criticisms.

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 predominantly positive reception from critics, who have praised a variety of enhancements that elevate the overall experience. Reviewers like Dexerto and Pure Nintendo highlighted quality-of-life improvements such as the ability to save anytime outside of combat and streamlined navigation, which significantly reduce the repetitiveness often associated with dungeon RPGs. The game introduces new traversal options and exploration mechanics that make the environment feel more rewarding and engaging. Critics from CGMagazine and GameSpot emphasized the challenging nature of the combat system, which remains a core focus, while also appreciating the introduction of new mechanics that add depth to party management and demon interactions. The addition of unique demon passive skills and a Demon Haunt area for social interactions, as noted by Vooks, further enriches the gameplay loop, making it more enjoyable for players. Despite the overall acclaim, some critics pointed out areas where the gameplay may not resonate as strongly with all players. For instance, while the combat is described as challenging and rewarding, some reviewers, including Movies Games and Tech, noted that the difficulty could be punishing, potentially alienating less experienced players. Additionally, while the improvements in exploration and navigation were praised, critics like GamersRD mentioned that certain elements might feel overtuned, which could lead to frustration during encounters. This sentiment was echoed by RPGamer, who pointed out that while the negotiation system has been expanded, it may still pose a challenge for players unfamiliar with the mechanics. The overall consensus among critics is that Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance successfully builds on its predecessors, offering a rich and fulfilling gameplay experience that balances challenge with strategic depth. Most reviewers, including those from IGN and PCGamesN, agree that the turn-based combat system, enhanced by quality-of-life improvements, makes for an engaging experience that appeals to both veterans and newcomers to the series. The combination of traditional RPG elements with innovative features, as highlighted by TheXboxHub, creates a captivating environment that encourages exploration and tactical planning. Ultimately, the majority of critics believe that the game not only honors the series' legacy but also addresses past criticisms, resulting in a robust gameplay experience that is likely to satisfy fans and attract new players alike.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance shines with stunning graphics and art design, particularly praised for its breathtaking world of Da'at and smooth performance on PS5 and PC. Critics highlight the immersive atmosphere and beautifully crafted characters, making it a visual treat. However, some textures and NPC designs feel dated, and certain creative choices detract from immersion. Overall, despite minor flaws, the game excels in visual flair, solidifying its status as a standout RPG experience.

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 predominantly positive reception from critics across various platforms. Reviewers such as Pure Nintendo praised the unique and visually stunning world of Da'at, noting that it becomes increasingly compelling to explore as the game progresses. Similarly, CGMagazine and Digitally Downloaded highlighted the transformative experience on more powerful consoles, with silky smooth framerates and gorgeous character models that enhance the dark ambience of the game. Critics like GameSpot and Hobby Consolas emphasized the stunning art design, which features beautifully crafted angels, demons, and environments that contribute significantly to the overall RPG experience. The improvements in performance, particularly on PS5 and PC, have also been well-received, with many reviewers noting the stable 60fps and enhanced resolution, making the game visually appealing. However, there are some criticisms regarding the graphics and visual design that cannot be overlooked. While many reviewers praised the overall aesthetic, some pointed out that certain textures and NPC designs felt lacking or dated. For instance, GamersRD mentioned that while the graphics have improved, some textures may not match the overall quality, and Metro GameCentral noted that visuals still exhibit low-tech elements despite significant upgrades. Additionally, TheSixthAxis pointed out the strange creative choice of depicting some NPCs as faceless creatures, which detracted from the immersive experience. Critics like ZTGD also echoed concerns about the environments and character models appearing dated by modern standards, particularly on the PC port. In summary, the overall consensus among critics is that Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance showcases impressive graphics and visual design, especially on current-generation consoles. While there are valid critiques regarding certain aspects of the visuals, the majority of reviewers agree that the game excels in its art direction, atmosphere, and technical performance. The positive sentiments expressed by critics such as Worth Playing and Game Informer highlight the significant visual upgrades compared to previous versions, reinforcing the game's status as a visually engaging experience. Overall, despite some minor shortcomings, the graphics and visual design of Vengeance have been well-received, contributing to a captivating RPG experience.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance impresses with its acclaimed sound design and music, enhancing the game's dark themes and immersive atmosphere. Critics rave about the striking synth metal tracks and captivating soundscapes, though some note repetitive voice acting and the lack of Spanish options as drawbacks. Overall, the game's phenomenal soundtrack and voice work solidify its place as a standout title in the series, delivering a rich audio experience that elevates gameplay.

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, who praise its ability to enhance the game's dark themes and immersive atmosphere. Digitally Downloaded highlights the "discordant and striking music" that complements the game's aesthetics, while GameCritics notes the addition of new rock and atmospheric synth tracks that elevate the overall mood. Critics like Movies Games and Tech emphasize the "badass synth metal" and "eerie creepy tones" that create a captivating soundscape, further enriched by superb voice acting and crisp sound effects. The soundtrack, described as "phenomenal" by LevelUp and "exquisite" by Twinfinite, is recognized for its ability to enhance gameplay and emotional engagement, with many critics noting the effectiveness of the new tracks and reworked originals in creating a cinematic experience. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, there are some critiques worth mentioning. Push Square points out that while the voice acting is well done, the demon navigators' repetitive barks can detract from the experience. Additionally, while the English voice acting is generally praised, Hey Poor Player notes that the tutorial section, although thorough, can feel overwhelming, which may affect the overall immersion for some players. Generación Xbox also mentions the absence of Spanish voice acting, which could limit accessibility for a segment of the audience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance excels in its sound design and music, significantly contributing to the game's atmosphere and emotional depth. The majority of reviewers, including PCGamesN and RPGamer, emphasize the high quality of the soundtrack, with over 80 new tracks that complement various gameplay scenarios. The combination of haunting soundscapes, impactful voice acting, and a diverse range of musical styles creates a rich audio experience that resonates with players, solidifying the game's status as a noteworthy entry in the series.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance has impressed critics with solid technical performance across platforms: the Nintendo Switch offers key quality-of-life enhancements but struggles with frame rate issues, while the PS5 and Xbox Series X shine with smooth 60fps gameplay and faster loading. PC performance is mostly strong but not without some hiccups like occasional frame drops. Overall, the game successfully addresses past performance issues, leaving critics optimistic despite some lingering negatives, especially on the Switch.

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 largely positive feedback across various platforms. On the Nintendo Switch, despite some lingering issues, critics like Pure Nintendo highlighted quality-of-life enhancements, such as the ability to save progress at any time, which significantly improved the overall experience. Similarly, on the PlayStation 5, reviewers like GameCritics and Hey Poor Player praised the game for its smooth 60fps gameplay and faster loading times, emphasizing that the game runs flawlessly on this platform. The Xbox Series X also received commendations for its stable 60fps and 4K resolution, as noted by Generación Xbox, showcasing the technical advancements made for this release. However, there are notable negatives associated with each platform. On the Nintendo Switch, Universo Nintendo pointed out persistent technical issues, including frame rate drops and problematic quest distribution, which detracted from the overall experience. Critics also indicated that while performance on the PS5 is generally strong, some visual inconsistencies from the Switch version remain, as mentioned by GamersRD. On PC, although the performance is largely praised, PCGamesN noted occasional pop-in and frame rate drops, indicating that not all issues have been fully resolved, particularly for those who may have played the original Switch version. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance delivers a commendable technical performance across all platforms, with the majority expressing satisfaction. The enhancements made for the PS5, Xbox Series X, and PC versions have been particularly well-received, as evidenced by the positive remarks from critics like Voxel and Game Informer, who highlighted significant improvements in visuals and stability. While the Nintendo Switch version has its share of technical challenges, the game still offers a solid experience, bolstered by quality-of-life improvements. Ultimately, the game appears to be a successful multi-platform release that has made strides in addressing previous performance issues, leaving critics optimistic about its technical execution.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance is a replayable gem, boasting 200 hours of content through two gripping story paths, praised for its accessibility and fresh enhancements. Critics highlight its depth and variety, making it a must-play for series fans. However, some concerns linger about repetitiveness and value for veterans, leading to mixed feelings for certain players. Overall, it’s a rich, engaging experience that invites multiple playthroughs.

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 narrative paths. Reviewers like Universo Nintendo and Hobby Consolas highlighted the two distinct story routes, each offering around 80 hours of gameplay, which contributes to a staggering total of around 200 hours for completionists. Additionally, the presence of multiple difficulty settings, as noted by Dot Esports and Stevivor, caters to a wide range of player preferences, enhancing the game's accessibility and replayability. Critics also appreciated the new content, including additional demons, quests, and quality-of-life improvements that make exploration and progression more enjoyable, as mentioned by Voxel and CGMagazine. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, a few critics raised concerns about certain aspects that may limit replay value for some players. For instance, Dexerto pointed out that repetitive elements could deter players from engaging in multiple playthroughs. Similarly, Vooks suggested that the new content may not justify a full-priced purchase for those who have already experienced the original game. Metro GameCentral echoed this sentiment, mentioning that while improvements were made, underlying design flaws might hinder replayability. Additionally, Twinfinite noted limited replay value due to the absence of upgrade files or party porting, which could affect players' desire to revisit the game. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance offers substantial replay value, particularly for fans of the series and newcomers alike. The combination of two story paths, extensive gameplay hours, and a plethora of new content has been well-received, with critics like Game Informer and IGN emphasizing the game's ability to engage players through diverse narrative experiences. While some concerns about repetitive elements and the justification of pricing for veterans exist, the overall impression is that the game provides a rich and rewarding experience that encourages multiple playthroughs.

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 towards Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance is predominantly positive, with many critics praising the game for its significant improvements over the original release. Reviewers such as Dexerto and Pure Nintendo highlight the new content, characters, and quality-of-life enhancements that make this edition a highly recommended experience for both newcomers and veterans of the series. Critics like CGMagazine and Digitally Downloaded go further, labeling it as "game of the year material" and the "ultimate version" of the game, respectively. The engaging narrative, refined gameplay mechanics, and enhanced graphics are frequently mentioned as standout features, with many reviewers noting that the game provides a compelling Dungeon RPG experience with substantial replay value, as emphasized by Universo Nintendo. However, some criticisms do emerge, primarily revolving around the game's narrative depth and its justification as a full-priced release. Vooks questions whether the improvements are enough to warrant the price tag, suggesting that it might have been better suited as paid DLC rather than a standalone title. Noisy Pixel and TheSixthAxis also point out that while the gameplay excels, the narrative execution may not meet the expectations set by the series, particularly when compared to the Persona franchise. Additionally, a few critics mention lingering technical issues and graphical limitations that detract from the overall experience, as noted by Metro GameCentral and ZTGD. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among critics is that Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance is a remarkable upgrade that successfully addresses many of the flaws of the original game. The majority of reviewers agree that it serves as an excellent entry point for newcomers while still providing a challenging experience for seasoned players. Critics such as LevelUp and Generación Xbox emphasize that the game is a must-play for JRPG fans, showcasing a blend of engaging gameplay and rich content that enhances the series' legacy. Overall, the positive reception underscores the game's ability to captivate a wide audience, making it a noteworthy addition to the genre.

TL;DR

Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance is a largely acclaimed upgrade over its predecessor, praised for new content, characters, and quality-of-life improvements. Critics hail it as "game of the year material," lauding its engaging narrative and refined gameplay. However, some argue the narrative depth falls short and question its full-price status, suggesting it could have been DLC instead. Despite minor technical issues, it remains a strong entry point for newcomers and a rewarding experience for veterans, cementing its place as a must-play for JRPG fans.

MONSTER

Reviews

112 reviews found

100

Digitally Downloaded

PlayStation 5

Jun 13, 2024