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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

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

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 earns praise for its engaging narrative and character development, bolstered by the new Canon of Vengeance and fresh characters like Yoko Hiromine. Critics laud its exploration of dark themes and emotional depth, though some note pacing issues and a lack of character background. Overall, feedback is predominantly positive, highlighting a compelling improvement over its predecessor, though some players may seek deeper character investment.

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 garnered a predominantly positive reception from critics, highlighting its engaging narrative and character development. Many reviewers, such as Dexerto and Pure Nintendo, praised the introduction of the new Canon of Vengeance, emphasizing how it enhances the story with fresh characters like Yoko Hiromine and unexpected twists. Critics from CGMagazine and GameSpot noted that the character-driven elements and new campaigns significantly enrich the narrative experience, making it feel dynamic and emotionally resonant. The game’s exploration of dark themes, including revenge and existential dilemmas, was commended by several reviewers, including Hey Poor Player and Game Informer, who appreciated its depth and philosophical undertones. However, not all opinions were uniformly positive. Some critics expressed concerns about pacing and character investment, with Noisy Pixel describing the new route as disappointing and poorly paced. Voxel noted that while the story introduces new elements, it lacks depth and focuses more on gameplay than narrative intricacies. Additionally, some reviews, like that of Twinfinite, suggested that the new storyline does not significantly elaborate on character backgrounds, which could detract from the overall experience for players seeking deeper character development. This mixed feedback indicates that while the new story path has its merits, it may not fully satisfy all players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance offers a compelling and improved narrative experience compared to its predecessor. The majority of reviewers, including those from IGN and PCGamesN, highlighted the enhancements brought by the Canon of Vengeance, which introduces new characters and plotlines that resonate well with both newcomers and returning players. While some criticisms regarding pacing and character depth exist, the overall sentiment leans towards a positive reception, with many agreeing that the game successfully revitalizes the story and provides a fresh experience for fans of the series.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance impresses with quality-of-life improvements and engaging mechanics, earning praise for features like save-anywhere options and expanded dungeon designs. Critics highlight its strategic combat and tactical planning, though some note that the difficulty might overwhelm newcomers. Overall, it successfully enhances the JRPG experience, appealing to both veterans and those ready for a challenge.

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, highlighting several quality-of-life improvements and engaging mechanics that enhance the overall experience. Reviewers from Dexerto and Pure Nintendo emphasized the benefits of new features such as the ability to save anytime outside of combat and improved traversal options, which reduce repetitiveness and make exploration more rewarding. Critics like Universo Nintendo and Vooks praised the expanded dungeon design and the introduction of playable human allies, which add depth to the gameplay. Additionally, the combat system has been noted for its strategic depth, with GameCritics and Noisy Pixel highlighting the importance of tactical planning and demon management, making encounters feel both challenging and rewarding. However, some reviewers did express concerns regarding certain aspects of the gameplay. While the majority found the combat to be challenging and engaging, there were mentions of the potential for some mechanics to feel overtuned, as noted by ZTGD. The difficulty level, while appreciated by many, might be daunting for newcomers to the series. Critics like Movies Games and Tech pointed out that the punishing nature of the turn-based combat might not appeal to all players, indicating that the game retains its hardcore JRPG roots that could alienate a more casual audience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance successfully builds upon its predecessors with a host of improvements that enhance gameplay. Reviewers like GameSpot and LevelUp noted that the combination of quality-of-life enhancements, new mechanics, and traditional turn-based combat creates a satisfying and engaging experience. The game is described as a rewarding challenge that encourages strategic thinking, making it a strong addition to the JRPG genre. With a majority of critics praising the gameplay, it is clear that Vengeance resonates well with both series veterans and newcomers willing to embrace its complexities.

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 next-gen consoles, earning high praise from critics. The art direction is lauded as "at another level," with a smooth 60 fps performance. However, some areas, like NPC design and texture quality, fall short of modern standards, particularly on PC. Overall, despite minor flaws, the game’s visuals significantly enhance its appeal and mark it as a standout in the franchise.

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. Reviewers like Pure Nintendo highlighted the stunning and compelling nature of the world of Da'at, which becomes increasingly engaging as players progress. Critics from CGMagazine and Digitally Downloaded commended the game's impressive visuals on more powerful consoles, noting the silky smooth framerate and gorgeous character models. The art direction received accolades from multiple sources, including Hobby Consolas, who described it as "at another level," contributing significantly to the RPG experience. The game's ability to run at a stable 60 fps across platforms like PS5 and Xbox Series X was also frequently mentioned, enhancing the overall visual experience. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the graphics that some reviewers pointed out. While many praised the improvements on current-generation consoles, others like GameSpot and Metro GameCentral mentioned that the game lacks intricate detail in certain areas. Some critics, such as GamersRD and ZTGD, noted that while the graphics have improved, certain textures and character models still feel outdated compared to modern standards, particularly on the PC port. Additionally, RPGamer highlighted the need for better design in generic NPCs, suggesting that more attention could be given to their facial expressions to enhance immersion. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance boasts very good graphics and visual design, particularly on next-gen consoles and PC. While there are areas for improvement, especially in texture quality and NPC design, the overall aesthetic, art direction, and immersive world-building have been well-received. Critics like Game Informer and PCGamesN emphasized the significant visual upgrades from the original version, showcasing a colorful and detailed post-apocalyptic Tokyo that resonates with the game's themes. The positive feedback suggests that despite some shortcomings, the visual presentation contributes greatly to the game's appeal, making it a noteworthy entry in the Shin Megami Tensei franchise.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance boasts an outstanding soundtrack and immersive sound design, praised by critics for its dark, atmospheric music and effective voice acting that enhances the narrative. While some minor critiques exist regarding repetitive sounds and localization issues, the overall audio experience is a standout feature that elevates the game significantly.

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 overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics, highlighting the game's ability to create an immersive atmosphere that complements its dark themes. Reviewers like Digitally Downloaded and GameCritics praised the discordant and striking music, noting how it enhances the overall ambiance of the game. The addition of new rock and atmospheric synth tracks, as mentioned by GameCritics, contributes to a haunting soundscape that resonates with players. Critics like Movies Games and Tech emphasized the "badass synth metal" used during battles, alongside eerie tones for exploration, which adds to the game's intensity. The voice acting was also commended across various reviews, with RPGamer noting its effectiveness in conveying emotions and bringing characters to life, further enriching the game's narrative experience. Despite the overall acclaim, there are some criticisms worth noting. Push Square pointed out that while the voice acting is generally well-executed, the demon navigators' repetitive barks could detract from the experience. Additionally, while most reviewers celebrated the soundtrack, some expressed that the sheer volume of new tracks could potentially overwhelm players, as indicated by Hey Poor Player's comments on the tutorial section. Furthermore, Generación Xbox mentioned a lack of Spanish voice acting, which may be a drawback for non-English speaking players seeking a fully localized experience. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance excels in sound design and music, significantly enhancing the gameplay experience. The majority of reviewers, including LevelUp and IGN, highlighted the phenomenal soundtrack and effective sound production, which contribute to the game's immersive qualities. While minor criticisms exist, such as repetitive sound effects and localization gaps, they do not overshadow the general appreciation for the game's audio elements. Overall, the sound design and music are seen as standout features that elevate the title within the genre.

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 is a technical standout, earning praise for its performance across platforms. The Nintendo Switch sees quality-of-life improvements but struggles with frame rate drops and quest issues. Meanwhile, PS5, Xbox Series X, and PC deliver smooth 60 FPS gameplay and faster loading times, though minor visual inconsistencies persist. Critics largely agree on the game's solid enhancements, particularly on more powerful systems, making for an overall satisfying experience, despite some lingering issues 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 a generally positive reception across various platforms, with most critics praising the enhancements made in the game's performance. On the Nintendo Switch, critics like Pure Nintendo noted quality-of-life improvements, such as the ability to save progress at any time, which enhances the overall experience. Vooks highlighted that performance stability has improved, albeit at the cost of some visual fidelity. On the more powerful platforms, such as PS5, Xbox Series X, and PC, reviewers like GameCritics and Hey Poor Player emphasized the smooth 60 FPS gameplay and faster loading times, with GameSpot noting that previous performance issues from the Switch version have been effectively addressed. The enhancements in visual quality and stability on these platforms have been widely acknowledged, making the game a more enjoyable experience. However, there are notable technical issues that persist on the Nintendo Switch, as pointed out by Universo Nintendo, who reported frame rate drops and problematic quest distribution. While improvements have been made, these issues still detract from the overall experience on this platform. On the PS5, while the performance is largely praised, some critics like GamersRD mentioned that visual inconsistencies from the Switch version remain, indicating that not all aspects have been fully optimized. On PC, although many reviewers, including IGN and Hooked Gamers, praised the smooth performance, there were mentions of occasional pop-in and frame rate drops, particularly when compared to the more stable console versions. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the technical performance of Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance is very good across all platforms, with significant improvements noted, especially on PS5, Xbox Series X, and PC. The majority of reviewers agree that the game runs smoothly and offers enhanced visuals and performance compared to its predecessor. Critics like Worth Playing and Voxel highlighted the substantial upgrades in performance and quality of life features, which contribute positively to the gaming experience. Despite some lingering issues on the Switch and minor inconsistencies on other platforms, the overall sentiment is one of satisfaction, indicating that players can expect a well-optimized experience, particularly on the more powerful hardware.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

"Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance" is receiving strong praise for its replay value, boasting two story paths with 80+ hours of gameplay, diverse content, and over 270 demons. Critics commend new DLC and various difficulty options that cater to all players. However, some express concerns about limited replayability for those familiar with the original game, citing design flaws and a lack of new experiences. Overall, it's considered a worthwhile investment for fans, offering substantial depth and an improved experience over its predecessor.

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 largely positive, with many critics praising the game's extensive content and diverse gameplay options. Reviewers like Dexerto and Universo Nintendo highlight the two distinct story paths, each offering around 80 hours of gameplay, which significantly enhances replayability. Critics such as CGMagazine and Checkpoint Gaming emphasize the value of new content, including additional demons, DLC, and various difficulty settings, catering to both hardcore fans and newcomers. The inclusion of multiple endings, new exploration mechanics, and the ability to collect over 270 demons further enriches the experience, making it appealing for players seeking depth and variety in their playthroughs. However, some reviewers express concerns regarding certain aspects that may limit replayability for specific audiences. For instance, Vooks mentions that the new content may not justify a full-priced purchase for those who have already experienced the original game. Additionally, Metro GameCentral points out that underlying design flaws and similarities between the new and original campaigns could potentially deter players from engaging in multiple playthroughs. Critics like Twinfinite also note that limited replay value may arise from the absence of upgrade files or party porting, which could impact the overall experience for some players. Despite these criticisms, the consensus among the majority of critics is that "Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance" offers substantial replay value, making it a worthwhile investment for fans of the series. Critics such as Hobby Consolas and LevelUp affirm that the combination of multiple story routes, engaging gameplay mechanics, and a wealth of content ensures that players will find plenty to explore and enjoy. Overall, the game is seen as a significant improvement over its predecessor, with many reviewers encouraging both veterans and newcomers to dive into its rich narrative and gameplay experience.

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 substantial improvements over the original release. Reviewers like CGMagazine and Digitally Downloaded highlight the game as a "game of the year material" and the "ultimate version," respectively, emphasizing the new content, enhanced graphics, and gameplay refinements. Critics from Dexerto and Pure Nintendo also commend the game for its quality-of-life improvements and engaging narrative, making it an ideal entry point for newcomers to the series. The addition of new characters, exploration options, and a polished combat system has resonated well with the majority of reviewers, positioning the game as a highly recommended experience for JRPG fans. However, some critics have pointed out notable shortcomings that temper the overall enthusiasm. Vooks suggests that while Vengeance is an improved version, it may not justify its full-priced release, hinting that it could have been better suited as paid DLC. Additionally, Noisy Pixel and TheSixthAxis mention that the narrative execution falls short compared to other titles in the genre, such as Persona, which may disappoint players seeking a deeper storyline. Technical issues have also been noted by Universo Nintendo, indicating that while the game excels in many areas, it still has room for improvement in terms of performance. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among critics is that Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance is a significant upgrade from its predecessor, making it a must-play for both series veterans and newcomers alike. Reviewers like LevelUp and GameSpot affirm that the game addresses previous flaws while offering a more polished and engaging experience. The combination of compelling gameplay, captivating visuals, and a wealth of new content has led to a strong recommendation from the majority of critics, solidifying its place as a standout title in the JRPG genre.

TL;DR

Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance is lauded as a major upgrade, with critics praising its enhanced graphics, refined gameplay, and new content, making it a top contender for game of the year. However, some argue it may not justify its price and criticize its narrative depth and technical issues. Despite these flaws, it's deemed essential for JRPG fans and a great entry point for newcomers. Overall, it's a polished, engaging experience that successfully addresses the shortcomings of its predecessor.

MONSTER

Reviews

111 reviews found

100

Digitally Downloaded

PlayStation 5

Jun 13, 2024