Shin Megami Tensei 5: Vengeanceis set to expand upon its predecessor in many ways. Between quality-of-life additions like the ability to save anywhere, inclusions to combat through new Magatsuhi and demon skills, and even a ‘Demon Haunts’ interaction system, the title has left many excited tojourney into Da’atonce more. Alongside its mechanical improvements,Vengeanceseems set on addressing one ofSMT 5’s chief complaints; as multiple trailers have teased, the titlelooks to be giving its story and characters much more prominence.
Many have joked about Atlus' approach to the enhanced editions of their games, namely in their inclusion of “re-release girls.“Shin Megami Tensei 5: Vengeanceis no exception in this case, as new character Yoko Hiromine has made an appearance in its trailers. While some have expressed concern over a fresh face joiningSMT 5’s cast given the original’s struggles with developing its characters, it looks likeVengeancewill be addressing this on multiple levels. Not only does Yoko seem to have an impact on the title’s story, but characters like Yuzuru and Dazai look to be much more entwined in the narrative.
Shin Megami Tensei 5: Vengeance Seems to Be Putting Its Story Front and Center
Guest Party Members
For starters,Vengeance’s trailer shows off its cast as party members alongsidethe Nahobino’s demonic arsenal, and though they are listed as “guests,” fans have already praised this detail as adding much to their development. Dazai, for example, can be seen snapping selfies on the battlefield, while Yoko is able to conjure up magic through her powers alone. The new ‘Demon Haunts’ feature, comprised of places where the Nahobino can observe and speak with allies, is said to include guest party members as well, suggesting that there will be opportunities to speak with them outside of cutscenes.
The Qadistu, led by Lilith, look to be the major antagonists ofVengeance’s story. As its subtitle suggests, the theme of revenge will play a vital role. Characters like Yuzuru’s sister Miyazu, who was once relegated to a side quest and could be ignored without much consequence inSMT 5outside its true neutral ending, look to be returning with more gravitas, asVengeance’s trailer teases her and Khonsu fighting against the Nahobino.
There has been speculation that something might happen to Yuzuru earlier on inVengeance’s plot, as the Nahobino’s new design mirrors that of Tsukuyomi, suggesting that Koshimizu might fuse with the player in Yuzuru’s absence.
SMT 5’s Cast Having More Story Significance
If this is true, Miyazu being a more prominent character would make for an interesting shake-up ofSMT 5’s story, as she would have to grapple on screen with the death of her brother. Similarly, the Nahobino’s design change would suggest that something has happened to Aogami as well, adding another layer toVengeance’s plot.
Nuwa and Yakumowill also play a role inVengeance’s plot given their appearance in its trailer, and, as the original story’s neutral route reps, could help to round out its endings. BecauseVengeance’s story is described as being true to the originalSMT 5in its first half and deviating in its latter, there could be ample opportunities to make the law, chaos, and neutral endings more entwined with earlier decisions.
New Demons Abound
Lastly, there are plenty of additions set to be amongVengeance’s compendium, including a ‘Nahobiho’ Jack Frost cutely designed after the protagonist. Atlus has been carrying on its daily demon showcase on YouTube, demonstrating both old and new demons joiningVengeance’s fray, likeSMT 3 Nocturne’s infamous Matador.
The goddess Artemis, who had previously been exclusive toSMT 5’s paid DLC, will be available inVengeanceas well, suggesting a more well-rounded and accessible compendium for players to enjoy. WithVengeance’s release soon approaching, there are still many questions as to the twists and turns its story may take, though the attention the title seems to be taking to its features, combat mechanics, and characters suggests that fans will have a lot to look forward to.
