For those Shin Megami Tensei fans wanting to know more about the upcoming fifth main entry in the series, Atlus has dropped a whack of info on the main characters and demons for game, as well as a closer look at the game’s Press Turn Battle and skills system.
For those not up to speed, in Shin Megami Tensei V, you play as a nameless high schooler, who after a tunnel collapsing incident, wanders into a wasteland called Da’at. Fusing with a mysterious man, Aogami, the protagonist becomes the condemned being known as “Nahobino,” and finds new powers to fight demons.
You’re not the only one who’s wandered into Da’at, as several of your classmates have also joined you. Together, you all manage to escape Da’at to return to Tokyo. In doing so, you learn that the demons infesting Da’at have set their sights on Tokyo. You decide to join Bethel, an organization that has sworn to fight the demons, with your classmates using the power of the demon summoning program, and you using the power of Nahobino.
Being that this is SMT, you’ll be dealing with a whack of demons to fight and fight by your side. Over 200 types, actually. Among the classics, you’ll also encounter Hayataro, a spirit dog said to have lived at a temple in Nagano. It is summoned by the demon summoning program and fights alongside you.
As for the fighting system, SMTV features the command-based press turn battle system. By attacking your enemies’ weaknesses, you can increase your turns and get the upper hand. However, enemies can also do the same to you. And, with new skills added for the game, you can enjoy an even wider range of strategies.
During battle, your actions will gradually fill up the “Magatsuhi Gauge.” Once filled, you can activate special moves called “Magatsuhi Skills.” In addition to unleashing powerful attacks, they can also be used to heal and support you.
Also adding depth to the strategy of fighting demons are their affinities and weaknesses. Skills that match their demons’ affinities become that much more powerful, marked with a “+” skill potentials. However, it works both ways, as inheriting a skill that matches a demon’s natural weakness leads to a “－” skill potential, making it less powerful. Strategically deciding between the damage you can deal vs the enemy weaknesses you can strike is key. Keep this in mind when creating your party, so you can choose demons that best fit your personal playstyle.
In addition to the powerpoint (literally) of info, Atlus has also released several screenshots and images of the game in action, as well as characters and demons. You can hit up Gematsu for those.
Shin Megami Tensei V is due out for Switch on November 11 in Japan and November 12 worldwide.