Shin Megami Tensei 5: Vengeance is the definitive version of Shin Megami Tensei 5, originally released in 2021 exclusively for the Nintendo Switch. Now, with its re-release, the game is available on other platforms such as PC, Nintendo Switch, Xbox, and PlayStation, bringing new monsters, plots, and various quality-of-life updates.

However, surviving in this version of Tokyo, devastated by a war between angels and demons, is not easy. Players, especially newcomers to the franchise, may encounter difficulties during their initial hours of journeying through this universe. Avoiding these beginner mistakes is essential for a good experience, and fortunately, they are easy to overcome.

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10 Don't Overtrain Demons

Better Ones Will Appear Soon

Cait Sith in Shin Megami Tensei 5 Vengeance

Unlike Pokemon, Shin Megami Tensei 5 Vengeance doesn't reward players for training monsters to the highest levels. In the beginning, demons serve primarily as tools tailored to specific areas of the map. As the story progresses, these early demons quickly become underpowered and less useful.

Even if a summoned demon has a cool design, once all its abilities are learned, there is no practical reason to continue leveling it up, since they level up differently from Nahobino. The process is time-consuming and the attribute gains are minimal, making it inefficient.

9 Don't Neglect Fusions

Transform Demons Into Others

Fusion Screen in Shin Megami Tensei 5 Vengeance

Early in the game, Nahobino gains access to the World of Shadows, a crucial area for upgrading the recruited demons. One of the most important functions here is the ability to fuse demons, creating even stronger allies for the team.

By selecting two or more demons and fusing them, players can craft new allies that inherit abilities from their predecessors and gain access to an even broader range of powers. This method keeps the group's power level consistently high. It also provides a meaningful role for lower-level demons, ensuring they remain useful throughout the journey.

8 Don't Forget Essence Fusions

Another Great Utility Of The World Of Darkness

Essence Fusion Screen in Shin Megami Tensei 5 Vengeance

The World of Darkness in Shin Megami Tensei 5: Vengeance offers numerous tools vital to Nahobino's survival in the post-apocalyptic Tokyo. Among these is Essence Fusion, which allows players to transfer new abilities to both the protagonist and the demons.

While it might seem wise to save these resources for stronger demons encountered later, it is important to use them as they become available. Essence Fusions are plentiful and tend to improve as the player advances, making them a valuable asset for enhancing the team's abilities continuously.

7 Don't Keep Nahobino's Affinities The Same

Adapt The Protagonist To Various Situations

Essence Fusion in Shin Megami Tensei 5 Vengeance

Essence Fusions in Shin Megami Tensei 5 Vengeance provide a critical function: they allow Nahobino to adapt his weaknesses and strengths according to the enemies he faces. This adaptation is possible only if the character has learned the miracle "Divine Amalgamation," which should be a priority.

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When accessing the essence menu, instead of transferring powers to Nahobino, consider transferring the affinities of demons to him. This strategy enables the protagonist to adjust his attributes to better counter enemies, especially bosses, who wield powerful attacks and require tailored strategies.

6 Don't Ignore Guest Characters

One Of The Main New Features In Canon Of Vengeance

Yoko Hiromine in Shin Megami Tensei 5 Vengeance

The journey in Vengeance primarily focuses on recruiting and strengthening demons. However, the Canon of Vengeance introduces Guest Characters, other humans who can assist Nahobino in various ways. These characters bring a wide range of powers and can manipulate inventory items, which demons cannot do.

Whenever a Guest Character joins the team, it is wise to consider placing them among the primary characters for battles. Their unique abilities enhance the team's overall effectiveness, providing significant advantages in challenging encounters.

5 Don't Forget To Seek Charm Resistances

Many Enemies In Canon Of Vengeance Have This Ability

Apsaras in Shin Megami Tensei 5 Vengeance

Players choosing the Canon of Vengeance storyline in Vengeance may encounter a significant problem. Some enemies and bosses at the beginning of the game have the Charm ability, which can easily complicate battles.

Thus, having a demon equipped with the Patra spell is important. This ability can not only cure Charm, but also other ailments. One of the best early game summons for this is Apsaras, who has immunity to Charm and can also use Patra. Apsaras is obtainable through missions or fusion.

Ways to get Apsaras

Requirement

Cait Sith + Tsuchigumo

Level 16

Siding with Apsaras

Defeat Leanan Sidhe

4 Don't Forget To Save Frequently

It Is Now Possible To Save Anywhere

Save Screen in Shin Megami Tensei 5 Vengeance

In the previous version of Shin Megami Tensei 5, it was only possible to save the game when Nahobino found Leyline Founts. For Vengeance, Atlus removed this restriction, allowing players to save progress anywhere in the game. This enhancement offers much-needed flexibility and convenience.

Use this function frequently, as the game does not save automatically, and a small mistake can lead to a game over. Losing several hours of progress and Nahobino's precious maccas obtained due to an unexpected defeat or error is highly frustrating, so regular saving is crucial to maintain a smooth and enjoyable gameplay experience.

3 Don't Fail To Protect Nahobino

The Protagonist Must Be A Priority

Game Over Screen in Shin Megami Tensei 5 Vengeance

Nahobino is the central character in Shin Megami Tensei 5: Vengeance. If he dies in any battle, the game will go to the Game Over screen, even if other characters are still standing.

It is important that, above all, players use resources to protect Nahobino, recovering his health points or even improving his stats. Demons and Guest Characters are of secondary priority here, as losing them in battle does not have as severe consequences as the protagonist's death.

2 Don't Ignore The Demon Haunt

Easily Gain Items And Status Bonuses

Protagonist and Aogami in Shin Megami Tensei 5 Vengeance

One of the new additions that Vengeance brought to the game is the creation of Demon Haunts, where Nahobino and his demons can interact with each other. They can also offer other benefits to players, such as gifts or status boosts when interacting with Aogami.

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The Demon Haunt lets players get closer to their demons and make them stronger, or receive various gifts in Shin Megami Tensei 5: Vengeance.

Whenever a notification appears about a demon wanting to talk, go to a Leyline Fount and enter the Demon Haunt to receive its benefits. Additionally, interacting with Aogami on the bench, besides bringing some dialogues that complement the story, also grants Nahobino important attribute points.

1 Don't Underestimate Buffs And Debuffs

These Powers Change The Course Of Battle

Tsuchigumo using Tarujaka in Shin Megami Tensei 5 Vengeance

In engeance, it is crucial to consider the benefits of abilities that provide buffs and debuffs in status. These abilities can significantly improve the group's overall performance and power in battles, offering advantages against enemies. Also, use Magatsuhi Skills to maximize party effectiveness in combat.

Focusing solely on raw damage abilities may seem effective initially, but incorporating buffs and debuffs can bring better long-term benefits. Usually, they last for three turns. Consider using them whenever possible, especially against bosses, to make the fight easier.

Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance Tag Page Cover Art
Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance

Released
June 14, 2024
Developer(s)
Atlus
Genre(s)
JRPG