Shin Megami Tensei V

 Switch
  • Publisher: Atlus
  • Release Date: Nov 12, 2021
User Score
7.5

Generally favorable reviews- based on 760 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 554 out of 760
  2. Mixed: 47 out of 760
  3. Negative: 159 out of 760
Buy Now
Buy on

Review this game

  1. Your Score
    0 out of 10
    Rate this:
    • 10
    • 9
    • 8
    • 7
    • 6
    • 5
    • 4
    • 3
    • 2
    • 1
    • 0
    • 0
  1. Submit
  2. Check Spelling
view
per page
  1. Kotovskiy85
    Nov 18, 2021
    10
    Absolutely incredible game! Gameplay, graphics, music, plot, direction, characters, quests are all on a solid 10. You just turn it on and disappear for a few hours.
    The first thing that struck me was of course the gameplay - now you can jump and actively explore the area, the second is the graphics - WOW, this is a BOTW level, and the third is of course the bosses - I was able to defeat    Absolutely incredible game! Gameplay, graphics, music, plot, direction, characters, quests are all on a solid 10. You just turn it on and disappear for a few hours.
    The first thing that struck me was of course the gameplay - now you can jump and actively explore the area, the second is the graphics - WOW, this is a BOTW level, and the third is of course the bosses - I was able to defeat the first one only on the third attempt, and from the second I got such a strong kick in the ass that I had to raise the level for several hours and assemble a suitable team. This is simply amazing considering that this is a normal level of difficulty.
    JRPG elements work just great and make you think in almost every battle, especially with bosses. The last time I remember such a high-quality fight was in FFX.
    At first I didn't like the fact that all the icons, menus and style are straight from Tokyo Mirage Sessions FE, but after a few hours you start to see and understand their depth and difference - it's very cool.
    Endless gratitude to ATLUS for giving us this masterpiece!    … Expand
  2. Pockit
    Nov 18, 2021
    10
    This game despite being in the oven for a very long time, managed to still exceed my expectations and deliver an amazing experience to which I'll never forget. This was not my first game for the series nor it was the second, but i firmly believe that anyone can pick up and play this game and enjoy it just the same. I can only hope that Atlus continues to create more products that can be this good.
  3. fireshm
    Nov 18, 2021
    10
    great game, One of the best RPGs of this year

    Buy this game, support it, we need more of this types of game, good job ATLUS
  4. vitorzehel
    Nov 18, 2021
    10
    O jogo é uma delícia de jogar e passar tempo. Sua dificuldade é ideal para os amantes de jrpg.
  5. LEMAZZATE
    Nov 18, 2021
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Scusate ragazzi, vorrei farmi piacere 'sto gioco ma non c'è La Mecca. Grande occasione sprecata… Expand
  6. squallara
    Nov 18, 2021
    10
    Nice game. Feels like an adult version of pokemon. Gotta catchem all (demons)
  7. PandaBass
    Nov 18, 2021
    10
    Despite a few technical hiccups (pop in & a few rare cases of fps drops) it's truly a stellar game!
  8. SurTails101
    Nov 18, 2021
    10
    I'm at around 35 hours in at the moment of writing this review. Wow what a game. I must agree with some reviewers here that the story is probably not the strongest point but verything else is amazing. I don't expect third party games that look like this to perform all that well on the switch and in all honestly I think the performance exceeded my expectation so I'm impressed on that part.I'm at around 35 hours in at the moment of writing this review. Wow what a game. I must agree with some reviewers here that the story is probably not the strongest point but verything else is amazing. I don't expect third party games that look like this to perform all that well on the switch and in all honestly I think the performance exceeded my expectation so I'm impressed on that part.

    After SMT IV, I had big expectation for the soundtrack and boy does it not disappoint. Banger after banger. Eargasm after eargasm.

    Gameplay is fantastic. Fusing and gathering demons is addicting. The platforming/exploring is surprisingly fun and enjoyable. Combat is great, but I admit, if you're not into turn by turn, this may not be your cup of tea (though I could say the same about P5)

    The art direction in this game is excellent. The ambiance throughout the game is unique.

    9.5/10 (let's round it up shall we)    … Expand
  9. Peetja
    Nov 18, 2021
    10
    I absolutely love this game It is the perfect level of difficulty similar to that of dark souls where you get the rush after finally besting the boss
  10. BaronInjust
    Nov 17, 2021
    10
    This game is beyond amazing the sole reason I bougth a switch all those years ago and it delivers. The game of the decade just buy it.
  11. Gaioti
    Nov 17, 2021
    10
    After playing P3:fes and P4 Golden and loving both, it was time to try SMT, and wow, please give it a try, this is without a doubt one of the best JRPGs ever made.
  12. JohnDoeVin
    Nov 17, 2021
    9
    Some story pacing and performance issues aside, SMT V is without a doubt the JRPG of the year for me. It brings back the fun strategic combat the series is known for and adds many customizable options for not only your main character but also your demons. I easily lost many hours simply focusing on building a better team to use in battle because I enjoyed this aspect so much. There areSome story pacing and performance issues aside, SMT V is without a doubt the JRPG of the year for me. It brings back the fun strategic combat the series is known for and adds many customizable options for not only your main character but also your demons. I easily lost many hours simply focusing on building a better team to use in battle because I enjoyed this aspect so much. There are over 200 playable demons and many of them with the right skills and attributes can be useful party members. It really just depends on how much work you’re willing to put into each one of them. While in past games some lower level demons served merely as fusion material for stronger ones, now you can build them in a way that they can be useful even at the end of the game. Demon negotiations have never been more fun as the dialogues are frequently hilarious and even though the outcomes can be just as unpredictable as previous games there is definitely a strategy to them. Visually the game looks beautiful running on Unreal Engine 4 and I can safely say that the demons and environments have never looked better! The post-apocalyptic areas are all intricately designed and nearly every nook and cranny is filled with a surprise for you to discover. Last but certainly not least is the amazing soundtrack. I still have some of the battle tracks looping in my head as I’m writing this. Bottom line: If you have even a slight interest in monster-collecting games or even just JRPG’s in general, I would highly recommend this game.… Expand
  13. DoraWill
    Nov 17, 2021
    10
    Amazing gameplay and soundtrack just like other Atlus titles. Exploration is super fun which is the nice direction of SMT series. New demon designs are great .But I hope there will be more dungeon like tradition SMT game. Easily one of my favourite JRPG.
  14. Jochristian
    Nov 17, 2021
    10
    This game is so much fun I have a ps5 and because of this game I have stopped playing it very addicting I’m playing on hard mode and is definitely very challenging you have to level up and grind a little to defeat some of the bosses but wow is this game Amazing!! Graphics 9 Gameplay 10
    Story 9
    Fun factor 10
  15. yellowbeebee
    Nov 16, 2021
    10
    This is the first SMT game I've ever played, but because I played persona 3,4, and 5, I have some experience with Atlus's JRPGs. I honestly didn't really know what to expect going into this game. However, I am very pleased with just how enjoyable it is. The only noticeable downside I noticed from my time playing this game was the framerate of some of the demons in the background. It hurtsThis is the first SMT game I've ever played, but because I played persona 3,4, and 5, I have some experience with Atlus's JRPGs. I honestly didn't really know what to expect going into this game. However, I am very pleased with just how enjoyable it is. The only noticeable downside I noticed from my time playing this game was the framerate of some of the demons in the background. It hurts the eyes a bit, but nothing too bad. I highly recommend this game.… Expand
  16. grit7
    Nov 16, 2021
    10
    Just buy it. It will be one of the best games you got yourself on switch. You'll love it!
  17. Lazarus93
    Nov 16, 2021
    10
    What a game, what a game indeed. Only negatives are docked mode performance issues.
  18. Ars_Arcanum
    Nov 16, 2021
    10
    Another great entry in the SMT series. Great graphics and lots of content. Don't sleep on it!
  19. Karellen
    Nov 16, 2021
    10
    With Shin Megami Tensei V the series finally came back with a bang on a more modern and powerful hardware and skyrocketed its presentation and production value quite a lot. The game also streamlined a lot of things, but I think its for the best; at its core it still is Shin Megami Tensei, even with its changes and "simplifications". The Xenoblade-ification of the level design, mixed withWith Shin Megami Tensei V the series finally came back with a bang on a more modern and powerful hardware and skyrocketed its presentation and production value quite a lot. The game also streamlined a lot of things, but I think its for the best; at its core it still is Shin Megami Tensei, even with its changes and "simplifications". The Xenoblade-ification of the level design, mixed with the post apocalyptic setting and the removal of random battles (plus: the chance to see what demons you are going to face VS the "holograms" in IV), is a gift from heaven. I love the 1st person dungeon crawling of the past entries, but from here I can't just go back. The exploration is rewarding and the sense of place is unmatched. The OST is a banger, too: with Ryota Kozuka you can't go wrong. The soundtrack is almost at the same level of IV and Apocalypse. As for the characters and the story, I think that they did a good job. There's nothing really remarkable here in my opinion, but its enough to keep you invested in the events. The demons, however, gained a lot of personality. Everyone of them is finely animated and voiced. They never felt so alive. And last but not least: the press turn system is as granitic as ever. Go buy it (and play it) people! Shin Megami Tensei deserves to gain the same recognition as its youngest brother Persona.… Expand
  20. jonmurrs
    Nov 16, 2021
    9
    This game is incredible. It runs smooth and looks good. Probably one of the better games available on the switch. I am excited to play more. Giving it a 9 because persona 5 is just better-not a switch game, though.
  21. KevWen
    Nov 16, 2021
    10
    This is definitely my game of the year for Nintendo Switch! Enjoyed more than Monster Hunter Rise and even Metroid Dread. 10/10
  22. Red_Meridian
    Nov 16, 2021
    10
    Definitely a huge step up for the series and for Atlus itself. Impressive and well worth the wait.
  23. cntrl
    Nov 16, 2021
    10
    Atlus delivered yet another SMT mainline game and this one certainly does not disappoint!
    If you're in for a challenging RPG with a great Press Turn Battle System and a dark storyline then SMT V is definitely worth a try!
  24. hokemi
    Nov 14, 2021
    10
    Dungeon crawling. Demon fusion. Fun overworld movement. Collectibles. Classic amazing smt battle system. This is probably the best jrpg for switch this year please pick it up.
  25. Kkodss
    Nov 16, 2021
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The first area was really great. But then you finish it, and this is what follows:

    There is a pretty crude exposition dump, with a bizarre tone shift and an introduction of a new character that we're supposed to care about even though we just met her

    There is a high school 'dungeon' area which looks borderline PS1 in terms of look and textures, and runs at about 10fps

    The second large area is exactly the same as the first, only with a red filter, and a further performance hit, making the game run largely as a slideshow    … Expand
  26. MinatoArisato
    Nov 16, 2021
    10
    It’s best SMT EVER!!! Nahobino looks Awesome. 12/10!!! And nice graphics for Nintendo Switch.
  27. Davel33123
    Nov 16, 2021
    10
    Good gameplay, incredible music, unique original fantasy setting absolute must have ! This is why I bought a switch on launch day .
    I've waited a long time but man was it worth it .!
    Atlas are such a fantastic developer
  28. Yuushio
    Nov 16, 2021
    10
    If you like JRPGs, turn-based (press-turn) combat or jusz SMT in general, you won't be disappointed at ALL! This has to be the most accessible SMT game by far. It's fairly difficult,but easy to get used to. The new essence system makes fusing even more fun!
  29. liathwulf
    Nov 16, 2021
    10
    I never ever go out of my way to write reviews on metacritic, but this is hands down the best rpg I've played in god knows how long. For fans of the series, play it on hard, it does not disappoint. This game made me realize, where the **** did exploration go in RPGs? This game made me realize how much I miss that. There are tons of demons and nooks and crannies and treasure and side questsI never ever go out of my way to write reviews on metacritic, but this is hands down the best rpg I've played in god knows how long. For fans of the series, play it on hard, it does not disappoint. This game made me realize, where the **** did exploration go in RPGs? This game made me realize how much I miss that. There are tons of demons and nooks and crannies and treasure and side quests tucked away that you may just randomly end up stumbling back upon while re exploring areas and asking yourself, how did I miss this? Or how the hell would I have ever known this was here?

    Party customization? Top notch, like pokemon status amount of demon choices, but better because through the fusion system you can perform all sorts of amazing tricks with your demons. Your main character can also be built in all sorts of ways, and in hard mode, you will find yourself wracking your brain, scrambling through items, or doubling back to get a demon with zan to make certain trash mobs easier to kill. Oh, and **** can kill you. Fast. Trash or not, saving often is a must. This is one of the few games where "escape with 100% chance" items will be good friends of yours. Strategically, its everything an RPG should be (I can't speak for normal mode, but I'd imagine it would be plenty hard if you were brand new).

    Also like all SMT games, this has a super weird mysterious occult storyline with branching ending choices.
    If you like GREAT rpgs that make you work for wins and wrack your brain for strategic upper hands, do it! Buy this game!    … Expand
  30. Rpg89
    Nov 15, 2021
    10
    Don't mind the 0 ratings. If you're into JRPG do yourself a favor and purchase the game you won't regret your investment. This game is better than all the SMT games before it in every way I can think of.
  31. LeXTReC
    Nov 13, 2021
    10
    One of the best JRPG I have play in a while. It have a very good difficulty and its amazing a game like this can run on the Nintendo Switch. The soundtrack is also good, according to the type of game.
  32. GalacticTF
    Nov 15, 2021
    10
    This game is such a good time, dude. I can't believe I was missing out all this time. I love the graphics and the gameplay so much, and the music slaps.
  33. drsnap
    Nov 15, 2021
    1
    Another boring JRPG, where its only strenght is its variety in partymembers. The game is a grindfest that most of the time relies on who has the most HP points. Its understandable JRPG fans swollow this, but all other people. Just avoid! The main character are paperthin, and you never really get to know him or any compainions.
  34. Philliesophic
    Nov 15, 2021
    10
    This is the most fun I've ever had playing the Switch, this game is so good, I think it might be my new favorite. I can't wait to play other games in the franchise.
  35. Plantbat
    Nov 15, 2021
    10
    Buy this game, support it, it's the best looking game on Switch and it's the most fun. Best JRPG on the system.
  36. BlackFang
    Nov 15, 2021
    7
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This game is great overall, with the enhance graphic (which is to be expected with unreal engine), combat system is more smooth with various customization and puzzles. But in some parts it felt shallow, like your choices doesn't really matter that much until near the end. Or a personal pet peeve of mine, killing off character early. I know Tao is "reborn" in the near end but it always leave a bitter taste in my mouth. You introduce them as this nice character that cares for everyone and everyone loves, then bam, kills her early into the game, and she just re-appears near the end, and that's it. The ending felt a bit lazy, for lawful and chaos, it just your character walking across status floating in space, for true and neutral endings, it just the beginning cutscene again, I get the meaning but it just felt lazy when comparing to the other SMT games I have play before. The two biggest ones I still occasionally go back to is SMT 4 apocalypses and SMT devil survivor 2 record breaker.

    I have play SMT 4 apocalypses, that was crazy, the law and chaos are similar but you have to choose in front of everyone. Then you choose to become god, that requires you to kill all your friends and allies, which is pretty impactful. Lastly there's freeing humanity, the classics. The ending cinematic has much of a greater of an effect as you have dialogue and visual with everyone. In SMT 4 also you have more interactions with people, you form bonds and allies, and every single choices felt like it had impact. A bonus is in the DLC you get to see what you have become by choosing one path or another.

    I've also play SMT devil survivor 2 record breaker, which is my personal favorite, there's good and evil and all that but the ending is based on what path humanity should follow, all sides holds water. Whatever you think peoples' worth is from handwork or everyone is equal, or screw it, just get rids of god and let the world decided its own fate. My personal favorite is sacrificing oneself to ensure everything goes right.

    Overall, SMT 5 is very solid, which is to be expected as its the first one SMT game on switch (I don't care about Personal 5 strikers) with graphics, gameplay and variety of customization. What felt short is an important factor, your choices, I have replay certain parts of the game just to see what my choices would do, it did nothing, the game has a scripts and its sticking with it. Only the ending ones matter. It also felt so..... lonely, you don't have much interaction to start with, then they just kill one off right in front of you. I was hoping to see more allies and dialogue to understand peoples' lives and what are they fighting for, there's not much. Then there's the ending, chaos and lawful looks almost identical as well as neutral and true, I mean I got the symbolize and meaning, but I didn't felt the excitement and feeling of what impact my choices have, even at the end, what it actually effect something.

    Personal note, I love story more than anything, I also love the characters, through my playthrough I had to reset a few times, like with Tao to see if I can save her, but to surprise me, nothing have change, its a straight forward script. you choices don't matter.    … Expand
  37. SilverScale
    Nov 15, 2021
    9
    Good game, in terms on JRPG is totally insane. Im not giving it a 10 mainly because the performance issues and textures.
  38. d4mkii
    Nov 15, 2021
    10
    The game is everything to want in a JRPG. It’s absolutely phenomenal with breathtaking graphics on a Switch with an improved battle system that combines SMT3’s and 4’s and balances it out well.
  39. Parzival127
    Nov 15, 2021
    9
    My first SMT game and it has blown me away. Do not expect the game to be something it's not. Many compare it to Persona 5. My only JRPG besides SMTV was Dragon Quest XI S. For those times I wanted it to be DQ I did not enjoy the game. But once I allowed myself to enjoy the game for what it was - its own mechanics, its own story, its own difficulty curve - I fell in love. DefinitelyMy first SMT game and it has blown me away. Do not expect the game to be something it's not. Many compare it to Persona 5. My only JRPG besides SMTV was Dragon Quest XI S. For those times I wanted it to be DQ I did not enjoy the game. But once I allowed myself to enjoy the game for what it was - its own mechanics, its own story, its own difficulty curve - I fell in love. Definitely recommend the game to those that enjoy JRPGs and are willing to appreciate this game for its own uniqueness.… Expand
  40. rockmanjae
    Nov 15, 2021
    10
    The absolute peak of the Megami Tensei franchise. The gameplay and sheer scale of the world is at the best the series has ever seen. Soundtrack and sound design is extremely top-notch thanks to the talents of Kozuka and Konishi. Graphically, the art style is beautiful but there's some pop-in, frame rate chugs here and there (100% due to the Switch hardware for that) but it isn't a dealThe absolute peak of the Megami Tensei franchise. The gameplay and sheer scale of the world is at the best the series has ever seen. Soundtrack and sound design is extremely top-notch thanks to the talents of Kozuka and Konishi. Graphically, the art style is beautiful but there's some pop-in, frame rate chugs here and there (100% due to the Switch hardware for that) but it isn't a deal breaker in my opinion. The demon negotiation dialogue is as amusing as ever and the story is very engaging! The challenge of the game is perfect, but there are difficulty options if needed. If you're a fan of JRPGs at all, you would be doing yourself a disservice by not playing this game! (So I definitely recommend that you check it out). Also, look at this: https://twitter.com/End3rJ/status/1459934544052768771?s=20… Expand
  41. MYSTIC7
    Nov 15, 2021
    10
    I waited a long time for this game and I can easily say that it did not disappointed. I had the best time in a long time and thank you Atlus for this masterpiece of a game!
  42. Duk3on3
    Nov 15, 2021
    10
    First time playing any of this games. Great fun. Challenging, smart battle mechanics, game design, best game I purchased for the last 2 years. Absolutely hooked.
  43. CtrlAltDefeat
    Nov 15, 2021
    10
    After a long, LONG wait - we've received the best iteration of the SMT formula yet. The combat system is more refined and customizable than ever, without sacrificing the difficulty that these games are known for. The demons are all beautifully modeled and animated, and it's obvious that the art team gave it their all. Paired with the phenomenal soundtrack, fantastic as usual worldAfter a long, LONG wait - we've received the best iteration of the SMT formula yet. The combat system is more refined and customizable than ever, without sacrificing the difficulty that these games are known for. The demons are all beautifully modeled and animated, and it's obvious that the art team gave it their all. Paired with the phenomenal soundtrack, fantastic as usual world building, and improved depth of exploration, this is a must play JRPG if you consider yourself a fan of the genre.

    To address the elephant in the room, Shin Megami Tensei is not Persona. Persona was created in an attempt to do something new with the SMT formula. Mainline games have never been focused on their characters (with a few exceptions) or social aspects. You will not find them here, and that's definitely okay, as this game aims for a different experience. I could go on for longer, but that strays outside of review territory.

    This game delivers on everything it promises to be and more. Easy recommend.    … Expand
  44. Mimikyu
    Nov 15, 2021
    9
    I waited since the announcement and not dissapointed. This entry is story focused similar to smt4. The game runs fairly decent and demon model quality has for the majority fastly been improved compared to other megaten games like p5. DLC is bit high in price, but its nice to see the effort they made including other smt games and not a ripoff compared to the dlc in smt4 to P5R.
  45. youshouldknow
    Nov 15, 2021
    10
    Once again, Atlus sets another standard for turn based JRPG's to follow. If this gets ported to PC and Playstation, then it's over for every other gaming company.
  46. Nanashi95
    Nov 15, 2021
    10
    A superb return of the legendary series that definitely was worth the wait.
    It brings back everything I loved about SMT, like the surreal world, great music, the dark and occult themes, crushingly hard difficulty and the motivating demon collecting and brings it to a new generation in a great way.
    The only downsides come mainly from the technical limitations of the Switch, but don't hurt    A superb return of the legendary series that definitely was worth the wait.
    It brings back everything I loved about SMT, like the surreal world, great music, the dark and occult themes, crushingly hard difficulty and the motivating demon collecting and brings it to a new generation in a great way.
    The only downsides come mainly from the technical limitations of the Switch, but don't hurt the experience at all.
    As a huge fan of SMT 3 Nocturne, this is definitely my game of the year.    … Expand
  47. wyeth1999
    Nov 15, 2021
    10
    Game of the year
    Gameplay 10/10
    Graphic 10/10
    Music 10/10
    Story 9/10
    Characters 7/10
  48. Kroosh
    Nov 14, 2021
    9
    Jrpg of the year and maybe beat jrpg on the Switch
    You can play this game and the time fly with out knowing that and this what i meen by a good game and nice story but the gameplay is breathtaking and the world its just to good
  49. 3vg69
    Nov 14, 2021
    10
    The best RPG of this year and one of the best games in 2021, great work by Atlus and this game deserve better
  50. WombatWarrior
    Nov 14, 2021
    3
    Game is nothing like persona games no social links story is horrible, side characters are bad and combat feels worse huge downstep from persona 5
  51. psychicbear
    Nov 14, 2021
    10
    As a long time fan of both Megami Tensei & Persona, I was worried that Persona's break into mainstream popularity would change how Atlus treated its mainline series. But boy was I wrong. SMT5 stays true to its mainline ethos and offers a fun, dark, and challenging experience. It's been nearly 20 years since a mainline game has been released on console and Atlus really pulled out all theAs a long time fan of both Megami Tensei & Persona, I was worried that Persona's break into mainstream popularity would change how Atlus treated its mainline series. But boy was I wrong. SMT5 stays true to its mainline ethos and offers a fun, dark, and challenging experience. It's been nearly 20 years since a mainline game has been released on console and Atlus really pulled out all the stops. It was the most fun I've had playing a JRPG in a while. The game is one of the best looking games on the Switch, the OST is incredible, and the quality of life features added are greatly appreciated. I especially love the Essence system and how customizable Nahobino and his demons are. While some reviewers have said that the story is bare and that the characters are lacking, I disagree. I found the story, characters, and world of SMT5 to be very engaging. The game has a dark, mysterious, and esoteric atmosphere that I personally love. Shin Megami Tensei has always been a niche series, especially outside of Japan. It's different from most other JRPGs, and I think it's important for newcomers to the series to know that. While other JRPGs tend to focus on telling a grand narrative with a cast of colorful characters, Shin Megami Tensei's main priority is it's excellent turn based combat & fun gameplay loop. Story and characters serve the gameplay and exploration here. If you're expecting a game like Persona 4 or 5, you might be a bit disappointed. That being said, I still found the central mystery of SMT5 to be quite compelling and the demons that inhabit the Netherworld are full of personality. Shin Megami Tensei 5 is a different kind of JRPG experience, but it excels at what it sets out to do. Judge the game for what it is, not for what it isn't.… Expand
  52. Ragnar_san
    Nov 14, 2021
    10
    Juego absolutamente genial, jugadlo y dejaros sorprender por un grandisimo jrpg.
  53. Omister7
    Nov 14, 2021
    10
    From the reviews that compare this to persona, to the 0/10 reviews that saw in the review it is a 9.5, to the 0/10 reviews that clearly love the game and are simply "balancing the score to be a 9/10". Understand that next to monster hunter rise, this is the only game of the year option on switch. Andand any rpg fan will love it.
  54. zeanon
    Nov 14, 2021
    10
    Easily the best Shin Megami Tensei game in the entire series. The gameplay is amazing as usual, the environments are extremely fun to explore and run around, and the music is on point. Definitely would recommend anyone who loves RPGs to try this game.
  55. raikanoba_916
    Nov 14, 2021
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This is my first time playing a MegaTen JRPG. I am impressed! The lore is deep and the gameplay is intense and challenging.… Expand
  56. Na29292
    Nov 14, 2021
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Incredible game! I'm not a fan of jrpg, but this game made me love them! I recommend it to anyone… Expand
  57. Harald23
    Nov 14, 2021
    10
    This game is a 10. GOTY material. From the art style to the music, each demon has its own sets of unique animations, no other monster collecting game has this attention to details. The graphics are the best in an SMT game and the best from a JRPG on Switch.

    Combat is nice and balanced, you can kill demons with one hit with certain skills but some demons can too so you gotta be careful.    This game is a 10. GOTY material. From the art style to the music, each demon has its own sets of unique animations, no other monster collecting game has this attention to details. The graphics are the best in an SMT game and the best from a JRPG on Switch.

    Combat is nice and balanced, you can kill demons with one hit with certain skills but some demons can too so you gotta be careful. I love the gameplay loop of this game, it just flows so perfectly: you explore a new area, hunt for all the secrets, fight the new demons and recruit them and get the new sidequests and bosses.

    Difficulty, don't listen to distracted annoying reviewers: the game tells you from the start, if you are new to the series "easy" is recommended, if you are a returning player go with "normal", and if you want more challenge there is hard, and there is even a safety mode for babies. You can always lower the difficulty if you are struggling.

    Story is there enough to create the atmosphere and the mystery, but the big plot decisions are in the second half of the game.

    Overall this might end up being my favourite SMT.    … Expand
  58. TuturuDESU
    Nov 14, 2021
    10
    Best combat and balance in series, great gameplay, awesome music, story is kinda just ok, really comfortable in portable mode, worth trying out
  59. RRC45
    Nov 14, 2021
    10
    One of the best JRPG of the year. Fun gameplay, good music, exploration is fun. All in all just a really fun game.
  60. That_Guy_333
    Nov 14, 2021
    9
    Pros
    - Fun, deep and rewarding combat system.
    - Monsters and party setup are highly customizable. - Environments look great and are fun to explore. - While some side-quests are the typical "Kill X", they tend to be be more fleshed out than the JRPG norm. - Creature designs and animations are stellar. - Soundtrack is great and goes well with the world/battles. - It has an easy mode    Pros
    - Fun, deep and rewarding combat system.
    - Monsters and party setup are highly customizable.
    - Environments look great and are fun to explore.
    - While some side-quests are the typical "Kill X", they tend to be be more fleshed out than the JRPG norm.
    - Creature designs and animations are stellar.
    - Soundtrack is great and goes well with the world/battles.
    - It has an easy mode and apparently a story mode will be patched for those that want something more accessible.

    Cons
    - Light on story/characterization. What is presented is cool but, there's just not much of it.
    - Non-ideal performance. It's not a deal-breaker but, there's some pop-in and light stuttering.
    - Monster recruiting is (seemingly?) more random that I would like.

    Bottom line IMO
    While those are looking for an elaborate plot should look elsewhere, it's really awesome if you want an immersive, great looking and sounding, monster collector game that leans towards the challenging.    … Expand
  61. senorcarbone
    Nov 14, 2021
    10
    A masterpiece! Love the art direction and mechanics. It’s a fusion of the best parts of megaten and other jrpg series. Gives great power and freedom to the player without sacrificing fun.
  62. xExelx
    Nov 14, 2021
    10
    Absolute Fun Game
    Deep Combat System
    Hard Mode is kinda fun Less School from Persona Never wanted to be Persona On its own Series SMT V is just fun, Sidequests giving Progress and Finishing Moves Boss Fights are horrible strong if you dont overlvl or have a perfect group, Playing and fuse demons to have a good team even just for one Boss is just cool :) Graphic looks okay, its a    Absolute Fun Game
    Deep Combat System
    Hard Mode is kinda fun
    Less School from Persona
    Never wanted to be Persona
    On its own Series
    SMT V is just fun, Sidequests giving Progress and Finishing Moves
    Boss Fights are horrible strong if you dont overlvl or have a perfect group,
    Playing and fuse demons to have a good team even just for one Boss is just cool :)

    Graphic looks okay, its a switch game, just a little bit monoton lvl design but the atmosphere is right    … Expand
  63. Lloyd01
    Nov 14, 2021
    10
    Отличная игра.
    Очень нравится левел дизайн локаций и в меру сложные бои.
  64. M4N0R4F43L
    Nov 13, 2021
    10
    Gráficos fantásticos, exploração fluída nada pouco cansativa, combate refinado e uma trilha sonora impecável. Um jogo divertido e desafiador uma bela entrada para quem quer conhecer a franquia ou para amantes de um bom JRPG. Vale muito a pena
  65. MadMaxxieXD
    Nov 13, 2021
    9
    Loving the game so far, very fun exploring, lots to collect, the new systems with essences and miracles is really cool, as well as the changes to fusion, it really sets you up to constantly change up your team and main character in response to whatever you face. My only slight negatives are that it's much easier than I expected coming from Nocturne, wish I had played on hard instead ofLoving the game so far, very fun exploring, lots to collect, the new systems with essences and miracles is really cool, as well as the changes to fusion, it really sets you up to constantly change up your team and main character in response to whatever you face. My only slight negatives are that it's much easier than I expected coming from Nocturne, wish I had played on hard instead of normal but still hard enough that I'm having fun. Highly recommend to fans of RPGs and games like Pokemon.… Expand
  66. Bridgeburner88
    Nov 13, 2021
    8
    A fantastic Jrpg

    Shin Megami Tensei 5 is one of the most
    Accessible and addictive entries in the series. My only complaint is constant performance issues. This game should of been developed for the ps4 at best.
  67. Auusefesa
    Nov 13, 2021
    10
    10/10, sound, art, music, sounds, characters, design, story, combat, everything in this game is 10/10
  68. LustLain
    Nov 13, 2021
    10
    Incredible game, the exploration aspect adds a lot to the game. Soundtrack's killer as always. Don't be scared to try hard mode (you can always lower it later if you need to), it's a lot of fun and super rewarding when you finally manage to defeat a hard boss.
  69. cookie321
    Nov 13, 2021
    10
    I give 10out of 10 bec it veeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeery goooooooooooooooooooooooooooood
  70. Morix880z
    Nov 13, 2021
    10
    im just happy they did the right stuff after 10 years, literally gaming :DDDD
  71. Sejman22
    Nov 13, 2021
    10
    GOTY 2021

    Buy this game. Maybe if this game sell well we get ,,non'' Persona spin-offs like new Devil Summoner, Devil Survivor or Majin Tensei.
  72. Segafan
    Nov 13, 2021
    10

    Just buy the game. Its a fantastic and very challenging JRPG. One of best games on Nintendo Switch.

    Gameplay: 10/10
    Graphic: 10/10
    Music: 10/10
    Story: 9/10
    Characters: 8/10
    Optimization: GOOD
    Difficulty: HARD
  73. Rileycuipd8
    Nov 13, 2021
    10
    Best jrpg of the year !!! Love the music and it really looks great for a switch game and it's my game of the year
  74. Z06Wingnut
    Nov 13, 2021
    8
    Great game.

    NOT a 10, quite clearly. - Minor performance issues (pop-in, frame rate drops/stutter), textures not great. - Story really stands more on great themes and atmosphere than great narrative. - Light on meaningful or particularly interesting characters to carry said story. Also not a 0 (zero), equally clearly. - Great battle system, thoughtfully executed and balanced.    Great game.

    NOT a 10, quite clearly.
    - Minor performance issues (pop-in, frame rate drops/stutter), textures not great.
    - Story really stands more on great themes and atmosphere than great narrative.
    - Light on meaningful or particularly interesting characters to carry said story.

    Also not a 0 (zero), equally clearly.
    - Great battle system, thoughtfully executed and balanced. Tons of variety.
    - World and exploration is fun, level design and vertical-ity is well done.
    - Aesthetics and art style is unique and interesting, in SMT tradition.
    - What story is present is cool, as is the lore of demons and overall atmosphere.
    - Ton of replay value due to difficulty and challenge as well as party and skill variety.

    The game is an 8 (probably 8.5) and is a ton of fun.
    More JRPGs could do with darker themes and more interesting non-basic medieval fantasy type settings/influences. This one is among the best in a while, and one of the best games I've played on Switch.    … Expand
  75. rockluis
    Nov 13, 2021
    9
    Great game.
    One of my favorite series of all time and this is one of the best entries on It.
  76. CvetomirG
    Nov 13, 2021
    10
    Maintains the challenge of past games while improving everything else. Graphics are limited by the switch, but the gameplay is superb.

    One of the best RPGs of the last few years
  77. lolhhh
    Nov 13, 2021
    10
    I really enjoy the monster collecting and harder the story is also pretty good so far difficulty definitely one of the best jrpgs this year
  78. thedaarkbatty
    Nov 13, 2021
    0
    The gameplay is legitimatly awful. It's just doing the same thing over and over again. Overall it's not the worst game I've ever played but i rate 0% to balance score out
  79. Sunrisen
    Nov 13, 2021
    10
    Great jprg and probably the best game in the SMT series. The visuals can be a bit blurry, but you quickly stop paying attention to this when playing handheld. Special praise for the music and ambient sounds, not bored at all after 30 hours of play.
  80. Chores
    Nov 13, 2021
    10
    A big step forward for the SMT series. The gameplay is perfectly balanced, all annoying moments from the previous games are removed (for example if after negotiations with the demon the hero's level is too low, at the next attempt the demon will remember his decision and will gladly join the team).

    The game moves from dungeons and a simplified map to a huge post-apocalyptic world, so    A big step forward for the SMT series. The gameplay is perfectly balanced, all annoying moments from the previous games are removed (for example if after negotiations with the demon the hero's level is too low, at the next attempt the demon will remember his decision and will gladly join the team).

    The game moves from dungeons and a simplified map to a huge post-apocalyptic world, so the graphics is ok.

    The story is focused on demons, in the first hours of the game it may seem that the characters are not well spelled out, but this is the original intention of the developers. The description of the origin of each of the demons is insanely interesting 10/10    … Expand
next
Page:

Awards & Rankings

22
#22 Best Switch Game of 2021
6
#6 Most Discussed Switch Game of 2021

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
84

Generally favorable reviews - based on 98 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 89 out of 98
  2. Mixed: 9 out of 98
  3. Negative: 0 out of 98
  1. Nintendo Force Magazine
    Mar 7, 2022
    80
    What a journey! After eight years of waiting, the fifth installment of MegaTen is finally here, and it manages to deliver a satisfying experience. It may not have the deepest plot or most interesting cast of human characters, but it's fun, and I appreciate that it challenged me to think more about myself, my beliefs and how I view the world around me. And how many games can do that? [Issue #57 – January/February 2022, p. 76]
  2. Universo Nintendo
    Mar 5, 2022
    90
    SMTV brought everything I expected from a new chapter in the series of one of the first RPG games made, always renewing and innovating. We have an adventure that will make you stay for more than 40 hours hoping it doesn't end. It's really a great must-have for SMT fans and highly recommended for any RPG fan.
    Read full review
  3. LEVEL (Czech Republic)
    Feb 18, 2022
    80
    Comparing with an adored Persona cannot be avoided, but it is still a quite different experience for a different audience. Great fights, growing demons, excelent graphics and atmosphere. This JRPG succeeded.
See all critic reviews »