Summary
- Release Year: 2016
- Genres: Adventure, Role-playing game (RPG)
- Platforms: Nintendo 3DS
- Developers: Atlus
- Publishers: Atlus, Atlus USA
Shin Megami Tensei IV: Apocalypse: A Post-Apocalyptic Journey of Rebellion and Redemption
Introduction
Shin Megami Tensei IV: Apocalypse (SMT IV: Apocalypse) is a post-apocalyptic role-playing video game developed and published by Atlus for the Nintendo 3DS. Released in 2016, it is a standalone expansion to Shin Megami Tensei IV, set in the same universe and featuring many of the same characters. SMT IV: Apocalypse tells a dark and engaging story of rebellion, redemption, and the search for meaning in a world ravaged by war and chaos.
Story
SMT IV: Apocalypse takes place in a post-apocalyptic Tokyo, where the events of Shin Megami Tensei IV have left the world in ruins. The protagonist, Nanashi, is a high school student who awakens to a strange power that allows him to summon and control demons. He is quickly thrust into a conflict between two factions: the Bethel, a religious organization that seeks to control the demons and establish a new world order, and the Hunters, a group of rebels who fight against the Bethel’s tyranny.
As Nanashi delves deeper into the conflict, he learns that the true enemy is Lucifer, the fallen angel who seeks to plunge the world into darkness. Nanashi must team up with his allies and confront Lucifer in order to save humanity and restore balance to the world.
Gameplay
SMT IV: Apocalypse features a traditional turn-based combat system. Players control a party of up to four characters, each of whom can summon and control demons. Demons have their own unique skills and abilities, and players must carefully strategize in order to exploit their strengths and weaknesses.
In addition to combat, SMT IV: Apocalypse also features a number of exploration and puzzle-solving elements. Players must navigate through dungeons, solve puzzles, and interact with NPCs in order to progress the story. The game also features a number of side quests and optional dungeons that can be completed for additional rewards.
Characters
SMT IV: Apocalypse features a cast of memorable and well-developed characters.
- Nanashi: The protagonist of the game, Nanashi is a high school student who awakens to a strange power that allows him to summon and control demons. He is a kind and compassionate person, but he is also fiercely determined to fight against injustice.
- Isabeau: A member of the Hunters, Isabeau is a skilled fighter and a loyal friend. She is fiercely protective of her comrades, and she is always willing to stand up for what she believes in.
- Hallelujah: A mysterious young man who joins Nanashi’s party, Hallelujah is a powerful demon summoner with a troubled past. He is a complex and enigmatic character, and his motives are often unclear.
- Dagda: A powerful demon who serves as Nanashi’s mentor, Dagda is a wise and experienced warrior. He provides Nanashi with guidance and support, and he helps him to understand his destiny.
Themes
SMT IV: Apocalypse explores a number of dark and mature themes, including the nature of good and evil, the search for meaning in a meaningless world, and the power of redemption. The game does not shy away from difficult questions, and it forces players to confront their own beliefs and values.
Critical Reception
SMT IV: Apocalypse received critical acclaim upon release. Reviewers praised the game’s dark and engaging story, challenging combat, and memorable cast of characters. The game was also praised for its exploration of mature themes and its willingness to tackle difficult questions.
Conclusion
Shin Megami Tensei IV: Apocalypse is a masterful role-playing game that offers a dark and thought-provoking journey through a post-apocalyptic world. With its engaging story, challenging combat, and memorable cast of characters, SMT IV: Apocalypse is a must-play for fans of the genre.
Review Score
8.5/10