Devil Summoner…was not my favorite Shin Megami Tensei game. I didn’t like the real-time combat; I don’t know, it just wasn’t fun. It seems that the sequel will be improved in many different areas. Hopefully, this one will be a lot more awesome. Demon negotiation is always a good thing.
Faithful, let us speak in riddles. What is incredibly improved over its predecessor, bundled with a rare collectible plushie, and poised to be one of the best RPGs of 2009? Yes, my first instinct was also “newspaper,” followed immediately by “the wind,” but then I realized it could only be SMT: Devil Summoner 2 for PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system.
Combat is completely overhauled. What was once a slow-paced, experimental attempt at a real-time SMT game is now a refined, action-packed demonstration of how this kind of game should be done. A new “dodge roll” maneuver allows you to deftly span the battleground, avoiding your enemies’ attacks and putting yourself in the right location to launch your retaliation. Because two is better than one (unless you’re talking about paper cuts), you can now command two demons in battle, strategically exploiting their strengths in order to come out on top. Getting overwhelmed? Just hold down a button to hide your demons and protect them from damage until the danger is over.
More is also better (as long as you’re not talking about weights on your chest, crushing the life out of you), so there is more of everything. More weapons to wield, each now with a unique special attack in the hands of Raidou. More enemy types, about twice as many, actually. More attacks for the demons in your control, and the ability to activate multiple such abilities so that they are available in battle, meaning that demon fusion is vastly more complex and vital to your success. More intelligent demons means your summoned pals can be set to repeat a certain attack, but they won’t bother repeating an effect spell until the current effect has worn off, thus saving time.
And the best part, Faithful? Demon negotiation. Instead of wiping your foes out, talk to them, charm them, berate them. In short, tell them what they want to hear — which is an art in and of itself — and maybe they’ll give you an item, or better yet, join your party and lend you their unique abilities in battle. On top of all of that, the up to two demons you can bring into battles can assist you in your negotiations, using special tactics that can win over your potential new acquisition.
My, my, what a difference a sequel makes. And to really hammer the point home, Faithful, we’ll mention yet again that all launch copies come with a free collectible Raiho plushie. That’s right, each and every launch copy of SMT: Devil Summoner 2 includes a cuddly, wuddly (or menacing, if you prefer) Raiho plushie. Quantities are very limited! Pre-ordering is a good way to secure yourself the complete set! Exclamation point!
Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Summoner 2: Raidou Kuzunoha vs. King Abaddon ships into retailers across North America on May 12th.
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