Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance Review & Changes Explained
Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance is an expanded version of Shin Megami Tensei V with a new story route,
Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance is an expanded version of Shin Megami Tensei V with a new story route, more demons, quality-of-life improvements, and better performance on modern platforms.
What Is Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance?
Vengeance is not just a simple port.
It includes the original story path, called Canon of Creation, and a new route called Canon of Vengeance.
The game combines:
- Turn-based combat
- Demon negotiation
- Demon fusion
- Post-apocalyptic exploration
- Difficult boss battles
It remains a demanding RPG built around strategy.
New Story Route
The biggest addition is the Canon of Vengeance.
This route adds new characters, new story scenes, and different narrative direction.
It gives returning players a real reason to replay the game.
The original route is still available for players who want the base experience.
Combat System
Combat remains one of the game’s strongest parts.
Players exploit enemy weaknesses to gain extra turns.
Poor planning can quickly lead to party wipes.
Combat rewards:
- Elemental knowledge
- Buff usage
- Debuff timing
- Smart demon fusion
- Careful preparation
Demon Fusion
Demon fusion remains central.
Players recruit demons, combine them, and create stronger allies.
Fusion allows full party customization.
This system gives the game long-term depth.
New Demons and Skills
Vengeance adds more demons and new abilities.
Some demons have passive innate skills that change party strategy.
These additions make team building more flexible.
Quality-of-Life Improvements
The game improves several systems from the original release.
Improvements include:
- Better navigation
- Smoother performance
- More save options
- Improved demon management
- Expanded battle systems
These changes reduce frustration without making the game too easy.
Performance Improvements
The original Switch version had technical limitations.
Vengeance performs better on stronger platforms such as PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.
Frame rates and resolution are noticeably improved outside the original Switch hardware.
Difficulty
The game remains challenging.
Players must pay attention to:
- Enemy weaknesses
- Boss patterns
- Party composition
- Item usage
- Turn economy
This is not a casual RPG.
Exploration
The world is divided into large open areas filled with demons, treasures, and hidden paths.
Exploration feels more rewarding because movement and map systems are improved.
Best Features
Excellent Combat
The Press Turn system remains sharp and strategic.
Stronger Story Content
The new route adds needed narrative depth.
Better Platform Support
Modern versions look and run better.
Weaknesses
Still Difficult
New players may struggle.
Story Requires Patience
The narrative is stronger, but still not as character-heavy as some RPGs.
Long Runtime
Completing both routes takes serious time.
Is Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance Worth Playing?
Yes. Vengeance is the best version of Shin Megami Tensei V.
New players should start here instead of the original. Returning players should consider it if they want the new route, better performance, and improved systems.
