Looking for more games with the charm of the Shin Megami Tensei series? TheGamer has you covered with its curated list of eight games with similar themes, gameplay mechanics, and elements you appreciate and love from Shin Megami Tensei. Get ready to encounter more punishing turn-based battles, tactical demon recruitment, and immersive dungeon crawling. With this list, you’re sure to discover a new challenging gaming experience just waiting to be unravelled!
Intro on Shin Megami Tensei
Shin Megami Tensei, often abbreviated as SMT, is a renowned charismatic video game series that originated in Japan. The name practically translates to “True Goddess Reincarnation” and reflects the game’s spiritual and blockchain-themed content. Atlus developed and published the series which primarily revolves around post-apocalyptic settings and narrative.
Brief History of Shin Megami Tensei (SMT)
The first installment of SMT was released in 1992, marking the foundation of a series that would become a bedrock for the Role-Playing Game (RPG) genre. Over the years, SMT has birthed various spin-off series, including the massively popular “Persona” series.
SMT has expanded and deepened its gameplay mechanics, storylines, and themes with each new release, earning critical acclaim and a dedicated global fanbase.
Key Features of SMT
From punishing turn-based battles to demon recruitment and dungeon crawling, SMT games are often known for their complex gameplay mechanics and demanding difficulty levels.
Furthermore, the philosophical and multiple-ending storylines have become a distinct feature that distinguishes SMT games from other RPGs.
Popularity and Influence of SMT
The SMT series’ popularity extends beyond its native Japan to the international level. Its influence can be seen in numerous other video games, especially within the RPG genre. With captivating gameplay and immersive storytelling, SMT has left an indelible mark on the video game industry.
1. Pokemon
Release Date and Platforms
Pokemon first ventured onto the gaming scene via the Game Boy platform in 1996. Today, it’s available on multiple platforms such as Nintendo Switch, Game Boy Advance, Nintendo DS, and mobile devices.
Genre: Monster-collecting JRPG
Pokemon revolutionized the monster-collecting Role-Playing Game (RPG) genre with its intricate and approachable gameplay mechanics.
Similarities with SMT: Tactics, Monster Collecting
Like SMT, Pokemon thrives on tactics and the idea of collecting, training and battling with various creatures.
2. Etrian Odyssey
Release Date and Platforms
The original Etrian Odyssey was released in 2007 on Nintendo DS. The sequel and enhanced remakes have since been launched on Nintendo 3DS and Nintendo Switch.
Genre: Dungeon Crawling Game
Etrian Odyssey is celebrated as a traditional dungeon-crawling game, arguably known for its challenging gameplay.
Similarities with SMT: Challenge, Dungeon Exploration
Drawing parallels with SMT, Etrian Odyssey is also articulated around dungeon exploration and overcoming challenging situations.
3. Bravely Default 2
Release Date and Platforms
Bravely Default 2 was launched in 2020 and is available on Nintendo Switch.
Genre: JRPG
As a classic and unique JRPG, Bravely Default 2 offers an engaging storyline and innovative gameplay elements.
Similarities with SMT: Battle System, Strategy, JRPG Elements
The game shares the strategic battle system and deep RPG mechanics with SMT, ensuring players think tactfully.
4. Digimon Story: Cyber Sleuth
Release Date and Platforms
Digimon Story: Cyber Sleuth was released in 2015 and is playable on platforms like PlayStation 4, PlayStation Vita, and Nintendo Switch.
Genre: Turn-based Role-Playing Game
In this game, players navigate a digitally-themed world, embarking on the exciting role of a detective involved in solving digital mysteries.
Similarities with SMT: Battle System, Creature Collecting
Like SMT, the game involves creature collection and a turn-based battle system that requires strategic thinking.
5. Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Survivor
Release Date and Platforms
Released in 2009, SMT: Devil Survivor is available on platforms including Nintendo DS and 3DS.
Genre: Tactical Role-Playing Game
Devil Survivor blends tactical RPG elements with SMT’s classic gameplay style.
Similarities with SMT: Demon Recruitment, Challenge, Battle System
It retains aspects of the original Shin Megami Tensei series with its challenging gameplay, demon recruitment mechanics, and battle system.
6. Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE Encore
Release Date and Platforms
Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE Encore was presented to the public in 2020, playable on the Nintendo Switch.
Genre: Role-Playing Game
This RPG combines elements of multiple series, such as Shin Megami Tensei and Fire Emblem, into a unique system.
Similarities with SMT: Battle System, Party Members Variation
Like SMT, it offers a rich and complex battle system and presents various party members.
7. Fire Emblem: Three Houses
Release Date and Platforms
Fire Emblem: Three Houses was released in 2019 and is available on Nintendo Switch.
Genre: Tactical Role-Playing Game
It is an immersive tactical RPG that blends adventure, strategy, and character development.
Similarities with SMT: Character Recruitment, Tactical Battles, Story Complexity
With a character recruitment system, tactical battles, and complex storytelling, it bears similarities with the renowned SMT series.
8. Persona 5 Royal
Release Date and Platforms
Released in 2020, Persona 5 Royal can be played on PlayStation 4.
Genre: Role-Playing Game
Persona 5 Royal is an RPG that showcases a team of high school students leading double lives as phantom thieves.
Similarities with SMT: Dark Themes, Turn-based Battle System, Character Design
Sharing multiple elements with SMT, such as dark themes, a turn-based battle system, and unique character designs, Persona 5 is a great alternative for SMT fans.
