Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Survivor

« Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Survivor is easily one of the best strategy-RPGs on the Nintendo DS and may even be one of the better strategy RPGs ever made. »

« A tough but rewarding game, a welcome addition to DS despite the system's RPG glut. »

« The combination of monster-collecting, tactics, and disturbing plot are sure to keep players’ heads in the game. »

« It’s vintage Shin Megami Tensei, and that’s all anybody can ask for with the series’ debut on Nintendo’s handheld powerhouse. »

« If you've got the strategy chops and don't mind a bit of a challenge, Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Survivor is a fantastic role-playing experience on the DS. Its time-based, branching story and clever blend of both strategy and turn-based game play styles make for a highly original title. »

« This fantastic hybrid role-playing game will pull you in with its thrilling story and keep you coming back for more. »

« With its quick battles and focus and short conversations to tell the story, Devil Survivor works great for the DS. On top of that it is so refreshing to play an RPG on the system that isn’t steeped in fantasy and/or is a remake. »

« SMT: Devil Survivor is an intense game that has branching paths that allow for an endless amount of plot twists and ending possibilities, so replay is not just recommended, it’s a must. »

« An actual masterpiece. Everything from the art style, the music, the story, the characters, and the gameplay captivated me. This was both my first experience with an SMT game, as well as my first experience with a tactical RPG, and I couldn't put it down when I originally played it. I got every ending just to max out some of my favorite demons and unlock all of the title screen characters. I know Overclocked is supposed to be the best version of DS and I'm sure I'll experience it one day, but the original was peak as it was, and easily ranks in my top five favorite games of all time. »

« Right off the bat, this game throws you into the deep end of the pool. No floaties, no hand-holding. The narrative hits you like a ton of bricks, and if you blink, you might miss a crucial detail. Graphics: Graphically, "Devil Survivor" isn't breaking any new ground. It's like an old-school RPG had a love child with an anime series. But you know what? It works. The character designs and demon models are solid, and the stylized visuals complement the dark and apocalyptic tone of the story. Soundtrack: Let's talk tunes. Shoji Meguro, the mastermind behind the "Persona" soundtracks, delivers once again. The music is a glorious blend of electronic, rock, and atmospheric elements. It's like if Nine Inch Nails did the soundtrack for a demonic Pokémon game. The soundtrack's a banger, no doubt. Gameplay: The combat system is where "Devil Survivor" truly shines. It's a hybrid of turn-based strategy and traditional JRPG battles. The demon auction mechanic adds a layer of unpredictability, and fusing demons to create new ones. Story: Now, the story. Brace yourself. This game dives deep into moral ambiguity, existential crises, and the consequences of human choices. It's a narrative rollercoaster that's not afraid to take you to some dark places. Think "Game of Thrones" meets "Evangelion" with a splash of H.P. Lovecraft. However, it's not all sunshine and rainbows. The difficulty curve is steeper than a Black Diamond ski slope. If you're not a seasoned SMT veteran, be prepared to face some crushing defeats and agonizing decisions. The learning curve is like trying to understand quantum physics with a manual written in ancient Sanskrit. In conclusion, "Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Survivor" is a brutal, unforgiving journey into the abyss, both in terms of gameplay and narrative. It won't hold your hand, and it won't apologize for it. It's not for everyone, but if you're a glutton for punishment and enjoy a narrative that challenges your very perception of right and wrong, give it a shot. »

« Absolutely superb battle system, atmosphere and story. Let down slightly by how 2D some of the characters are and how grindy the end-game is. Well worth your time »

« Amazing game. The soundtrack is memorable, gameplay nearly addictive and story incredible. Definitely recommend if you're already a megaten fan or gas already played the fire emblem emblem games. Sad so many people put such low ratings for no reason. »

« Pitch perfect tone, interesting characters and a branching repayable storyline. Really one of the best offerings on the handheld. »

« This game is just too good, and is about a decade old, and still hold very highly with today's games. »

« Another masterpiece by atlus, the art syle is gorgeous, the combat is fast paced and fun and the story and dialogue are interesting all the way through. It can be challenging at times, but it is so worth it to keep playing »

« Amazing story, gameplay, and characters. Multiple endings add a ton of replay value and this game truly does the series justice. I highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys a great SRPG. »