Atlus has long been a beloved name in the realm of JRPGs, yet many enthusiasts find themselves hesitating when it comes to diving into their expansive worlds. While titles like Persona 3 Reload and Metaphor ReFantazio have garnered admiration, it is Shin Megami Tensei 5: Vengeance that stands out as a personal favorite. This game transcends the typical JRPG experience, offering a straightforward, turn-based creature-collecting adventure that captivates players without excessive dialogue or cutscenes. It’s not merely a game you watch; it’s an immersive journey that invites you to engage fully.
For those who may not be familiar with Atlus or the JRPG genre, I wholeheartedly recommend SMT 5. It was my standout game of 2024, and while I enjoyed it on desktop, I can easily envision it being a delightful experience on the Steam Deck. The game features two campaigns that, while not drastically different, provide ample hours of strategic turn-based combat. Players can relish the thrill of gameplay without the burden of lengthy narratives that often accompany other titles.
Humble Choice Bundle Offer
Currently, SMT 5 is available through the Humble Choice bundle, typically priced at . However, for a limited time, it can be acquired for just , the cost of a single month’s subscription. This price point is nearly lower than its current discounted rate on Steam, and it includes seven additional games, making it an enticing offer for any gaming enthusiast.
The bundle features:
- Diablo 4
- Shin Megami Tensei 5: Vengeance
- Crysis 3 Remastered
- Heroes of Hammerwatch 2
- Nordhold
- Rogue Waters
- Cubic Odyssey
- Mini Settlers
While I haven’t experienced every title in the bundle, Crysis 3 and Heroes of Hammerwatch 2 have received positive acclaim. Nevertheless, the value of SMT 5 alone makes this bundle a worthwhile investment.
If you remain skeptical, consider the glowing review from Kerry Brunskill, who rated the game a remarkable 91 out of 100, declaring it “an essential RPG.” With such endorsements, it’s hard to overlook the opportunity to explore this gem of a game.
