While franchises like Final Fantasy and Dragon Quest were on the rise in the late 80s and early 90s, Shin Megami Tensei was never too far behind. It was not until 2004 with the debut of Shin Megami Tensei: Nocturne (previously known as Lucifer’s Call in Europe) that the series finally gained traction. The delay across the globe may have primarily been due to its use of dark themes and religious imagery; however, the series has since risen in popularity. Similar to Persona, Devil Summoner gets its own updated rebrand – and rightfully so. With upgraded graphics, full voice acting, and a revamped battle system, Raidou Remastered: The Mystery of the Soulless Army is worth a revisit.
Set in the Taishō era in 1932, the silent protagonist is the fourteenth to earn the title of Raidou Kuzunoha, a name bearing tremendous responsibility. Their duty is to protect the Capital and its unbeknownst citizens from demons hidden within the Dark Realm, a hostile copy of the real world. All the same, where an enemy sits in wait lies the possibility of recruiting an ally. Raidou can use the art of confinement to capture and partner up with demons, each with their own unique set of skills. A bonus for this remaster is that the devil summoner can now have two allies opposed to the one previously on PlayStation 2 and create what feels like a full party.
Although working undercover as a sleuth for the Narumi Detective Agency, Raidou can gather information using his fiends’ abilities such as cooling down a heated citizen with ice magic or even firing up someone’s spirit to rile them up. Smaller demons can fit into tighter spaces, finding treasures or key items. Previously on PS2 when summoning a demon, a still image would pop in with some simple text. Now there are updated animations as well as unique voice lines. Although some of these changes may seem minor, these new improvements shine during gameplay.
Performance on Switch 2 runs at a steady 60 fps and rarely, if ever, falters. Graphics have vastly improved from the original with much sharper lines and visuals. Arguably, the original muted sepia tone almost seems to fit the original game best, yet the change in style is not overly saturated and is tastefully done. The voice work is just right and adds more depth to the original story. Even as Raidou gains a demon’s loyalty, having them echo his name is a nice touch, almost as if he is truly forming that bond.
The battle system has had a major overhaul with more dynamic moves such as dodging, jumping, and different types of attacks. Demons rely on “MAG” to use their powers, which can be replenished through a simple light attack although much weaker. If an enemy’s elemental weakness is exposed, then heavy attacks can be used to significantly damage their opponent but does not replenish MAG. A new update also gives Raidou the ability to cast elemental skills where previously elemental bullets needed to be purchased and replenished. The battle process has been significantly streamlined to create a more refined experience; this includes the removal of random battles. Demons spawn onto the overworld giving you the choice to either engage or flee.
Camera angles are no longer an issue either. Gone are the days of awkward camera manoeuvres like in the classic Resident Evil series. Fans of the original game will certainly find these changes to be more beneficial and may not even immediately notice them. Moreover, difficulty does not impact the story, a definite plus for those that initially played Raidou’s 2006 release and who may now have more commitments and time restraints. Whether you’re craving the challenge or lacking the time, players get to experience the story however they see fit.
Lastly, but certainly not least, the devil summoner will occasionally receive feedback from their partner, a talking black cat named Gouto-Douji. His commentary may not always be warranted, especially when losing, but there is something hilarious about a black cat shouting, “Use your gun”. Companion characters can either be a hindering or endearing experience, and in Gouto’s case, it’s important to listen to the cat. He will prompt Raidou when it’s time to use his special ability or have the chance to do a unique counter during a perfectly executed dodge, as he always has the hero’s best interest at heart. Gouto even takes important notes when speaking to others, notating key words and phrases in their tiny notebook, neatly tucked away in their collar.
Love that cat!