Shin Megami Tensei V is the latest installment in the demon-collecting franchise that adds new tweaks to the mechanics and systems. For example, the new Moon Phase System in Shin Megami Tensei V affects essential aspects of the game. From fusing demons to demon recruitment, players must pay attention to the moon status at all times. The moon icon in Shin Megami Tensei V is located on the top-left corner of the screen and indicates its current phase.
The Moon Phase system was first introduced in Shin Megami Tensei II, where different phases would either buff or weaken demons. Since then, the moon phase system has evolved with each entry in the series. Similarly, the moon phase system in Shin Megami Tensei V has also been tweaked and works differently from the previous game.
In Shin Megami Tensei V, the moon affects some of the most important mechanics of the game. For example, depending on the moon phase, players may find it harder to recruit demons or face accidents during the fusion process. On the other hand, players looking to level up fast in Shin Megami Tensei V might be able to farm Magatsuhi Crystals during a particular moon phase.
How Moon Phases Work in Shin Megami Tensei V
The moon goes through a total of 16 phases in Shin Megami Tensei V and depends on how many steps the character takes. The first phase begins as a new moon state and turns into a half moon after 4 phases. After a total of 8 phases, the lunar icon then turns into a full moon that shines white and bright on the top left corner of the screen. After reaching the full moon phase, it reverses and returns to the new moon state again.
Effects of Moon Phases in Shin Megami Tensei V
Depending on the moon phase, different mechanics of Shin Megami Tensei V get affected:
Demon Recruitment: When recruiting demons during a full moon phase, even some of the friendliest monsters are harder to recruit. Some demons won’t even talk to the main protagonist during the full moon phase.
Magatsuhi Crystals and Demon Respawns: During the new moon phase, players will be able to battle previously defeated demons in an area and get Magatsuhi crystals. Demons will respawn during each new moon phase if players are far away enough.
Fusion Accidents: During a full moon, chances of a Fusion Accident are increased and can happen at random during the fusion process. These accidents may result in an unexpected or even a higher-level demon.
Shin Megami Tensei V is available for the Nintendo Switch.