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Toughest Shin Megami Tensei Titles, Ranked

The Shin Megami Tensei franchise is renowned for its challenging and complex games, some of which stand out as particularly difficult.
Toughest Shin Megami Tensei Titles, Ranked

Highlights

  • Shin Megami Tensei games are known for their challenging gameplay and intricate storylines.
  • The difficulty of these games is a hallmark of the series, testing players' skills and perseverance.
  • Despite their high difficulty, Shin Megami Tensei titles continue to captivate and engage players worldwide.

Often referred to as the "Pokemon for adults," the Shin Megami Tensei series predates the GameFreak series, originating as a Japanese exclusive in 1987 on the Famicom. Over the past 35-plus years, the franchise and its spin-offs have earned a reputation for their significant difficulty, presenting apocalyptic scenarios that challenge players' resolve.

Developed by Atlus, the Shin Megami Tensei series is renowned for crafting some of the most demanding RPG experiences in the industry. Despite the daunting challenges, Atlus has continually evolved and refined this beloved series, solidifying its position as a premier RPG developer.

6 Shin Megami Tensei 4: Apocalypse

GameFAQs Difficulty Ranking: 3.53/5

Set in an alternate timeline to Shin Megami Tensei 4, Apocalypse presents a post-apocalyptic Tokyo overrun by the franchise's signature demons. With a twisty-turvy storyline and formidable bosses, this game offers one of the toughest challenges in the series.

Utilizing the Press Turn combat system, SMT4: Apocalypse allows players to gain more turns and actions by exploiting demon weaknesses, adding layers of complexity as the game progresses. Despite being less accessible on modern platforms, Apocalypse remains a worthwhile venture for those seeking a formidable test.

5 Shin Megami Tensei 5

GameFAQs Difficulty Ranking: 3.68/5

Despite an eight-year gap from the previous entry, Shin Megami Tensei 5 maintains the franchise's trademark difficulty. Set in a post-apocalyptic version of Tokyo called Da'at, the game challenges players to survive and navigate a world teeming with demons of various sizes and strengths.

Demon negotiations add another layer of complexity, with the recruitment process posing significant challenges. SMT5 stands as one of the most demanding RPGs on the Switch, offering a formidable trial for players.

4 Shin Megami Tensei: Digital Devil Saga

GameFAQs Difficulty Ranking: 3.69/5

  • Release Date: 2005-04-15
  • Developer: Atlus
  • Platform: PS2

Originally developed as New Goddess, Shin Megami Tensei: Digital Devil Saga aimed to broaden the franchise's audience while maintaining its challenging nature. The game, set in a smaller-scale story about warring factions, features intense boss battles and labyrinthian dungeons, characteristic of the SMT series.

Competing with other SMT titles on the PS2, Digital Devil Saga retains the series' reputation for difficulty, offering a rigorous experience for players.

3 Shin Megami Tensei 4

GameFAQs Difficulty Ranking: 3.81/5

Following the success of Nocturne on the PS2, the launch of Shin Megami Tensei 4 on the Nintendo 3DS upheld the series' legacy of intense difficulty. With a wide roster of classic demons and the return of the Press Turn system, the game poses a formidable challenge to players, providing a harrowing journey through the apocalypse.

Adapted for the 3DS, Shin Megami Tensei 4 offers a demanding experience, requiring players to strategize and adapt to survive its punishing gameplay.

2 Shin Megami Tensei: Strange Journey

GameFAQs Difficulty Ranking: 3.85/5

A collaborative effort between Atlus and Lancarse, Shin Megami Tensei: Strange Journey introduces a surreal, almost horror film atmosphere, complemented by challenging demon encounters. The game's alignment system adds complexity to demon recruitment, enhancing the overall difficulty and offering a unique and formidable entry in the series.

Recognized for its increased difficulty, Strange Journey presents a captivating yet challenging experience for players seeking an intense RPG adventure.

1 Shin Megami Tensei 3: Nocturne

GameFAQs Difficulty Ranking: 4.03/5

Originally envisioned as a potential farewell to the SMT series, Shin Megami Tensei 3: Nocturne emerged as one of the most challenging and punishing games on the PS2. Introducing the Press Turn system that would define the series' difficulty, this title earned a reputation for its relentless and unforgiving gameplay.

Renowned for its formidable challenge, Nocturne remains a pinnacle of difficulty in the SMT series, offering a grueling yet rewarding experience for players willing to brave its trials.

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