SMT V Vengeance Alignments: Unravel the Complex Moral Tapestry of the Abyss

The Shin Megami Tensei series has always been renowned for its complex and morally ambiguous storylines, and SMT V: Vengeance is no exception. This latest installment in the franchise introduces a compelling cast of characters, each with their own unique motivations and perspectives. As players navigate the treacherous world of Da'at, they will be confronted with a myriad of choices that will shape their alignment.

Understanding the Alignment System

The alignment system in SMT V is based on the classic Lawful, Neutral, and Chaotic axis. However, the game introduces a new twist with the concept of "Vengeance." This alignment represents a desire for justice and retribution, and it plays a significant role in the game's narrative.

Lawful Alignment

• Characteristics: Orderly, structured, and concerned with upholding the law.
• Representatives: Bethel and its Archangels.
• Beliefs: The world is governed by an unwavering set of rules and those who break them must be punished.

Neutral Alignment

• Characteristics: Balanced, pragmatic, and seeking a harmonious balance between order and chaos.
• Representatives: Nahobino and his companions.
• Beliefs: The world is a complex place where both good and evil exist, and each individual must make their own choices.

Chaotic Alignment

• Characteristics: Rebellious, anarchistic, and eager to break free from all constraints.
• Representatives: Lucifer and his demons.
• Beliefs: The world is a meaningless place where the strong prey on the weak, and only the fittest survive.

Vengeance Alignment

• Characteristics: Driven by a desire for justice and retribution, seeking to punish those who have committed wrongdoings.
• Representatives: Aogami, the god of vengeance.
• Beliefs: The world is a place where evil must be confronted and punished, no matter the cost.

Influencing Alignments

The player's choices throughout the game will influence their alignment. Interactions with NPCs, decisions made during dialogue, and even the demons the player recruits can all contribute to their alignment.

Table 1: Alignment Influences

Consequences of Alignments

The player's alignment will have significant consequences for their gameplay experience. Different alignments will grant access to unique demons, skills, and endings.

Table 2: Alignment Consequences

Strategies for Achieving Specific Alignments

Lawful Alignment:

• Focus on completing quests for Bethel.
• Recruit Lawful demons.
• Avoid attacking innocent demons.

Neutral Alignment:

• Maintain a balance between helping and harming demons.
• Recruit a diverse team of demons.
• Avoid making extreme choices.

Chaotic Alignment:

• Attack innocent demons.
• Recruit Chaotic demons.
• Join Lucifer's forces.

Vengeance Alignment:

• Seek out demons with Vengeance skills.
• Punish evil-doers.
• Confront Aogami.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Grinding too much: Focusing primarily on leveling up can lead to a lack of progress in the story and a reduced impact of alignment choices.
• Ignoring demon affinities: Demons with different affinities align with different alignments. Neglecting these affinities can hinder alignment progression.
• Relying on a single demon type: Using only one type of demon (e.g., Lawful or Chaotic) will limit the player's alignment options.
• Making impulsive choices: Important alignment decisions should not be made hastily. Take time to consider the consequences before choosing.

Conclusion

SMT V: Vengeance's alignment system adds a captivating layer of depth to the gameplay. By understanding the alignment dynamics, players can tailor their experience to explore different moral perspectives and unlock unique gameplay elements. Whether you embrace the Law, seek balance in Neutrality, revel in Chaos, or pursue the righteous path of Vengeance, the choices you make will shape the fate of Da'at.