Shin Megami Tensei: Strange Journey -Replacement soundtrack CD available- Out now!

[Cao Cao]

Replacement CD order page (http://www.atlus.com/strangejourneycd/)
NOTE about the Soundtrack CD: The soundtrack CD that came with the game is somewhat defective (It only plays on computers). Luckily, Atlus is already offering a fixed replacement CD at the above link.
Ordering Instructions (http://www.cheapassgamer.com/forums/showpost.php?p=7002723&postcount=63)

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/9/9e/SMTStrangeJourneyJPcover.jpg
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=24nMjEWuFho
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yaGTapB7ufc
A teaser site for this appeared not too long ago, and the title was accidentally in the site's source code. Today, some Famitsu scans confirm that Shin Megami Tensei: Strange Journey is headed to the DS. It's difficult to work out the gameplay details from the screenshots, but a few images show battles in the first-person perspective. It almost looks like this will be entirely in first-person, possibly a throwback to the original Shin Megami Tensei games.

http://gonintendo.com/viewstory.php?id=90216

http://gonintendo.com/wp-content/photos/29138_1248228469758_122_373lo.jpg
http://gonintendo.com/wp-content/photos/32160_1248228578904_122_977lo.jpg
http://gonintendo.com/wp-content/photos/29412_1248228732522_122_115lo.jpg
http://gonintendo.com/wp-content/photos/32316_1248228801900_122_831lo.jpg
http://gonintendo.com/wp-content/photos/29488_1248228886983_122_1187lo.jpg
http://gonintendo.com/wp-content/photos/32489_1248229000571_122_463lo.jpg


Siliconera translated a bunch of info in the article:
http://www.siliconera.com/2009/07/21/shin-megami-tensei-strange-journey-mission-overview/
A spatial rift appeared over Antarctica, threatening the seven billion humans who live on planet Earth. Humans call the place it leads to “Schwarz-verse,” and exploring this mysterious dimension is your goal as the protagonist in Shin Megami Tensei: Strange Journey.

As a member of the exploration team sent in order to find a way to counter this unknown factor, you discover that the other world was much harsher than you could have imagined, with demons that only appear in legends and myths appearing before you.

“You” are the nameless protagonist, a Japanese elite soldier who has received harsh training and discipline. Under the orders of the country, you join the exploration team on the ship Red Sprite No. 1. This amphibious ship serves as a base in the unknown world, being the only place you can consider safe. Aside from the Red Sprite No. 1 that the protagonist rides, there also exist other ships, named the Blue Jet No. 2, Elves No. 3, and Gigantic No. 4.

Your crew is a hodgepodge gathering of elite scientists and soldiers from all over the world. The men on No. 1 are the commanding crew, while those on No. 2 and 4 specialize in battle, and the people on No. 3 are scientists. Here is a quick glimpse at some of your crew members:

Captain Gore – The Captain of the Schwartz-verse exploration team. On account of his exceptional skills and leadership abilities, he was appointed to be the leader of the team that determines the fate of mankind. “So long as all in this ship cooperate, investigation is not an impossibility.”

Himenez – An American who has had experience in campaigns. He’s worked his way up from the bottom and, looking forward to the rewards after this is all done and over with, he volunteered for the team. “As long as I get what I deserve, I plan on contributing what I can as long as I’m not dead.”

Selenin – A Russian scientist, she was recruited based on her knowledge related to the Schwarz-verse. “The populace is being deceived with the false information that there is a large blizzard storm, but the truth is…”

The game is laid out in sprawling 3-D dungeons. The top screen shows the world as you see it, in first person. With upgrades that you can pick up through the game, you may be able to discover things you couldn’t see before. The bottom screen reflects the screen on the arm-piece of the Demonica Suit you wear, which displays vital information. Thus far, the only confirmed function is a map, but almost certainly there are several other support options available such as mission log, analyze, and videmonica.

In order for humans to stand a chance against the danger of this new world, they wear the Demonica Suit, state-of-the-art armor pieced together by scientists. Not only does it have the ability to adjust to the environment, but in anticipation of encounters with unknown life forms, it also improves battle capabilities. Various applications are included in the suit, such as the ability to search for enemies that won’t appear at first sight or to confirm unknown life forms, as well as a system for the suit to improve itself. There are other mysteries surrounding this armor and you’ll discover more about them as you customize the suit to your liking.

Essential to the series are the demons, and there are plenty of them in Shin Megami Tensei: Strange Journey. In fact, there are more in here than in any other series in the SMT main series, numbering at 300. Kaneko Kazuma, the artist behind the SMT series since the very first game, returned to create new monsters for Strange Journey. Morax, a humanoid with a bison head (one of the many demons in the Key of Solomon), and the demonic-looking Bugaboo are two examples.

And of course, all of these monsters can be recruited and used to fuse new ones. This is done through conversation. Each demon has their own personality and the correct choices must be chosen in order to convince them to join you. However, sometimes, instead of joining, a monster will just give you an item or heal you instead.

These demons can be used in battle, taking advantage of enemy’s weaknesses or performing combos with fellow teammate demons. Various monsters will also give you quests out of boredom, allowing you to find rare items. Just like core SMT games monsters can also be fused, combining their abilities and gaining even stronger ones.

Also of note is the importance of your relation to your crew members. No matter how many demons you collect, you cannot complete your missions without the cooperation of your crew members. With their help you can create new items. Based on your answers in crew conversations, the story may move towards a happier future for mankind or an apocalypse. You decide.

Shin Megami Tensei: Strange Journey is scheduled to come out in Japan on October 8. A North American release has not been announced at this time.

UPDATE: Atlus announced a US release, and a release window of Spring 2010!
http://gonintendo.com/viewstory.php?id=103083

IRVINE, CALIFORNIA -- NOVEMBER 5, 2009 -- Atlus U.S.A., Inc. today announced Shin Megami Tensei®: Strange Journey™, a first-person science fiction RPG for Nintendo DS™. A startlingly original entry in the award-winning Shin Megami Tensei universe, Strange Journey takes the heralded RPG franchise to exciting new frontiers. The game has already released in Japan to strong demand and critical acclaim, earning a 10/9/9/8 from Famitsu, the highest score the popular magazine has ever awarded a Shin Megami Tensei title.

In the near future, a mysterious, growing, black void appears at the Earth's southern pole. Unable to determine its cause and powerless to stop its deadly encroachment, humanity sends an elite team of explorers into the heart of the phenomenon, just as Strange Journey's look and feel represent a return to the heart of Shin Megami Tensei, bringing to mind the all-time classic Nocturne™. With over 300 demons to bribe, coerce, and negotiate with to gain assistance in battle, Strange Journey is every bit the deep, rewarding RPG experience fans have come to expect from the SMT franchise, yet delivered with a fresh new sci-fi story that taps into mature themes of morality and introspection.

Shin Megami Tensei: Strange Journey for Nintendo DS is currently scheduled for release in Spring 2010.

For more information, visit the official website: http://www.atlus.com/strangejourney

About SMT: Strange Journey

When the black spot appeared in the Antarctic, mankind became nervous; when it began to spread, that anxiety turned to panic. The Joint Project, convened to discuss how to deal with the expanding anomaly, decided to send in four ships carrying humanity's finest soldiers and most cutting-edge technology. The mission: to investigate what lay on the other side of what had been dubbed the Schwarzwelt and find out if there was a way to stop it from eventually covering the Earth.

You are an elite soldier hand-picked for the Strike Team, outfitted with a Demonica environment suit and posted to the Red Sprite under Commander Gore. Upon entering the Schwarzwelt, the crew finds itself forced to deal with harsh conditions, supernatural interference, and throngs of demons populating the bewildering world. What exactly is the Schwarzwelt? What awaits at the end of this strange journey? It is entirely in your hands to find out...

Key Features

* Shin Megami Tensei goes beyond -- Strange Journey's game mechanics represent a return to the proud tradition of the all-time dungeon-crawling classic SMT: Nocturne, while its story takes players into the near future on a mission to save Earth and to understand humanity's position within the larger universe.
* A dark turn into science fiction -- Who or what is causing the black hole that is engulfing the Earth? A mission to investigate the cause uncovers a whole world of demons that humans knew nothing about. Do they seek your destruction or will you seek theirs? Will you decide to save Earth or choose another path for humanity?
* Team up with demons -- Demons may be friends or foes depending on your ability to negotiate, bribe, and coerce them to join your party. With more than 300 types of demons, you'll have a huge variety of battlefield encounters and an equally large base of options on which to build your party strategy.

[laaj]

This looks like Etrian odyssey.

[onikage]

I'd love to see another entry in the series similar to the FC/SFC games. And in space? Sounds pretty awesome to me, hopefully it'll come to the US.

[Cao Cao]

Siliconera translated a bunch of info in the article:
http://www.siliconera.com/2009/07/21/shin-megami-tensei-strange-journey-mission-overview/

A spatial rift appeared over Antarctica, threatening the seven billion humans who live on planet Earth. Humans call the place it leads to “Schwarz-verse,” and exploring this mysterious dimension is your goal as the protagonist in Shin Megami Tensei: Strange Journey.

As a member of the exploration team sent in order to find a way to counter this unknown factor, you discover that the other world was much harsher than you could have imagined, with demons that only appear in legends and myths appearing before you.

“You” are the nameless protagonist, a Japanese elite soldier who has received harsh training and discipline. Under the orders of the country, you join the exploration team on the ship Red Sprite No. 1. This amphibious ship serves as a base in the unknown world, being the only place you can consider safe. Aside from the Red Sprite No. 1 that the protagonist rides, there also exist other ships, named the Blue Jet No. 2, Elves No. 3, and Gigantic No. 4.

Your crew is a hodgepodge gathering of elite scientists and soldiers from all over the world. The men on No. 1 are the commanding crew, while those on No. 2 and 4 specialize in battle, and the people on No. 3 are scientists. Here is a quick glimpse at some of your crew members:

Captain Gore – The Captain of the Schwartz-verse exploration team. On account of his exceptional skills and leadership abilities, he was appointed to be the leader of the team that determines the fate of mankind. “So long as all in this ship cooperate, investigation is not an impossibility.”

Himenez – An American who has had experience in campaigns. He’s worked his way up from the bottom and, looking forward to the rewards after this is all done and over with, he volunteered for the team. “As long as I get what I deserve, I plan on contributing what I can as long as I’m not dead.”

Selenin – A Russian scientist, she was recruited based on her knowledge related to the Schwarz-verse. “The populace is being deceived with the false information that there is a large blizzard storm, but the truth is…”

The game is laid out in sprawling 3-D dungeons. The top screen shows the world as you see it, in first person. With upgrades that you can pick up through the game, you may be able to discover things you couldn’t see before. The bottom screen reflects the screen on the arm-piece of the Demonica Suit you wear, which displays vital information. Thus far, the only confirmed function is a map, but almost certainly there are several other support options available such as mission log, analyze, and videmonica.

In order for humans to stand a chance against the danger of this new world, they wear the Demonica Suit, state-of-the-art armor pieced together by scientists. Not only does it have the ability to adjust to the environment, but in anticipation of encounters with unknown life forms, it also improves battle capabilities. Various applications are included in the suit, such as the ability to search for enemies that won’t appear at first sight or to confirm unknown life forms, as well as a system for the suit to improve itself. There are other mysteries surrounding this armor and you’ll discover more about them as you customize the suit to your liking.

Essential to the series are the demons, and there are plenty of them in Shin Megami Tensei: Strange Journey. In fact, there are more in here than in any other series in the SMT main series, numbering at 300. Kaneko Kazuma, the artist behind the SMT series since the very first game, returned to create new monsters for Strange Journey. Morax, a humanoid with a bison head (one of the many demons in the Key of Solomon), and the demonic-looking Bugaboo are two examples.

And of course, all of these monsters can be recruited and used to fuse new ones. This is done through conversation. Each demon has their own personality and the correct choices must be chosen in order to convince them to join you. However, sometimes, instead of joining, a monster will just give you an item or heal you instead.

These demons can be used in battle, taking advantage of enemy’s weaknesses or performing combos with fellow teammate demons. Various monsters will also give you quests out of boredom, allowing you to find rare items. Just like core SMT games monsters can also be fused, combining their abilities and gaining even stronger ones.

Also of note is the importance of your relation to your crew members. No matter how many demons you collect, you cannot complete your missions without the cooperation of your crew members. With their help you can create new items. Based on your answers in crew conversations, the story may move towards a happier future for mankind or an apocalypse. You decide.

Shin Megami Tensei: Strange Journey is scheduled to come out in Japan on October 8. A North American release has not been announced at this time.

[botticus]

:whee:

EO with a SMT face lift is what I was waiting for.

[ChibiJosh]

I'm a little disappointed this is on the DS, but I'm glad it's a regular RPG and not an SRPG.

[Ryuukishi]

The suit looks just like the one from Dead Space.

[bvharris]

I've really never played any of the SMT games outside of the Persona series, though some of these DS ones are tempting.

I'm still hoping that "Persona 5 on the PS3" rumor from the other day was true, not that such a move would be surprising.

[keithp]

LMAO at "Red Sprite No. 1"!

[pete5883]

Saying this looks like EO is ignorant. SMT (before 2003) was doing first person RPGs long before EO.

[Ryuukishi]

Saying this looks like EO is ignorant. SMT (before 2003) was doing first person RPGs long before EO.
I read someplace that they are actually using the Etrian engine to create this game. So it's not inappropriate to link them.

[doodofdoods]

That map on the bottom screen is definitely an Etrian Odyssey map.

Looking forward to the game.

[pete5883]

Then I guess I'm the ignorant one, for staying far away from EO.

[Strell]

awwww yeaaaaaaaaaaaaaah

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v297/Einzell/minotaurPoster.gif

[Chibi_Kaji]

I'm still hoping that "Persona 5 on the PS3" rumor from the other day was true, not that such a move would be surprising.
I'm sure we'll see some SMT game hit the PS3 soon. I'm kind of hoping they take a nice break from the series and do something else for now.

This game does sound kind of interesting. Hopefully I get around to finishing the other SMT games before this is released...

[Dr Mario Kart]

Site up
http://megamisj.atlusnet.jp/

Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oFGn8RJHfUg
System 1-1: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RIpBa5O3now
System 1-2: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-clNPdTlGOA

The History page lists the following games, which strongly indicates that this is effectively the next true mainline SMT:

SMT1
SMT2
SMT If...
SMT3

[pete5883]

The History page lists the following games, which strongly indicates that this is effectively the next true mainline SMT:

SMT1
SMT2
SMT If...
SMT3
In Japan, not every demon game from Atlus has SMT as part of the title. Throwing SMT in the title of each one is a Atlus USA thing. So just the fact that SMT is part of the Japanese title kind of proves that it's close to the main series.

[doodofdoods]

looks good.

[Cao Cao]

The Famitsu review was scanned:
http://www.imagebam.com/image/aa1b5650462351

10/9/9/8 = 36/40

1Up (http://www.1up.com/do/newsStory?cId=3176273) posted a partial translation of some of the reviewers' comments:
The newest MegaTen, due out October 8 in Japan, got reviewed in this week's post-TGS issue of Famitsu magazine -- and the adulation came fast and furious all over Atlus' latest. The game nabbed a total of 36 points out of 40 from Famitsu's reviewers, all of whom had nearly nothing but good things to say about it.

"Strange Journey is balanced pretty severely throughout, but the game itself is kind, and there's constant tension as you're having fun exploring around," wrote one. "Combining demons is the greatest asset the game has -- they give you better results the more you use them, encouraging you to keep plugging away, and the battles are strategic enough to never get old. The experience is totally worth it, and it's easy to get wrapped up in this unique world." Another agreed: "The game's accessible enough that series fans and people just passing by can enjoy this equally. The tutorial's nice, and the mission goals are clear enough that you're never really lost."

[Ryukahn]

This game looks really cool.

[utopianmachine]

That map on the bottom screen is definitely an Etrian Odyssey map.

There's a reason for that.

From this month's Nintendo Power, volume 247, page 14:

"No true Shin Megami Tensei game has ever been released in the West, but its many spin-offs--which include the Persona series and the recent DS title Devil Survivor--have found an eager audience here. Now, after years of focusing on such spin-offs, Atlus of Japan has announced a new entry in the mainline series for the Nintendo DS, titled Shin Megami Tensei: Strange Journey.

Strange Journey puts you in the shoes of a UN team investigating a black hole to hell that has appeared in the South Pole. Like its predecessors, Strange Journey is a dungeon-crawl RPG, and seems to be based on the same engine as the Etrian Odyssey series. It features over 300 demons, which players can either battle or attempt to negotiate with to convince them to join their party. The demons' distincitive designs come straight from the serie's legendary artist Kouji Okada, who has returned to Atlus after a five-year absence to produce Strange Journey and handle the character and demon designs. Strange Journey is scheduled for an October release in Japan, and while no North American release has been announced, we'd be shocked to see Atlus' American branch pass this one up."

[Dead of Knight]

There's a reason for that.

From this month's Nintendo Power, volume 247, page 14:

"No true Shin Megami Tensei game has ever been released in the West, ."

Wow NP is retarded. Nocturne? And can this really be considered "main-line" SMT? Though I did read on GAF that the developers originally called it SMT4 and changed it because it doesn't take place in Tokyo.

[Ryukahn]

This has a release date of March 10th 2010 for the US, per Atlus' email.

[keithp]

March 10th, oh yeah!!! Got the email announcement today--looking forward to getting this!!

[Nirron]

Just got the e-mail. The second I saw pre-order links, I went to Amazon and bit...didn't even bother to look at the price initially :-P. March 10th can't come soon enough. Devil Survivor is probably my Game of the Year this year, and I expect Strange Journey to be an easy contender for GOTY next year.

[xycury]

definately liking this game... though the price is quite high.... see if amazon has a sale on it.

[Cao Cao]

http://gonintendo.com/viewstory.php?id=106283

This is an interesting feature, you can share your demons by using passwords.

[Cao Cao]

http://gonintendo.com/viewstory.php?id=107991

It's been pushed back to March 23rd, but all launch copies of the game are going to include a bonus soundtrack CD.

[bvharris]

http://gonintendo.com/viewstory.php?id=107991

It's been pushed back to March 23rd, but all launch copies of the game are going to include a bonus soundtrack CD.

Considering it was originally launching the day after FFXIII, probably not a bad move. I know I wouldn't have gotten around to it for a while anyway. Great news about the soundtrack, its a surefire pre-order for me now.

[Nirron]

I was really glad to hear about the soundtrack when I got the e-mail. I was getting worried that Atlus might not give this the Atlus Faithful spoilers treatment.

That was the one thing going through my head about a month before and after Devil SUrvivor released. I loved the soundtrack, particularly the opening title track, but I didn't have my usual soundtrack CD to accompany my game. I'd love to see an artbook as well, but a soundtrack CD is great.

Also glad to hear about the release date getting pushed back a little. I didn't want to have to juggle this game and FFXIII simultaneously from the get-go, and now I can at least have two weeks to get my foot in the door in FF.

[FriskyTanuki]

http://blog.gamer20.com/2010/01/preview-shin-megami-tensei-strange-journey-ds/

I wrote up some impressions on Strange Journey based on my first ten hours with the game so far. Feel free to ask questions if you want to know more about the game.

[Squarehard]

I really, really, really hope that isn't the cover for the game. I know its not the final cover art, but god, if it is, that thing is ugly as hell. As for the game, I might pick it up, I'll have to see if there is anything else good at the time I should save my money for.

[TheMaidenOfSorrow]

You get a mini poster if you pre order from gamestop. "The mini-poster is large enough to impress your friends, yet small enough to take on trips." :|

[FriskyTanuki]

That is the final box art for the game.

[pete5883]

How hard is it so far?

[FriskyTanuki]

How hard is it so far?
Not hard at all. It just has a level of challenge to it that is manageable as long as I'm not running around without being prepared for fights. I've died a few times that were mostly from either bad luck in a fight or trying to last until a level up to get my HP filled.

[formerroadie]

Looks soooo good, but what a lame cover.

[Ryukahn]

Not hard at all. It just has a level of challenge to it that is manageable as long as I'm not running around without being prepared for fights. I've died a few times that were mostly from either bad luck in a fight or trying to last until a level up to get my HP filled.

Is the game pretty much exactly like Etrian Odyssey in terms of combat, with some Persona specific stuff added in of course?

[FriskyTanuki]

Is the game pretty much exactly like Etrian Odyssey in terms of combat, with some Persona specific stuff added in of course?
I know it uses the same engine as EO, but I'm not familiar with the combat. It's basic turn-based combat with the co-op attack mechanic where party member of the same alignment will team up for a follow up attack if you hit an enemy with their weakness.

[Masterkyo]

Keep my eyes on this game for $20-ish ;)

[forweg]

Is the game pretty much exactly like Etrian Odyssey in terms of combat, with some Persona specific stuff added in of course?

Ugh, this comment is so stupid for so many reasons...

At least, the game better not share any similarities with either of those two series except for the EO map.

[Ryukahn]

Has Atlus released any English gameplay videos or trailers for this yet? I couldn't find any on YouTube.

[negatus]

Frisky,

Are you still posting a review for this on 02.23.10?

[FriskyTanuki]

I won't have my review done until later this week, as I'm trying to play as much as I can (~27 hours and four dungeons in right now), but I can easily say that it's a very good RPG. It very much feels like an improved version of the first Persona game, whether that was like previous SMT games or not since I haven't played anything in this series/franchise but the Persona games before this.

The only issues I have with it are minor usability issues, like not being able to see what spell will be replacing one your demon already has nor can it be added to the extra spots they may have open. The first time I used it, it changed the one elemental spell one of my demons had to Petradi, which cures the stone effect, an ailment I've never been inflicted with in the 27 hours I've playing this game. Sure, I could delete them and revert to a previous version of that demon, but it shouldn't be any more complicated than it is in Pokemon.

If you have any questions, feel free to ask.

[Gourd]

Frisky, one of the things I /don't/ like about the Persona games is the calendar system? Where it seems like you have a very limited amount of time to get various things done? Such as building social ties and such.

Is that in this game?

[ChibiJosh]

Why do people keep comparing this to the Persona series?

[Gourd]

Why do people keep comparing this to the Persona series?

The Persona series is /part/ of the Shin Megami Tensei story world.

[pete5883]

Why do people keep comparing this to the Persona series?
They see SMT on the box. They don't know any better.

[FriskyTanuki]

Why do people keep comparing this to the Persona series?
Because there are similar elements, both are of the same universe, and more people probably have played a Persona game before any other Shin Megami Tensei game. But the first Persona, which was recently remade for the PSP, has a similar style of dungeon exploration without the overworld or style that Persona had.
Frisky, one of the things I /don't/ like about the Persona games is the calendar system? Where it seems like you have a very limited amount of time to get various things done? Such as building social ties and such.

Is that in this game?
No social networking elements. Just exploring and fighting in dungeons and recuperating (healing, buying new equipment, and other stuff) at your ship.

[Gourd]

Thanks for answering! I think I'll put this on my buy list, as that was the only thing I found annoying about the Persona games.

For the record I own Persona 2,3, and 4. Out of the 'pure' SMT games, I own both Digital Devil Saga. I also own and have enjoyed the Devil Summoner pair of games available for PS2. As far as I'm concerned, these are all SMT games. Perhaps I don't know any better.

[pete5883]

Thanks for answering! I think I'll put this on my buy list, as that was the only thing I found annoying about the Persona games.

For the record I own Persona 2,3, and 4. Out of the 'pure' SMT games, I own both Digital Devil Saga. I also own and have enjoyed the Devil Summoner pair of games available for PS2. As far as I'm concerned, these are all SMT games. Perhaps I don't know any better.
It's not really your fault, Atlus just sticks SMT on the box of every SMT-like game they make. Sometimes at the cost of a game's actual subtitle. Technically the only "pure" SMT games in America are III: Nocturne and Strange Journey.

[Dead of Knight]

How is the story? Character development? I'm kind of on the edge with this game because it looks like another SMT3 where there's no real development with your party members since they are all created monsters. That really turned me off to the game.

[FriskyTanuki]

How is the story? Character development? I'm kind of on the edge with this game because it looks like another SMT3 where there's no real development with your party members since they are all created monsters. That really turned me off to the game.
The story is pretty good, though it's a bit heavy handed with all of the dungeons being themed after the worst parts of humanity (war, poverty, etc.) and the demons you talk to preach that humans brought the destruction of the Earth upon themselves and all that good stuff. Your ship being the only one that survives the journey into the Schwartzwelt, you're looking for the other ships and any survivors, finding out what the Schwartzwelt is, and finding a way out.

Your party isn't part of the character development since the demons you employ are basically demonic Pokemon that you're controlling. Character development mostly comes through in the members of your team that go out into the field with you or stay on the ship, with two of the survivors of the other ships being sort of the devil/angel on your shoulder throughout most of the game.

[rothgar24]

I'm really excited for this game. I thought Devil Survivor was a great game (art style, story, Demons) and poured some solid hours into it. I just saw this trailer linked from the Atlus faithful email.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=24nMjEWuFho

[leshrac55]

Anyone have any opinions on this vs Infinite Space? I've heard very good things about both and they come out within a week of each other.

[Cheska19]

I originally had this pre-ordered, but I just cancelled it today. I honestly don't see myself playing this anytime soon, if at all really. I have a hard time following "futuristic space games", nothing against them but it just doesn't seem like my cup of tea. I'll have a huge backloggery of RPG's already. Not to mention Persona 3 is the only SMT game I've played, even though I own most of the ones released in US.

[Cao Cao]

Gameplay trailer:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yaGTapB7ufc

IRVINE, CALIFORNIA -- MARCH 17, 2010 -- Atlus U.S.A., Inc. today unveiled a gameplay trailer for Shin Megami Tensei®: Strange Journey™ for Nintendo DS™, the greatly anticipated sci-fi RPG releasing next week. The gameplay trailer gives fans an early look at some of the haunting demons they will face during their epic journey through this startlingly original entry in the award-winning Shin Megami Tensei universe.

In the near future, a mysterious, growing, black void appears at the Earth's southern pole. Unable to determine its cause and powerless to stop its deadly encroachment, humanity sends an elite team of explorers into the heart of the phenomenon, just as Strange Journey's look and feel represent a return to the heart of Shin Megami Tensei, bringing to mind the all-time classic Nocturne™. With over 300 demons to bribe, coerce, and negotiate with to gain assistance in battle, Strange Journey is every bit the deep, rewarding RPG experience fans have come to expect from the SMT franchise, yet delivered with a fresh new sci-fi story that taps into mature themes of morality and introspection.

Shin Megami Tensei: Strange Journey is scheduled to release on March 23rd with an MSRP of $34.99. Each and every launch copy will be a premium boxed set with a bonus CD featuring music from the game included at no additional cost. Guarantee yourself a copy and pre-order today! Check out the official website at http://www.atlus.com/strangejourney.

[FriskyTanuki]

My review (http://blog.gamer20.com/2010/03/review-shin-megami-tensei-strange-journey-ds/)is now live.

I originally had this pre-ordered, but I just cancelled it today. I honestly don't see myself playing this anytime soon, if at all really. I have a hard time following "futuristic space games", nothing against them but it just doesn't seem like my cup of tea. I'll have a huge backloggery of RPG's already. Not to mention Persona 3 is the only SMT game I've played, even though I own most of the ones released in US.
There's nothing futuristic or space-like about the game, as it's set on Earth maybe one year or so in the future at most.

[dimeadz]

Looks fun to me. I'll get it. Wonder if the soundtrack is any good?

[Cao Cao]

GiantBomb put up a Quick Look (w/ Jeff and Vinny):
http://www.giantbomb.com/quick-look-shin-megami-tensei-strange-journey/17-2204/

[FriskyTanuki]

I'd love to see them do an endurance run since I could see them liking that game a lot. Just so you guys know, they're pretty much doing tutorials for most of the video. They probably should've waited until they landed in the Schwartzwelt to start the video.

[doodofdoods]

Shuld be getting this today. release date delivery ftw.

[Cao Cao]

http://www.atlus.com/strangejourneycd/

The soundtrack CD that came with the games is defective (It only plays on computers, you would need to burn it to a CD-R/RW to play it in a CD player). Luckily, Atlus is offering a replacement soundtrack CD that fixes this problem, and its available at the above link.
http://www.atlus.com/res/strangejourney_replacementcd.jpg
http://www.atlus.com/res/strangejourney_replacementcd_instructions.jpg

[Ryukahn]

Clearly Atlus did it on purpose to get address/billing info from people!

[xycury]

out of stock.

me thinks that alot of people who didn't buy the game, put an order through :|

[fnord]

Just got an order in for my replacement disc. Thanks Cao Cao

[arcane93]

Wow. Between this and the Demon's Souls strategy guide thing, Atlus must be spending a fortune on fixing these screw-ups.

My copy of Strange Journey hasn't actually arrived yet (Amazon has been really slow to ship for some reason -- they've still got it as "being prepared for shipment" even though it was a pre-order!), but I'm assuming this is a universal issue, so I went ahead and ordered my replacement.

[Cao Cao]

out of stock.

me thinks that alot of people who didn't buy the game, put an order through :|

As fnord and arcane93 implied above, it's now back in stock. So folks, if you have the game, I recommend putting in an order before/if it goes out of stock again.

[Cheska19]

The soundtrack no longer even seems to be included with the game. Guess Amazon got word about the screw-up.

[Ryukahn]

The soundtrack no longer even seems to be included with the game. Guess Amazon got word about the screw-up.

Well that is a bummer. I planned to get the game eventually, and did not care about the soundtrack only working in a PC, since that is exactly where it would have been going. Oh well.

[arcane93]

The soundtrack no longer even seems to be included with the game. Guess Amazon got word about the screw-up.

What? You got it from Amazon and it didn't have the disc?

I was promised a soundtrack with my pre-order, which was placed over two months before the release date. Amazon still has not shipped my order for some reason, but when it does finally arrive, it had goddamn well better have a soundtrack with it. Even if Amazon did "get word" of the issue, they have no business removing it from the shipment if that's what they're doing.

And yes, it does matter despite the replacement offer, because from what their site says, Atlus is only sending a replacement of the disc, not the sleeve for it.

I almost wonder, though, if this unusual delay in shipment from Amazon might mean that they're waiting for replacements from Atlus. Would be nice if they'd send some kind of notice if that's the case.

[Cao Cao]

Amazon is usually pretty good about sending pre-order bonuses, even if they have removed the notice from the web site. When I ordered Metroid Prime Trilogy during that B2G1 sale last October/November, I was surprised that they sent me the pre-order bonus poster with it.

Besides, Atlus usually packages the CD with the game itself for all launch copies, like they did with the soundtrack for SRT OG Saga.

[arcane93]

Amazon is usually pretty good about sending pre-order bonuses, even if they have removed the notice from the web site. When I ordered Metroid Prime Trilogy during that B2G1 sale last October/November, I was surprised that they sent me the pre-order bonus poster with it.

Besides, Atlus usually packages the CD with the game itself for all launch copies, like they did with the soundtrack for SRT OG Saga.

Oh, heh. I assumed that they had meant that they had actually gotten a copy of the game that didn't have the soundtrack with it. But you're right, maybe they just meant that it was removed from the web site.

[Cheska19]

^Sorry, that's what I meant. I checked on Strange Journey after it had already been released and they were still offering the soundtrack even if you had not pre-ordered it, but it's been taken down from the website.

[arcane93]

Well, one thing good about Amazon's shipping delay . . . At some point their price on the site dropped to $29.99 (from $34.82 in my pre-order). Of course it didn't auto-adjust (probably because they were in the "preparing to ship" stage, which it's been in for three days now), so I had to call them.

Had no problem getting the price adjustment, but when I asked the guy that I spoke to why it hadn't shipped yet, he didn't seem to be able to understand the question. He kept trying to tell to me that with super saver shipping it could take 5-9 days to get to me after it leaves the warehouse. I tried to explain to him that I knew that, but that what I wanted to know was why it hadn't even left the warehouse yet. After a few attempts, I just gave up.

Oh well, at least I got the price adjustment, which I guess I wouldn't have gotten if they had shipped already. The game will end up sitting in my backlog at least until I finish Lunar: Silver Star Harmony anyway, so I suppose it doesn't matter.

[Dead of Knight]

This is now tempting me at $29.99. What a $5 price drop will do to you...

[Ryukahn]

This is now tempting me at $29.99. What a $5 price drop will do to you...

You could have got it for $28 earlier using a gamestop promo code. The only things holding me back are that I have a ton of games to still beat and very little time to play anything thanks to all of my college work. Factor in that I am taking a full slate of summer classes to speed things along and I will have zero time over the summer too.

If we are lucky maybe amazon will do a lightning deal on this like they did for Persona PSP.

[Kay_Faraday]

Thanks to the person who posted about the CD. I just got the game today so I'm going to test out the soundtrack if it works or not.

I can wait to play. :D I'm going to have to rush on pkmn. >.< Did you guys get the poster? If no one told me it was behind the coverart then I would have never noticed.

[eau]

Does the game come in a premium box with the soundtrack CD inside? Or the just the game itself with the CD shrinkwrapped to its back? I can't find an actual pic of the game packaging.

[Alastor]

It comes in a box w/ the soundtrack cd inside.

[Nirron]

Hopefully this link works, but I took a picture (https://mail.google.com/mail/?ui=2&ik=63e66e0d65&view=att&th=127a1a4eff0931fa&attid=0.1&disp=inline&realattid=1331405547959746560-1&zw) of the soundtrack, game case, and big outer box.

Of note: The manual is thick enough to beat small rodents.

I'm enjoying the game so far. My MC is about level 35, and I've got roughly 30% of the Demons registered. The worlds are pretty entertaining, and it's pretty standard demon conversation stuff. It definitely has that SMT difficulty, at least at the beginning of each section. One thing I do need to start doing is using that Demon Password system. I have a pretty good Black Frost that I'm using, so I could always post that.

For anyone that might want a very abridged (and spoiler free) walkthrough, check out the Strange Journey wiki (http://smtsj.wikidot.com/start). The side quests (known as Extra Missions, or Exmissions) section is pretty incomplete, but it has maps to help you find hidden stuff if you're stumped.

[thwak]

Yeah I've been enjoying the hell out of this game.

you always have something to do, which makes the grind fest portion of the game feel less like a grind fest because you're always doing something instead of grinding just for the sake of grinding.

[Kay_Faraday]

hows the story

[thwak]

hows the story
Pretty good so far.

It's definitely more shin megami tensei mythology meets science fiction than something like persona.

To summerize what's going on, you're screwed. Like really really screwed, you couldn't possibly be more screwed than how screwed you are now. And it's you and the rest of the crew on your ship trying to figure out a way to get out of this predicament while at the same time being brought into this war between the forces of hell and heaven.

[Nirron]

Not enough discussion :cry:

Anyhow, thought I'd add a few useful links for people, as some of this stuff can be pretty damn tough to figure out.

Namely I'm talking about the side missions (known as Extra Missions, shortened via portmanteau to Exmission) but I found some great forum posts (here (http://www.gamefaqs.com/boards/genmessage.php?board=961651&topic=54108224) and here (http://www.gamespot.com/ds/rpg/shinmegamitenseistrangejourney/show_msgs.php?topic_id=m-1-54175898&pid=961651)).

I should also add that the bosses are getting into official SMT difficulty. I'm up to the 6th dungeon (real dungeon, I don't count one area that's only two small floors) and have died at least three times to each boss (often times much closer to 10).

Story is pretty decent. The characters can be somewhat bland, but I'm enjoying the overall plot. The different areas, or at least the first five, are pretty varied and were pretty good when I took time to think about them as a whole. I have entered the grindtastic portion though (level 60 currently) so the real fun begins. That's without even mentioning the amount of macca I have to grind so that I can summon different demons for specific boss encounters while also having enough to buy swords/armor/guns/sub-apps.

[ChibiJosh]

I just started this yesterday and got through the first dungeon. I'm enjoying it thus far.

[Nirron]

I stumbled on an amazing site for those playing the game. Just like many sites have done before for Persona 3/4, Devil Summoner, and main MegaTen games, it tells what result you get when fusing certain demons, what demons you'll need to fuse a desired one (Demon Fission), along with a complete list of Special Fusions and the Demon Compendium. It even has a section that will list what demons absorb/reflect/null/ or are strong to elements/physical.

It's pretty much the ultimate source for Strange Journey - here (http://apps.evilrobotstuff.com/strange_journey).

[arcane93]

My replacement soundtrack CD arrived today -- it is indeed an audio CD this time.

[Kay_Faraday]

also received my cd today :D

[Poor2More]

recieved my 2 soundtracks, dont even own the game, but hey be nice in the collection

[Dead of Knight]

recieved my 2 soundtracks, dont even own the game, but hey be nice in the collection

Douchebag.

[ChibiJosh]

Received my soundtrack today too.

I got to the 5th dungeon, and I'm starting to get tired of trying to find my way around in these dungeons. I have no idea what I'm doing right now.

[thwak]

Douchebag.
I second this.

Seriously, if you're going to do that you might as well download the entire japanese soundtrack.

Also has anyone else encountered a problem with the third boss. I beat him but I didn't get a special fusion, I also didn't get that much xp. I think it was because I beat him before I could beat his summoned minion.

[ItsAMeAMario]

I probably know the answer to this question already, but I'll ask anyway.
I won't have time to play this game this year; should I buy now since it'll probably become harder to get? It is an Atlus game afterall.

[arcane93]

I probably know the answer to this question already, but I'll ask anyway.
I won't have time to play this game this year; should I buy now since it'll probably become harder to get? It is an Atlus game afterall.

I've seen this game in a few GameStop stores, but not in any other local stores. I've been kind of surprised by that, because it seemed like every Best Buy around here had copies of Devil Survivor for a while (of course, maybe they didn't get this one because those sat for too long). I don't know if that's any indication of overall availability, but it could be.

You'd probably be safe to wait around for a little bit to see if any kind of good sale offers come up from Amazon or GameStop or whoever, but I don't know that I'd hold out for too long.

[ChibiJosh]

Got to the boss of sector E, and it keeps destroying me.

[thelonepig]

Haven't got my soundtrack yet. I sure am loving the game though!

Atlus also sent out some passwords in an email I received today.

http://www.atlus.com/res/strangejourney_demonpasswords_top.jpg

[Dead of Knight]

Ok, so what are the passwords for? I don't have the game (yet) and have been dying to find out since I got the email. :lol:

[Nirron]

Passwords are used for summoning demons, either from others or from these special passwords. For instance, Soothing Ice will give you a Level 23 Silky with Bufula, Glacial Blast (random Heavy Ice), Diarama, Media, and Shooting Spree. You can also output passwords from demons in your compendium, so it's basically a Pokemon-esque trading, but without the use of cables or anything like that. Most passwords are just assortments of random numbers/letters/symbols though, rather than phrases like the ones in the Atlus e-mail.

Atlus actually has a Strange Journey password forum (http://www.atlus.com/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=94) for people to post theirs.

Edit: I just tried each of those passwords. They're not bad for starting players, as 2 of them are below level 10, one is around 12, and the last is of course level 23. They're pretty good demons for their level though.

Also, for anyone on the last dungeon, I ran into the second technical boss fight Jiminez and holy crap is it brutal.

[ChibiJosh]

If you click on the more details part of the e-mail, it'll show you exactly what each password is for and how it differs from the "vanilla" version of the demon.

[Ryukahn]

I probably know the answer to this question already, but I'll ask anyway.
I won't have time to play this game this year; should I buy now since it'll probably become harder to get? It is an Atlus game afterall.

I'm in the same boat. The game looks really good, but the time I have for games each week is so low, with my current backlog I would have a hard time getting to it this year, unless I moved it up to the front of course.

[botticus]

Huh, I was kind of expecting you could register demons created with passwords, but I guess not.

Oh, nevermind. Using the password just adds it to your compendium, and you need to summon it to use it/register it. Good enough, though expensive!

[Nirron]

You can register demons created with passwords, but you have to summon them first. The password slots seem to act as a limbo-esque compendium. They're in there, but they're not permanent (i.e. they can be overwritten) until you pay the macca to summon them. Once you summon them, they'll either auto-register (if you don't have the same demon in the compendium) or they'll appear on the registration screen.

My only real complaint with some of the demon stuff is that the prices skyrocket sometimes. For instance, there's one demon I want to summon (got a password for him thanks to an Exmission) but it costs 325k macca.

[arcane93]

For those who have been on the fence on whether to get this now or not, GameStop's current "Daily Deal" is 20% off any DS or Wii game $29.99 or more. The coupon code is 20TENDO and according to the page, the deal is good until 11am CST on 4/12.

http://www.gamestop.com/thedeal

This would bring SMT: Strange Journey down to $27.99 before tax, and qualifies for free "value" shipping.

[thelonepig]

I got my shipping notice on the replacement soundtrack two weeks ago, but have yet to receive it.

[arcane93]

I got my shipping notice on the replacement soundtrack two weeks ago, but have yet to receive it.

Hm . . . I actually got my shipping notice two days after the replacement disc arrived. If you don't get it in another week or so, you might want to contact them.

[slidecage]

forgot all about getting the replacement cd... hopefully they are still sending them

[Dead of Knight]

Picked it up today finally. Played about an hour so far, enjoying it so far. Already put in my order for a replacement CD. :lol:

[ChibiJosh]

I'm losing my drive near the end. Dying so much.

[thelonepig]

Yay, finally got the replacement soundtrack. The label said it was shipped on April 2nd.

Odd thing is that it was sitting on my doorstep as opposed to in the box with the rest of the mail. I'm guessing one of the neighbors got it and has been sitting on it for a few days.

In any case, yay!

[botticus]

I'm losing my drive near the end. Dying so much.
I think I've given up at the end of Eridanus, which makes the rest of the game rather intimidating. I might cheat with some password demons to get past the boss and see if I can get back into it afterward. Not like I have anything else waiting to be played in the meantime.

[Nirron]

Depending on your level, you may want to fuse a Thunderbird (http://apps.evilrobotstuff.com/strange_journey/fission/?demon=142) and a Vivian (http://apps.evilrobotstuff.com/strange_journey/fission/?demon=160). Thunderbird's source gives Void Elec, and Vivian's gives Luster Candy. If you can get Void Elec on a demon with Agilao/dyne, it makes the battle go much easier. The same goes for Luster Candy.

It does get pretty intimidating, as Ouroboros is the first really tough boss. If you want a good demon for it, I found this (http://i41.tinypic.com/15e8wb8.jpg) one when I was having trouble. Also, if you haven't, you may want to do the quest to get the Hawthorne Spear from Kresnik. The armor you get is really good for that fight.

[keithp]

I've been waiting on a price drop on this, or at least some used versions to show up at Gamestop. How long has the game been out, 6 weeks? Shouldn't GS have used copies listed on their website by now? They don't show any listing for it, only new.

[xycury]

I've been waiting on a price drop on this, or at least some used versions to show up at Gamestop. How long has the game been out, 6 weeks? Shouldn't GS have used copies listed on their website by now? They don't show any listing for it, only new.


Might take a bit longer for an RPG, noticed that those tend to never come in locally, and online is sketchy.

[keithp]

Might take a bit longer for an RPG, noticed that those tend to never come in locally, and online is sketchy.

I thought they'd at least have the listing for it by now though. :cry:

[pete5883]

For those of you at/past the end, how many hours has it taken you?

[Kay_Faraday]

I just started this game yesterday, I've had to heal my party so much and save frequently because I'm afraid to die! Need moar maccaz

[ChibiJosh]

I just got to the final boss and I think I'm around 45 hours.

[thelonepig]

Took me 20 hours to get to Eradinus. 20. I was getting into the swing of the game and thinking it was easier than Nocturne.

Eight hours later I'm still in Eradinus. :whee:

[ChibiJosh]

Final boss killed my entire party during the first turn. Time to grind for awhile.

[botticus]

Took me 20 hours to get to Eradinus. 20. I was getting into the swing of the game and thinking it was easier than Nocturne.

Eight hours later I'm still in Eradinus. :whee:
I'm at 40 hours at the end of Eridanus, and I'm not sure what took me so long other than lots of demon source grinding. I did waste a lot of time early on recruiting any demons possible.

[ChibiJosh]

T_T Just want to beat this.

[pete5883]

I'm not sure I like this game. Every time I start enjoying it, it does something to piss me off. I finally got a good neutral party together, and then I answered a question that switched me to Law.

Should I be using sources frequently, or saving them up? The in-game manual makes it sound like it is hard to get a 2nd one once you've used your first, but I did get a second one from a Pixie without even trying.

[ChibiJosh]

A 2nd one from the same demon? You can only get one source per demon.

I used a source every time I made a demon that was going to go in my party.

[thelonepig]

A 2nd one from the same demon? You can only get one source per demon.

I used a source every time I made a demon that was going to go in my party.

You can only have one in stock at a time, but you can get a second from the same demon if you use the first.

EDIT: Still in Eradinus. Debating if I should walk in and try to fight the boss or run around doing monster fetch-quests for a bit to level up.

[ChibiJosh]

You can only have one in stock at a time, but you can get a second from the same demon if you use the first.

EDIT: Still in Eradinus. Debating if I should walk in and try to fight the boss or run around doing monster fetch-quests for a bit to level up.
Really? Everything I read said you can't get a source back if you use it until new game +. Perhaps I misinterpreted.

[thelonepig]

Really? Everything I read said you can't get a source back if you use it until new game +. Perhaps I misinterpreted.

Admittedly, I've not read up on it, but I did get a second source from Lilith after I used the first. I have yet to have a repeat with any other demon.

[Nirron]

You can get a second source from the same demon, but it's much rarer. It seems to just be a rare chance when the demon levels up, akin to giving you an item/changing a skill.

There is a way to make sure you get one, if you don't mind spending the macca. Register your new demon before they first level (hence before they give you your first source) with a small amount of exp left to level. Get the source, and sometime down the line, after you've used it, if you want another, just summon the demon out of the compendium and it should give you another source on leveling.

I'd also advise using sources whenever you can. I used quite a few in my first playthrough and I still had an enormous amount of them left over. It's unfortunate, as sources don't carry over to NG+.

[thelonepig]

Finally out of Eradinus and just downed Tiamat. 42 hours into the game, with the MC at level 57 (IIRC).

Jimenez got himself screwed up pretty bad.

[Dead of Knight]

I'm still in Carina. Been playing it off and on as my husband uses the TV to play Resonance of Fate.

[pete5883]

I was whizzing through Eridanus and wondering how it could take someone 8 hours. I think now I know. Loving the game, though.

[thelonepig]

Finally made it past Maya. Now I'm in Horologium and having a beast of a time with the first boss: Gore.

Guess I'll have to grind for a bit. Again. :)

[wampa8jedi]

Finally picked this up last week and ordered my replacement CD--wohoo!

[Dead of Knight]

Just got to Eradinus. Still debating on whether or not to keep playing. I could really take it or leave it at this point. The game isn't bad at all, but I'm not have that much fun with it either. I swear the only reason I beat Asura was pure luck thanks to one of his attacks (anyone who's gotten to him knows what move I am talking about). And that's just bullshit. Almost quit because of that, but somehow I beat him after a few tries. But I just don't know if it is worth my time for me to continue, as I'm just kind of listlessly playing the game.

[botticus]

Just got to Eradinus. Still debating on whether or not to keep playing. I could really take it or leave it at this point. The game isn't bad at all, but I'm not have that much fun with it either. I swear the only reason I beat Asura was pure luck thanks to one of his attacks (anyone who's gotten to him knows what move I am talking about). And that's just bullshit. Almost quit because of that, but somehow I beat him after a few tries. But I just don't know if it is worth my time for me to continue, as I'm just kind of listlessly playing the game.
I ended up calling it quits in Grus, the second half of which is a giant conveyor/teleporter maze. I could have used a walkthrough to get through it easier, but from what I gathered I was way underleveled for the endgame which would either require obsessive grinding or a perfect demon party (obsessive grinding for fusions or cash) combined with a lot of luck. So no thanks.

As much as I enjoy the SMT universe, the whole fusion aspect isn't really for me. I like fusing demons to make new ones, but I don't get into the whole customizing part with mitamas so the game ends up passing me by pretty quick.

And while I appreciate that this is not EO3, reusing the EO engine without including any sort of manual mapping for teleporters, dark corridors, etc is really ridiculous.