subject: Retro Rewind of Shin Megami Tensei: Nocturne [print this page] Gameplay is slightly more conventional than the presentation, with random battles (you do get some warning before you engage) and a relatively fast-paced turn-based battle system. The "Press Turn" - an element of the battle system in which you can earn bonus turns for targeting your enemies' weaknesses adds an element of strategy and fun to these fights. But you must be careful: enemies can also turn your weakness against you and earning another turn for themselves. Another element that makes combat slightly more refreshing is demon recruitment: like other SMT games, coercing monsters to your side is a significant element of the game.
In fact, part of the enjoyment of Nocturne is the demons, who each have unique personalities. Again, as with other SMT games, you can merge your demons to create new ones, although some demons will actually evolve on their own to form darker, more powerful entities.
You can also customize your own character, depending on which Magatama you ingest: the "bug" you saw in your transformation are parasites that you can eat that will endow you with various abilities and determine how your character's stats will increase when you level up. This concept introduces a unique strategic element to Nocturne.
The game offers you a multitude of options as you journey, from what demons to recruit, to which Magatama to utilize and when, to how you will process the world - depending on what selections and decisions you make, you will formulate one of three ideologies that will help guide you through the world and to one of the six endings.
Along the way, you will experience great soundtracks, the likes of which don't normally accompany an RPG. From eerie, surreal and haunting melodies to the pumping, pulse awakening heavy metal, you're sure to enjoy the music as much as the game itself.
Undoubtedly, Nocturne is a must-play for Shin Megami Tensei fans who may have missed it, or for RPG lovers jaded from the "same old" experience looking for something fresh.
And the best thing is this rare game is currently available (while supplies last) as a reprint via Game Quest Direct for $49.99 with free US shipping. Game Podunk members are eligible for a limited-time coupon for additional savings on this great game you will be playing (and talking about) for hours.
