Firstly, anyone who doesn't realise who wheelchair Steven is supposed to be is a moron.
Secondly,
Pixie's a decent healer, and we'll need that.
Don't forget her Zionga which is massive overkill right now. Makes it easy to grind though. (Additionally, you gave the description of a Fairy when you described the demon. Yes, they are different.)
Be sure to keep sticking points into magic for the main
Eh, that's a bit of a waste.
He never learns any spells, and the cost reduction for demon summoning is negligible come end-game.
Also, for people who care:
Pixie:
Considered to be concentrated in the areas around Cornwall and Devon, mainly, there's a belief of some Celtic origin but some people would argue Swedish as it's possible that the name derived from "Pyske" meaning "Little Faerie".
The only truly "nasty" pixies disguise themselves - as a bundle of rags of all things - to lure children to play with them. However said pixies are also fond of music and dancing, and are bizarrely generally helpful to humans.
Brownie:
Customarily, Brownies - a type of hob (similar to a hobgoblin but not quite) - are said to inhabit houses and help in tasks. However, they don't like to be seen and only come out to help at night, traditionally in exchange for food. They will abandon their home if the gifter calls the gifts a "payment" or if their help is misused.
I believe there's an old story about a clogmaker or something who profitted of the help he got from Brownies because he sucked at his job or somesuch nonsense.
Also I'm particularly fond of the first boss so I can't wait til we get there. Requesting music link for that fight, in advance, because god that track is awesome.
The first boss is a Great Marquis of Hell and controls 30 legions of demons; he traditionally appears as a lion riding upon a mighty horse. Props to you if you can guess who it is already; if you're really awesome you'd know it from the fact that he's the 59th demon of the Shemhamphorash.
Indeed, and that alone gives me a reason to post in this thread (being a massive, massive mythology nerd ). Regardless of whether or not you were being sarcastic, I'll continue doing it unless cj manages to do as good as, or better at it than, I can (an example of this, would be the Gaki explanation; an example of me stepping in can be seen above ).
Of course, I'll likely point out missed things too, since I know more than I ever would need to. Partly due to being interested in it since I was like 6 and partly due to Atlus themselves for adding fuel to the fire ^_~
The sad thing is, even bare bones descriptions are more than what SMT gives (at this era anyway). Sure, later games - such as Persona 3 being a good example - give a minor description, they don't give much detail. I'm not trying to give an insane amount of detail (although perhaps something in that last spoiler is heading that way), but I'm not trying to be simplistic either; just enough to get a grasp of what the creature is like.
First time, Doman is unkillable since the fight only lasts one round and he has faaaar too much HP to be killed in that amount of time. You refight him a bit later, however, and he's a joke then since you have a gamebreaker (for this stage at least) forced upon you for it.
E; Speaking of Doman, I noticed that cj didn't try and explain this guy. There's a good reason for that; it could reference dozens upon dozens of things. Personally, I'm inclined to believe it's a reference to the story of Abe no Seimei which contains a villainous (for want of a better word) character named Ashiya Doman.
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cj iwakuraThe Rhythm RegentBears The Name FreedomRegistered Userregular
edited December 2009
It made me think of 'Doman Seiman'(sp?), that chant used by Eastern priests for warding off demons, or something.
^It's mentioned in that video somewhere. But I'll be sure to dig up some more info when the actual fight occurs.
As for the bios included in the later games, they're my favorite things in SMT. Half the reason to fill up the compendium is to learn more about the mythologies.
From what I understand, Atlus JP really does their homework on the demons they use, and you can find all kinds of interesting connections to how they're used in stories if you do enough research.
Regarding the first boss,
The first boss is a Great Marquis of Hell and controls 30 legions of demons; he traditionally appears as a lion riding upon a mighty horse. Props to you if you can guess who it is already; if you're really awesome you'd know it from the fact that he's the 59th demon of the Shemhamphorash.
I believe this very demon appears in Devil Summoner: Raidou Kuzunoha 2, in the later game.
It made me think of 'Doman Seiman'(sp?), that chant used by Eastern priests for warding off demons, or something.
Well, there is a Doman Seiman. It's not so much a chant used to ward of demons, as it is an actual demon.
Doman Seiman, the mark of Yasunori Kato. These creatures start out as black sheets of paper, bearing Yasunori Kato's mark, before transforming into bird-like demons. Doman Seiman are ferocious, bent to the whim of Kato, as they will tear at their prey with razor like beak and talons. The creatures are often dispatched in large flocks, enabling them to quickly take out those standing in Kato's way.
E;
Devil Summoner: Raidou Kuzunoha 2
Huh, awesome. Shame it doesnt have an EU release date that I'm aware of. I might just import the special edition from Japan since that comes with a special edition of Nocturne that replaces Dante with Raidou.
^It's mentioned in that video somewhere. But I'll be sure to dig up some more info when the actual fight occurs.
As for the bios included in the later games, they're my favorite things in SMT. Half the reason to fill up the compendium is to learn more about the mythologies.
From what I understand, Atlus JP really does their homework on the demons they use, and you can find all kinds of interesting connections to how they're used in stories if you do enough research.
Regarding the first boss,
The first boss is a Great Marquis of Hell and controls 30 legions of demons; he traditionally appears as a lion riding upon a mighty horse. Props to you if you can guess who it is already; if you're really awesome you'd know it from the fact that he's the 59th demon of the Shemhamphorash.
I believe this very demon appears in Devil Summoner: Raidou Kuzunoha 2, in the later game.
That's #29 of the Demons of the Shemhamporash, and is either a Prince or Duke of Hell depending on the context. Traditionally a Prince, but in the case of the Shemhamporash he's called Duke Astaroth.
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cj iwakuraThe Rhythm RegentBears The Name FreedomRegistered Userregular
^It's mentioned in that video somewhere. But I'll be sure to dig up some more info when the actual fight occurs.
As for the bios included in the later games, they're my favorite things in SMT. Half the reason to fill up the compendium is to learn more about the mythologies.
From what I understand, Atlus JP really does their homework on the demons they use, and you can find all kinds of interesting connections to how they're used in stories if you do enough research.
Regarding the first boss,
The first boss is a Great Marquis of Hell and controls 30 legions of demons; he traditionally appears as a lion riding upon a mighty horse. Props to you if you can guess who it is already; if you're really awesome you'd know it from the fact that he's the 59th demon of the Shemhamphorash.
I believe this very demon appears in Devil Summoner: Raidou Kuzunoha 2, in the later game.
Astaroth does appear as a boss in this game. But not until the very end. He's not the last boss, but he's very close to it since he appears in the last dungeon and such.
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cj iwakuraThe Rhythm RegentBears The Name FreedomRegistered Userregular
edited December 2009
Part 3: All In The Family
We're on it.
Sounds good.
It's only a matter of time before I become his next guinea pig...
We could spare him the waiting, but maybe later.
Guess we're not getting out that way.
I tried to talk it out with him, but he wasn't very sociable.
It's all good, KANEDAAA needed the boost.
He could use the HP boost.
Him too.
This seems like the path to take.
He also wasn't very open to conversation, so more fuel to K's fire.
Back to working on the Magic stats, mostly.
More hapless victims.
Bonus.
And one finally sees the light! We almost have a full group now.
Some slight improvements along the way.
This is why it's nice to keep one of the enemies in any given dungeon in the group.
Can't see why not.
That's a good reason. (I decided to be honest and say 'No'.)
I guess that was the wrong answer. (Not that it matters)
Really not that difficult. He hits hard, but nothing Rakukaja can't fix. Pixie excepted.
We got what we came for, time to go.
Where'd everyone go? Well, they'll manage... or won't.
Checking out early.
That's better. First, some heals.
Much appreciated.
It makes me feel better that a lunatic like that is off the streets!
Well, screw you too!
Down, toasty.
As for local news...
Paula vanished. She says she went to Shinjuku, but hasn't been seen since.
Ah well.
How about at home?
Weird. Guess that just leaves the mall.
A few thugs get in the way. Nothing that can't be steamrolled.
Is Old Navy open?
These morons again?
>A single youth is being beaten up by a group of thugs that surround him.
Welp, time to go.
Hey, what do you think you're doing!? Stop that!
Somehow, that scares them off. I don't get it either.
Nice guy.
Hey, are you all right?
Shut up! Don't mock me! If only I was tougher,I'd kick your asses...
So what now, Toaster? He's in a daze - he doesn't seem to know what's going on, talking like that.
Toaster... you said Toaster, right?
So you're Bruno.
Now I get it! You guys really saved my butt back there! Ahh... Shit! Damn it all!
If only I was stronger... I'm so weak... I can't handle a bunch of lowlifes like them by myself..
Guys, please! Let me come with you! Together we might be able to do something!
Even if you say no, I'm still coming along!
Good thing we saved a spot.
Before leaving, some words on the street:
There's a message not to pass along.
It's in a nice spot. There's a million things they could do with it...
They say monsters have taken over the place! At least that's what some squatters who were there claimed, but they may have just been high.
Isn't everyone in this city?
Socialism!
It was suspicious, though, so I deleted it immediately. These days, you never know what kind of stuff the lunatics out there will send you...
Well? Have you? Brought to you in part by the greater demonic association for a bug-free workplace.
That's enough mall hopping.
Home sweet home.
I'm always so worried about you. I'm glad you came home in one piece!
Isn't she excited?
What's wrong? Come here! I love you, always! Come on! Hurry!
Getting creepy.
I don't like it. Something's strange here.
I second that thought. There's something fishy here. It doesn't smell right!
Aw, what's with that face? Come on, there's no reason to be sad...
You'll see her soon enough.
In my stomach! Until then, why don't you entertain me for a bit!!
I hope you taste as good as she did!
(Regrettably, I could not find much info on this demon. I'm sure a scholar can help.)
This is tougher than the average enemy, but nothing Bruno and some shots of explosive magic can't fix.
And the imposter goes down.
Bruno cashes in big time. Mostly magic, a bit goes to stamina.
That might be helpful.
Toaster... I don't think there's anything I could say that could provide much comfort, but...
Try not to feel too bad...
"Try not to feel too bad"!? Damn, that was insensitive, KANEDAAA!
Just give him a moment to himself!
Eh, she was insured.
At least someone wasn't eaten.
>Pascal the Dog jumped towards you.
It's almost as if Pascal is trying to get you to take him with you.
Can you say no to that face? (Really, it doesn't matter.)
Boss Info (essentially reposted from earlier but now with context!)
Orias, also known as Oriax, is one of the Great Marquesses of Hell, and has 30 legions of demons under his control. He's the 54th demon in the Goetia: Lesser Key of Solomon's Shemhamphorash. He generally appears as a lion riding a great horse.
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cj iwakuraThe Rhythm RegentBears The Name FreedomRegistered Userregular
edited January 2010
So, uh, I don't know if anyone was actually following this, but I felt like working on it, so I did.
Yeah, I've never played any of these games before, so I'm completely clueless as to, seriously, what the hell is going on, but the LP has been entertaining as hell. (See what I did there?)
So, let me get this straight: you take two of your staunch allies, dissolve them in acid, and then reconstitute them into some hybridized walking horror?
I know the game quite well, having finished it twice (once by myself, once with a friend who was interested), but I still find this entertaining, if only for the reactions and information in this thread.
That being said, you'll have to speed up your schedule a bit if you plan to finish this game in the next few years, as it's very long. Not to pressure you or anything, but I just thought you should know.
I know the game quite well, having finished it twice (once by myself, once with a friend who was interested), but I still find this entertaining, if only for the reactions and information in this thread.
That being said, you'll have to speed up your schedule a bit if you plan to finish this game in the next few years, as it's very long. Not to pressure you or anything, but I just thought you should know.
Yeah, I gather as much, but I think I have a reasonable enough system in place wherein I can breeze through the dungeons as far as updates are concerned.
Knowing there's an audience is always inspirational, so that'll spurn me to work on updates quicker.
Part 4: Acceptable Losses
Alas, there isn't time to mourn; we've exploring to do.
Or something like that. I guess its to stop this impending demonic apocalypse thing.
A very good one. (Note, this demon would be impossible for the protagonist to summon under normal circumstances, but this is a special one.)
So long, Pascal. You can hold your breath, right?
Not that it matters.
Give the creation life!
And a classic is born.
Cerberus in Greek and Roman mythology is a monster that guards the gates of the underworld, the realm of Hades and the dead. It is generally depicted as a vicious, gargantuan dog with three heads, although accounts may vary.
Note: Cerberus is in fact the Latin romanization of the Greek name Kerberos. The dominance of Latin throughout the modern Western World was for many centuries precipitated by functionaries of the Roman Catholic Church. However within contemporary non-denominational academic discourse, the use of Latin for non-Roman words is in sharp decline.
Will do.
Neo-Pascal's stats are killer. Almost too good to be true, isn't it?
Oh yeah, so, that new dungeon place.
Kerberos is raring to go, so may as well continue on.
That's convenient.
Surprise attack.
Easily toasted care of some fire magics.
Gladly.
Demons love the gems.
Almost too easy. There were a few monster fights among the way, but mostly a joke thanks to Pascal's newfound specialization in ripping demons a new one.
They took about three seconds to do in.
Always good to have. Probably going to give it to the friendly neighborhood mages.
Mo money,
Mo stats.
Well, here's a new face.
Yeah, I'd say we're screwed.
Then I shall bring hope to you!
Uh, thanks, I think.
So I'm definitely swapping Andras in, because he's much better than that measly Knocker.
Another familiar face.
With your power, you'll be able to do anything you put your mind to, so you should be okay.
I guess that's kind of reassuring.
Getting a not-good deja vu feeling.
That explains it.
Eh!? So you're back, eh?
(Viewers: I do hope your responses would be a resounding 'hell no'.)
I can not allow it to be defiled by your blood. Get out!
So yeah, that fight is a breeze with Kerberos. Even without him, it'd be pretty easy, so why pass up an easy battle? There won't be many of those later.
So he was an MMO addict. We did him a favor.
No! Bad dog! Think of the monthly fees!
Atta boy!
Wait, what?
>Those with valid comps may access at their leisure.
Now you tell me.
Uh, okay, what could possibly happen?
Oh yeah, transdimensional travel.
Beats taking the subway.
Been a pleasure. (Aside from the fact that you STOLE OUR DOG.)
These guys need a better interior decorator.
Oh, hi.
So, what on earth is going on in the outside world? I've been here working on our Terminal System secret project.
Three or four days ago, we were attacked by a mob of demons.
Everyone was either killed or turned into zombies.
Sounds like a plan.
Wait, what?
Uh, yeah, waaaagh.
Damn it, Bruno!.
Not that being caught matters.
Time to get gone.
What is this, a class reunion?
However, Gotou's influence has spread to here as well, and it is now under his control.
Very well then! Give me that computer, and I'll increase its memory for you!
With this adjustment, my demon summoning program should be even more useful.
Sweet.
The sign said open house?
The guards aren't very capable, so we're home free.
And now we're in brand new turf. What to do, what to do...
Next time: We Can't Stop Here, it's Messian Country
, we'll see if you'll still be saying that later on.
But yeah, good update. It's too bad that one only gets to keep Pascal for such a short while only. But then again, he wastes way too much magnetite at this point, so it's not that bad a thing.
Still, that's the only way in, so against better judgment, I sent half the party back into the COMP.
And in we go.
There's a bartender selling drinks, but we don't need any of that, just infos.
Gotou, the American Army, whatever...
That'd be nice, wouldn't it.
I would too.
The name rings a bell...
Simple yet effective.
What are they all doing here, anyway?
Getting smashed, I bet.
...but if things get rough for the Americans, who knows what lengths they'll go to in order to win?
We can barely handle an election, what makes you think we can cope with demonic warfare?
Or, yeah, they could do that.
Another sublevel.
She joins up this time, thanks to Toaster's incomparable charms.
I go AWOL when I hear that! That is too far!
That good move, you bright guy.
What happened to our civil liberties?
Sold to the highest bidder! You're new here, aren't you?
It's been fascinating.
Getting creepy. Okay, well past that.
Yeah, uh... maybe later.
These guys are just a dime a dozen here.
Do you have a demon summoning program?
Never leave home without it.
You can say no, but this is kind of a 'but thou must!' situation in that you have to tell him what he wants to hear.
I've got something I want to give you.
And so we get... a Bar Matchbook. Woo.
Get out of here.
Gladly.
>Once I said no, he went to a girl nearby, and asked her the same question.
I wonder who he was?
Bad news.
Maybe not the kind you're thinking of.
Leaving that place behind, I found a Jakyou Manor not far away.
Which brings us a new friend.
A cursed fish spirit in demonic form, or something of the like.
He also has group heals, bonus.
While obviously they're at odds with one another,
so far there hasn't been any sort of direct conflict between the two of them.
If something like that happens, it's really going to be a mess!
Yeah, let's not be around for that.
Got some new gear here, but we couldn't afford all of it, so I just got Toaster and KANEDAAA some new kevlar vests.
Oh look, the other side of the coin.
That which has form will eventually crumble.
You who bring chaos to this world...
The Gaians. These guys believe in might makes right, and the strong ruling.
They're the Chaos element that opposes the Messians' Order.
They have the same services: healing and expensive items that I don't have any knowledge of.
Well, isn't he a polite Yakuza.
If that weren't bad enough, we've got demons popping up all over the place!
They're doing whatever they damn well please on MY turf!
What's going to become of Tokyo if we let them run wild like this?
Can't be much worse off than how it is now.
Operation Bar Hop continues.
...it will only lead to the eventual destruction of humanity.
That worried General Gotou, and that is why he started the coup d'etat.
Sure, coup d'etats never hurt anyone.
I don't know why Gotou would want help from a no-good punk like him.
If you're looking for him, he's in the building right northwest of Shinjuku
Probably because he doesn't speak Japanese.
Without even hearing him out, he just called in the American army from square one.
Or maybe he's just a jerk.
There's this group that calls themselves The Resistance,
and they're lead by some woman named Paula.
It is a popular name.
You should talk to J.B. then, he should know where she is.
He hangs out at the Disco a lot, you might want to start there.
Been there, tried that.
(Even after this, he says the same thing, see above.)
I'm sure you're doing a great service. Getting drunk.
Didn't we kill him already?
I think that guy can handle himself.
True justice!
Though they don't seem to be working for Gotou...
So basically they have sense.
So yeah, remember that matchbook?
It's just what we needed.
It wasn't that difficult, since everyone in the city knows about you.
So you must be the resistance leader?
Whoa, hold on a minute there, chief! I'm not the leader, just a member.
We can't let outsiders meet our leader. It's just not safe. Don't take it personally,
we just have to be really careful about who we trust.
At least someone has some faith.
Which conveniently looks just like this one!
Toaster... KANEDAAA... Bruno... I knew you would come.
I am the resistance leader. My name is Paula.
Your name is Paula too?
Don't you remember me? This isn't the first time we've met...
Though it is the first time we have all been in the same place together.
There are some matters I wish to discuss with you...
As you may have heard already, the current regent in Tokyo, a man named Gotou,
is summoning demons and using their power to try and create a world molded after
his own personal ideals. Thinking that, if left alone, Gotou would become a threat,
the American Ambassador Thorman convinced the American government to send their
troops into Japan to surpress Gotou's coup d'etat and impose their will instead.
I cannot stop Gotou, nor can I halt the advance of the American army. All we can do is
carry out minor acts of sabotage that pose little more than an irritation. The situation is
coming to a head. If Gotou's forces meet head on with the American army, the carnage
would be overwhelming, and Tokyo would likely be reduced to rubble in the conflict.
Please, lend us your aid!
You know where Paula is, then!?
...
And also... while we can not stop the coup d'etat forces entirely, we can destroy the gang
of thugs lead by a man named Ozawa. who recently struck a deal with Gotou and has been
working with him to gather information and do his dirty work.
Whoa, what did you say!? Did you say that Ozawa's gang is mixed up in this!?
Please, help us...
I'd be happy to do what I can, especially if it means finding Paula!
Any enemy of Ozawa's is a friend of mine. Count me in too!
(Sorry, this is very much a 'but thou must' situation.)
I could think of a way or two.
Oh, great.
Sonuva-
I'll just be taking Paula with me to Ozawa.
Yuriko finally shows her true colors, and then she's gone.
My God, this is awful! No time to waste! We've got to get out there and rescue her!
>The resistance members all left the hideout.
Somehow I bet they're all rushing to their graves.
After they find Ozawa, we're all going to meet up at our usual spot at the Shinjuku Bar.
If by meet up you mean be cremated.
Before heading after Ozawa, I cooked up a little somethin somethin.
So it doesn't take long to find the guy. Suspicious.
Ozawa! Some day I'm going to pay you back for that shit you pulled!
You still running around playing your little demon hunter game?
Look, I don't give a rat's ass about Gotou or Paula.
But Gotou's got a lot of political and military power, and I want some of that!
Eventually I plan to overthrow Gotou and take over myself.
After all, I've finally gained the ability to summon demons myself!
And I don't have time to waste on a bunch of snot-nosed lowlifes like you!
Well, that's quite an update. Only thing I wished you had done as well is to show a picture of the full auto-map of this area, so that people can get an idea of the size of things. I really think you oughta do this throughout the game.
And speaking of large dungeons, let me tell you that you'd get a shock if you knew the size of the final dungeon in this, if you thought this was already huge. On the bright side, a lot of it is optional, unlike P1's, but still.
That being said, some general tips to make your experience more enjoyable (read: less excruciating):
-First of all, get used to using the talking commands a lot. You should probably aim to talk yourself out of about 40%+ of battes. That way, you'll always have lots of cash and magnetite, and your level will be right as well. Since experience scales down very strongly, and its not hard to reach the point the game considers you as "overleveled", you really will get the best results following this advice.
-Try to get someone with estoma (or estma in this game). I remember orthrus and kirin having it amongst others. Once you get someone with it, just keep him until the end of the game. Once you're level 50+, you can pretty much spam estoma, and you'll still be way overleveled due to the boss fight experience you'll get, which is way too much. On the other hand estoma is really the single spell which makes the final dungeon somewhat bearable. And it still took me 3+ hours to fully map with zero enemy encounters!
-Mapper is also an awesome spell, it makes a small map of the surrounding area appear on the actual gameplay screen. Keep in mind that it runs out at new moon, but you are only allowed to recast it at 1/8. Try to avoid going into dark areas at bad times.
-And don't forget my previous tips! Tons of speed on Paula so she can stun lock even fast enemies with zio. And get guns that hit multiple targets and equip them with nerve bullets (and later change to magic bullets). This combined with enough speed to go first is completely broken.
And that's it from me. By the way, if you would rather find out about those things by yourself, then tell me and I'll stop. It's just that I find that this game is way less annoying if you know some tricks, and you're already putting so much work into it that I figured you'd like to tone down the frustration as much as possible.
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cj iwakuraThe Rhythm RegentBears The Name FreedomRegistered Userregular
edited February 2010
Nah, I welcome the help, since I really know very little aside from SMT common sense(Bufula and Tarukaja and such).
I'll try to get a shot of the map next time. That level drove me crazy the first time I tried it.
And that's where I stopped in my actual playthrough. So from here on in, I'm playing blind.
Also, I haven't actually gotten Paula yet, nor do I really know where to go from here. :P
But I'm sure I'll figure it out.
I've been maxing Main's Strength and Stamina and focusing on Int/Mag/Stm for Law & Chaos.
Oh, and I do lots of talking. I don't really get why summoning is depleting the cash reserves and not Magnetite, though.
It's both a blessing and a curse that SMT's fusion is so simplified. No carryovers, but I don't waste hours backing out and refusing for the perfect skill set either.
Hey, there's been a update. Yea, the maps tend to get crazy in this game, I have a whole graph paper notebook filled with maps from this and the sequel.
So... demons are running all over the place, the Japanese military has risen against the government, America has effectively invaded, a Resistance movement has been formed and demons are running all over the place.
And the shop selling survival gear has no customers?
I don't really get why summoning is depleting the cash reserves and not Magnetite, though.
Well, the actual summoning costs money, but every demon in your team eats from your magnetite pool for every step you take. So you kinda have to balance things out a bit. I certainly did several parts of the game without any demons in my team.
I don't really get why summoning is depleting the cash reserves and not Magnetite, though.
Well, the actual summoning costs money, but every demon in your team eats from your magnetite pool for every step you take. So you kinda have to balance things out a bit. I certainly did several parts of the game without any demons in my team.
For most of the game I had a huge surplus of magnetite, but there were definitely a few teams I could make at the end of the game that drained the reserves very fast.
CJ, are you going to exploit charm bullets in this game?
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cj iwakuraThe Rhythm RegentBears The Name FreedomRegistered Userregular
edited February 2010
Probably not. It sounds boring. :P
And if anyone's curious, here's a sample of the hades I had to endure:
Posts
Secondly,
Don't forget her Zionga which is massive overkill right now. Makes it easy to grind though. (Additionally, you gave the description of a Fairy when you described the demon. Yes, they are different.)
Thirdly,
Eh, that's a bit of a waste.
Also, for people who care:
Pixie:
The only truly "nasty" pixies disguise themselves - as a bundle of rags of all things - to lure children to play with them. However said pixies are also fond of music and dancing, and are bizarrely generally helpful to humans.
Brownie:
I believe there's an old story about a clogmaker or something who profitted of the help he got from Brownies because he sucked at his job or somesuch nonsense.
Also I'm particularly fond of the first boss so I can't wait til we get there. Requesting music link for that fight, in advance, because god that track is awesome.
Of course, I'll likely point out missed things too, since I know more than I ever would need to. Partly due to being interested in it since I was like 6 and partly due to Atlus themselves for adding fuel to the fire ^_~
E; Speaking of Doman, I noticed that cj didn't try and explain this guy. There's a good reason for that; it could reference dozens upon dozens of things. Personally, I'm inclined to believe it's a reference to the story of Abe no Seimei which contains a villainous (for want of a better word) character named Ashiya Doman.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PumFnlu9EIY
^It's mentioned in that video somewhere. But I'll be sure to dig up some more info when the actual fight occurs.
As for the bios included in the later games, they're my favorite things in SMT. Half the reason to fill up the compendium is to learn more about the mythologies.
From what I understand, Atlus JP really does their homework on the demons they use, and you can find all kinds of interesting connections to how they're used in stories if you do enough research.
Regarding the first boss,
Ha! I knew that cat was behind everything!
Well, there is a Doman Seiman. It's not so much a chant used to ward of demons, as it is an actual demon.
E;
Huh, awesome. Shame it doesnt have an EU release date that I'm aware of. I might just import the special edition from Japan since that comes with a special edition of Nocturne that replaces Dante with Raidou.
I don't remember it in that game. ._. Unless...
Yeah, that's who I was thinking of.
We're on it.
Sounds good.
It's only a matter of time before I become his next guinea pig...
We could spare him the waiting, but maybe later.
Guess we're not getting out that way.
I tried to talk it out with him, but he wasn't very sociable.
It's all good, KANEDAAA needed the boost.
He could use the HP boost.
Him too.
This seems like the path to take.
He also wasn't very open to conversation, so more fuel to K's fire.
Back to working on the Magic stats, mostly.
More hapless victims.
Bonus.
And one finally sees the light! We almost have a full group now.
Some slight improvements along the way.
This is why it's nice to keep one of the enemies in any given dungeon in the group.
Can't see why not.
That's a good reason. (I decided to be honest and say 'No'.)
I guess that was the wrong answer. (Not that it matters)
You're welcome to try.
Er, on second thought...
The battle
Really not that difficult. He hits hard, but nothing Rakukaja can't fix. Pixie excepted.
We got what we came for, time to go.
Where'd everyone go? Well, they'll manage... or won't.
Checking out early.
That's better. First, some heals.
Much appreciated.
It makes me feel better that a lunatic like that is off the streets!
Well, screw you too!
Down, toasty.
As for local news...
Paula vanished. She says she went to Shinjuku, but hasn't been seen since.
Ah well.
How about at home?
Weird. Guess that just leaves the mall.
A few thugs get in the way. Nothing that can't be steamrolled.
Is Old Navy open?
These morons again?
>A single youth is being beaten up by a group of thugs that surround him.
Welp, time to go.
Hey, what do you think you're doing!? Stop that!
Somehow, that scares them off. I don't get it either.
Nice guy.
Hey, are you all right?
Shut up! Don't mock me! If only I was tougher,I'd kick your asses...
So what now, Toaster? He's in a daze - he doesn't seem to know what's going on, talking like that.
Toaster... you said Toaster, right?
So you're Bruno.
Now I get it! You guys really saved my butt back there! Ahh... Shit! Damn it all!
If only I was stronger... I'm so weak... I can't handle a bunch of lowlifes like them by myself..
Guys, please! Let me come with you! Together we might be able to do something!
Even if you say no, I'm still coming along!
Good thing we saved a spot.
Before leaving, some words on the street:
There's a message not to pass along.
It's in a nice spot. There's a million things they could do with it...
They say monsters have taken over the place! At least that's what some squatters who were there claimed, but they may have just been high.
Isn't everyone in this city?
It was suspicious, though, so I deleted it immediately. These days, you never know what kind of stuff the lunatics out there will send you...
Well? Have you?
Brought to you in part by the greater demonic association for a bug-free workplace.
That's enough mall hopping.
Home sweet home.
I'm always so worried about you. I'm glad you came home in one piece!
Isn't she excited?
What's wrong? Come here! I love you, always! Come on! Hurry!
Getting creepy.
I don't like it. Something's strange here.
I second that thought. There's something fishy here. It doesn't smell right!
Aw, what's with that face? Come on, there's no reason to be sad...
You'll see her soon enough.
In my stomach! Until then, why don't you entertain me for a bit!!
I hope you taste as good as she did!
(Regrettably, I could not find much info on this demon. I'm sure a scholar can help.)
This is tougher than the average enemy, but nothing Bruno and some shots of explosive magic can't fix.
And the imposter goes down.
Bruno cashes in big time. Mostly magic, a bit goes to stamina.
That might be helpful.
Toaster... I don't think there's anything I could say that could provide much comfort, but...
Try not to feel too bad...
"Try not to feel too bad"!? Damn, that was insensitive, KANEDAAA!
Just give him a moment to himself!
Eh, she was insured.
At least someone wasn't eaten.
>Pascal the Dog jumped towards you.
It's almost as if Pascal is trying to get you to take him with you.
Can you say no to that face? (Really, it doesn't matter.)
Guess we'll be needing a bigger boat.
Next time: Canine Bonding
A taste of things to come.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lVmXlc_j5Wk
Part 4 should be up tomorrow.
so yay
Awesome; I was beginning to fear that it had been abandoned.
So, let me get this straight: you take two of your staunch allies, dissolve them in acid, and then reconstitute them into some hybridized walking horror?
That's pretty damn sweet.
Steam: Elvenshae // PSN: Elvenshae // WotC: Elvenshae
Wilds of Aladrion: [https://forums.penny-arcade.com/discussion/comment/43159014/#Comment_43159014]Ellandryn[/url]
I know the game quite well, having finished it twice (once by myself, once with a friend who was interested), but I still find this entertaining, if only for the reactions and information in this thread.
That being said, you'll have to speed up your schedule a bit if you plan to finish this game in the next few years, as it's very long. Not to pressure you or anything, but I just thought you should know.
Yeah, I gather as much, but I think I have a reasonable enough system in place wherein I can breeze through the dungeons as far as updates are concerned.
Knowing there's an audience is always inspirational, so that'll spurn me to work on updates quicker.
Part 4: Acceptable Losses
Alas, there isn't time to mourn; we've exploring to do.
Or something like that. I guess its to stop this impending demonic apocalypse thing.
So much for that route.
How about here?
I guess this is where we want to be, then.
But first, we have to put Pascal to good use.
Not the kind he'll like.
Video Format:
Screenshot Format:
He's there for a reason, right?
A very good one. (Note, this demon would be impossible for the protagonist to summon under normal circumstances, but this is a special one.)
So long, Pascal. You can hold your breath, right?
Not that it matters.
Give the creation life!
And a classic is born.
Will do.
Neo-Pascal's stats are killer. Almost too good to be true, isn't it?
Oh yeah, so, that new dungeon place.
Kerberos is raring to go, so may as well continue on.
That's convenient.
Surprise attack.
Easily toasted care of some fire magics.
Gladly.
Demons love the gems.
Almost too easy. There were a few monster fights among the way, but mostly a joke thanks to Pascal's newfound specialization in ripping demons a new one.
They took about three seconds to do in.
Always good to have. Probably going to give it to the friendly neighborhood mages.
Mo money,
Mo stats.
Well, here's a new face.
Yeah, I'd say we're screwed.
Then I shall bring hope to you!
Uh, thanks, I think.
So I'm definitely swapping Andras in, because he's much better than that measly Knocker.
Another familiar face.
With your power, you'll be able to do anything you put your mind to, so you should be okay.
I guess that's kind of reassuring.
Getting a not-good deja vu feeling.
That explains it.
Eh!? So you're back, eh?
(Viewers: I do hope your responses would be a resounding 'hell no'.)
I can not allow it to be defiled by your blood. Get out!
Those who stand in my way will be crushed!
Good luck with that.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TsiGYDpHUD8
So yeah, that fight is a breeze with Kerberos. Even without him, it'd be pretty easy, so why pass up an easy battle? There won't be many of those later.
So he was an MMO addict. We did him a favor.
No! Bad dog! Think of the monthly fees!
Atta boy!
Wait, what?
>Those with valid comps may access at their leisure.
Now you tell me.
Uh, okay, what could possibly happen?
Oh yeah, transdimensional travel.
Beats taking the subway.
Been a pleasure. (Aside from the fact that you STOLE OUR DOG.)
These guys need a better interior decorator.
Oh, hi.
So, what on earth is going on in the outside world? I've been here working on our Terminal System secret project.
Three or four days ago, we were attacked by a mob of demons.
Everyone was either killed or turned into zombies.
Sounds like a plan.
Wait, what?
Uh, yeah, waaaagh.
Damn it, Bruno!.
Not that being caught matters.
Time to get gone.
What is this, a class reunion?
However, Gotou's influence has spread to here as well, and it is now under his control.
Very well then! Give me that computer, and I'll increase its memory for you!
With this adjustment, my demon summoning program should be even more useful.
Sweet.
The sign said open house?
The guards aren't very capable, so we're home free.
And now we're in brand new turf. What to do, what to do...
Next time: We Can't Stop Here, it's Messian Country
Why?
Oh well. I'm sure it'll be revealed at some point.
This being SMT, I'm gambling they're doing it because they want to kill God.
But yeah, good update. It's too bad that one only gets to keep Pascal for such a short while only. But then again, he wastes way too much magnetite at this point, so it's not that bad a thing.
They go down easily enough.
What's over here?
Americans. Not going that way.
How about up north?
Locals, but not the good kind.
Checking the building to the northwest, there wasn't much there either.
Except for this guy.
There were some new friends there, at least.
Good stats.
Oh, and this guy too.
So, how about to the southeast?
A mall!
But this isn't a Smile Mall.
Oh no, this place is hell. This place is larger than half of the dungeons in Persona 1.
I'll spare you the immense amount of walking and mapping it took to find anyone.
On the bright side, there is lots of information to be found if you know where to look.
I hear many people crying in pain...
But the shadows don't disappear...
No!... Aah! My head... it hurts so much...
Lay off the meds, love.
There's no way I can get home like this... what should I do...
It's a good time to take up firearms training.
What have we here?
Oh God, evangelists.
Nah, they're not that bad. The Mes(s)ian church offers heals, items, and assorted religious platitudes.
Nothing quite within our budget, sadly. (I don't really know what half that stuff does, anyway)
Or else.
Another basement subsection, which leads to...
We don't, unfortunately. Mark it on the calendar for later.
That's incredible! Whoever the leader of the resistance is,
he or she must be smart... and gutsy!
Not the wording I'd use, but okay.
Sweet,
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-uDixD4tXXU
Wait, what?
But my demons are party animals!
Still, that's the only way in, so against better judgment, I sent half the party back into the COMP.
And in we go.
There's a bartender selling drinks, but we don't need any of that, just infos.
Gotou, the American Army, whatever...
That'd be nice, wouldn't it.
I would too.
The name rings a bell...
Simple yet effective.
What are they all doing here, anyway?
Getting smashed, I bet.
...but if things get rough for the Americans, who knows what lengths they'll go to in order to win?
We can barely handle an election, what makes you think we can cope with demonic warfare?
Or, yeah, they could do that.
Another sublevel.
She joins up this time, thanks to Toaster's incomparable charms.
I go AWOL when I hear that! That is too far!
That good move, you bright guy.
What happened to our civil liberties?
Sold to the highest bidder! You're new here, aren't you?
It's been fascinating.
Getting creepy. Okay, well past that.
Yeah, uh... maybe later.
These guys are just a dime a dozen here.
Do you have a demon summoning program?
Never leave home without it.
You can say no, but this is kind of a 'but thou must!' situation in that you have to tell him what he wants to hear.
I've got something I want to give you.
And so we get... a Bar Matchbook. Woo.
Get out of here.
Gladly.
>Once I said no, he went to a girl nearby, and asked her the same question.
I wonder who he was?
Bad news.
Maybe not the kind you're thinking of.
Leaving that place behind, I found a Jakyou Manor not far away.
Which brings us a new friend.
A cursed fish spirit in demonic form, or something of the like.
He also has group heals, bonus.
While obviously they're at odds with one another,
so far there hasn't been any sort of direct conflict between the two of them.
If something like that happens, it's really going to be a mess!
Yeah, let's not be around for that.
Got some new gear here, but we couldn't afford all of it, so I just got Toaster and KANEDAAA some new kevlar vests.
Oh look, the other side of the coin.
That which has form will eventually crumble.
You who bring chaos to this world...
The Gaians. These guys believe in might makes right, and the strong ruling.
They're the Chaos element that opposes the Messians' Order.
They have the same services: healing and expensive items that I don't have any knowledge of.
Well, isn't he a polite Yakuza.
If that weren't bad enough, we've got demons popping up all over the place!
They're doing whatever they damn well please on MY turf!
What's going to become of Tokyo if we let them run wild like this?
Can't be much worse off than how it is now.
Operation Bar Hop continues.
...it will only lead to the eventual destruction of humanity.
That worried General Gotou, and that is why he started the coup d'etat.
Sure, coup d'etats never hurt anyone.
I don't know why Gotou would want help from a no-good punk like him.
If you're looking for him, he's in the building right northwest of Shinjuku
Probably because he doesn't speak Japanese.
Without even hearing him out, he just called in the American army from square one.
Or maybe he's just a jerk.
There's this group that calls themselves The Resistance,
and they're lead by some woman named Paula.
It is a popular name.
You should talk to J.B. then, he should know where she is.
He hangs out at the Disco a lot, you might want to start there.
Been there, tried that.
(Even after this, he says the same thing, see above.)
I'm sure you're doing a great service. Getting drunk.
Didn't we kill him already?
I think that guy can handle himself.
True justice!
Though they don't seem to be working for Gotou...
So basically they have sense.
So yeah, remember that matchbook?
It's just what we needed.
It wasn't that difficult, since everyone in the city knows about you.
So you must be the resistance leader?
Whoa, hold on a minute there, chief! I'm not the leader, just a member.
We can't let outsiders meet our leader. It's just not safe. Don't take it personally,
we just have to be really careful about who we trust.
At least someone has some faith.
Which conveniently looks just like this one!
Toaster... KANEDAAA... Bruno... I knew you would come.
I am the resistance leader. My name is Paula.
Your name is Paula too?
Don't you remember me? This isn't the first time we've met...
Though it is the first time we have all been in the same place together.
There are some matters I wish to discuss with you...
As you may have heard already, the current regent in Tokyo, a man named Gotou,
is summoning demons and using their power to try and create a world molded after
his own personal ideals. Thinking that, if left alone, Gotou would become a threat,
the American Ambassador Thorman convinced the American government to send their
troops into Japan to surpress Gotou's coup d'etat and impose their will instead.
I cannot stop Gotou, nor can I halt the advance of the American army. All we can do is
carry out minor acts of sabotage that pose little more than an irritation. The situation is
coming to a head. If Gotou's forces meet head on with the American army, the carnage
would be overwhelming, and Tokyo would likely be reduced to rubble in the conflict.
Please, lend us your aid!
You know where Paula is, then!?
...
And also... while we can not stop the coup d'etat forces entirely, we can destroy the gang
of thugs lead by a man named Ozawa. who recently struck a deal with Gotou and has been
working with him to gather information and do his dirty work.
Whoa, what did you say!? Did you say that Ozawa's gang is mixed up in this!?
Please, help us...
I'd be happy to do what I can, especially if it means finding Paula!
Any enemy of Ozawa's is a friend of mine. Count me in too!
(Sorry, this is very much a 'but thou must' situation.)
I could think of a way or two.
Oh, great.
Sonuva-
I'll just be taking Paula with me to Ozawa.
Yuriko finally shows her true colors, and then she's gone.
My God, this is awful! No time to waste! We've got to get out there and rescue her!
>The resistance members all left the hideout.
Somehow I bet they're all rushing to their graves.
After they find Ozawa, we're all going to meet up at our usual spot at the Shinjuku Bar.
If by meet up you mean be cremated.
Before heading after Ozawa, I cooked up a little somethin somethin.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XQl6_ZWJf_o
So, guess we better head northwest.
This isn't really much of a dungeon.
So it doesn't take long to find the guy. Suspicious.
Ozawa! Some day I'm going to pay you back for that shit you pulled!
You still running around playing your little demon hunter game?
Look, I don't give a rat's ass about Gotou or Paula.
But Gotou's got a lot of political and military power, and I want some of that!
Eventually I plan to overthrow Gotou and take over myself.
After all, I've finally gained the ability to summon demons myself!
And I don't have time to waste on a bunch of snot-nosed lowlifes like you!
More like for a few seconds.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=93rlw4qgLz8
Figures. And now, it's back to the mall.
Food for thought.
Next time: One trick, many faces
And speaking of large dungeons, let me tell you that you'd get a shock if you knew the size of the final dungeon in this, if you thought this was already huge. On the bright side, a lot of it is optional, unlike P1's, but still.
That being said, some general tips to make your experience more enjoyable (read: less excruciating):
-First of all, get used to using the talking commands a lot. You should probably aim to talk yourself out of about 40%+ of battes. That way, you'll always have lots of cash and magnetite, and your level will be right as well. Since experience scales down very strongly, and its not hard to reach the point the game considers you as "overleveled", you really will get the best results following this advice.
-Try to get someone with estoma (or estma in this game). I remember orthrus and kirin having it amongst others. Once you get someone with it, just keep him until the end of the game. Once you're level 50+, you can pretty much spam estoma, and you'll still be way overleveled due to the boss fight experience you'll get, which is way too much. On the other hand estoma is really the single spell which makes the final dungeon somewhat bearable. And it still took me 3+ hours to fully map with zero enemy encounters!
-Mapper is also an awesome spell, it makes a small map of the surrounding area appear on the actual gameplay screen. Keep in mind that it runs out at new moon, but you are only allowed to recast it at 1/8. Try to avoid going into dark areas at bad times.
-And don't forget my previous tips! Tons of speed on Paula so she can stun lock even fast enemies with zio. And get guns that hit multiple targets and equip them with nerve bullets (and later change to magic bullets). This combined with enough speed to go first is completely broken.
And that's it from me. By the way, if you would rather find out about those things by yourself, then tell me and I'll stop. It's just that I find that this game is way less annoying if you know some tricks, and you're already putting so much work into it that I figured you'd like to tone down the frustration as much as possible.
I'll try to get a shot of the map next time. That level drove me crazy the first time I tried it.
And that's where I stopped in my actual playthrough. So from here on in, I'm playing blind.
Also, I haven't actually gotten Paula yet, nor do I really know where to go from here. :P
But I'm sure I'll figure it out.
I've been maxing Main's Strength and Stamina and focusing on Int/Mag/Stm for Law & Chaos.
Oh, and I do lots of talking. I don't really get why summoning is depleting the cash reserves and not Magnetite, though.
It's both a blessing and a curse that SMT's fusion is so simplified. No carryovers, but I don't waste hours backing out and refusing for the perfect skill set either.
And the shop selling survival gear has no customers?
This is not a very realistic game.
Well, the actual summoning costs money, but every demon in your team eats from your magnetite pool for every step you take. So you kinda have to balance things out a bit. I certainly did several parts of the game without any demons in my team.
Why didn't you use the auto-map?
It was full of piss and vinegar by the time I finished though. Place is HUGE.
I didn't find a button that open the auto-map until my second play through
CJ, are you going to exploit charm bullets in this game?
And if anyone's curious, here's a sample of the hades I had to endure:
Bear in mind, it has multiple levels.