(French person here)
(Kinda spoilery, I sort off explain how the game does certains things but not in exact details)
(As I reread this, I noticed that I'm also kinda giving my review for Digital Devil Saga 1 lol...)
I figured I'd write a real review for this game. It was just so amazing as an experience that I don't think it would be earned for me to summarize my impressions to just: "Oh what a great game!"
I desperately need to tell you why and what I loved about this game. I desperately need to tell everyone to play this game. THESE games, to be more precise; I mean, I don't think there's a point in saying this because this is common sense, but do yourself a favor and play Digital Devil Saga 1 before 2. These games are so unique that, to me, they're one of the only video games in the medium to perfectly achieve what it means to be a duology. This is mainly because, in our current era, we keep getting direct sequels based on previously established new games. (Spider-Man PS4, God Of War 2018, BOTW…) which are heavily discussed as to whether they are even worthy of being called sequels, what they have accomplished to earn that title, where they failed, or whatnot. But my question is: have they earned the merit of being qualified as "duology"? Do you think about it? Were sequels about this kind of game really needed? Do they even bring something essential to the first installment, something so crucial that you'd think playing the first "Man, this game was cool, but I feel like something's missing... they should expand in one way or another." I'm not sure if I'm being clear here. Do you get the picture?
Your experience on DDS1 may vary, you will hate it or love it, but it will surely not be complete plot-wise, and to a certain extent, gameplay-wise, because you surely did not sit through a 40-hour game to not figure out why the fuck you were doing all of this right. And vice-versa, you will also not figure out what the fuck's going on in DDS2 if you haven't played DDS1, for literally everything should I say on top of that. I think DDS1 as a standalone game is hugely appreciated for its experimental value, and you have to get used to this game's vibes, whether it be gameplay, soundtrack, graphics, characters, narration, etc. It would be best if you considered all of these parameters to fully enjoy its sequel. These games are complementary to each other.
While it can be said that there is a BOTW without TOTK or a GOW 2018 without GOWR, it is not necessarily true for Digital Devil Saga.
There is no DDS1 without DDS2, and there is no DDS2 without DDS1.
Now, I would like to personally pay tribute to Koike Tamami. Digital Devil Saga isn't very popular when compared to other ATLUS titles, even in Japan, so seeing this name may not ring a bell to you, even for those who have finished DDS2. So, if you're unaware of who Koike Tamami is, she is a Japanese singer known under the alias « As», and she is the one who sang one of the credits songs at the end of DDS2, which is called « Time Capsule». You can find it on YouTube if you're interested. The reason I'm talking about her is that, unfortunately, she died at age 25 on 12/30/2011. The ending of this game contained one of the most beautiful messages I've ever had the chance to witness in my life, and Tamami's magnificent voice significantly reinforced my appreciation for it. I was so upbeat when listening to it that I thought, « Yo, who is singing? I gotta know her name» and I was so devastated when I found out that she died, at such a young age, too… I can't imagine how her family must have felt. It's so unfair… both for her parents and the one she established. She has a son, if I am not mistaken; on her YouTube channel, she posted a song called «Dear My Baby,» which is dedicated to her newborn son.
My point is, that this situation is so unfair, I only hope for Koike Tamami that she achieved her dreams by singing, I hope she had the time of her life by singing Time Capsule. It's so unfair, she could have had an outstanding career, she was very talented. And it's even more unjust that only a small group of people would recognize her talent, because not only DDS isn't famous, but the typical player won't instinctively decide to look up an artist's name behind a song they thoroughly liked. The only trace we have of her work is on YouTube, and with how this website is rotting... I'd say it's not very reassuring to leave it here.
So why? why Atlus must you not only rob people of a life-changing experience but also not acknowledge the work of all the developers, singers, and voice actors? Why are you so bigoted about making Persona 5, 3 times ?? Digital Devil Saga is so unique, everyone who participated in one way or another in the making of this game proved that they did this out of genuine passion. We as a community can't forget all of these brilliant names. And Altus as a company neither. I'm not even asking for a remake, or a remaster, just a port, please. I discovered one of my favorite music bands thanks to Digital Devil Saga 1, Etro Anime. Not sure what happened to them, seems like they retired but they made two astonishing albums, give it a shot. (I'm listening to Spreading Silence as I write this lol.) Let Digital Devil Saga have the recognition it deserves.
So… what do I love about this game? (Great transition……) Everything. I can't really talk about DDS2 without talking about DDS1 firsthand, so let me tell you what I love about DDS1 first: …Everything, too…
No seriously, I love what Atlus did with their JRPGs through the PS2 era, unmatched visuals, and very nostalgic vibes for me. Could you believe me if I told you that DDS1 is one of the best to do it ever when its setting lies in the fact that it is constantly raining? 90% of the zones were bland, grey, and abandoned, but going through them was so fun, each dungeon had its gimmick, and with the masterful composition of Shoji Meguro, you could never feel bored. It can only be thrilling with a narrative that delves into the subject of cannibalism. This game premise is literally « eat or to be eaten » and I think one of the gripes people have with this game, being high encounter rates, is more of a choice to strengthen this feeling. The player is thrown into this dull universe with minimal context as to why they must reach that paradise called « Nirvana ». It is the only objective in the game for the player, and so for other tribes that try to reach this place. It is truly a fight to the death against you and other tribes, as you're all trying to seek salvation, so I think it's only fair for the game to be extraordinarily unfair/frustrating, as it is the only way to survive, (get it? you know, there was no other way to survive, or something like that... whatever.) devour your enemies (still don't get it? smh...) and if you're not prepared to face this truth, then it's game over. This is why the only way to become stronger is to literally eat your prey, discard this element of gameplay, and you'll have trouble trying to progress through the game (unless you're doing a restricted run... if you think about it, that choosing a path of peace if I may call it likewise, and so forth, opting for such procedure, one where you refuse to sink into the meanders of dehumanization and cannibalism, would naturally lead to a more difficult walkthrough... interesting worth analyzing.) That's how I interpret the vision of the gameplay.
I should also talk about QoL's changes compared to Shin Megami Tensei Nocturne because it is also one of Atlus Megaten titles in the PS2 era; First and foremost, having a mini-map. I can guarantee you that having this little thing already confirms me in stating that Digital Devil Saga is one of Atlus' best JRPGs. I don't think I noticed this in my first playthrough, rather when I was aiming at the different endings, but having to constantly look up the map on a game as mazed-shaped as Shin Megami Tensei Nocturne, can sure get grueling. I welcome this change with open arms.
The mantra system is also wonderfully well-designed and even better on DDS2. It allows you to utterly grasp your character's growth and your party, even if you can't properly allocate their statistics. The system is often compared to Final Fantasy X's Grid system, (as Digital Devil Saga was massively compared to FFX) and still, fail to esteem this system's idiosyncrasy because as I settled on the plat of this game I noticed that the characters had nothing for themselves. All of their attributes effortlessly get outed the moment you start doing stupid damage, get the celestial weapons, and progress on the grid. The piercing proprieties of Auron's sword/Kimahri's lance, Rikku's ability to steal, Yuna's white magic, Lulu's Black Magic, Wakka's accuracy... all these traits get repudiated in post-game. What's the point of crafting a system that will only last in the main campaign, in a JRPG moreover? Digital Devil Saga nailed that aspect, it gives you rightful freedom as to how to build your characters in the long run, it borrows aspects of FFX grid's system and improves it, but also of the anteriorly established system in SMT Nocturne. We're no longer limited to just one fixed build now, if you want to consider a physical build, then so be it, same for magical, buff-oriented, or status effects. The main difference with SMT Nocturne is that you're not penalized for picking one playstyle in the beginning. You can always switch in the middle and more importantly, you possess any skills at any time you want. I think Digital Devil Saga is indeed the perfect compromise for casual players who wish to dive into the Shin Megami Tensei series, as it borrows aspects of one the best growth systems, and combat systems, with the flawless Press Turn system, the best to do it. It feels like the epitome of the battle system with those enhanced animations.
The game's technique is still relevant, and anyone who would call it outdated is just saying this in bad faith. Of course the game will somehow look bland compared to the tropical/colorful setting of FFX, but at least Digital Devil Saga makes far better use of its world. DDS has ACTUAL dungeons you know. (I'm not a FFX hater I swear, it's one of my favorites FF actually) You will find Kazuma Kaneko's best character design in those games imo. I don't care how much of a game can be visually stunning, it doesn't matter until it makes good use of its exploration/traversal system. I'm in the middle of a Final Fantasy XIII playthrough right now, and while it is surely one of the most visually striking Final Fantasy, but it falls short when it comes to exploiting its scenery.
The score: Shoji Meguro's magnum opus. No notes. Hideout Of The Chickens = goated as a first dungeon track, Muladhara = a certified hood classic, and Urban Area is my favorite of the duology. So nostalgic, so melancholic, if you played DDS2 you should how powerful this track can be. The fact that a single track can have so many layers of emotional feeling depending on where you are in the game just proves how Meguro was cooking that shit raw.
And as for the story... it's peak fiction. kino. absolute cinema.
I'm telling you right now; don't expect something crazy in DDS1, while there is a common thread, I don't think you can draw something tangible with the little context they give you. This is why I said that generally, Digital Devil Saga can't stand on its own. You will surely get attached to the characters, as they get through all sorts of trials, and for the immaculate performance of voice actors, but the development comes later. (I'd argue Argilla is really great in both DDS 1/2) Digital Devil Saga is more of an experiment game (lol...) for the player to see if they can engage with the universe, characters, gameplay, and scrumbles of the storyline. If you pass the vibe check, you can go straight to Digital Devil Saga 2. Where basically everything is improved. (not that it was bad in DDS1, don't get me wrong) The lingering mystery introduced in DDS1 finally gets somewhere, better party inclusion in the gameplay loop, sick dungeons (the final one will exceed all your expectations, so be prepared), character development that will finally pay off with some very emotional moments through a much more advanced technique when it comes to cutscenes, you can trust me with that, because Ichiro Itano who would work on Asura's Wrath, the kino scenery game, worked on Digital Devil Saga 2 as and a much more complex story that goes straight to the point, the only thing you'll need is the knowledge you acquired through DDS1, no DLCs, no cross-media, no mobile game, no nothing, a sequel that goes straight to the point. The story is more open and permissive than DDS1 as it delves into all kinds of subjects: Hinduism, Buddhism, religion, science, environment... all of these are so skillfully discussed within the story, you can only bow before such mastery. Like, there technically is a Law/Chaos bit in this game, you'll see what they'll do with it and you'll come out in awe. The final message in this game had me on the verge of tears, it was so beautiful.
There is much MUCH more to say to it, as I'm not a scholar when it comes to theology/religion, and I'm trying to stay as vague as possible for those reading so you can experience the story with an open mind. This game will forever rent free in my head.
Thank you to everyone who worked on that game, thank you if you have read this, Digital Devil Saga is one the best to do it. Hoping we'll get a remaster someday.
(Kinda spoilery, I sort off explain how the game does certains things but not in exact details)
(As I reread this, I noticed that I'm also kinda giving my review for Digital Devil Saga 1 lol...)
I figured I'd write a real review for this game. It was just so amazing as an experience that I don't think it would be earned for me to summarize my impressions to just: "Oh what a great game!"
I desperately need to tell you why and what I loved about this game. I desperately need to tell everyone to play this game. THESE games, to be more precise; I mean, I don't think there's a point in saying this because this is common sense, but do yourself a favor and play Digital Devil Saga 1 before 2. These games are so unique that, to me, they're one of the only video games in the medium to perfectly achieve what it means to be a duology. This is mainly because, in our current era, we keep getting direct sequels based on previously established new games. (Spider-Man PS4, God Of War 2018, BOTW…) which are heavily discussed as to whether they are even worthy of being called sequels, what they have accomplished to earn that title, where they failed, or whatnot. But my question is: have they earned the merit of being qualified as "duology"? Do you think about it? Were sequels about this kind of game really needed? Do they even bring something essential to the first installment, something so crucial that you'd think playing the first "Man, this game was cool, but I feel like something's missing... they should expand in one way or another." I'm not sure if I'm being clear here. Do you get the picture?
Your experience on DDS1 may vary, you will hate it or love it, but it will surely not be complete plot-wise, and to a certain extent, gameplay-wise, because you surely did not sit through a 40-hour game to not figure out why the fuck you were doing all of this right. And vice-versa, you will also not figure out what the fuck's going on in DDS2 if you haven't played DDS1, for literally everything should I say on top of that. I think DDS1 as a standalone game is hugely appreciated for its experimental value, and you have to get used to this game's vibes, whether it be gameplay, soundtrack, graphics, characters, narration, etc. It would be best if you considered all of these parameters to fully enjoy its sequel. These games are complementary to each other.
While it can be said that there is a BOTW without TOTK or a GOW 2018 without GOWR, it is not necessarily true for Digital Devil Saga.
There is no DDS1 without DDS2, and there is no DDS2 without DDS1.
Now, I would like to personally pay tribute to Koike Tamami. Digital Devil Saga isn't very popular when compared to other ATLUS titles, even in Japan, so seeing this name may not ring a bell to you, even for those who have finished DDS2. So, if you're unaware of who Koike Tamami is, she is a Japanese singer known under the alias « As», and she is the one who sang one of the credits songs at the end of DDS2, which is called « Time Capsule». You can find it on YouTube if you're interested. The reason I'm talking about her is that, unfortunately, she died at age 25 on 12/30/2011. The ending of this game contained one of the most beautiful messages I've ever had the chance to witness in my life, and Tamami's magnificent voice significantly reinforced my appreciation for it. I was so upbeat when listening to it that I thought, « Yo, who is singing? I gotta know her name» and I was so devastated when I found out that she died, at such a young age, too… I can't imagine how her family must have felt. It's so unfair… both for her parents and the one she established. She has a son, if I am not mistaken; on her YouTube channel, she posted a song called «Dear My Baby,» which is dedicated to her newborn son.
My point is, that this situation is so unfair, I only hope for Koike Tamami that she achieved her dreams by singing, I hope she had the time of her life by singing Time Capsule. It's so unfair, she could have had an outstanding career, she was very talented. And it's even more unjust that only a small group of people would recognize her talent, because not only DDS isn't famous, but the typical player won't instinctively decide to look up an artist's name behind a song they thoroughly liked. The only trace we have of her work is on YouTube, and with how this website is rotting... I'd say it's not very reassuring to leave it here.
So why? why Atlus must you not only rob people of a life-changing experience but also not acknowledge the work of all the developers, singers, and voice actors? Why are you so bigoted about making Persona 5, 3 times ?? Digital Devil Saga is so unique, everyone who participated in one way or another in the making of this game proved that they did this out of genuine passion. We as a community can't forget all of these brilliant names. And Altus as a company neither. I'm not even asking for a remake, or a remaster, just a port, please. I discovered one of my favorite music bands thanks to Digital Devil Saga 1, Etro Anime. Not sure what happened to them, seems like they retired but they made two astonishing albums, give it a shot. (I'm listening to Spreading Silence as I write this lol.) Let Digital Devil Saga have the recognition it deserves.
So… what do I love about this game? (Great transition……) Everything. I can't really talk about DDS2 without talking about DDS1 firsthand, so let me tell you what I love about DDS1 first: …Everything, too…
No seriously, I love what Atlus did with their JRPGs through the PS2 era, unmatched visuals, and very nostalgic vibes for me. Could you believe me if I told you that DDS1 is one of the best to do it ever when its setting lies in the fact that it is constantly raining? 90% of the zones were bland, grey, and abandoned, but going through them was so fun, each dungeon had its gimmick, and with the masterful composition of Shoji Meguro, you could never feel bored. It can only be thrilling with a narrative that delves into the subject of cannibalism. This game premise is literally « eat or to be eaten » and I think one of the gripes people have with this game, being high encounter rates, is more of a choice to strengthen this feeling. The player is thrown into this dull universe with minimal context as to why they must reach that paradise called « Nirvana ». It is the only objective in the game for the player, and so for other tribes that try to reach this place. It is truly a fight to the death against you and other tribes, as you're all trying to seek salvation, so I think it's only fair for the game to be extraordinarily unfair/frustrating, as it is the only way to survive, (get it? you know, there was no other way to survive, or something like that... whatever.) devour your enemies (still don't get it? smh...) and if you're not prepared to face this truth, then it's game over. This is why the only way to become stronger is to literally eat your prey, discard this element of gameplay, and you'll have trouble trying to progress through the game (unless you're doing a restricted run... if you think about it, that choosing a path of peace if I may call it likewise, and so forth, opting for such procedure, one where you refuse to sink into the meanders of dehumanization and cannibalism, would naturally lead to a more difficult walkthrough... interesting worth analyzing.) That's how I interpret the vision of the gameplay.
I should also talk about QoL's changes compared to Shin Megami Tensei Nocturne because it is also one of Atlus Megaten titles in the PS2 era; First and foremost, having a mini-map. I can guarantee you that having this little thing already confirms me in stating that Digital Devil Saga is one of Atlus' best JRPGs. I don't think I noticed this in my first playthrough, rather when I was aiming at the different endings, but having to constantly look up the map on a game as mazed-shaped as Shin Megami Tensei Nocturne, can sure get grueling. I welcome this change with open arms.
The mantra system is also wonderfully well-designed and even better on DDS2. It allows you to utterly grasp your character's growth and your party, even if you can't properly allocate their statistics. The system is often compared to Final Fantasy X's Grid system, (as Digital Devil Saga was massively compared to FFX) and still, fail to esteem this system's idiosyncrasy because as I settled on the plat of this game I noticed that the characters had nothing for themselves. All of their attributes effortlessly get outed the moment you start doing stupid damage, get the celestial weapons, and progress on the grid. The piercing proprieties of Auron's sword/Kimahri's lance, Rikku's ability to steal, Yuna's white magic, Lulu's Black Magic, Wakka's accuracy... all these traits get repudiated in post-game. What's the point of crafting a system that will only last in the main campaign, in a JRPG moreover? Digital Devil Saga nailed that aspect, it gives you rightful freedom as to how to build your characters in the long run, it borrows aspects of FFX grid's system and improves it, but also of the anteriorly established system in SMT Nocturne. We're no longer limited to just one fixed build now, if you want to consider a physical build, then so be it, same for magical, buff-oriented, or status effects. The main difference with SMT Nocturne is that you're not penalized for picking one playstyle in the beginning. You can always switch in the middle and more importantly, you possess any skills at any time you want. I think Digital Devil Saga is indeed the perfect compromise for casual players who wish to dive into the Shin Megami Tensei series, as it borrows aspects of one the best growth systems, and combat systems, with the flawless Press Turn system, the best to do it. It feels like the epitome of the battle system with those enhanced animations.
The game's technique is still relevant, and anyone who would call it outdated is just saying this in bad faith. Of course the game will somehow look bland compared to the tropical/colorful setting of FFX, but at least Digital Devil Saga makes far better use of its world. DDS has ACTUAL dungeons you know. (I'm not a FFX hater I swear, it's one of my favorites FF actually) You will find Kazuma Kaneko's best character design in those games imo. I don't care how much of a game can be visually stunning, it doesn't matter until it makes good use of its exploration/traversal system. I'm in the middle of a Final Fantasy XIII playthrough right now, and while it is surely one of the most visually striking Final Fantasy, but it falls short when it comes to exploiting its scenery.
The score: Shoji Meguro's magnum opus. No notes. Hideout Of The Chickens = goated as a first dungeon track, Muladhara = a certified hood classic, and Urban Area is my favorite of the duology. So nostalgic, so melancholic, if you played DDS2 you should how powerful this track can be. The fact that a single track can have so many layers of emotional feeling depending on where you are in the game just proves how Meguro was cooking that shit raw.
And as for the story... it's peak fiction. kino. absolute cinema.
I'm telling you right now; don't expect something crazy in DDS1, while there is a common thread, I don't think you can draw something tangible with the little context they give you. This is why I said that generally, Digital Devil Saga can't stand on its own. You will surely get attached to the characters, as they get through all sorts of trials, and for the immaculate performance of voice actors, but the development comes later. (I'd argue Argilla is really great in both DDS 1/2) Digital Devil Saga is more of an experiment game (lol...) for the player to see if they can engage with the universe, characters, gameplay, and scrumbles of the storyline. If you pass the vibe check, you can go straight to Digital Devil Saga 2. Where basically everything is improved. (not that it was bad in DDS1, don't get me wrong) The lingering mystery introduced in DDS1 finally gets somewhere, better party inclusion in the gameplay loop, sick dungeons (the final one will exceed all your expectations, so be prepared), character development that will finally pay off with some very emotional moments through a much more advanced technique when it comes to cutscenes, you can trust me with that, because Ichiro Itano who would work on Asura's Wrath, the kino scenery game, worked on Digital Devil Saga 2 as and a much more complex story that goes straight to the point, the only thing you'll need is the knowledge you acquired through DDS1, no DLCs, no cross-media, no mobile game, no nothing, a sequel that goes straight to the point. The story is more open and permissive than DDS1 as it delves into all kinds of subjects: Hinduism, Buddhism, religion, science, environment... all of these are so skillfully discussed within the story, you can only bow before such mastery. Like, there technically is a Law/Chaos bit in this game, you'll see what they'll do with it and you'll come out in awe. The final message in this game had me on the verge of tears, it was so beautiful.
There is much MUCH more to say to it, as I'm not a scholar when it comes to theology/religion, and I'm trying to stay as vague as possible for those reading so you can experience the story with an open mind. This game will forever rent free in my head.
Thank you to everyone who worked on that game, thank you if you have read this, Digital Devil Saga is one the best to do it. Hoping we'll get a remaster someday.