Shin Megami Tensei IV: Apocalypse 3DS launches on September 20th

smtiv_apocalypse_logoShin Megami Tensei IV: Apocalypse for the Nintendo 3DS (previously known as Shin Megami Tensei IV: Final) finally has a solid North American release date: September 20th, 2016.

Atlus made the announcement earlier today, and also released new game info and media detailing the bright and cheery cast of characters as you can see below. Shin Megami Tensei IV: Apocalypse “overlaps” the original 3DS release, but apparently no prior knowledge of SMTIV is required to just jump right in.

See the new trailer and previous, unlocalized screens/art below.

Shin Megami Tensei IV: Apocalypse Cast Trailer:

Shin Megami Tensei IV: Apocalypse Cast Trailer

Shin Megami Tensei IV: Apocalypse 3DS screens:

Check out the latest Shin Megami Tensei IV: Apocalypse info from Atlus below.

Don’t let your guard down – the end is nigh! Shin Megami Tensei IV: Apocalypse will release in the Americas on Sept. 20. And for our European fans, as mentioned in a separate announcement this morning, SMTIVA will be released physically and digitally in PAL regions by our new partner, Deep Silver. (Release date for Europe is still TBD)

Oh, and if you missed it last week, our two SMT Scrubs…er…newish employees are trying to find their footing through the original SMTIV on our Twitch stream, today at 4 p.m. PDT. twitch.tv/atlususa

Lastly, we’ve got a new trailer for you to peruse:

With Tokyo being ground zero for scheming gods and monstrous demons, only the strongest and craftiest can survive in the former metropolis turned literal hell on earth. Shin Megami Tensei IV: Apocalypse has a varied cast of characters that players need to utilize properly in order to endure the harsh realities — mostly the very high possibility of death around every corner — of post-apocalyptic life.

Here’s a look at some of the useful partners that players will bring into battle:

  • Nanashi – Nanashi is the silent player controlled protagonist who’s trying to become a full fledged member of the Hunter Association.  He gets murdered early in the game by a demon, but is given a second chance at life by the god Dagda.  In return, he must serve as Dagda’s personal “Godslayer” in the world changing events to come…
  • Asahi – The ever optimistic Asahi is Nanashi’s childhood friend/Hunter Association teammate. She’s eager to prove herself in the field, but will need to overcome her doubts in order to become a key member of the group.
  • Navarre – This familiar Samurai from the Eastern Kingdom of Mikado is making a return! Well sort of, because Navarre is no longer what we would call “alive.” He’s now a green ghost who can use his ethereal powers to the benefit of the team.
  • Nozomi – Nozomi is another familiar character who is the newly appointed Fairy Queen working under the protection of the goddess Danu. She’s a level-headed and mature ally who will provide valuable skills and insight for the party.
  • Hallelujah– This young gray haired individual is a member of the Ashura-kai gang, who is ordered to join Nanashi and co. in their journey to “watch” them. Hallelujah is accompanied by his foxlike pet demon Chironnupu, who will support him in battle.
  • Gaston – Gaston, or as he likes to call himself Gaston the Magnificent, is the brash and arrogant younger brother of Navarre. He is the leader of an elite squad of Samurai called the Crusaders and will undoubtedly be a useful partner during fights. That is, if players can stand his braggadocios nature, but you know what they say, “no one fights like Gaston!”
  • Toki – This mysterious Oni mask wearing girl in black is an assassin for the Ring of Gaea faction. She absolutely does not have an ulterior motive for joining the squad. Nope, totally doesn’t have a hidden agenda or anything like that.
  • Isabeau – This steadfast Samurai is the best friend and confidant of the heroic Flynn (the protagonist of Shin Megami Tensei IV). Isabeau is an experienced warrior who will act as a great role model for the younger members of the party.

The plot of Shin Megami Tensei IV: Apocalypse overlaps with Shin Megami Tensei IV (and features some familiar characters), but no previous experience with the original is required! The game features:

  • Divine Intrigue – Choose between peace or anarchy while being a pawn in the gods’ chess game.
  • Combat Partners – Hunting demons is dangerous, so count on some backup! Alongside the standard three demons, players will be able to rely on one of seven partners to help win battles.
  • Oodles of Demons – Be on your guard because Tokyo is infested with a series record 450+ demons to fight, fuse, or recruit.
  • Revamped Demon Fusion – Demons will have affinities for certain skills, so players can better plan the outcome of fusions.
  • Classic SMT Combat – Prospective Hunters will exploit weaknesses, boost attributes, and unlock skill bonuses with the returning Press Turn and Smirking systems.