SMT V Vengeance: Endings Explained (No Spoilers!)

by Jhon Lennon 50 views

So, you've plunged into the world of Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance, huh? Awesome! You're probably wondering about the endings, and let's be real, navigating the choices in SMT games can feel like traversing a moral minefield. Fear not, my friend! This guide will give you a handle on what to expect without spoiling the juicy details. We're talking about the paths you can tread, not the specific cutscenes. No need to worry about accidental spoilers here.

Understanding the Alignment System

Before we dive into the endings themselves, let's chat about the bedrock of SMT's branching narratives: the alignment system. This isn't your typical "good vs. evil" setup. Instead, SMT thrives on a Law, Chaos, and Neutral axis. Think of it like this:

  • Law: Order, structure, and a world governed by divine rules. Law often emphasizes a rigid social hierarchy and the suppression of individual freedom for the sake of the greater good. Those who follow the Law alignment believe that a strict, unwavering adherence to rules and order is the only way to achieve true peace and prosperity. The world under Law is often depicted as pristine and utopian, but at the cost of personal autonomy.
  • Chaos: Freedom, rebellion, and the supremacy of the individual will. Chaos champions personal liberty above all else, even if it means societal instability. Followers of Chaos believe that true progress and happiness can only be achieved when individuals are free to pursue their own desires without restraint. The world under Chaos is often depicted as wild and untamed, full of both danger and opportunity.
  • Neutral: A balance between Law and Chaos, striving for a world where individuals have freedom within a framework of order. The Neutral path seeks to avoid the extremes of both Law and Chaos, recognizing the value of both order and individual liberty. Those who follow the Neutral alignment believe that true harmony can only be achieved by finding a balance between these opposing forces. The world under Neutral is often depicted as a blend of civilization and wilderness, where individuals are free to pursue their goals within a framework of rules and laws.

Your choices throughout the game will subtly shift your alignment. Dialogue options, the demons you choose to align with, and even the quests you undertake all contribute to this hidden meter. There are no explicit indicators showing your alignment, so pay close attention to the philosophical leanings of your decisions. Are you prioritizing order and structure, embracing freedom and rebellion, or seeking a balance between the two?

The Endings of Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance

Okay, let's talk endings. SMT V: Vengeance, like its predecessors, offers multiple endings, each reflecting a different vision for the world's future. While I won't spoil the specifics, here's a general overview of what you can expect:

  • Law Ending: Choose this path if you believe in a world governed by divine order and unwavering rules. This ending typically involves aligning yourself with powerful beings who seek to impose their will upon humanity, creating a structured and controlled society. Be prepared to make sacrifices for the sake of the greater good, even if it means sacrificing individual freedom and autonomy. The Law ending often presents a vision of a utopian world, but at the cost of personal expression and choice.
  • Chaos Ending: Embrace this path if you champion individual freedom and the power of the human will. This ending typically involves rebelling against oppressive forces and forging your own destiny, even if it means embracing chaos and uncertainty. Be prepared to fight for your beliefs and challenge the status quo, even if it means disrupting the established order. The Chaos ending often presents a vision of a world where individuals are free to pursue their own desires, but at the risk of societal instability and conflict.
  • Neutral Ending: This ending typically involves seeking a balance between order and chaos, recognizing the value of both structure and individual liberty. Be prepared to navigate complex moral dilemmas and make difficult choices that prioritize the well-being of both society and the individual. The Neutral ending often presents a vision of a world where individuals are free to pursue their goals within a framework of rules and laws.

Important Note: SMT V: Vengeance adds a new Canon ending which wasn't in the original SMTV, so, you have more than those options, which makes the game even more interesting.

How to Influence Your Ending

So, how do you steer yourself toward the ending you desire? Here's the lowdown:

  1. Pay Attention to Dialogue: Dialogue choices are your primary tool for shaping your alignment. Read each option carefully and consider its implications. Does it prioritize order, freedom, or balance? Choose the option that aligns with your desired worldview.
  2. Consider Your Actions: Your actions in the game world also have consequences. The quests you undertake, the demons you choose to align with, and even the way you approach combat can all influence your alignment. Be mindful of the message you're sending with your actions.
  3. Demon Fusion Matters: The demons you fuse and keep in your party also reflect your alignment. Law-aligned demons will strengthen your affinity towards Law, while Chaos-aligned demons will push you towards Chaos. Choose your demons wisely.
  4. Be Consistent: Don't waver! If you're aiming for a Law ending, consistently choose Lawful options. Switching back and forth will only confuse the game's alignment system and potentially lock you out of your desired ending. And remember, there's no alignment meter so it's important to be consistent.

Avoiding Spoilers

Alright, let's address the elephant in the room: spoilers. Nobody likes having their gaming experience ruined, so here are some tips for navigating the online world without stumbling upon unwanted information:

  • Be Careful with Search Engines: When searching for information about SMT V: Vengeance, be specific with your queries. Instead of searching for "SMT V Vengeance endings," try searching for "SMT V Vengeance alignment system" or "SMT V Vengeance ending requirements." This will help you avoid accidentally stumbling upon spoiler-filled discussions.
  • Mute Keywords on Social Media: Most social media platforms allow you to mute specific keywords. Take advantage of this feature by muting terms like "SMT V Vengeance ending," "SMT V Vengeance final boss," and any other phrases that might reveal spoilers.
  • Avoid Spoiler-Heavy Communities: Steer clear of online communities that are known for openly discussing spoilers. Stick to communities that are dedicated to spoiler-free discussion or that have strict spoiler policies.
  • Be Wary of YouTube Thumbnails and Titles: YouTube can be a minefield of spoilers, especially in the thumbnails and titles of videos. Be careful when browsing YouTube for SMT V: Vengeance content, and avoid clicking on videos that seem likely to contain spoilers.

Final Thoughts

The endings in Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance are a reflection of your choices and beliefs. There's no "right" or "wrong" answer, so don't be afraid to forge your own path. Embrace the ambiguity, explore the different ideologies, and see where your decisions lead you. And most importantly, have fun!

So there you have it, guys! A spoiler-free guide to understanding the endings in Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance. Now go forth, make your choices, and shape the future of the world. Just remember to be consistent with your decisions and stay true to your beliefs. Good luck, and may your journey be filled with demons, deities, and difficult choices!