Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Summoner – Raidou Kuzunoha vs. the Soulless Army blends fast-paced action with the signature demon-summoning mechanics that series fans have come to expect. Rather than relying solely on turn-based commands, you directly control Raidou in battle, wielding swords and firearms to engage demons in real time. This transition to action-oriented combat adds immediacy to each confrontation, making every sword slash and gunshot feel impactful.

Your arsenal doesn’t end with Raidou’s weaponry, however. After defeating your first demonic foe, you unlock the ability to summon and command a roster of supernatural allies. These demons are controlled by AI, though you can configure their behavior before heading into battle. Deciding which demons accompany you, and how they respond to threats, introduces a strategic layer that balances the on-the-fly swordplay with thoughtful party composition.

Outside the heat of battle, gameplay shifts to detective work and exploration. Walking the streets of Taishō-era Tokyo, you gather clues, question suspects, and use certain demon abilities as investigative tools. Whether you’re persuading a nervous witness or unlocking a sealed door with supernatural aid, these segments provide a welcome break from combat and deepen the sense that you’re a modern-day occult detective.

Replay value is bolstered by branching cases and side missions that encourage careful exploration of the city. Each case can unfold differently depending on dialogue choices and which demons you deploy for support. For players who relish both action and strategy, Raidou Kuzunoha offers a satisfying hybrid experience that rewards experimentation and thorough investigation.

Graphics

On the PlayStation 2 hardware, Raidou Kuzunoha delivers impressive visuals that capture the atmosphere of 1920s Japan. Character models are detailed, with Raidou’s traditional yet stylish kimono blending seamlessly with the industrialized cityscapes of an emerging modern metropolis. Subtle weather effects and period-appropriate architecture lend authenticity to every district you explore.

Demon designs stand out as highlights of the graphical presentation. Each summoned ally features unique textures, vibrant color schemes, and animations that bring their otherworldly presence to life. Battle transitions showcase dynamic camera angles and fluid movement, ensuring that every summoned attack or special move feels cinematic.

The UI and menu systems are clean and easy to navigate. Demon fusion screens, inventory management, and detective notes all have distinct visual styles that align with the game’s supernatural detective theme. While load times are typical for a PS2-era title, they are short enough not to disrupt the pacing of either exploration or combat.

Story

Set in the Taishō era, the narrative centers on the fourteenth in the Kuzunoha line of devil summoners, Raidou Kumar Kuzunoha. When what appears to be an ordinary case escalates into a demonic encounter, Raidou’s latent summoning talents awaken, ushering in a series of supernatural crises that threaten Tokyo’s fragile peace. From the fog-shrouded streets to the gleaming new factories, the city itself becomes a character in your investigation.

The detective framework drives the plot forward, with each chapter unveiling new clues about a mysterious Soulless Army threatening to overrun human society. Compelling side characters—from skeptical police officers to spirit mediums—add depth and emotional resonance to your inquiries. Dialogue choices during interrogations can reveal hidden motivations, leading to multiple narrative threads that enhance replayability.

Pacing is handled skillfully, alternating between tense action sequences and quieter investigative moments. The sense of urgency intensifies as you piece together the true nature of the Soulless Army, while occasional historical touches—such as news reports on post–World War I industrialization—anchor the story in real-world context. This blend of myth and history elevates the narrative beyond a typical RPG storyline, offering players a rich, immersive tale.

Overall Experience

Raidou Kuzunoha vs. the Soulless Army stands out as a unique entry in the Megaten franchise, seamlessly merging action combat with the classic demon-summoning formula. The gameplay balance keeps both action fans and strategy enthusiasts engaged, while the detective segments provide a refreshing change of pace. Whether you’re chasing leads through neon-lit alleys or clashing steel with demonic foes, the experience remains consistently engaging.

The Taishō-era setting and period-accurate design create an evocative backdrop that complements the game’s supernatural elements. Strong writing, memorable characters, and atmospheric music combine to support a narrative that rewards careful exploration and multiple playthroughs. Demon fusion and AI configuration options further enhance longevity, allowing you to customize your roster and approach to each battle.

While the PS2 graphics and occasional loading pauses reflect the game’s age, the core design choices hold up exceptionally well. Raidou Kuzunoha vs. the Soulless Army is a must-play for fans of action RPGs, occult detective stories, and anyone curious about a different take on demon-summoning gameplay. Its blend of hands-on combat, strategic depth, and compelling mystery ensures it remains a standout title in the Devil Summoner lineage.

Retro Replay Score

7/10