The Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) is one of the most iconic and beloved gaming consoles of all time, with a library of games that still holds up today. One game that stands out among its peers is Shin Megami Tensei II, also known as Majin Tensei in Japan, which was released for the SNES in 1994. Developed by Atlus, this role-playing game (RPG) is often cited as one of the best games ever made and has since become a cult classic.

In this article, we'll delve into the world of Shin Megami Tensei II, exploring its gameplay mechanics, story, and features that make it a must-play for fans of RPGs. We'll also discuss the game's age rating, as well as its availability on various platforms.

Gameplay Mechanics

Shin Megami Tensei II is an action RPG that challenges players to navigate a post-apocalyptic world filled with demons and otherworldly creatures. The game takes place in a city called Angel Land, which has been ravaged by a catastrophic event known as the "Second Coming of God." Players take on the role of a protagonist who is tasked with recruiting and battling demons to save the world from destruction.

Gameplay involves exploring the city, battling enemies, collecting items and resources, and making choices that affect the story. The game's combat system is turn-based, with players able to summon demons to fight alongside them. These demons can be collected and befriended by using a unique process called "fusion," which allows players to combine two or more demons to create new, more powerful ones.

One of the standout features of Shin Megami Tensei II is its complex storyline, which explores themes of good and evil, free will, and the nature of humanity. The game's story is full of twists and turns, with multiple endings depending on the player's choices throughout the game.

Story

The story of Shin Megami Tensei II takes place in a world where demons have invaded Earth, causing widespread destruction and chaos. Players take on the role of a protagonist who has been chosen by a mysterious figure known as the "Demon King" to save the world from destruction.

As players progress through the game, they are tasked with recruiting and battling demons to defeat an army of enemies known as the "Wicked Ones." Along the way, players encounter various allies, including other human characters who possess unique abilities and strengths.

Throughout the game, players must make difficult choices that affect the story, such as deciding which demons to recruit or which path to take in a particular situation. These choices have significant consequences, influencing the outcome of battles and the ultimate fate of the world.

Features

Shin Megami Tensei II features several key mechanics that set it apart from other RPGs of its time. One of these is the "Nerve System," which allows players to assign attributes to different body parts, such as the head or arms, to affect their performance in battle.

Another notable feature is the game's demon-collecting system, which allows players to collect and befriend demons using a unique fusion process. These demons can then be used to fight alongside the player character, providing them with powerful abilities and strengths.

The game also features a variety of items and resources that players can collect and use throughout their journey. These include potions, bombs, and other equipment that can aid in combat or exploration.

Age Rating

Shin Megami Tensei II is rated "M" for Mature by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), indicating that it contains content not suitable for children under the age of 17. This rating is due to several factors, including:

• Frequent and graphic violence
• Strong language and profanity
• Mild suggestive humor

The game's themes of good vs. evil, free will, and the nature of humanity are also a factor in its M rating.

Availability

Shin Megami Tensei II was originally released for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) in 1994. Since then, it has been re-released on several platforms, including:

• The Virtual Console on the Wii and Wii U
• The Nintendo 3DS Virtual Console
• PC via Steam

In recent years, Shin Megami Tensei II has also been released as part of several compilation packs, including "Shin Megami Tensei: Demonic Resurrection" for the PlayStation Portable (PSP) and "Shin Megami Tensei IV: Apocalypse" for the Nintendo 3DS.

Conclusion

Shin Megami Tensei II is a cult classic RPG that has captivated audiences with its complex storyline, engaging gameplay mechanics, and memorable characters. With its M rating, it may not be suitable for all ages, but fans of RPGs and demon-collecting games will find it to be a must-play experience.

Whether you're playing the original SNES version or one of its re-releases on modern platforms, Shin Megami Tensei II is sure to provide hours of entertainment and challenge your perceptions of good and evil.