How Do the Moon Phases Work in Shin Megami Tensei V?

Among the many defining mechanics included in the Shin Megami Tensei series are the Moon Phase mechanics, which can influence other mechanics like Demon Fusion quite a bit.

These Moon Phase mechanics return in Shin Megami Tensei V and knowing what they influence is extremely important to take advantage of more gameplay nuances that can make the entire adventure more enjoyable. Here’s everything you need to know about them.

How Do the Moon Phases Work in Shin Megami Tensei V

The Moon Phase mechanics in Shin Megami Tensei V mainly influence three other mechanics: demon and Magatsuhi Crystals respawn, Demon Conversations, and Demon Fusions.

Every time a New Moon Phase comes, all previously defeated demons and all collected Magatsuhi Crystals will respawn automatically. Do keep in mind that they will only respawn if they are not in your view, so if there is any particular demon you want to respawn in your vicinity, you will have to leave the area.

New and Full Moon Phases, or phases that are very close to them, influence Demon Conversations, making demons more likely or less likely to talk with you and join your party. Every demon behaves differently in this situation, so experiment to make some unwilling demons finally join your entourage.

Lastly, the Full Moon Phase has a great influence on Demon Fusion, as it increases chances of Fusion Accidents. When a Fusion Accident happens, you will get a different demon than expected, but with a chance of it coming at a much higher level than that of the Nahobino. If you don’t want something like this to happen, just avoid fusing demons with a Full Moon. Just wander around on the field for a short while to change the Moon Phase.