Moon Phases – SMT V guide

Shin Megami Tensei V’s Moon Phase system affects everything from Demon Fusion to how easy it is to recruit demons into your party. In this SMT V Moon Phase guide, we’ll explain how the Moon Phases work and how that will affect your game.

SMT V Moon Phases

Image: Atlus/Sega via Polygon

As you play Shin Megami Tensei V, the moon will progress through its phases. The phase is displayed in the upper left corner of your screen. Starting with the New Moon (0/8), it’ll progress through Half Moon (4/8) to Full Moon (8/8) based on the number of steps your protagonist takes as you explore the world. It will then reverse direction and count down back to New Moon.

Effects of Moon Phase

The main effect you’ll see from the moon’s phase is that demons will be less receptive to joining your party during the Full Moon. When you attempt to talk to an enemy demon during a Full Moon, they won’t even respond.

The Moon Phase also affects Demon Fusion. During a Full Moon, the chance of a Fusion Accident increases. These accidents result in unexpected demons — not the demon you were going for — that might even be much higher level than your protagonist.