What is the Kagutsuchi

This is a guide to the Kagutsuchi mechanic in Shin Megami Tensei III HD Remaster (SMT Nocturne) for the Switch, PS4, and Steam! To learn more about what the Kagutsuchi is, its different phases, and how it affects the Vortex World, read on!

What is the Kagutsuchi?

The Kagutsuchi is the moon at the center of the Vortex World in SMT3. It acts as a time cycle that affects how different game mechanics work.

Phases of Kagutsuchi

The lunar cycle starts from the New Moon Phase, eventually becoming a Full Moon, then reverting back to a New Moon. This completes a full lunar cycle.

Players can keep track of the different phases of the Kagutsuchi by looking at the top-left corner of their screen. The indicator will be present even during battle, so it is helpful to be aware of it.

What does Kagutsuchi Affect?

Combat

The aggressiveness of demons will differ based on the phases of Kagutsuchi. Notably, their behavior is tied to the New and Full Moon phases.

During a New Moon, demons are more docile, sometimes even striking up conversation to end battle peacefuly. Fleeing battles during a New Moon is very easy.

During a Full Moon, demons are more aggressive. Players are usually prevented from fleeing battles during this time, making mid-game battles with multiple reinforcements harder than usual.

Skills

Some skills will rely on the phase of the Kagutsuchi to be effective. The skill Dark Might is an example of this, making all Phys. attacks critical hits during a new Kagutsuchi.

Use the phases of the Kagutsuchi to time your attacks on bosses to give your party an extra edge during battle.

Recruitment

The phases of the Kagutsuchi greatly affects the recruitment of demons.

Some demons will not want to talk during a Full Moon as the Kagutsuchi drives them into a frenzy. Other demons, however, will prefer to talk under a Full Moon.

This mechanic makes negotiation tricky. To see what else affects recruitment, visit our How to Recruit Demons guide page!

How to Recruit Demons

Mystical Chest Rewards

Rewards obtained from Mystical Chests are affected by the phases of the Kagutsuchi.

To always get the best reward, make sure to open Mystical Chests during a Full Moon.

For more information on Mystical Chests and the rewards you can get from them, visit our Mystical Chests page!

Mystical Chests Guide

Affects Fusion

The Kagutsuchi also affects fusion. In particular, a full moon is required to use the Sacrificial fusion feature and different phases of the moon are required for some fusion results!

How to Fuse Demons

Shin Megami Tensei III: Nocturne Related Guides

Tips and Tricks

All Tips and Tricks