This is a list of difficulty modes in Shin Megami Tensei V (SMT 5). Read on to learn how to change difficulty settings, when you can change difficulty modes, and the differences between each difficulty.
List of Contents
Normal difficulty offers the most balanced playthrough experience in the game, pitting you against enemies with moderate strength levels while still making the gameplay and story interesting.
Casual difficulty is actually tougher than it sounds. We recommend Safety difficulty if you want to focus on the game's story and breeze through the battles.
Safety difficulty only becomes available after downloading it from the Nintendo eShop. You can also download the Japanese language audio as a free DLC!
This is a difficulty mode that anyone can enjoy and has been added as free DLC. Recommended for players who are new too RPGs. Enemies will likely die in a single hit unless they're way above your level but should still pose no challenge.
This difficulty mode offers a mild level of difficulty while allowing the player to experience the story. Recommended for players who are unfamiliar with the Shin Megami Tensei series.
This difficulty mode offers a moderate level of difficulty as the player progresses through the story. Recommended for players who are familiar with the Shin Megami Tensei series.
This difficulty mode provides a high level of difficulty. Recommended for players who are on a second playthrough or have a high level of experience with the Shin Megami Tensei series.
Note: If you select Hard Mode and later switch to an easier difficulty, you will no longer be able to return to Hard Mode for the remainder of your playthrough.
When starting a new game, the player will be automatically prompted to select a difficulty setting.
Players can adjust the difficulty how they see fit at any point during their playthrough for a tailored experience. Whether the currently selected difficulty mode is too challenging or not enough, players are free to change things up at any time.
To change difficulty modes, simply open the menu then systems then options. Once there, choose the difficulty settings then choose the difficulty settings you wish.
Note: If you select Hard Mode and later switch to an easier difficulty, you will no longer be able to return to Hard Mode for the remainder of your playthrough.
Tips and Tricks | Beginner's Guide
All Stats Explained | Best Nahobino Builds |
Strength | Vitality |
Magic | Agility |
Luck |
How to Level Up Fast | How to Farm Macca |
How to Farm Glory | How to Farm Mitamas |
Best Names for the Nahobino | Best Demons to Use |
Best Miracles Tier List | All Abscesses Locations |
All Cironnup Locations | All Aogami Essence Locations |
List of Special Fusions |
Ok, but can you choose hard difficulty when starting a NG+?
Difficulty Differences | Recommended Difficulty Setting
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Hard is the most balanced IMO. If you are playing SMTV you're probably doing it for the gameplay anyways, and hard doesn't require more grind, it just makes strategy important.