Although it clearly takes the series in several brand-new directions, there's no doubt that Devil Summoner is a worthy addition to the series and excellent in its own right.

Looking for a traditional turn-based role-playing game (RPG) that doesn't feature elves, dragons, and the days of yore? Then I've got the game for you. Shin Megami Tensei: Digital Devil Saga (DDS) is the latest game from the much-loved (yet almost tragically ignored by American gamers) MegaTen universe. Renowned for their modern settings, philosophical and ideological story elements, use of demons, and unrelenting difficulty these games are revered by hardcore RPG fans. DDS is the latest offshoot in a gaming world that already features the Persona titles, Shin Megami Tensei: Nocturne, DemiKids, and a slew of other games, and much like its brethren, it's a refreshing change of pace for a genre that seems to be mired in stale ideas and clichéd stories.

Highly regarded in Japan, the Megami Tensei series (sometimes referred to as MegaTen) is one of that country's most popular and long-running role-playing game (RPG) franchises. Despite spanning approximately seventeen years and over fifty titles, its religious imagery and moral questions are practically unknown on domestic shores with the exception of two overlooked PlayStation discs, Persona: Revelations and the amazing Persona 2: Eternal Punishment. Now, with the release of Shin Megami Tensei: Nocturne, American players can sample a bit more of what they've been missing. It's delicious, but an acquired taste.