The gameplay in Shin Megami Tensei IV: Apocalypse is both challenging and rewarding. It blends traditional turn-based combat with exploration and character customization. The Press Turn system, a staple of the series, allows players to exploit enemy weaknesses, turning the tide of battle in their favor. This system requires strategy and careful planning, as players must manage their party's positioning and actions efficiently.
One of the most notable features of the series is the ability to recruit demons. Players can negotiate with these creatures, forming alliances that are crucial to their survival. The demon list in Apocalypse is extensive, offering a wide variety of creatures to recruit, each with its own strengths, weaknesses, and abilities.
⚠️ If playing on Citra, ensure your audio emulation settings are set to HLE (not LLE) for best compatibility with UNDUB patches.
Shin Megami Tensei IV: Apocalypse - UNDUB on the 3DS is a must-play for fans of the JRPG genre, especially those familiar with the series. Its blend of deep storytelling, strategic combat, and extensive character customization makes it a standout title. The enhancements from the UNDUB patch ensure that players have access to a polished and engaging experience. Whether you're navigating the dangers of a post-apocalyptic world, negotiating with demons, or unraveling the mysteries of the Tower of Babel, Apocalypse offers an adventure that is both challenging and deeply rewarding.
For anyone looking to dive into a rich, dark world filled with complex gameplay mechanics and a thought-provoking narrative, Shin Megami Tensei IV: Apocalypse on the 3DS is an excellent choice. With its memorable demon designs, haunting soundtrack, and the strategic depth of its Press Turn system, Apocalypse stands as a testament to Atlus's mastery of the JRPG genre.
Shin Megami Tensei IV: Apocalypse -UNDUB- is a fan-modified version of the 2016 3DS RPG that replaces the English voice acting with the original Japanese audio while retaining English text. This "undub" version is popular among fans who prefer the original performances from Japanese voice actors like Xander Mobus (Dagda) and Erica Lindbeck (Asahi) in their native language. Key Features of the UNDUB Version Original Audio
: Replaces all English voiceovers with Japanese files sourced from the Japanese release, Shin Megami Tensei IV: Final Complete Translation
: Keeps all menus, dialogue, and UI elements in English for full playability by Western audiences.
: Recent versions (like v1.1 by Canzah & Slow) include critical bug fixes for specific cutscenes, such as those in the Neutral Ending. Core Gameplay & Story The game itself is a direct follow-up to Shin Megami Tensei IV
, set in a post-apocalyptic Tokyo where humans are caught in a war between angels, demons, and the Divine Powers. Protagonist : You play as
, a cadet hunter who is resurrected by the god Dagda to serve as his "Godslayer". Battle System : Features the refined Press Turn System
, allowing players to gain extra turns by hitting enemy weaknesses. Partner System Apocalypse
, this allows you to choose one of seven partners who assist in battle with unique skills and special joint attacks once an assist gauge is filled. Demon Collection : Recruit and fuse nearly 450 demons to build your party. Installation Details
The undub is typically applied as a patch for users with custom firmware (CFW) like Patch Path : Files are placed in the luma/titles/[TitleID] folder on the SD card. USA Version: 00040000000E5C00 EUR Version: 0004000000141C00 Requirements
: "Game Patching" must be enabled in the LumaCFW settings menu (accessed by holding Select during boot). Current Availability
With the Nintendo 3DS eShop now closed, the original game is no longer available for digital purchase.
Shin Megami Tensei IV: Apocalypse (SMTIVA), released in 2016 for the Nintendo 3DS, stands as a polarizing yet mechanically refined sequel to the original Shin Megami Tensei IV. While often praised for its superior gameplay, the demand for an "UNDUB" version—which replaces English voice acting with the original Japanese audio while retaining English subtitles—highlights a significant cultural and aesthetic divide within the fanbase. The Drive for the "Undub"
The preference for an undub version typically stems from several key factors: Shin Megami Tensei IV- Apocalypse -UNDUB- 3DS -...
Artistic Integrity: Many players believe the original Japanese performances better align with the intended tone, especially given the game's shift toward more "anime-esque" character archetypes and "shonen-style" friendship themes.
Voice Variety and Quality: Fans often find the Japanese voice acting more diverse, noting that English dubs can sometimes feel repetitive across multiple JRPGs. In some cases, specific English performances are perceived as "cringey" or ill-fitting for the darker, post-apocalyptic setting.
Localization Liberties: Discrepancies between translated text and original intent can drive enthusiasts toward the original audio to bridge the gap in cultural nuances. SMTIVA: Mechanical Triumph vs. Narrative Departure
The game itself is a "side-step" sequel that explores an alternate timeline within the neutral path of the first game.
The release of Shin Megami Tensei IV: Apocalypse on the Nintendo 3DS marked a mechanical peak for the series, but for many purists, the experience wasn't complete without the original Japanese voices. This led to the creation of the popular "UNDUB" version—a community-made patch that restores the original Japanese audio while keeping the English text and interface.
Whether you are looking to relive Nanashi’s journey or experiencing this dark RPG for the first time, here is an in-depth look at what makes the SMT IV: Apocalypse UNDUB the definitive way to play. What is the SMT IV: Apocalypse UNDUB?
In the world of gaming, an "undub" refers to a fan-modified version of a localized game. In this specific case, developers and fans from communities like GBAtemp worked to replace the English voiceovers with the original Japanese recordings from the Japanese release, Shin Megami Tensei IV: Final.
Original Spoken Audio: Restoration of all Japanese dialogue, including battle cries and cutscenes.
Localized Text: All menus, quest logs, and subtitles remain in English.
Patching Method: Often distributed as a LayeredFS patch for use with Luma3DS custom firmware, making it accessible on original hardware. Why Fans Prefer the UNDUB Version
While the official English dub is generally well-received, many JRPG enthusiasts prefer the UNDUB for several key reasons:
Atmosphere & Immersion: The game is set in a post-apocalyptic Tokyo; hearing the characters speak Japanese often feels more "authentic" to the setting.
Star-Studded Cast: The Japanese version features high-profile voice actors whose performances are highly regarded by the "Megaten" fanbase.
Translation Nuance: Some players find that the original voice delivery better conveys the specific tones of characters like the cynical demon Dagda or the earnest Asahi. Gameplay & Story: The Peak of 3DS RPGs what's the diference between smt IV and smt IV apocalypse?
They have mostly similar gameplay but Apocalypse has a bunch of improvements and balance changes over the original 4. BigImpact12. Reddit·r/Megaten
Is SMT IV Apocalypse better than the original SMT IV? : r/JRPG
The following essay explores Shin Megami Tensei IV: Apocalypse The gameplay in Shin Megami Tensei IV: Apocalypse
for the Nintendo 3DS, specifically focusing on its narrative placement, gameplay refinements, and the significance of the "Undub" version for purists and fans.
The Godslayer’s Choice: A Critical Look at Shin Megami Tensei IV: Apocalypse
Released in 2016 as a "side-step" sequel to the acclaimed Shin Megami Tensei IV, Shin Megami Tensei IV: Apocalypse
(originally titled SMT IV Final in Japan) represents a unique experiment in the long-running Atlus franchise. While it utilizes the same engine and post-apocalyptic Tokyo setting as its predecessor, it shifts the focus to a "what-if" scenario occurring near the end of the original game's Neutral route. Through its refined mechanics and polarizing narrative shifts, Apocalypse serves as both a technical masterpiece and a stylistic departure for the series. Narrative Pivot: From Mythic Scale to Human Drama
While SMT IV focused on the grand conflict between the Eastern Kingdom of Mikado and the "unclean ones" of Tokyo, Apocalypse centers on Nanashi, a young Hunter cadet who is killed early in the game and resurrected by the mysterious god Dagda. As Dagda's "Godslayer," the player is thrust into a four-way war between the monotheistic forces of Merkabah, the chaotic demons of Lucifer, a new faction called the "Divine Powers" led by Krishna, and the human resistance.
Critics often note that the story feels more "Persona-esque," emphasizing a central cast of teenage companions—such as the healing-focused Asahi—rather than the solitary, philosophical journey of previous entries. This shift toward human drama has been polarizing; some fans enjoy the deeper character interaction, while others argue it dilutes the dark, oppressive atmosphere that defines mainline Shin Megami Tensei. Mechanical Perfection: Refining the Press Turn System
Where Apocalypse is almost universally praised is its gameplay. It takes the "Press Turn" battle system—where exploiting weaknesses grants extra actions—and polishes it to near-perfection.
The Shin Megami Tensei IV: Apocalypse UNDUB version is a fan-made modification of the 2016 Nintendo 3DS role-playing game. It replaces the North American or European English voice acting with the original Japanese audio while keeping all text and subtitles in English. This patch is particularly popular among fans who prefer the original performances or want a more "authentic" experience while still understanding the story. Key Features of the UNDUB Patch
Audio Replacement: Swaps out all English voice-over files for the original Japanese ones from the Japanese release, Shin Megami Tensei IV: Final.
Full Coverage: Most modern undub patches cover everything from standard dialogue to cinematic cutscenes.
Compatibility: Works with existing save files and supports both the USA and EUR versions of the game, provided the correct title ID is used. Installation Overview
To run the undub version, you typically need a 3DS with Luma3DS Custom Firmware (CFW).
Luma LayeredFS: Most patches use the "LayeredFS" method. You copy the undub files into the luma/titles/[TitleID] folder on your SD card.
Enable Patching: You must enable "Enable Game Patching" in the Luma3DS configuration menu (accessed by holding Select while booting).
DLC Support: Using the undub can sometimes cause issues with DLC. Users often resolve this by using Locale Emulation (setting the locale to "USA EN") within Luma3DS to ensure the game recognizes the additional content. Game Background
Sequel Status: Apocalypse is a pseudo-sequel/alternate timeline to the original Shin Megami Tensei IV, specifically following the events of the "Neutral" path.
Gameplay Improvements: It refined many mechanics from its predecessor, such as a better world map, expanded Press Turn combat, and a "Partner" system where AI allies assist in battle. ⚠️ If playing on Citra , ensure your
Story Themes: Unlike the traditional Law vs. Chaos conflict, Apocalypse focuses on the choice between Peace and Anarchy. Let's Play Shin Megami Tensei IV: Apocalypse
The 3DS original had lip flaps timed to English dub. In UNDUB, flaps desync. This feature could optionally disable lip movement or replace with generic open/close cycling during Japanese voice playback — vastly improving immersion.
Would you like a technical outline (memory addresses, event hooks) or a mockup design for how this could look on real 3DS/Citra screens?
Shin Megami Tensei IV: Apocalypse - UNDUB - 3DS - A Post-Apocalyptic Masterpiece
The Shin Megami Tensei series has long been revered for its dark, gritty take on the world of role-playing games, and Shin Megami Tensei IV: Apocalypse, often abbreviated as SMT IV: Apocalypse or simply Apocalypse, is no exception. Released as an enhanced version of Shin Megami Tensei IV, this game offers a compelling narrative, engaging gameplay, and a rich demon-collecting experience that fans of the series have come to love. Available exclusively on the Nintendo 3DS, SMT IV: Apocalypse presents a unique blend of exploration, combat, and demon management that sets it apart from other titles in the genre.
The Nintendo 3DS, despite being a handheld console, brings Shin Megami Tensei IV: Apocalypse to life with surprisingly detailed graphics. The environments are richly textured, conveying the devastation and isolation of a post-apocalyptic world. The demon designs are creative and often terrifying, adding to the game's dark atmosphere.
The soundtrack, composed by Shoji Meguro and Kenichi Tsuchiya, perfectly complements the game's tone. From haunting melodies that echo through the desolate landscapes to intense battle themes, the music in Apocalypse enhances every moment of the game, creating a truly immersive experience.
SMT IV: Apocalypse is technically a sequel to Shin Megami Tensei IV, taking place in an alternate timeline of the original game’s neutral route. The premise is grim: the forces of Law (led by Merkabah) and Chaos (led by Lucifer) are locked in an endless, violent stalemate in Tokyo, with the remnants of humanity caught in the crossfire.
You play as Nanashi, a cadet who dies in the opening moments of the game only to be resurrected by the deity Dagda to serve as his personal "God-Slayer." Compared to the lone samurai vibe of its predecessor, Apocalypse offers a more party-centric narrative, introducing memorable companions like Asahi, Navarre, and the series-favorite demon hunter, Gaston.
The gameplay polished the intricate Press Turn battle system to a mirror sheen, introducing "Smirk" mechanics and partner assists that made combat faster and more tactical. However, the divide between the English and Japanese versions lies not in the gameplay, but in the tone.
Q: Is there an UNDUB for the original Shin Megami Tensei IV? A: Yes. The process is identical. However, note that the original SMT IV had very limited voice acting (mostly cutscenes and battle grunts). Apocalypse has significantly more dialogue, making the UNDUB more impactful.
Q: Can I play this on Citra (PC 3DS Emulator)? A: Absolutely. In fact, installing the UNDUB CIA on Citra is easier. Just go to File -> Install CIA and select the file. The UNDUB runs perfectly at 4K upscaling on Citra.
Q: Will my English DLC work? A: It might, but the voices for the DLC demons (Mephisto, Cleopatra) might default to English or cause a crash. It is safer to find the Japanese DLC pack for the UNDUB.
Q: Is the text changed? A: No. The UNDUB only touches audio files. All menus, skill descriptions, and story text remain the official Atlus English translation.
A common question: Does the UNDUB crash?
Generally, yes, it is very stable if sourced correctly. Because SMT IV: Apocalypse shares the engine with the original SMT IV (which also has a stable UNDUB), the file structure is well understood.
Known Minor Issues:
If you encounter a crash on the first map transition, ensure you have Luma3DS’s game patching turned off, or ensure the UNDUB was built correctly (some older builds have a corrupted sound.cpk).