🔖 3 min read

The gaming world is no stranger to remasters, but RAIDOU Remastered: The Mystery of the Soulless Army stands out by bringing back a niche yet beloved title from the PlayStation 2 era. Developed by ATLUS, this action RPG combines detective elements with supernatural themes, offering players a unique experience set in an alternate 1930s Japan.​PlayStation Store
Gameplay and Mechanics

At its core, RAIDOU Remastered retains the essence of the original game while introducing several quality-of-life improvements. The combat system has been overhauled to provide smoother and more responsive controls, making battles more engaging. Players can summon demons to aid in combat, each with unique abilities that can turn the tide of battle.​

One of the standout features is the detective aspect. As Raidou Kuzunoha, players investigate mysterious occurrences in the Capital, gathering clues, interrogating NPCs, and piecing together the overarching narrative. This blend of action and investigation adds depth to the gameplay, setting it apart from typical RPGs.​

 

Visual and Audio Enhancements

YouTube video

The remaster boasts enhanced graphics that breathe new life into the game’s Taisho-era setting. Character models are more detailed, environments are richer, and the overall aesthetic captures the blend of historical and supernatural elements effectively.​

Audio improvements are also notable. The addition of full voiceovers to the main story brings characters to life, adding emotional weight to pivotal scenes. The soundtrack, a mix of traditional Japanese instruments and modern compositions, complements the game’s atmosphere perfectly.​

 

Story and Characters

Atlus in manga showcasing the demon hunter

The narrative follows Raidou Kuzunoha, a young devil summoner tasked with protecting the Capital from supernatural threats. The story delves into themes of duty, identity, and the clash between tradition and modernity. Supporting characters are well-developed, each with their own motivations and backstories that intertwine with the main plot.​

The game’s pacing ensures that players remain invested, with plot twists and revelations that keep the story fresh. The integration of side quests and optional content further enriches the world-building, offering insights into the lives of the Capital’s inhabitants.​

 

Accessibility and Modern Features

Recognizing the challenges of older game designs, ATLUS has implemented several modern features to enhance accessibility. These include adjustable difficulty settings, improved save systems, and clearer tutorials. Such additions make the game more approachable for newcomers while still providing a challenge for veterans.​

The user interface has been revamped for modern consoles, ensuring intuitive navigation and a more streamlined experience. Load times have been reduced, and performance is stable across all platforms, including PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, and Xbox Series X|S.​

 

The Summoners Guild and Additional Content

Screenshot from a cutscene of the remastered game

ATLUS West has introduced the Summoners Guild, a fan club dedicated to RAIDOU Remastered enthusiasts. Members gain access to exclusive content, including the first chapter of the RAIDOU manga, Raidou Kuzunoha vs. The Lone Marebito, officially translated into multiple languages for the first time. This initiative not only rewards fans but also expands the game’s lore beyond the main narrative.​

The Summoners Guild also offers promotions, giveaways, and insights into the game’s development, fostering a community around the title. Such engagement strategies are commendable, as they keep the player base active and invested.​​

 

Verdict: A Supernatural Return Worth Summoning

RAIDOU Remastered: The Mystery of the Soulless Army isn’t just a visual upgrade of a cult classic—it’s a thoughtful restoration of one of ATLUS’s most intriguing narrative experiments. Moreover the game seamlessly blends real-time action combat with old-school detective storytelling, wrapped in a mystic 1930s Tokyo backdrop that’s rarely explored in modern gaming. If you’re a fan of the Shin Megami Tensei universe, detective-style JRPGs, or action RPGs with soul, RAIDOU Remastered deserves your time.