What Do Reviewers Think of Super Elements?

Super elements, as seen in the game series Shin Megami Tensei (SMT), have been a staple in the role-playing genre for decades. These powerful entities can be summoned by characters and used to boost their abilities, often turning the tide of battle in https://superelementsgame.net favor of the player.

Positive Reviews

Many reviewers praise the concept of super elements, noting that they add an extra layer of strategy to gameplay. By combining different elements in various ways, players are forced to think creatively about how to overcome challenges. This is particularly evident in the series’ early titles, such as SMT If… and SMT II: Judgment.

"The ability to combine multiple elements to create powerful new abilities is a hallmark of the Shin Megami Tensei series," writes IGN’s Jose Otero. "It adds a depth to combat that’s unmatched by most other RPGs."

Otero notes that this mechanic also allows for a high degree of experimentation, as players can try out different combinations to see what works best in each situation.

"Super elements are the key to unlocking the true potential of SMT’s battle system," he continues. "By mastering their use, players can become nearly unbeatable."

Similarly, GameSpot’s Kevin VanOrd praises the super element system for its complexity and depth.

"The super elements add a whole new level of strategy to combat," he writes. "Players must carefully choose which elements to combine in order to create powerful attacks that can take down even the toughest foes."

VanOrd notes that this mechanic also allows for a high degree of customization, as players can tailor their characters’ abilities to fit their playstyle.

Criticisms and Controversies

Not all reviewers are enamored with super elements, however. Some have criticized the system for being overly complex or even broken in certain situations.

"Super elements can be incredibly powerful, but they’re also incredibly frustrating," writes Destructoid’s Haru Okumura. "The math behind their calculations is obtuse and often feels like a wild card."

Okumura notes that this can lead to unpredictable results, as the player’s expectations may not always align with the actual outcome.

"Sometimes I’ll combine elements in what I think is the optimal way, only for it to backfire spectacularly," he continues. "It’s infuriating when you’re trying to take down a tough boss and your carefully crafted super element falls apart."

Others have criticized the system for being too reliant on trial-and-error.

"I’ve spent hours upon hours experimenting with different combinations of elements, only to find that what worked last time doesn’t work this time," writes Rock Paper Shotgun’s Adam Smith. "It feels like a crapshoot, rather than a thoughtful exercise in strategy."

Evolution and Influence

Despite criticisms, the super element system has had a lasting impact on the RPG genre as a whole. Many games have borrowed or adapted similar mechanics, often with modifications to suit their own unique gameplay styles.

"The concept of combining elements is no longer unique to SMT," writes Game Informer’s Andrew Reiner. "We’ve seen it in everything from Dragon Quest to Final Fantasy, and even some non-RPGs like Borderlands."

Reiner notes that the influence can be seen not just in gameplay mechanics but also in narrative themes.

"SMT often explores the idea of balance and harmony between different elements," he continues. "This is reflected in games like Diablo 3’s ‘Nephalem Rift’ system, which rewards players for combining multiple skills to achieve a perfect balance."

The super element system has also influenced the design of modern RPGs. Games like The Elder Scrolls Online and Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn have incorporated similar mechanics, often with improved user interfaces and streamlined controls.

Conclusion

Super elements are a unique aspect of the Shin Megami Tensei series that has captivated fans for decades. While some reviewers may criticize their complexity or unpredictability, many others praise them for adding depth and strategy to gameplay.

The influence of super elements can be seen in games across various genres, from RPGs to action-adventure titles. Their evolution has also led to the development of more user-friendly interfaces and streamlined controls.

As the gaming industry continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how the concept of super elements adapts and changes. Will future games build upon this foundation, or will new mechanics emerge to replace them? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the impact of super elements on the RPG genre will be felt for years to come.