Atlus, who are probably best known for the Persona series, have announced a new game in a different Shin Megami Tensei franchise today. Get ready for this title, because it’s a mouthful: Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Summoner 2: Raidou Kuzunoha vs. King Abaddon will be heading to the PS2 on May 12 in North America. The sequel to a game I’ve never played, Devil Summoner 2 is said to be an action RPG with “a deep, easy-to-control combat system, nearly two hundred demons to negotiate with, collect, and fuse, and a variety of strategies to employ and master.” Apparently, the release will be even more limited than Atlus games usually are, so pre-order as soon as possible if you want a copy. Oh, and every game comes with the plushie seen above.

Below are a handful of screenshots, as well as the full press release with more gameplay details. I can’t say I’m overly impressed with the game so far, probably because I’m a bit tired of Atlus sticking to last-gen systems. Then again, if it’s anywhere near as good as Persona 4, I’ll have nothing to complain about. Has anyone played the previous Devil Summoner title? Is it worth playing?

IRVINE, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 27, 2009 - Atlus U.S.A., Inc. today announced that Shin Megami Tensei®: Devil Summoner 2™: Raidou Kuzunoha vs. King Abaddon, a new chapter in the stunningly original action RPG series for PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, is making its way to North America on May 12th. Improved over its predecessor in every way, Devil Summoner 2 is an action RPG breath of fresh air, with a deep, easy-to-control combat system, nearly two hundred demons to negotiate with, collect, and fuse, and a variety of strategies to employ and master. Experience a 1920's Tokyo bustling with cases to solve, criminals to bring to justice, and the threat of the mysterious King Abaddon looming on the horizon.

For a limited time, and out of an exceptionally small fixed number of units, North American gamers will have even more reason to pick up the game that raced to the top of the Japanese game sales charts upon its release. Each and every launch copy of Devil Summoner 2 will feature a rare Raiho plushie doll (not available for sale separately). Only a small amount of these rare bundles will be assembled, and each package will be numbered to ensure its rarity and collectible value. Should there be future print runs of the game, they will ship without the Raiho collectible. Act before they're gone!

Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Summoner 2: Raidou Kuzunoha vs. King Abaddon is scheduled to negotiate its way into retailers on May 12, 2009 with an MSRP of $39.99. Each and every copy of the game's limited quantity launch will ship with a rare Raiho collectible plushie.

About Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Summoner 2: Raidou Kuzunoha versus King Abaddon:

A new threat to Japan's Capital calls for the return of its case-solving, tube-slinging Devil Summoner: Raidou Kuzunoha the 14th. When a woman walks into the Narumi Detective Agency and asks to find a man, Raidou's boss is reluctant to accept, but soon it's clear there's more to the case than it seems on the surface. It isn't long before Raidou is on the trail of crooked gamblers, masked ninja, and strange insects... a trail leading him inexorably to the mysterious King Abaddon.

Key Features
-Massively upgraded battle system - Advancements to the battle mechanics include a MAG balancing system, dodge and hide abilities, and the ability to command two demons in combat. Use the retooled Weapon Alchemy system to create new swords with unique special attacks.
-Deeper demon integration - Demon negotiation returns with more than twice the number of demons to attempt to recruit to your side. Create more powerful demons through fusion and skill transfer. Control two demons in battle and choose from more tactical options.
-Phenomenal creative team - The rich environment of this Taisho-era Japan comes to life with the character designs of Kazuma Kaneko and the musical score of Shoji Meguro.Over 500 character possibilities - 10 races, 2 genders, 3 alignments, and 15 majors add up to incredible opportunity to customize your party! Change majors for further customization at higher levels.

Related Articles:

First Persona Coming to PSP

Persona 4 First Impressions

Is Atlus Counting Down to Persona 3 FES in the US?