Usually, video game packaging doesn’t constitute news even on the slowest days, but when Atlus sends out press releases, I can’t help but pay attention. The publisher is also the master of including bonus goodies at no extra cost as part of their “fan appreciation program”, and fans of the Devil Summoner series will be pleasantly rewarded when they pick up their copies of Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Summoner 2: Raidou Kuzunoha vs. King Abaddon for the PS2 next month. Every game will come bundled with a Raiho plushie (I guess they weren’t stolen by pirates after all!).

Atlus games in North America are already in short supply as is, but I’m guessing this one will be even harder to find after its release date. If you’re planning to pick up Shin Megami Tensei: Game Name That’s Too Damn Long on May 12, you might want to reserve it now. You can find more information about the game in the press release below.

IRVINE, CALIFORNIA -- APRIL 22, 2009 -- Atlus U.S.A., Inc. today unveiled the special deluxe package for the upcoming action RPG Shin Megami Tensei®: Devil Summoner®2: Raidou Kuzunoha vs. King Abaddon for PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system. Limited in quantity but not in quality (zing), this premium bundle is the ultimate SMT collectible and the centerpiece of the publisher's Atlus Spoils fan appreciation program. Each and every set includes SMT: Devil Summoner 2, the new chapter in the stunningly original action RPG series, and Raiho, the plushie that will steal your heart (if he doesn't try to eat your soul first).

Improved over its predecessor in every way, Devil Summoner 2 is an action RPG breath of fresh air, with a deep, intuitive combat system, combined with nearly two hundred demons to negotiate with, collect, and fuse. Gamers will discover 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.

Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Summoner 2: Raidou Kuzunoha vs. King Abaddon is scheduled to negotiate its way into retailers on May 12, 2009.