Inaba
General Info
| Country | Japan |
|---|---|
| Latitude | [object Object] |
| Longitude | [object Object] |
| Location Name | Inaba |
Overview
A quiet town suddenly finds itself at the epicenter of a series of unsolvable cases: the mystery of the midnight channel and the inexplicable fog that envelops the city. Cases drive the plot and lead the characters into a parallel world full of shadows that represent repressed thoughts and emotions. On the other hand, Inaba is also home to the legendary Junes Department Store, a symbol of urban encroachment frequented by the characters.
Inaba is a stark contrast to the fast and vivid Tokyo skyline often seen in anime. Despite its calmness, it hides a dark and supernatural presence. A fact that becomes apparent as the characters fight the Shadows and explore their developing characters. With this unique combination of rustic charm, supernatural elements, and deep psychological undertones, Inaba is more than just a location, it's a leitmotif that represents the dual nature of reality explored in the Megami Tensei universe.
History
This city was relatively unremarkable until it was haunted by a series of inexplicable events in the early 2000s. It was later revealed that these events were related to a hidden world of television that was known as "TV World". Since then, there has been a significant increase in the number of tourists and enthusiasts who want to uncover its secrets. Inaba has a deep connection with her gods. It is believed to have been guarded by the cherry blossom princess Konohana-Sakuya. Locals believe that his blessing has kept the town calm for centuries. But it was Izanami, the goddess of creation and death, who shaped Inaba's story. He chose this city to give selected individuals an opportunity to enter the world of television. This gave birth to new legends in the history of the city.
Inaba also had some dark moments in her history. Sagiris, manifestations of humanity's collective desires, once wreaked havoc and despair on the city. At that moment, a few brave locals who were known as the "investigation team" seized the opportunity. Using their power to invade the world of television, they were able to overcome adversity and uncover the mystery of Mayumi Yamano's death. Since then, they have become unsung heroes and an important part of Inaba's history.
Despite its unusually intertwined relationship with the supernatural, Inaba remains a charming town with friendly locals and deep-rooted traditions. A wonderful local festival, the Yasogami High Culture Festival, famous food such as barbecue skewers, and the famous Marukyu Tofu cloth shop contribute to the city's unique character.
Over the years, Inaba has seen a lot, from ancient myths to mysterious events, from extraordinary heroes to ordinary people living their everyday lives. Indeed, her story is as vibrant and enigmatic as the Megami Tensei universe itself. It's an example of the saying 'looks can be deceiving', showing that even the most ordinary places can hide extraordinary secrets.
Background
This supernatural undertone is a manifestation of The Midnight Channel, a creepy and mysterious television show that only airs at midnight when it's raining. The app is supposed to reveal the "true self," a motif that runs through the Persona series. It is this channel that is the center of the plot, and along with the broadcasts, mysterious murders occur.
In Inaba, there exists a "television world", an alternate reality that reflects the innermost thoughts, fears and desires of the inhabitants. It's a bleak, murky landscape full of shadows—monsters born of repressed emotions. The high school students of the city, the characters of the game, have the opportunity to travel between these realities and fight against the shadows with characters, manifestations of their inner selves.
The beauty of Inaba lies in its mundane nature and the way it juxtaposes special in-game events. The shopping streets, schools and homes exude an unmistakable calmness that is in stark contrast to the combative alternate reality. It is this dichotomy that makes Inaba an unforgettable place in the Megami Tensei universe.