Memesona G

**Memesona G** (**覇王都市伝ミームソナＧ** *Haoh Toshiden Mimusona Ji*, Memesona G: A Guardian's Urban Legend) is a fanmade entry of the Persona franchise created by Oma2068 and Yosuke with assistance from GamepadtheDreamer. The game serves as a crossover with the content of popular Youtuber SMG4 and is primarily inspired by Persona 4.

A remake of the game with updated content would be released called **Memesona G: Creeper**.

## Characters

The party in Memesona G is known as the **Shadow Glitchers**. Each of them possess a unique method of summoning their Personas. Like in the original Persona 4 and its remake, each member unlocks their ultimate Weapon by being in the party while defeating the Grim Charger (an original Shadow that plays the same role as the Reaper). Said ultimate weapons grants the highest possible damage for that character's standard Attack and share the running theme of mythological references.

Meggy is the sole Wild Card user of the Shadow Glitchers. However, her close bond with her allies combined with the distortions of the SMG4 universe allow Meggy to perform a process called **Persona Share** which allows other Persona-users to wield additional Personas besides their own unique Persona (who can't be wielded by anyone else besides them).

Their Social Links are unlocked at Rank 1 once they join the Shadow Glitchers. The following is a list of the other abilities unlocked at later levels.

* At Rank 3, the party member gains the ability to perform a **Follow-Up Attack** which is sometimes triggered (whether they are in the active party or not) when an enemy Shadow survives being hit by their weakness. If accepted, the party member will then perform a uniquely named attack that deals additional damage to a single Shadow. Follow-Up Attacks do not occur during boss battles.
* At Rank 4, the party member unlocks **Mega Persona Share** which simply allows them to wield 2 additional Personas besides their personal one. Prior to this Rank, the party member can only use 1 additional Persona.
* At Rank 5, the party member unlocks **Recovery** which causes them to sometimes cancel out a status effect afflicted onto a party member (so long as the character with Recovery is in the party as well). This is portrayed as the character physically attacking the party member with the status effect in order to snap them out of it.
* At Rank 6, the party member unlocks **Super Persona Share** which simply allows them to wield 3 additional Personas besides their personal one.
* At Rank 8, the party member unlocks **Endure** which allows them to randomly survive a fatal attack with 1 HP left.
* At Rank 9, the party member unlocks **Protect** which allows them to sometimes shield Meggy from a fatal attack.
* By maxing the Social Link at Rank 10, the party member's Persona evolves into an Ultimate Persona that possesses higher base stats. Meggy also unlocks the ability to fuse a special Persona of the Arcana associated with the maxed Social Link using the Velvet Room.

### Meggy

**Arcana**: Magician

*The Magician Arcana is associated with those who have yet to realize their full potential. The positive aspects of the Magician include determination, dexterity, resourcefulness, diplomacy, and self-confidence. The negative aspects of the Magician include confusion, deceit, ill intentions, and disgrace.*

**Weapons**: Ink Blasters

Meggy's default weapon is the **Splattershot**. Her ultimate weapon is the **Fate of Atlantis** (named after the legendary sunken city), which has a high chance of scoring Critical Hits.

**Personas**: Dreaded Pinkfish, Proto-Inkling, Ancient Boss Maw

Meggy summons her Persona by charging up energy like a Dragon Ball character before summoning it in a similar method to a Stand from Jojo's Bizarre Adventure. Meggy specializes in Nuclear magic (the Frei family) and party-wide status buffs. Her Ultimate Persona possesses a unique Skill called **Crystal Euphoria**, which deals heavy Almighty damage to a single foe.

* The Dreaded Pinkfish is an obscure monster from the Splatoon series. It is believed by the Inklings that the emergence of the Pinkfish will destroy everything, serving a similar role to the concept of the Antichrist.
* The Proto-Inkling is a mysterious concept from the Splatoon series. It is believed by scientists to be the missing evolutionary link between ordinary squids and the Inkling race.

**Social Link**: Meggy's Social Link is an automatic Social Link that levels up at major points during the game. Completing it unlocks the ability to fuse the Boy Who Lived, **Harry Potter**.

**Memesona Arena Title**: The Grief-Filled Human Abomination

**Symbolism**

* Arcana Connection: TBA
* Initial Persona Connection: The Dreaded Pinkfish symbolizes Meggy's sometimes destructive behavior brought about by her hot-bloodedness. Its similarity to the Antichrist could be interpreted as Meggy being viewed as an abomination by other Inklings. Her usage of Nuclear magic represents the post-apocalyptic environment of the Splatoon world while her specialty in buffs symbolize her ability to cheer on her friends.
* Ultimate Persona Connection: The Proto-Inkling symbolizes Meggy finally finding a balance between her humanity and her lost Inkling form.

### Mario

**Arcana**: Fool

*The Fool Arcana is generally associated with people who have begun a new part of their life with no idea what to expect. The positive aspects include innocence, spontaneity, and the leap of faith. The negative aspects include chaos, folly, lack of direction, naivety, and poor judgement.*

**Weapons**: Shotguns

Mario's default weapon is the **Sawn-Off Shotgun**. His ultimate weapon is **Orion's Apostle** (based on the Orion's Belt asterism and named after the Greek mythological figure), which has a medium chance of infecting an enemy with a random Ailment.

**Personas**: Ruined Dragon, Paarthurnax, Ender Dragon

Mario summons his Persona by shoving his hand into his hat, pulling it out of his mind using Cartoon Physics. Mario specializes in Fire magic (the Agi family) and multi-target Physical attacks.

* The Ruined Dragon is a boss faced by Mario in the video game *Super Mario Odyssey*. Also known as the Lord of Lightning, this dark purple monster is a gigantic realistic dragon that was controlled by Bowser before it was defeated.
* Paarthurnax is a character from the video game *The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim*.

**Social Link**: Mario's Social Link involves assisting him in various schemes. Completing it unlocks the ability to fuse the Divine Lady of Prosperity, **Neptune**.

**Memesona Arena Title**: The Moronic Pasta Addict

**Symbolism**

* Arcana Connection: TBA
* Initial Persona Connection: The Ruined Dragon is a hideous monster that is feared and hated throughout the Mushroom Kingdom, similar to Mario's own behavior. The Ruined Dragon wielding the element of Fire symbolizes Mario's ability to cause catastrophes thanks to his stupidity and its usage of Physical skills represents his headstrong attitude towards solving problems.
* Ultimate Persona Connection: Paarthurnax is a sympathetic being who helps humans out of love for them despite those he helps fearing him. Unlocking Paarthurnax represents Mario deciding to continue being heroic even if people don't respect him for it. Additionally, the voice actor Charles Martiner voices both characters in real life.

### Luigi

**Arcana**: Star

*The Star Arcana is associated with people who understand the spiritual self and experience great joy as a result. The positive aspects include hope, insight, inspiration, courage, and spiritual enlightenment. The negative aspects include loss, abandonment, and arrogance.*

**Weapons**: Vacuum Cleaners

Luigi's default weapon is the **Poltergust**. His ultimate weapon is the **Bermuda Vortex** (named after the infamous Bermuda Triangle), which gives Luigi a high chance of evading a Physical Skill used by an enemy.

**Personas**: Dimentio, Antasma, Super Dimentio L

Luigi summons his Persona by performing a brief meditation, creating a construct out of spiritual energy. Luigi specializes in Thunder magic (the Zio family) and single target healing skills.

* Dimentio is a major villain from the video game *Super Paper Mario*. He resembles a medieval era court jester.
* Antasma is a villain from the video game *Mario & Luigi: Dream Team*.

**Social Link**: Luigi's Social Link involves helping him to overcome his fears. Completing it unlocks the ability to fuse the Cosmic Devourer of Worlds, **Galactus**.

**Memesona Arena Title**: The Unremarkable Coward

**Symbolism**

* Arcana Connection: TBA
* Initial Persona Connection: Dimentio is visually based on a medieval era court jester, who are seen in modern culture as a symbol of comedy brought about through misery. Likewise, Luigi is the metaphorical 'punching bag' who is abused and mistreated by the SMG4 cast for their own entertainment. Luigi also is held back by his cowardly nature, similar to Dimentio only becoming a major threat after he obtained the Chaos Heart. Furthermore, the events of Super Paper Mario involve Luigi being manipulated as part of Dimentio's plans which furthers the connection between the two. Dimentio wielding the element of Electricity references how Luigi wields electrokinesis in multiple appearances and his usage of healing skills reference Luigi's spiritual knowledge of meditation which is often used for passive benefits to the human body as opposed to violence.
* Ultimate Persona Connection: Antasma is a demon who commands the power of nightmares, who in his home game is opposed by Luigi commanding the power of good dreams. Unlocking Antasma symbolizes Luigi learning how to accept his fears as a positive quality rather than a weakness. Also, both Antasma and Luigi have been shown as capable of controlling lightning.

### Bob

**Arcana**: Emperor

*The Emperor Arcana is associated with people who desire to control others and their surroundings. The positive aspects include authority, leadership, and power. The negative aspects include immaturity, lack of discipline, and manipulation.*

**Weapons**: Swords

Bob's default weapon is the **Bare Blades** (simply his arms). Equipping any other weapon adds gauntlet-like bracelets on the ends of his blade arms. His ultimate weapon is the **Sword of Mercy** (named after the ceremonial sword used by British royalty), which raises all of Bob's base stats by 5 points.

**Personas**: Demise, Demon King Ganon, Ghirahim

Bob summons his Persona by chanting magical words to summon a magical circle that his Persona leaps out of. Bob specializes in Curse magic (the Eiha family) and single target Physical skills.

* Demise is the final boss of the video game *The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword*.
* Demon King Ganon is the main villain of the Legend of Zelda franchise.

**Social Link**: Bob's Social Link involves having conversations with him regarding how to live life without seeking fame. Completing it unlocks the ability to fuse the Blood God of Anarchy, **Technoblade**.

**Memesona Arena Title**: The Intolerable Celebrity Ear-worm

**Symbolism**

* Arcana Connection: TBA
* Initial Persona Connection: Demise and Bob both share the same backstory of being a sealed magic-user who was accidentally released by unsuspecting bystanders. Bob's ambition to obtain influential power over the masses also mirrors Demise's goal of using the Triforce to gain physical and magical power. Bob controlling Curse magic represents his origins as a dark wizard and his Physical skills were inspired by his arms being blades as well as his aggressive behavior.
* Ultimate Persona Connection: Ganon is the form the man Ganondorf takes when tapping into Demise's soul. Unlocking Ganon represents how Bob now sees his desire for influence as something he should keep under control, even if he remains a selfish jerk despite his improvements.

### Tari

**Arcana**: Empress

*The Empress Arcana is associated with people who possess strong femininity and motherly influence. The positive aspects include elegance, nurturing, and fertility. The negative aspects include domestic problems, financial issues, and stagnation.*

**Weapons**: Fists

Tari's default weapon is the **Knuckle Buster**. Her ultimate weapon is the **Philosopher's Stone Fist** (named after a legendary object from classical alchemy), which has a high chance of afflicting an enemy with any Ailment.

**Personas**: Giygas, Flying Man, Giegue

Tari summons her Persona by using her cybernetic arm to form a hard-light hologram. Tari specializes in Wind magic (the Garu family) and party-wide healing skills.

* Giygas is the main antagonist of the Mother series.
* The Flying Men are a species of humanoid birds that appear in the video game Earthbound.

**Social Link**: Tari's Social Link involves helping her seek out her origins. Completing it unlocks the ability to fuse the Ruined Heart of Azure, **Rei**.

**Memesona Arena Title**: The Unidentified Girl-Shaped Robot

**Symbolism**

* Arcana Connection: TBA
* Initial Persona Connection: Giygas is an indescribable god-like entity who is so horrifying humans can't comprehend it, which could tie into Tari's nature as a cyborg. Giygas is also in constant pain trying to determine why he exists, which represents Tari's struggle with trying to fit in and figure out her origins. Tari controlling Wind magic represents her association with birds (as well as her carefree nature) and her usage of healing skills references her kindness.
* Ultimate Persona Connection: The Flying Man is an unknown being with the powers of a god who is seen as a friendly helper of other sentient species. Unlocking the Flying Man represents Tari abandoning her search for origins due to seeing helping others as more important than knowing who she is.

Note: In terms of gameplay, Tari functions as the Shadow Glitcher's navigator (playing a similar role to Rise from Persona 4). She normally stays in the real world except for battles where she teleports into the collective unconscious to join her friends on the front lines.

### Fishy Boopkins

**Arcana**: Sun

*The Sun Arcana is associated with people that have figured out their life's calling and are moving forward towards something greater. The positive aspects include enlightenment, joy, success, and vitality. The negative aspects include false impressions, lack of clarity, and sadness.*

**Weapons**: Waifu Pillows

Boopkins' default weapon is **Kawaii-chan**. His ultimate weapon is **Amaterasu-chan** (named after the mythical Japanese goddess).

**Personas**: Perfect Chaos, Cthulhu, Chaos 0

Fishy summons his Persona using a Duel Disk from Yu-Gi-Oh, placing a card onto the device to make his Persona appear. Boopkins specializes in Ice magic (the Bufu family) and support skills related to defense (e.g. Makarakarn and Tetrakarn).

* Perfect Chaos is the final boss of the video game *Sonic Adventure*.
* Cthulhu is a fictional cosmic entity created by famous author H.P. Lovecraft, debuting in the 1928 story "The Call of Cthulhu"

**Social Link**: Fishy Boopkins' Social Link involves teaching him how to stand up to bullies. Completing it unlocks the ability to fuse the Ninja Master of the Kyuubi, **Naruto**.

**Memesona Arena Title**: The Pathetic Fish Out of Water

**Symbolism**

* Arcana Connection: TBA
* Initial Persona Connection: Perfect Chaos is a corrupted Chao who was driven to despair by the torments of the Knuckle Tribe, similar to Boopkins being haunted by his actions regarding Saiko. Similar to Chaos' motivation of causing catastrophe for no good reason, Boopkins is an immature child who is prone to destructive temper tantrums. Chaos also is incredibly weak without the Chaos Emeralds to empower him, similar to Boopkins being extremely easy to push around. Boopkins using Ice magic references his fragility (Ice is easily breakable) while his Defense buffs reference his endurance of the punishment he receives.
* Ultimate Persona Connection: Cthulhu is a feared, omnipotent being who can't be defeated due to being beyond human comprehension, which is what Boopkins strives to be someday. Unlocking Cthulhu represents Boopkins standing for himself without needing to call on his father's aid. Coincidentally, Fishy's father is based on Cthulhu which is another connection between the Persona and its user.

### Saiko

**Arcana**: Lovers

*The Lovers Arcana is associated with people that hold relationships in high regard. While previously limited to romantic implications, modern interpretations allow the Lovers to represent any kind of love like familial and between friends. The positive aspects of Lovers include commitment, falling in love, attraction, beauty, and overcoming trials. The negative aspects of Lovers include broken relationships, infidelity, relationship issues, and separation.*

**Weapons**: Bludgeons

Saiko's default weapon is the **Star Hammer**. Her ultimate weapon is **Samson's Promise** (named after the Biblical hero), which grants Saiko an automatic Tarukaja upon entering battle (Tarukaja creates a barrier that reflects one Physical skill back at the caster before dissipating).

**Personas**: Monokuma, Slaanesh, Junko Enoshima

Saiko summons her Persona by playing a guitar riff. Saiko specializes in Psychokinetic magic (the Psi family) and single target buffs.

* Monokuma is a major antagonist from the Danganronpa video game series.
* Slaanesh is a Dark God from the Warhammer franchise, known as the Lord of Pleasure.

**Social Link**: Saiko's Social Link involves helping her to try being nicer to people. Completing it unlocks the ability to fuse the Miracle Worker of Creation, **Ladybug**.

**Memesona Arena Title**: The Insatiable Heartbreaker

**Symbolism**

* Arcana Connection: TBA
* Initial Persona Connection: Monokuma is a seemingly cute and innocent being who hides a brutal and irredeemable personality. This mirrors Saiko herself, whose seeming innocence is only an act to hide her terrible true self. Her usage of Psychokinetic magic is a reference to her mental instability (not to mention the obvious pun on her name) and her usage of buff skills reference her ability to motivate people using fear tactics or sexual appeal.
* Ultimate Persona Connection: In the world of Warhammer, Slaanesh is a deity of Lust who is both a beautiful caretaker and a hideous sinner simaltaneously. Unlocking Slaanesh represents Saiko's acceptance of her psychotic and friendly sides, learning how to use both for a good cause even if it sometimes scares people.

### SMG4

**Arcana**: Hermit

*The Hermit is associated with people who are experiencing introspection and inner reflection to gain wisdom. The positive aspects include meditation, solitude, and withdrawal from society. The negative aspects include exile, loneliness, and sadness.*

**Weapons**: Assault Rifles

SMG4's default weapon is the **AK-47**.

**Personas**: Gamedeus, Oma Zi-O, Gamedeus Chronos

SMG4 summons his Persona using his cell phone, typing into it and pressing enter to give it orders. SMG4 specializes in Bless magic (the Kouha family) and Almighty Skills (like Megidola).

* Gamedeus is a major antagonist from the TV/tokusatsu series *Kamen Rider Ex-Aid*.
* Oma Zi-O is a major antagonist from the TV/tokusatsu series *Kamen Rider Zi-O*.

**Social Link**: SMG4's Social Link involves helping him come up with new ideas for Youtube videos. Completing it unlocks the ability to fuse the One-Eyed Nightmare, **Bill Cipher**.

**Memesona Arena Title**: The Enslaved Lord of Memes

**Symbolism**

* Arcana Connection: TBA
* Initial Persona Connection: Gamedeus is the most powerful Bugster in history, causing endless havoc after awakening (his name even being translatable as "the God of Games"). Similarly, SMG4 is a metaphorical god whose enormous power can be very dangerous if misused. Despite this level of power, Gamedeus is still a puppet to whoever controls his game, Kamen Rider Chronicle, and can be deleted if his master sees it fit. SMG4 is like a slave to the YouTube Algorithm, who can delete his channel and destroy everything he makes out of sheer random chance. His usage of Bless magic represents his benevolent nature and his usage of Almighty skills reference his god-like status.
* Ultimate Persona Connection: Oma Zi-O aka Sougo Tokiwa is an omnipotent warrior who can manipulate space-time to his whim, who also serves as a benevolent king that leads the future into a positive direction. Unlocking Oma Zi-O represents SMG4 dedicating himself to using his immense power for good. Unlike Gamedeus, Oma Zi-O is so powerful that he has no one as his master. In fact, when one of his enemies tried to steal his powers and make him grovel, Oma Zi-O just cancelled out the power stealing and outright erased his foe from existence. This would represent SMG4 outright leaving his metaphorical slave status and showing why he's the Heroic God of his own universe.

### SMG3

**Arcana**: Devil

*The Devil Arcana represents people who are trapped in the material world and live in fear, caged by an overwhelming amount of luxury. The positive aspects of this Arcana include breaking from addictions and freedom. The negative aspects of this Arcana include bondage, enslavement, fear, feeling trapped, materialism, and violence.*

**Weapons**: Laser Guns

SMG3's default weapon is the **Space Shooter**. His ultimate weapon is the **Vulcan Serenade** (named after the hypothetical planet and the fictional race from the *Star Trek* franchise), which has a medium chance of inflicting its target with the Confuse Ailment.

**Personas**: DIO Over Heaven, Genm Level X, DIO

SMG3 summons his Persona by surrounding himself in an evil aura, his Persona then appearing from a cloud of black smoke. SMG3 specializes in Curse magic (the Eiha family) and single target debuffs.

* Dio Brando, also known as DIO, is the most well-known antagonist of the Jojo's Bizarre Adventure franchise.
* Kuroto Dan, also known as Kamen Rider Genm, is a major antagonist from the TV/tokusatsu series *Kamen Rider Ex-Aid*.

**Social Link**: SMG3's Social Link involves helping him overcome his hatred of SMG4. Completing it unlocks the ability to fuse the Shapeshifting Shogun of Sorrow, **Aku**.

**Memesona Arena Title**: The Sacrilegious Poser

**Symbolism**

* Arcana Connection: TBA
* Initial Persona Connection: TBA
* Ultimate Persona Connection: TBA

### Waluigi

**Arcana**: Judgement

*The Judgement Arcana represents people who experience a life-changing transformation. The positive aspects of this Arcana include redemption, reincarnation, renewal, and transition. The negative aspects of this Arcana include poor logic, hasty judgement, self-doubt, and stagnation.*

**Weapons**: Scepters

Waluigi's default weapon is the **Staff of Rejection**. His ultimate weapon is the **Cassandra Cane** (named after the legendary cursed oracle from Greek mythology), which gives Waluigi a medium chance of completely dodging any Physical attack.

**Personas**: Kid Buu, Exodia, Fat Buu

Waluigi summons his Persona by calling forth a purple lightning strike from the sky. Waluigi specializes in Bless magic (the Kouha family) and multi-target debuffs.

* Majin Buu is a major antagonist from the Dragon Ball series.
* Exodia the Forbidden One is a famous monster from the Yu-Gi-Oh! franchise.

**Social Link**: Waluigi's Social Link involves hanging out with him and training him in using his Power of Rejection for a good cause. Completing it unlocks the ability to fuse the Mad Titan, **Thanos**.

**Memesona Arena Title**: The Forever-Alone Demon King

**Symbolism**

* Arcana Connection: TBA
* Initial Persona Connection: Majin Buu and Waluigi are both beings whose enormous powers lay dormant, slowly increasing naturally over time. Also, both of their powers were forcefully sealed off after their initial defeat.
* Ultimate Persona Connection: Exodia is a mighty being whose essence was sealed away into 5 different cards, similar to Waluigi. Unlocking Exodia represents Waluigi deciding to use his Rejection-based powers for good similar to how Exodia is a tool used by Yu-Gi-Oh players to win games.

### Swagmaster

**Arcana**: Jester (When Possessed), The World (True Arcana)

**Weapons**: Rocket Launchers

Swagmaster's default weapon is the **Bazooka**.

**Personas**: Cell, W GoldExtreme, Cell-X

**Social Link**: Swagmaster's Social Link (in both the original and Creeper) involves helping him with menial tasks around Sgt. Mark's military base. Completing it unlocks the ability to fuse the World-Purging Chaos-Bringer, **Metallix**.

**Memesona Arena Title**: The Controlled and Love-Deprivated Master Casanova

**Symbolism**

* Arcana Connection: TBA
* Initial Persona Connection: TBA
* Ultimate Persona Connection: TBA

## Social Links

### Princess Peach

**Arcana**: High Priestess

*The High Priestess is generally associated with people who are wise. The positive aspects include hidden talents, intuition, mystery, and spiritual insight. The negative aspects include withheld information and secrets.*

**Social Link**: Princess Peach's Social Link involves assisting her with her royal duties. Completing it unlocks the ability to fuse the Joyful Lady of Wisdom, **Candelilla**.

**Memesona Arena Title**: The Supreme Lady of Tantrums

### Toad

**Arcana**: Wheel of Fortune

*The Wheel of Fortune is generally associated with those who possess extraordinary luck. The positive aspects include chance, changes, destiny, and opportunity. The negative aspects include disappointment, misfortune, and unforeseen setbacks.*

**Social Link**: Toad's Social Link involves joining him in his attempts to dump his girlfriend Toadette. Completing it unlocks the ability to fuse the Super Star Savior, **ShishiRed Orion**.

**Memesona Arena Title**: The Unlucky Sugar-Addicted Hater of All

### Bowser

**Arcana**: Hanged Man

*The Hanged Man is generally associated with people who are currently making a difficult decision. The positive aspects of the Hanged Man include breaking old patterns, letting go, metamorphosis, wisdom, discernment, sacrifice, and intuition. The negative aspects of the Hanged Man include egotism, inability to change, and selfishness.*

**Social Link**: Bowser's Social Link involves forcing him to spend time with his children, especially Bowser Jr. Completing it unlocks the ability to fuse the Dark Lord of the Sith, **Darth Vader**.

**Memesona Arena Title**: The Neglectful Allfather of the Koopas

### Axol

**Arcana**: Death

*The Death Arcana represents the end of a relationship or a major change in one's life. The positive aspects include endings, letting go of attachments, and profound change. The negative aspects of Death include depression, failure, mortality, and destruction.*

**Social Link**: Axol's Social Link involves helping him accept his new role as attendant of the Velvet Room. Completing it unlocks the ability to fuse the Keeper of the Death Note, **Ryuk**.

**Memesona Arena Title**: The Permanent Incel Weeaboo Artist

Note: Axol functions as the Velvet Room assistant for Memesona, playing a similar role as Elizabeth from Persona 3 and Margaret from Persona 4.

### Melony

**Arcana**: Moon

*The Moon represents a personal illusion whether it be a misunderstanding or a truth you choose to hide. The positive aspects include deception and hidden things. The negative aspects include fear, insecurity, unhappiness, and silence.*

**Social Link**: Melony's Social Link involves helping her to overcome Axol's death. Completing it unlocks the ability to fuse the Princess of the Nocturnal, **Sailor Moon**.

**Memesona Arena Title**: The Living Waifu Bait Layabout

### Chris

**Arcana**: Hierophant

*The Hierophant (sometimes called the Pope) is generally associated with adult figures or other people with great influence. The positive aspects of the Hierophant include education, learning, seeking advice, servitude, and mercy. The negative aspects of the Hierophant include abuse of position, breakdown, poor counsel, and being overly kind.*

**Social Link**: Chris' Social Link involves helping him interact with Swagmaster better. Completing it unlocks the ability to fuse the Silver Giant of Fusing Lights, **Ultraman Orb**.

**Memesona Arena Title**: The Perfect Role-Model Punching Bag

Note: In addition to functioning as a standard Social Link, Chris also runs a store called "Guns N' Stuff" where the team purchases most of their weapons.

### Sgt. Mark

**Arcana**: Strength

*The Strength Arcana is associated with triumph over a major problem or situation, as well as people who possess strong character. The positive aspects include confidence, inner strength, and self-belief. The negative aspects include lack of self-control, lack of courage, self-doubt, and vanity.*

**Social Link**: Sgt. Mark's Social Link involves performing menial tasks around his military base. Completing it unlocks the ability to fuse the Power-Hungry Bio-Android, **Android 21**.

**Memesona Arena Title**: The Oh-So-Great Tootsie Roll

### Shroomy

**Arcana**: Chariot

*The Chariot Arcana is associated with those who are passionate and overcome life's obstacles with raw determination. The positive aspects of the Chariot include ambition, confidence, drive, triumph, and vengeance. The negative aspects of the Chariot include presumption, trouble, dispute, and defeat.*

**Social Link**: Shroomy's Social Link involves helping him to earn merit badges. Completing it unlocks the ability to fuse the Ghost of Sparta, **Kratos**.

**Memesona Arena Title**: The Insanely Naïve Boy Scout

### Steve

**Arcana**: Temperance

*The Temperance Arcana is associated with balance and moderation in one's life. The positive aspects include harmony, balance, and alchemy. The negative aspects include disharmony, imbalance, and lack of patience.*

**Social Link**: Steve's Social Link involves hanging out with him while he builds or repairs people's homes. Completing it unlocks the ability to fuse the Red-Black Override Machine, **Aussenseiter Trombe**.

**Memesona Arena Title**: The Blocky God Beloved By All

### X and FM

**Arcana**: Justice

*The Justice Arcana is associated with people who make fair decisions without being swayed. The positive aspects include fairness, responsibility, balance, and equilibrium. The negative aspects include dishonesty, imbalance, lack of accountability, and unfair treatment.*

**Social Link**: X and FM's Social Link involves assisting them with their attempts to reform the corrupt police officers they work alongside. Completing it unlocks the ability to fuse the Number One Hero, **All Might**.

**Memesona Arena Title**: The Crime-Permitting Duo of Buddy Coppers

### Enzo

**Arcana**: Tower

*The Tower Arcana is associated with danger and crisis, being the most negative card of all the Major Arcana. It represents catastrophe, destruction, illness, and obstacles.*

**Social Link**: Enzo's Social Link involves helping him overcome his feelings of loneliness ever since SMG4 abandoned him. Completing it unlocks the ability to fuse the One-Winged Angel, **Sephiroth**.

**Memesona Arena Title**: The Ever-Forgotten Crazy Birthday Boy

### Wario

**Arcana:** Hunger

**Social Link:** Wario's Social Link involves helping him gain the greatest wealth in all of existence, but also keeping him in check and making sure he doesn't commit any grievous felonies while doing so. Completing it unlocks the ability to fuse the Entity of Unbridled Gluttony, **Guzzlord**.

### Sonic

**Arcana:** Hope

**Social Link:** Sonic's Social Link involves helping him find new ways to be free and have fun, but also to help him with his new relationship with Swag. Completing it unlocks the ability to fuse the Future Paladin of the Royal Guard, **Papyrus**.

### Dr, Eggman

**Arcana:** Apostle

**Social Link:** Eggman's Social Link involves helping him with three things: work on his gadgets and science work, work on his potential "wooing" abilities, and annoying Sonic on the side. Completing it unlocks the ability to fuse the Golden Adjudicator of Lesser Beings, **Zoffy**.

### Grand Dad

**Arcana:** Aeon

**Social Link:** Grand Dad's Social Link involves helping him with his existential crisis and relieving him of his depression over his situation. Completing it unlocks the ability to fuse the Destroyer of Fears and Realities, **The Chainsaw Devil.**

## Dungeons

The cognitive world visited by the Shadow Glitchers is called the **Midday Channel**. Its existence is an urban legend in the Mushroom Kingdom that turns out to be real. It is accessible through any electronic device with a screen and Internet access such as computers and cell phones.

When a person enters the Midday Channel, they generally create a unique space within the Midday Channel referred to as a **Dungeon**. The form the Dungeon takes depends on the repressed feelings of the person. In real life, each Dungeon was inspired by an archetype of Youtube channels and their names reference a computer term. People who enter the Midday Channel voluntarily (like Mario and Boopkins) will not create a new Dungeon, but will spawn their Shadow Self who will naturally chase down their human self.

Shadow Selves in this world manifest as copies of their human counterpart only they are covered in cracks and possess an ominous red aura in addition to the Persona staple of golden yellow eyes. The Shadow Selves desire to break their counterpart psychologically, with the cracks on their body spreading as they slowly succeed. Once they have been fully rejected, their body falls apart to reveal darkness inside of them that transforms into a berserk form. Conversely, accepting the values the Shadow Self embodies causes the cracks across them to heal before they transform into a Persona for their counterpart to wield.

### Cursor Mansion

The Cursor Mansion is the first Dungeon explored by the Shadow Glitchers, formed from the negative emotions of Luigi. It resembles the ruins of a Gothic style castle. In addition to Luigi, Mario also awakens his Persona in this area.

Dungeon Etymology: The name of this Dungeon is based on the cursor, a movable indicator identifying the point that will be affected by user input. It is also a pun on a curse, keeping with the Dungeon's horror theme. Its name and design is also an homage to Luigi's Mansion.

Dungeon Symbolism: The Cursor Mansion is based on Luigi's fear upon being dragged into the Midday Channel as well as his various encounters with the paranormal. In terms of the Youtube channel theme, Cursor Mansion represents **Horror Channels**.

Shadows

* Portrait Geist

The **Portrait Geist** is a Shadow of the Magician Arcana who serves as the most common enemy seen in Cursor Mansion. It takes the form of a painting of a well-dressed gentleman, wearing a mask over the portrayed person's face. The name of this Shadow is based on a combination of the words "portrait" and "geist" (the German word for a ghost), while also being an overall pun on the poltergeist. *The Portrait Geist is an original Shadow concept created by GamepadtheDreamer.*

Gameplay: The Portrait Geist only possesses the ability to use a basic Attack (dealing Physical damage to its target). Its weakness is Nuclear, which teaches the player about the concept of Weaknesses and Resistances.

Symbolism: The Portrait Geist is based on the cultural concept of a living painting, which is commonly associated with a home haunted by ghosts (which Cursor Mansion is based on). It is also an homage to the importance of paintings and the Portrait Ghosts from the original Luigi's Mansion. In terms of the Magician Arcana, the idea of bringing a painting to life is accomplishable by a spell cast by a magician.

* Magic Hand

The **Magic Hand** is a Shadow of the Magician Arcana who appears frequently in the earlier areas of Cursor Mansion. It takes the form of a walking glove wearing a bowtie, with the mask worn on a protrusion coming out of the glove's back end.

Gameplay: The Magic Hand's only Skill is Agi (which deals low Fire damage to its target). Its weakness is Ice.

Symbolism: The Magic Hand is a disturbing creature that resembles a disembodied hand, which could be seen as a reference to the Addams Family franchise. In terms of the Magician Arcana, the Magic Hand is meant to represent the gloved hands of a stage magician performing illusions.

* Laughing Table

The **Laughing Table** is a Shadow of the Magician Arcana that appears in early areas of Cursor Mansion. It takes the form of a wooden table with a dinner cloth draped over it, with a mask attached to the front (facing forward). Like the other Table-type Shadows, its name is a reference to an emotion or state of being.

Gameplay: The Laughing Table's primary skill is Zio (which deals low Electric damage to its target). It also has access to Evil Smile, a skill which has a 30% chance of inflicting a single target with the Fear status effect (which will cause the party member to skip their turn). Its weakness is Wind.

Symbolism: The Laughing Table represents the furniture of a mansion and how poltergeists (a type of common ghost archetype) tend to throw them around. It could also be an homage to a séance (a ritual where participants try to contact the deceased). In terms of the Magician Arcana, the Laughing Table is modelled after the table seen on the Magician tarot card.

* Black Raven

The **Black Raven** is a Shadow of the Hermit Arcana that appears in the Cursor Mansion. It takes the form of a black corvid carrying a lantern with its legs, wearing a mask attached to its chest.

Gameplay: The Black Raven's only Skill is Tarukaja (which raises a single ally's attack). Its weakness is Electricity.

Symbolism: The Black Raven appearing in Cursor Mansion is a reference to how crows commonly appear in horror-related works due to symbolizing darkness and evil in human culture. In terms of the Hermit Arcana, crows and ravens are symbolically associated with knowledge of the occult.

* Trance Twins

The **Trance Twins** are a Shadow of the Hierophant Arcana that appears in the Cursor Mansion, encountered following the recruitment of Mario. It takes the form of a pair of Catholic monks attached together by long metal rods, with both figures wearing a mask on their face.

Gameplay: The Trance Twins possesses two skills. The first is Mabufu (which deals low Ice damage to the entire party). Its other Skill is Evil Touch (which has a 40% chance of inflicting a target with the Fear Status Effect). Its weakness is Fire.

Symbolism: The Trance Twins could represent either the horror stereotype of living puppets or the concept of an exorcism. In terms of the Hierophant Arcana, the Catholic monk is a wise advisor in spiritual matters.

* Grave Beetle

The **Grave Beetle** is a powerful Shadow of the Emperor Arcana that appears in the later areas of Cursor Mansion. It takes the form of a large Japanese rhinoceros beetle colored black, with a mask attached to the end of its horn.

Symbolism: The Grave Beetle's name ties into the haunted house theme of Cursor Mansion by referencing a grave where the dead body of a ghost rests. It also references the infestation of insects in an abandoned household. In terms of the Emperor Arcana, Japanese rhinoceros beetles are seen in Japanese culture as a symbol of strength.

Bosses

* Shadow Mario

*"I am a Shadow, the true self. If everyone fears and despises us, why continue acting the opposite way? Let me show them what they want to see!"*

Design: Shadow Mario's boss form overall resembles Mario, but possessing the body structure of an arachnid with 5 heads each attached to long serpentine necks. The 4 front arms possess sharp claws and a T-Posing model of Mario's design from *Super Mario 64* is attached where its heart should be. Four of Shadow Mario's heads resemble people the SMG4 team has encountered (the leftmost head resembles Waluigi, the second head resembles Bob, the fourth head resembles Francis from *Super Paper Mario*, and the rightmost head resembles SMG3.) The central head looks like Mario's own head, but almost completely covered in a rag with the only exposed parts being his nose and his forehead where 5 spider-like eyes are protruding.

Gameplay: Shadow Mario has access to three Skills, with the first being Agi. The second skill in Shadow Mario's moveset is Power Charge, which increases the attack power of his next Physical Attack (this is where the player learns about Guarding). His special move is **Hypocrisy Flame**, which deals medium Fire damage to a single target. Its weaknesses are Ice and Nuclear.

Symbolism: Shadow Mario overall represents Mario's villainous behavior as well as the hidden fact that Mario knows this and refuses to accept the truth. Also, Mario's Shadow Self embodies his human counterpart's frustration over being unable to do anything heroic like the real Mario. Furthermore, Mario keeps lying about being physically attractive despite admitting multiple times that he knows this factually isn't true. All of these negative aspects cause Shadow Mario to be constantly upset and angry, especially when interacting with his frankly idiotic human self.

His boss design's hideous appearance represents Mario's ugliness as well as symbolizing his antagonistic behavior. The creature's four heads each represent the first four story arcs of SMG4, with the Mario head being a representation of Mario's stupidity (the rag wrapped around his head represents a blindfold, as a nod to how Mario does things blindly and without thinking). Mario's special move represents how he doesn't act heroic despite having the appearance of a legendary protagonist (hypocrisy can be defined as 'the act practice of claiming to possess beliefs or moral standards that the speaker does not follow themselves').

To conquer his Shadow and unlock his Persona, Mario must accept his flaws and that he can not begin to improve his behavior without the help of his friends. His initial Persona, the Ruined Dragon, is an extension of Shadow Mario's resemblance to the Hydra from Greek mythology. The multiple heads condensing into one might symbolize Mario's erratic behavior transforming into a single goal: being a hero and saving people from dangers like the mysterious kidnapper.

* Grim Associate

The **Grim Associate** is a Shadow of the Emperor that appears as the mid-boss of Cursor Mansion. It resembles a cloaked figure with the traits of traditional portrayals of Count Dracula, wearing a mask as a brooch. *The Grim Associate is an original Shadow concept created by GamepadtheDreamer.*

Symbolism: The Grim Associate is based on Luigi's fears of monsters such as vampires. In terms of the Emperor Arcana, Count Dracula has been confirmed to be based on the historical Romanian ruler Vlad the Impaler.

* Shadow Luigi

*"I am a Shadow, the true self. Everyone will be destroyed until there's only Luigi, and those who follow Luigi! The name of Luigi shall be feared and never mocked again!"*

Design: Shadow Luigi's boss form overall resembles Luigi, but with the prominent motif of a circus clown. His body is a semi-transparent sickly green with smoke rising from it. His face sports blank eyes and a giant smiling mouth filled with multiple rows of teeth. A metallic collar is attached to its neck connected to a chain, with the other end attached to a ring worn by a floating doll resembling a faceless Mario.

Gameplay: Shadow Luigi's main gimmick is inflicting the party with the Fear status effect, in addition to attacking with Electric Skills. His special move is **Trembling Thunderstrike**, which deals light Electric damage to the entire party but deals medium Electric damage to characters with the Fear status effect. It has no specific weaknesses.

Symbolism: Shadow Luigi overall represents Luigi's cowardice and his feelings of being a pushover. Luigi is sick of always being ignored and treated like a baby by everyone around him, but feels any attempt to end his torment will be fruitless. Shadow Luigi acts like a shy and reserved individual who wants Luigi and others to pity him.

Shadow Luigi's boss form is inspired by various horror monsters, although the main inspiration is the cultural concept of a demonic clown (think Pennywise from Stephen King's It). Its color scheme is a reference to ghosts as well as green being Luigi's primary color. Also, the Mario doll is based on the common trope of creepy puppets and living children's toys. His horror motif is a reference to Luigi's various encounters with the paranormal and his fears of being seen as nothing but a punching bag for others. The chained collar he wears is based on his feelings of being trapped in his older brother's shadow, with the ring the doll wears being a visual pun on being viewed as an "accessory" to Mario.

To conquer his Shadow and unlock his Persona, Luigi needs to let go of his need for attention and understand that being afraid does not make him weak. His initial Persona, Dimentio, is based on how court jesters can be interpreted as the ancient medieval equivalent of circus clowns.

Note: Luigi's animation when performing Magic is the Mario doll pulling on Luigi's chain.

### Hotbar Central

Hotbar Central is the second Dungeon explored by the Shadow Glitchers, formed from the negative emotions of Bob. It resembles a fancy nightclub.

Dungeon Etymology: The name of this Dungeon is based on a hotbar, a selection of buttons on a computer keyboard to which users can assign certain commands. It is also a pun on the common rapping phrase "spitting hot bars".

Dungeon Symbolism: The Hotbar Central is based on Bob's hidden desire to return to his rapping career so he can be famous again. In terms of the Youtube channel theme, Hotbar Central represents **Music Channels**.

Shadows

* Bronze Dice

The **Bronze Dice** is a Shadow of the Fortune Arcana who serves as the most common enemy seen in Hotbar Central. It takes the form of a four-sided dice, with a mask attached to one of its sides.

Gameplay: The Bronze Dice has two Skills. Its first one is Poisma, which has a 40% chance of inflicting a character with the Poison status effect (Poisoned characters take damage every turn prior to performing actions). Their other ability is Last Resort, where the Bronze Dice will deal medium Almighty damage to everyone after 1 turn (including its fellow Shadows). Its weakness is Electricity.

Symbolism: The Bronze Dice is a reference to the illegal activity of gambling in nightclubs. In terms of the Fortune Arcana, dice roles are a famous cultural symbol of random chance.

* Heat Balance

The **Heat Balance** is a Shadow of the Justice Arcana who is encountered in Hotbar Central. It takes the form of a cross with balanced scales on either side, with a mask attached to the center of the sideways beams. The Heat Balance's name is based on the concept of temperature, referencing this Shadow's usage of Fire and Ice magic.

Symbolism: The Heat Balance could be seen as representing the balancing scales used to count money. In terms of the Justice Arcana, the balancing scales and the Justice Arcana are both associated with the concept of fairness.

* Rage Roadster

The **Rage Roadster** is a Shadow of the Chariot Arcana who is encountered in Hotbar Central. It takes the form of a living black car with masks attached onto its headlights. Its name is a reference to "road rage" and a "roadster" (a specific type of car). *The Rage Roadster is an original Shadow concept created by GamepadtheDreamer.*

Symbolism: The Rage Roadster symbolizes how famous people spend their money on fancy cars to express their wealth. In terms of the Chariot Arcana, people suffering from road rage make reckless decisions out of raw passionate fury.

* Bribed Fuzz

The **Bribed Fuzz** is a Shadow of the Hierophant Arcana who is encountered in Hotbar Central. It takes the form of a police officer with a key inside of a circular chest cavity, with a mask attached loosely to its face. Its name is based on "bribing" a police officer (paying them money or other valuable things illegally in order to make them act in one's favor) and "fuzz" (an informal slang word for a cop).

Gameplay: The Bribed Fuzz only possessing a single special Skill called Single Shot (which deals light Physical damage to a single party member). Its weaknesses are Fire and Curse.

Symbolism: The Bribed Fuzz represents the presence of police officers near nightclubs to prevent or investigate illegal activities. In terms of the Hierophant Arcana, police officers are seen as either intelligent sources of righteous behavior or abusers of power.

* Venus Eagle

The **Venus Eagle** is a Shadow of the Empress Arcana who is encountered in Hotbar Central. It takes the form of a black-colored bird of prey wearing a puffed-out frill, while also wearing a mask. Like the other Eagle-type Shadows, its name references outer space (specifically the second planet in the solar system, named after the Roman goddess of love).

Symbolism: The Venus Eagle might be a representation of Bob's desire to be above everyone else. In terms of the Empress Arcana, the Venus Eagle might be a representation of a fiercely protective mother.

* Soul Dancer

The **Soul Dancer** is a Shadow of the Lovers Arcana who is encountered in Hotbar Central. It takes the form of a pair of humanoid figures which both have no heads. The left figure is dressed in a tuxedo and the right figure is wearing a dress. In one of their interlocked hands is a heart-shaped balloon which has a mask attached to the center of it. The name of this Shadow might be a reference to the cultural concept of a "soulmate" (a person for whom one has deep fellowship with as a close friend or romantic partner) to keep with the Lovers Arcana's theme of romance.

Gameplay: The Soul Dancer's only special Skill is Agilao (which deals medium Fire damage to the entire party). It possesses no special weaknesses.

Symbolism: The Soul Dancer references the common practice of men and women dancing together at a nightclub. In terms of the Lovers Arcana, this Shadow is likely based on a pair of people in love dancing at prom or a fancy party.

* Steel Gigas

The **Steel Gigas** is a Shadow of the Strength Arcana who is encountered in the later areas of Hotbar Central. It takes the form of a muscular humanoid dressed only in a speedo, wearing a mask on its face.

Symbolism: The Steel Gigas is meant to represent bouncers that keep unwanted people out of a nightclub. In terms of the Strength Arcana, men who possess excessive muscles are seen as stronger than those without.

Bosses

* Shadow Bob

"*I am a shadow... The true self... All I ever wanted was friends. I tried to be a cool thug, but I still ended up alone... Let's make everyone feel alone!*"

Design: Shadow Bob's boss form overall resembles a hyper-realistic, golden version of Bob. It has an evil smile filled with jagged teeth as its face. It possesses the features of an arthropod such as 4 cockroach legs and crab pincers attached to its arm blades, with the overall number of limbs equaling that of a spider. It is wearing a silver chain necklace with a figurine of Bob hanging from it.

Gameplay: Shadow Bob specializes in using Curse Skills and buffing himself to boost his own Strength and Endurance. His special move is **Grimoire of Avarice**, which deals medium Curse damage to the entire party. It has no specific weaknesses.

Symbolism: Shadow Bob overall represents how Bob's attempts to make friends are only making him be viewed as a terrible person. By acting like a stuck-up jerk and attempting to become rich through fame, he will only ever be seen as a monster. Shadow Bob acts like a crude and uncaring jerk, so much so that even the true Bob can't stand him.

Shadow Bob's main motif of arthropods represents how they are seen in common culture as creepy due to how dissimilar they are to humans. Also, cockroaches are often associated with the myth of their invincibility (claimed to be able to survive a nuclear apocalypse) which might be Bob's feelings of being above everyone else personified. Furthermore, the crab pincers represent how Bob's greed will end up severing the relationships he has.

To conquer his Shadow and unlock his Persona, Bob must finally give up his quest for fame and fortune. His initial Persona, Demise, is an unstoppable force that will always haunt Hyrule similar to the cockroach.

* Grim Charger

The **Grim Charger** is a unique Shadow of the Death Arcana that appears in every Dungeon (although it doesn't appear in Cursor Mansion until return visits, since the Grim Charger concept is introduced in Hotbar Central). It takes the appearance of a stereotypical depiction of the Grim Reaper, but with design elements of the Demoknight from *Team Fortress 2*. Its name is based on a phone charger, keeping with the Midday Channel's theme of technology.

Gameplay: The Grim Charger spawns from a specific black-colored chest that can be found somewhere in each Dungeon. Opening it to fight it is not recommended, due to the Grim Charger being the strongest enemy in Memesona. The party will receive 1 turn to themselves, before the Charger will attack 3 times in a row using a sequence of moves unique to the Charger.

* Its first Skill is **Charging Targe Crash**, which deals heavy Almighty damage to the entire party. Its animation is the Grim Charger shield-bashing.
* Its second Skill is **Eyelander Life-Ender**, which deals heavy Almighty damage to a single party member. Its animation is the Grim Charger performing a sideways slash.
* Its third Skill is **Grimdark Demolition**, which deals severe Almighty damage to a single party member. Its animation is the Grim Charger charging at the target from a distance before hitting them with its sword. This attack will always target Meggy specifically.

Should the player somehow survive, they will gain another turn before the same 3 moves are used again in the same order. Defeating the Grim Charger is a challenge, but not impossible. Successfully defeating the Grim Charger will grant all 4 party members used in the battle their ultimate weapon.

Symbolism: The Grim Charger, in terms of the Death Arcana, represents how both the Grim Reaper and the Demoknight are feared for their ability to mercilessly kill anyone who gets in their path.

### Modem Metro

Modem Metro is the third Dungeon explored by the Shadow Glitchers, formed from the negative emotions of Tari. It resembles a futuristic city.

Dungeon Etymology: The name of this Dungeon is based on the modem, a device used to convert electronic signals between different devices. It is also based on the word metropolis, a synonym for a city.

Dungeon Symbolism: The Modem Metro is based on Tari's feelings of isolation and not fitting in. The design is also an homage to Tari's origins in SMG4's Meta Runner. In terms of the Youtube channel theme, Modem Metro represents **Gaming Channels**.

Shadows

* Miss Gene

The **Miss Gene** is a Shadow of the Fortune Arcana who is encountered in the Modem Metro. It takes the form of a couple DNA strands wrapped up into the shape of a person, with a mask attached where the head would be. Like the other Gene-type Shadows, its name references the concept of human genetics. Specifically, its name might reference a female's role in carrying the genetic material of a newborn during pregnancy (the term Miss can reference a married woman who keeps her maiden name, although it is more commonly used as a polite form of addressing a young woman).

Gameplay: Miss Gene has two special Skills. One is Matarukaja, which raises the Attack of all allies including the user. The other is Marakukaja, which raises the Defense of all allies including the user. Its weakness is Electricity.

Symbolism: Miss Gene may represent Tari's desire to discover what she is genetically as well as who her parents are. In terms of the Fortune Arcana, DNA is associated scientifically with luck and chance.

* Torturous Madman

The **Torturous Madman** is a Shadow of the Hanged Man Arcana who is encountered in the Modem Metro. It takes the form of a humanoid monster wearing a straitjacket, with a mask attached a padlock hanging from one of its sides. *The Torturous Madman is an original Shadow concept created by GamepadtheDreamer.*

Symbolism: The Torturous Madman represents Tari's struggle with finding her parents as well as the mental instability it is causing. In terms of the Hanged Man Arcana, the design of the Torturous Madman is meant to mirror the Hanged Man tarot card's design of a tied up man being hung upside-down as well as how difficult decisions can mentally break some people.

* Liberating Idol

The **Liberating Idol** is a Shadow of the Priestess Arcana who is encountered in the Modem Metro. It takes the form of a stone statue of a female human wearing a flowing cloak in a traditional meditation position, with a mask attached over its face.

Gameplay: The Liberating Idol possesses two special Skills. One is Valiant Dance, which has a 30% chance of giving any party member the Rage status effect (Rage makes the infected party member exclusively use their basic attack and ignore commands). Their other Skill is Rampage, which deals light Physical damage to the entire party between 1 and 3 times each. Its weaknesses are Fire and Bless.

Symbolism: The Liberating Idol might reference Tari's "prayers" to gain the answers to her questions. In terms of the Priestess Arcana, the figure depicted by this Shadow is in a common position associated with religious context.

* Arcane Turret

The **Arcane Turret** is a Shadow of the Chariot Arcana who is encountered in the later areas of the Modem Metro. It takes the form of a military tank, with a mask attached on top of its rotating cannon.

Gameplay: The Arcane Turret has two special Skills. Its main skill is Mind Charge, which boosts the strength of its next Magic attack. It then follows this with Bufudyne (which deals heavy Ice damage to a single target). It possesses no special weaknesses.

Symbolism: The Arcane Turret might reference artillery games (a genre of video game associated with war) or Tari wanting to use physical force to make people tell her what she wants to know. In terms of the Chariot Arcana, the word "tank" is commonly associated in culture with power and recklessness.

Bosses

* Shadow Tari

*"I am a Shadow, the true self. I say that, but am I the true one? Or am I someone else? I don't know! Someone give me the answers!"*

Design: Shadow Tari's boss design resembles a gigantic stone statue of Tari. Elements of the blue jay are incorporated in the design, with other areas resembling a bloody skeleton held together by circuitry. While its head resembles the overall shape and silhouette of Tari's head, it takes the form of a purple vortex with no discernable facial features.

Gameplay: Shadow Tari's main gimmick is "analysing" party members, temporarily making her immune to any attacks dealt by them for a few turns. She also wields Wind Skills and Defense buffs. Her special Skill is **Amnesiac Hurricane**, which deals medium Wind damage to the entire party while also raising Shadow Tari's defense. It has no special weaknesses.

Symbolism: Shadow Tari overall represents her frustrations over not knowing anything about her origins, further heightened by her lifestyle of playing video games rather than searching for the answers to her questions. This causes the Shadow's behavior to be erratic and paranoid, compared to her human counterpart's shy and reserved nature.

Her boss design's mishmash of motifs represents her lack of concrete information about herself, further supported by her black hole-like face symbolizing her Shadow's desire to find the truth even if the results are untrue. Her minor blue jay motif is also an homage to how SMG4 specifically based Tari's design and personality on the animal.

To conquer her Shadow and unlock her Persona, Tari must accept that she is a unique individual worthy of respect (not a freak) and that the search where she comes from is not accomplishable on her own. Her initial Persona, Gigyas, takes the form of a bloody skeleton which is one of her boss form's design motifs.

### Hi-Speed Spa

The Hi-Speed Spa is the fourth Dungeon explored by the Shadow Glitchers, formed from the negative emotions of Saiko. It resembles a beauty salon. In addition to recruiting Saiko here, Fishy Boopkins awakens his Persona in this area.

Dungeon Etymology: The name of this Dungeon is based on high-speed internet, a specific type of Internet access.

Dungeon Symbolism: The Hi-Speed Spa is based on Saiko's wish to be the most beautiful woman in the world as well as her desire to have a romantic relationship with someone. In terms of the Youtube channel theme, Hi-Speed Spa represents **Fashion Channels**.

Shadows

* Secret Bambino

The **Secret Bambino** is a Shadow of the Empress Arcana that is encountered in the early areas of the Hi-Speed Spa. It takes the form of a living stone statue of a human infant, with a mask attached to a flower growing from the scalp. Its name is based on the Italian word for a baby.

Gameplay: The Secret Bambino has access to the low-level basic elemental skills (Agi, Bufu, Zio, and Garu). It also can use Sukukaja, which raises the user's accuracy and evasion. Its weakness is Electricity.

Symbolism: The Secret Bambino might represent Saiko's desire to have children. In terms of the Empress Arcana, tarot readings sometimes see the Empress card appearing as a symbol of pregnency.

* Lustful Snake

The **Lustful Snake** is a Shadow of the Lovers Arcana that is encountered in the Hi-Speed Spa. It takes the form of a serpent intertwined with the traditional symbols for a male and female, a mask also being attached to the serpent's face.

Symbolism: The Lustful Snake references both Saiko's desire for romance and her deceitful nature (snakes are culturally symbolic of lies, likely derived from the Biblical story of Adam and Eve). In terms of the Lovers Arcana, the symbols depicted by the Lustful Snake are often called "sex symbols" despite technically representing gender only.

* Devoted Cupid

The **Devoted Cupid** is a Shadow of the Lovers Arcana that is encountered in the Hi-Speed Spa. It takes the form of a winged medieval archer wielding a bow and arrow who is wearing a mask. Its name and design is a reference to the Greco-Roman deity of love.

Symbolism: The Devoted Cupid is a representation of Saiko's desire for affection and romance. In terms of the Lovers Arcana, Cupid is arguably the most famous mythological symbol of love.

* Tropical Temptress

The **Tropical Temptress** is a Shadow of the Strength Arcana that is encountered in the later areas of the Hi-Speed Spa. It takes the form of a succubus-like creature made entirely out of candy, which is also wearing a mask. The Tropical Temptress' name is meant to reference tropical-themed flavors of candy. *The Tropical Temptress is an original Shadow concept created by GamepadtheDreamer.*

Symbolism: The Tropical Temptress symbolizes Saiko's sweet behavior which hides sinister intent. In terms of the Strength Arcana, the ability to resist the temptation to eat sweets for unnecessary reasons is a sign of strong character.

Bosses

* Shadow Boopkins

*"I am a shadow, the true self... Boohoo! Papa! Help me! These meanies are hitting me like the crybaby pushover that I am! I would defend myself, but my stubby limbs and puny dumb brain won't do anything! Won't anybody pamper me, since I'm a brat!"*

Design: Shadow Boopkins' boss design resembles his original self overall, but made completely out of translucent glass. He has no arms and his eyes carry a blank expression. The lower half of the being is a massive tornado of water with 8 octopus tentacles protruding from it. Two of the tentacles are holding signs saying "CANNON FODDER" and "EASY PREY".

Gameplay: Shadow Boopkins is a boss that relies on inflicting Ailments to weaken the party due to his own pathetic stats. His special move is **Blizzard of Fragility**, which deals low Ice damage to the entire party but is upgraded to medium Ice damage if a target has an Ailment.

Symbolism: Shadow Boopkins overall represents his human self's resentment over people constantly mistreating him. The Shadow therefore acts rude towards everyone, but shows particular joy in being mean towards the true Boopkins by making fun of his cowardice.

Boopkins' boss design represents his fragility. His glass body represents how simple of a person he is as well as how easily he can be hurt (both physically through violent acts and mentally through verbal abuse). His lack of arms and blank expression show how he does next to nothing to solve problems himself, instead relying on his friends like Bob to fix issues for him. The octopus tentacles and water tornado reference Fishy's aquatic origins and his overreliance on his father to help him in difficult situations.

To conquer his Shadow and unlock his Persona, Boopkins must understand that his weak nature does not make him a liability towards others and that Fishy's friends can't solve every problem he will face in life. His initual Persona, Perfect Chaos, is referenced by his boss design through its see-through skin (both clear water and plain glass possess this quality).

* Shadow Saiko

*"I am a shadow, the true self. It appears you've gotten soft. A wine-drinking single rockstar who only likes girls? You're delusional! Nobody cares if you "are yourself", they wanna see me! A pretty lady with a psychotic streak. Now, let me take over at once so the old Saiko can return, darling!"*

Design: Shadow Saiko's boss design initially takes the form of a giant animatronic version of Saiko which possesses a generically cute anime girl face in place of Saiko's actual one. The words "CUTE" and "LOVELY" are printed in all capital letters on its limbs, pink hearts appear on its back, and red lips in a kissing position are attached across its entire torso (including its breasts). After being dealt enough damage, the metal plates fall off and reveal Shadow Saiko's true form: a horrifying demonic creature with faded pink skin. Its true form has moving eyeballs and mouths attached in various places across its entire body and its face only possesses a single howling mouth.

Gameplay: Shadow Saiko, in her first form, uses a variety of magic-based attacks. Her second form switches to a purely Physical moveset focused on dealing high damage through Strength buffs. Her special move in both forms is **Psionic Psychopathy**, which deals medium Psychokinetic damage to the entire party.

Symbolism: Shadow Saiko overall represents Saiko's confliction over her inability to balance her innate psychotic instincts and her developing empathy for others. This Shadow Self also embodies her desire for romance. Shadow Saiko therefore acts like a seductive yet kind individual at first, before dropping the act and acting like a raving lunatic.

Her boss self embodies Saiko's two-faced nature by having two forms, one of which is an artificial concept of beauty while the other is a disgusting abomination. The anime girl face on her first form represents how Saiko is tired of being rejected by possible male suitors in favor of others who are seen as cuter than her, which Saiko desires for herself. Also, the faded pink skin of its true form might represent how Saiko retains her outer beauty even if her personality does not match expectations.

To conquer her Shadow and unlock her Persona, Saiko must accept that her growing kindness doesn't mean she has to abandon her inner aggression. Her initial Persona, Monokuma, references how her Shadow Self is a robotic being hiding an inner evil (Monokuma is a cybernetic device used as a tool by the mastermind of the Killing Game in the Danganronpa franchise).

### Data Mine

The Data Mine is the fifth Dungeon explored by the Shadow Glitchers, formed from the negative emotions of SMG4 himself. It resembles a coal mine and is filled with references to Internet memes.

Dungeon Etymology: The name of this Dungeon is based on the term data mining, the act of analyzing large databases in order to find new information. It is also a pun on mine.

Dungeon Symbolism: The Data Mine is based on SMG4's feelings of being a slave to Youtube's demands as well as his fears of burnout. In terms of the Youtube channel theme, Data Mine represents **Comedy Channels**.

Shadows

* Power Castle

The **Power Castle** is a Shadow of the Emperor Arcana that appears in the Data Mine. It takes the form of a medieval castle on top of a floating mountain-like rock, with a mask attached to a tower protruding from the castle's center.

Symbolism: The Power Castle might represent SMG4's role as the metaphorical ruler of his own universe. In terms of the Emperor Arcana, a royal castle is a common household for the ruler of a location.

* Apostate Tower

The **Apostate Tower** is a Shadow of the Hierophant Arcana that appears in the Data Mine. It takes the form of three stone heads stacked on top of each other, each one wearing the headgear of a Catholic bishop. Its mask is attached to the face of the uppermost head. The word "apostate" in its name means 'a person who abandons a religious belief or principle'.

Symbolism: The Apostate Tower represents SMG4's authority over the universe he resides in, similar to Catholic bishops being high ranking officials in the Catholic church. In terms of the Hierophant Arcana, the Apostate Tower might be a reference to the card's alternative name of the Pope (popes being a bishop that has been granted higher authority).

* Prime Magus

The **Prime Magus** is a Shadow of the Magician Arcana that appears in the Data Mine. It takes the form of a medieval era magician wearing a mask on its face with a pair of human hands sprouting from its back similar to a pair of wings. Like the other Magus-type Shadows, its name references a term for something that is top-tier (something that is "prime" is defined as 'of first importance' or 'of excellent quality').

Symbolism: The Prime Magus might represent SMG4's incredible power, with the hands symbolizing his ability to manipulate individuals of his universe. In terms of the Magician Arcana, the Prime Magus likely is based on a medieval era magic-user.

* Dismayed Panzer

The **Dismayed Panzer** is a Shadow of the Chariot Arcana that appears in the Data Mine. It takes the form of a Da Vinci tank, with a mask attached to the upper turret.

Symbolism: Both Leonardo da Vinci and SMG4 are creative individuals who crafted wild ideas in multiple different fields. In terms of the Chariot Arcana, the Da Vinci tank was invented as a weapon of war but was seen as too ambitious.

* Dominating Machine

The **Dominating Machine** is a Shadow of the Justice Arcana that appears in the later areas of the Data Mine. It takes the form of a giant robot styled after a Japanese samurai, with a mask attached to the center of its chest. Its design is likely an homage to the Gundham and Super Sentai franchises.

Symbolism: The Dominating Machine represents SMG4's love for video games and pop culture, with the majority of his characters being alternative interpretations of other people's characters. In terms of the Justice Arcana, the franchises the Dominating Machine is based on are based on heroes who use their powerful giant robots to protect others from dangerous enemies.

Bosses

* Shadow SMG4

*"I am a shadow. The true self... Creativity is a sin. The Divine Algorithm watches our every move, We shall submit to it's power and do as it wants. Those who think otherwise shall be purged for the heathens they are..."*

Design: Shadow SMG4's boss design is overall similar to his original self in shape and color scheme, but built out of various objects referencing trends and memes. Its eyes are shaped like the Youtube logo and a giant cable extends from its back to a floating digital sphere labeled "WWW" via a USB port. A unique feature of Shadow SMG4's boss fight is that the objects forming its body gradually fall off as it takes more damage.

Gameplay: Shadow SMG4 has access to all mid-tier elemental spells, allowing him to exploit the weaknesses of any party member. His special move is **Omnipotent Submission**, which deals heavy Bless damage to the entire party.

Symbolism: Shadow SMG4 overall represents his original self's feelings of being a slave to Youtube, unable to do anything else with his life for fear of falling into obscurity. This Shadow Self talks similar to a cult leader, praising the Youtube algorithm in a similar manner that one would treat a god.

His boss design is overall a reference to the Internet and is visually based on the work of the Italian artist Giuseppe Arcimboldo. The floating digital sphere's label is short for World Wide Web, an alternative name for the Internet. The falling apart of its body could be interpreted as representing the common fear shared by creators of their work being shallow or being heavily criticized.

To conquer his Shadow and unlock his Persona, SMG4 must understand that he has friends and a loyal fanbase that cares about him both as a person and as a content creator. His initial Persona, Gamedeus, is similar to Shadow SMG4 in that both are chimeras (monsters whose bodies possess the traits of multiple different creatures or concepts).

### Control Network

The Control Network is the sixth Dungeon explored by the Shadow Glitchers, formed from the negative emotions of SMG3. It resembles a traditional office space. During this area, SMG3 joins the party from the beginning as part of his evil plan to obtain a Persona of his own.

Dungeon Etymology: The name of this Dungeon is based on a computer network, a group of two or more linked computers that share resources and information with each other.

Dungeon Symbolism: The Control Network is based on SMG3's desire to gain control over SMG4's channel. In terms of the Youtube channel theme, Control Network represents **Business Channels**.

Shadows

* Infinite Sand

The **Infinite Sand** is a Shadow of the Fortune Arcana that appears in early areas of the Control Network. It takes the form of a living hourglass surrounded by a floating ring, with a mask attached to the very top of the hourglass. Like the other Sand-type Shadows, its name references a word related to being endless (to be infinite means 'impossible to measure or calculate').

Symbolism: The Infinite Sand represents the time-based constraints of the average work environment. In terms of the Fortune Arcana, the hourglass is a common symbol of time which can sometimes seem random and unpredictable.

* Phantom King

The **Phantom King** is a Shadow of the Hermit Arcana that appears in the Control Network. It takes the form of a living cloak carrying a lantern which is wearing a mask. Like the other Phantom-type Shadows, its name contains a specific royal position.

Symbolism: The Phantom King represents SMG3's desire to take control over SMG4's Youtube channel as well as his lack of a definitive career path ( similar to a wandering individual). In terms of the Hermit Arcana, some people choose to wander the Earth in search of spiritual enlightenment.

* Statis Giant

The **Statis Giant** is a Shadow of the Justice Arcana that appears in the Control Network. It takes the form of a gigantic stone statue wielding a sword that is also wearing a mask. Like the other Giant-type Shadows, its name references a word related to law and order (the name might be based on the Latin phrase "status quo", which is defined as 'the existing state of affairs in regards to social structure').

Symbolism: Statis Giant represents the plainness of the Control Network and the oppressiveness of the work environment. In terms of the Justice Arcana, those who uphold the general way of life are required to make fair and just decisions.

* Jotun of Blood

The **Jotun of Blood** is a Shadow of the Hanged Man Arcana that appears in the later areas of the Control Network. It takes the form of a humanoid giant riding on a wooden rocking horse while also wearing a mask on its face. Its name is a reference to the Jotunn from Norse mythology.

Symbolism: The Jotun of Blood likely represents those who are lazy in their work. In terms of the Hanged Man Arcana, the Jotun of Blood might represent how some who must make an important decision ignore it in favor of distractions out of fear.

Bosses

* Shadow SMG3

*"I am a shadow... The true self... But with a heart of light! Your very being made of hate and deceit is unacceptable! I shall bring forth justice and rid the world of your villainy! En garde, You fiend, have at thee!"*

Design: Shadow SMG3's boss form is unique in that it comes in two separate forms. The first form (the one he begins with at the beginning of the fight against him) resembles a giant wind-up toy which looks like SMG4 wearing a suit of armor adorned with sculpted reliefs based on the Youtuber's friends. His other form is a gigantic robot which visually resembles an angel and SMG3. This form is armed with a sword and shield as well as the power to fly thanks to a pair of white wings. Shadow SMG3 can switch between his two forms at will.

Gameplay: Shadow SMG3, in his wind-up toy form, relies on defensive buffs and tanking hits. In his robot form, he becomes more powerful with access to both Physical and elemental attacks of the mid-tier variety. His special move is **Heroica Maleficarum**, which deals heavy Curse damage to the entire party.

Symbolism: Shadow SMG3 overall represents SMG3's desire for the SMG4 universe to be more balanced and less chaotic so that he may live in peace. Due to SMG3's villainy, his Shadow Self embodies his secret heroism despite knowing SMG4 fills the role of hero already. Shadow SMG3 acts like a stereotypical 'knight in shining armor', speaking with formalities towards others and possessing the nobility his human counterpart hides from others.

His boss form's first design of a giant wind-up toy represents how SMG3 sees his universal successor as a worthless and pathetic toy who is only able to rely on his friends for protection (symbolized by the reliefs on his armor. His second form's resemblance to an angel could be seen as SMG3's desire to reclaim his role as protector of the universe (similar to Saint Michael the Archangel). His ability to swap between his two forms (which resemble SMG4 and SMG3 respectively) could symbolize how the two people are counterparts of each other in the universe.

To conquer his Shadow and unlock his Persona, SMG3 must give up his desire to overtake SMG4 and live in the fourth universe peacefully. His initial Persona, DIO Over Heaven, symbolizes the heaven motif of Shadow SMG3.

Note: While SMG3 does unlock his Persona normally, the Shadow Glitchers are forced to fight him immediately afterwards due to SMG3's evil plan to use his Persona for selfish purposes.

### Deletion Wastes

The Deletion Wastes is the seventh Dungeon explored by the Shadow Glitchers, formed from the negative emotions of Waluigi. It resembles a landfill.

Dungeon Etymology: The name of this Dungeon is based on deletion, the act of removing data from a computer's memory.

Dungeon Symbolism: The Deletion Wastes is based on Waluigi's fears of being rejected and his frustration over never being a playable fighter in Super Smash Bros. In terms of the Youtube channel theme, Deletion Wastes represents **Deleted Channels**.

Shadows

* Judgement Sword

The **Judgement Sword** is a Shadow of the Justice Arcana that appears in the Deletion Wastes. It takes the form of a large stone arm protruding out of the ground which is holding a broadsword, with a mask attached just above the cross-guard of the sword.

Symbolism: The Judgement Sword could represent Waluigi's desire to control others fate due to having no control over his own (thus "judging" them as he sees fit). The Shadow's usage of a sword (a common cultural symbol of battle or conflict) might also represent Waluigi's desire to be playable in Super Smash Bros. (a video game franchise about multiple people fighting each other). In terms of the Justice Arcana, this Shadow likely represents the concept of a noble warrior wielding a sword that only strikes those who deserve to be struck down.

* Nemean Beast

The **Nemean Beast** is a Shadow of the Strength Arcana that appears in the Deletion Wastes. It takes the form of a white lion that wears a metal harness around its neck that is attached to an iron ball and chain. The iron ball has a mask attached to it. Its name is a reference to the Nemean Lion, a creature from Greek mythology.

Symbolism: The Nemean Beast might represent Waluigi's feelings of being unable to do as he wishes despite his enormous power, similar to the Nemean Lion being easily defeated by Heracles even though it was supposedly invincible. In terms of the Strength Arcana, lions are culturally symbolic of physical strength.

* Minotaur II

The **Minotaur II** is a Shadow of the Hanged Man Arcana that appears in the Deletion Wastes. It takes the form of a black-skinned humanoid wearing a giant horned helmet colored red and yellow that has an upside-down mask for a face. It is also wearing golden restraints that are attached to the helmet by chains. Its name and design is based on the Minotaur from Greek mythology, while its name contains the Roman numeral for the number 2.

Symbolism: Like the Minotaur of Greek mythology, Waluigi is a powerful individual whose creation was unnecessary. The Minotaur was born as a byproduct of a curse inflicted on the wife of King Minos, while Waluigi (in real life) was conceptualized simply to serve as a partner for Wario in Mario Tennis. In terms of the Hanged Man Arcana, the Minotaur was created as a result of King Minos making a poor decision and its death at the hands of the hero Perseus was the result of his bravery despite being viewed by others as foolishness.

Bosses

* Shadow Waluigi

*"I am a shadow, the true self. Seriously, my other side? You threw away your divine glory for acceptance? Acceptance from your brother and the people around you? HAHAHA! You should know those feelings are temporary falsehoods! No matter what they say, your brother never loved you! **NOBODY EVER DID!** So let your powers resurge for good and let me show everyone* what it truly means to be **REJECTED! HAHAHAHAHA!*"***

Design: Shadow Waluigi's boss form overall looks similar to his human self's Rejection form in body composition, down to it having the same head. Its main body is a see-through electric blue with a large rainbow-colored core embedded into his chest. He possesses two large glove-like hands, which are attached to his body using long black tendrils rather than arms. His lower body consists of a large mass of similar black tendrils as his makeshift arms. Six long, white angelic wings protrude from his back, which possess sharp points at the tips similar to a bat.

Gameplay: Shadow Waluigi has access to all of the high-tier elemental spells as well as buffs for every possible statistic. His special move is **Isolationist Endgame**, which deals heavy Almighty damage to the entire party.

Symbolism: Shadow Waluigi overall represents his hidden desire to selfishly use his Power of Rejection for his own purposes. He acts extremely antagonistic towards his human counterpart, constantly taunting him in an attempt to draw out his superpowered alternative side.

His boss design overall is based on a fusion of the final bosses of the various games in the Super Smash Bros. series (a reference to Waluigi's desire to become a playable character in the franchise rather than a simple summoned ally). Its main body is based on Tabuu from the story campaign of Brawl, its wings are based on Galeem from Ultimate, its arms reference Master Hand and Crazy Hand (who appear throughout the franchise), its lower body and arms resemble the body of Dharkon (also from Ultimate), and the orb in its chest is a reference to Master Core from the fourth entry.

To conquer his Shadow and unlock his Persona, Waluigi needs to accept that his years of being rejected both by society and by Sakurai will never end but that he can use life's hardships to move forward. His initial Persona, Majin Buu, embodies the extraordinary power wielded by his Shadow Self.

### Glitch Fortress

The Glitch Fortress is the eighth Dungeon explored by the Shadow Glitchers, formed from the corrupted and brainwashed emotions of Swagmaster. It resembles a military base.

Dungeon Etymology: The name of this Dungeon is based on the glitch, a sudden malfunction of electronic equipment that is usually temporary.

Dungeon Symbolism: The Glitch Fortress is based on Swagmaster's obedience to Shadow Human Meggy. In terms of the Youtube channel theme, Glitch Fortress represents **News Channels**.

Shadows

* Slaughter Drive

The **Slaughter Drive** is a Shadow of the Chariot Arcana that appears in the Glitch Fortress. It takes the form of a robotic being based on a medieval jouster, wearing a mask on its face and wielding a pair of lances in place of arms.

Symbolism: The Slaughter Drive represents how medieval knights were used by kings during medieval times as weapons of war, with many medieval jousts being performed for ulterior reasons. In terms of the Chariot Arcana, victory in a joust often requires one to be aggressive and fearless.

* Great King

The **Great King** is a Shadow of the Emperor Arcana that appears in the Glitch Fortress. It takes the form of a cartoonish portrayal of a European king, with the mask serving as its crown.

Symbolism: The Great King represents how Swagmaster (and by extension his master) are the ultimate rulers of the Midday Channel as well as the masterminds behind the kidnappings happening in the Mushroom Kingdom. In terms of the Emperor Arcana, European kings are the most commonly known type of royal rulers in human culture.

Boss: Possessed Swagmaster

Design: Swagmaster is the only character in Memesona who does not possess a boss form. He instead appears as himself, the only difference is being surrounded by a red aura with traces of black. After Shadow Meggy reveals herself, Swagmaster's aura changes to be black with traces of purple.

Gameplay: Possessed Swagmaster initially manifests a Persona-like variant of Yaldabaoth (the final boss of Persona 5) called **Mokushi Yaldabaoth**, who functions the same as he did in his original appearance in terms of abilities and attacks. After dealing enough damage, Shadow Human Meggy reveals herself and changes Swagmaster's Persona-like entity to **Mokushi Nyx** (based on the Nyx Avatar from Persona 3), which also possesses the same abilities as its original boss battle.

Symbolism: Possessed Swagmaster's Persona-like entities being called "Mokushi" (Japanese for apocalypse) is meant to parallel the evil forces in the original Persona 4 being associated with the word "Magatsu" (Japanese for calamity). Mokushi Yaldabaoth symbolizes how Shadow Human Meggy (at this point still pretending to be Swagmaster) is supposedly performing his evil actions as a result of a god-complex. Mokushi Nyx symbolizes Shadow Human Meggy's erupting frustration over the Shadow Glitcher's successful derailing of her plans, resolving to simply destroy everything to ensure their collective demise.

### Blue Screen Ocean

The Blue Screen Ocean is the final Dungeon explored by the Shadow Glitchers, formed by Shadow Human Meggy based on the negative emotions of Meggy. It resembles a tropical island.

Meggy first visits this area in a dream where she awakens her initial Persona following a battle against what she believes is her Shadow Self (later revealed to be her Inkling's Shadow Self). After learning that her true Shadow Self is the mastermind behind the Midday Channel, she returns to the Dungeon alongside her team.

Dungeon Etymology: The name of this Dungeon is based on the blue screen of death, an error screen for the Windows operating system that displays in the event of a fatal system error. It is also an homage to the cultural association of the color blue with the ocean.

Dungeon Symbolism: The Blue Screen Ocean is based on a paradise, designed to convince Meggy that she would be better off dead since the afterlife will be beautiful. The beach motif is a reference to both Splatoon (which has an aquatic theme) and the SMG4 spinoff series Sunset Paradise (which stars Meggy as the main character). The area was originally inspired by Memesona's color symbol of orange being associated with tropical environments. In terms of the Youtube channel theme, Blue Screen Ocean represents **Vlog Channels**.

Shadows

* Revelation Pesce

The **Revelation Pesce** is a Shadow of the Priestess Arcana that appears in the Blue Screen Ocean. It takes the form of a black-colored *koinobori* that wears a mask on top of its forehead. Its name is likely based on "pisce", the Latin word for a fish (which the koinobori is modelled after).

Symbolism: The Revelation Pesce was chosen to specifically tie into Blue Screen Ocean's aquatic motif. However, its concept might also symbolize Shadow Human Meggy's frustration over Meggy using the moral support of her friends to avoid killing herself (similar to the survival instinct of a school of fish). In terms of the Priestess Arcana, the fish is symbolic in common culture with the concept of the unconscious or higher self (which religious people desire to access).

* Pure Papillon

The **Pure Papillon** is a Shadow of the Lovers Arcana that appears in the Blue Screen Ocean. It takes the form of a flock of blue butterflies, with one in particular carrying a mask. Its name is based on "papillon", the French word for a butterfly.

Symbolism: The Pure Papillon represents Shadow Human Meggy's desire to see Meggy die, similar to how butterflies are seen as representing the souls of the deceased in many different cultures. In terms of the Lovers Arcana, butterflies also represent eternal love.

Boss

* Shadow Meggy (Inkling)

*"I may be a Shadow, but I am* THE *Meggy. The* Actual *true self... You, human abomination, will wish you were never born, for I will make things like they were before. I will live again like a normal inkling, instead of like one of you disgusting freaks."*

Design: Shadow Meggy's boss form overall resembles a giant version of Meggy's original Inkling form, with all of its limbs chained to 3 boulders (the chains around its legs are all attached to the same boulder). Each boulder has a different word carved into it: SPLATFEST, PROMISE, and DEPRESSION. A plaque with the words "FUTILE HUMAN TRAUMA" is attached to a cavity inside of the upper chest area. Perched upon Shadow Meggy's right shoulder is a reptilian creature with black angel wings that resembles Meggy's deceased friend Desti. The Desti-like creature possesses a long and metallic tail which resembles an octopus tentacle that is wrapped around the giant Meggy's neck.

Gameplay: Shadow Inkling Meggy only possesses two moves: her basic Attack (which deals Physical damage) and Agi (which deals low Fire damage to its target). She is the only Shadow Self in Memesona to possess no special move, due to her fight being the tutorial.

Symbolism: Shadow Inkling Meggy overall represents how Meggy's life has drastically changed after becoming a human as well as her lingering guilt over Desti's death. She is indecisive over whether she should continue living as a human or attempt to reclaim her lost Inkling form. In a unique case for a human-Shadow Self relationship, it is actually the Shadow who ultimately rejects her human self due to the true Meggy telling it that she is satisfied living as a human.

Her boss design represents her being weighted down by various things like her promises to people and her depression over Desti's death, interpreted her by the chains wrapped around her. The plaque represents how Meggy feels as though being a human is harder than life as an Inkling (seeing her newfound human turmoil as pointless) which is an aftereffect of Inkling society's innate racism towards mankind. The Desti creature's biology overall represents the two people responsible for her death: her reptilian skin represents Francis the chameleon and her black wings represent Sephiroth.

To conquer her Shadow and unlock her Persona, Meggy must come to terms with her humanity and how her path forward in life is uncertain. Her initial Persona, the Dreaded Pinkfish, is based on Meggy viewing herself as an an insult to Inkling society as well as her carrying her guilt over Desti's death with her.

Note: When performing actions like skills, the Desti-like creature briefly begins eating away at the Inkling Meggy's chest (below the plaque). This is an homage to the Greek mythological figure Prometheus, who was punished for granting humanity the gift of fire by being chained to a cliffside and having an eagle eat his liver every day (his liver regrew as he slept, only to be taken away again by the eagle). This basis was chosen due to Shadow Inkling Meggy's boss design highly resembling depictions of Prometheus' suffering. In Memesona Arena, Shadow Inkling Meggy's Title is **The Nightmarishly Racist Replica Tomboy**.

* Shadow Meggy (Human)/Nihil-Meggy

Design: Shadow Human Meggy initially takes the form of a black-colored clone of her human self, with her eyes being entirely yellow (as opposed to the mere pupils being recolored for other Shadow Selves) and possessing no cracks.

Nihil-Meggy (based on the Latin word for nothingness) overall resembles a large stone sculpture of a human head. A large laser cannon is attached to an opening in the stone statue's mouth (overall located on Nihil-Meggy's chest). The entire stone head is attached to a circular metal platform covered in tubes from which red colored tentacles made from balloons are protruding (4 in total). Shadow Human Meggy's humanoid form is coming out of a hole on the stone head's scalp (from which purple and blue colored slime is pouring out over the entire stone surface).

Gameplay: During the first phase of Shadow Human Meggy's boss fight, she does not take on a special form and instead wields a dark variant of Meggy's Ultimate Persona, the **Proto-Octoling**. After her human counterpart unlocks her Ultimate Persona and unleashes her Crystal Euphoria skill, Shadow Human Meggy's frustration erupts which causes her to evolve into her boss form **Nihil-Meggy** by fusing with her Proto-Inkling. Her boss form fights by summoning past Shadow Self bosses in the order they were encountered, which fight the same as before at the cost of having significantly less HP. Once on her own, Shadow Human Meggy will fight further before being finished off for good by a combined magic attack from the entire party.

Symbolism: Shadow Human Meggy's Proto-Octoling Persona is meant to parallel Meggy's Proto-Inkling by representing the rivalry between the two races. The Proto-Octoling also intentionally resembles Desti in order to trigger Meggy's guilt over her death.

The Nihil-Meggy's design is based on Shadow Human Meggy's desire to destroy her human counterpart overtaking her entire being. Its vague octopus motif could represent Shadow Human Meggy's furthered attempts to invoke Meggy's guilt over Desti's death, although here it is more subtle due to the Shadow being filled with rage.

Note: Nihil-Meggy's design is based on a fusion of the NILS Statue, the final boss of the Octo Expansion DLC of Splatoon 2, and the concept art of the scrapped final boss for the same DLC. In Memesona Arena, Shadow Human Meggy's Title is **The Depression-Loving Edgelord Knockoff**.

## Kyomu Emotion Fortress

The **Kyomu Emotion Fortress** (Nothingness Emotion Fortress) is the second cognitive world visited by the Shadow Glitchers, introduced in Memesona G: Creeper.

Unlike the Midday Channel, the Kyomu Emotion Fortress' Dungeons are crafted by its ruler SMG0 based on locations from the real world. Each Dungeon's name is a reference to some word related to negativity or destruction.

With the exception of Swagmaster's Shadow Self, the bosses of the Kyomu Dungeons are **Zero-Selves**, corrupted creations of SMG0 that are based on the world's view of the person the Zero-Self portrays.

### Mokushi Spaghetti Factory

The Mokushi Spaghetti Factory (Apocalypse Spaghetti Factory) is the first Dungeon in the Kyomu Emotion Fortress, formed from a corrupted perversion of the Spaghetti Factory.

Bosses

* Shadow Swagmaster

“I am a Shadow, The true self… Ironically enough, I’m the true side of one of the most Fake people in the world! Heh, now where do I even begin with you…? YOU are not pretty, WE are ugly as sin. YOU are not popular, WE are mocked and abhorred. YOU are not serious and cool, WE are cowardly and immature. OUR VERY NAME is childish. Swag Master? Don’t make me laugh… We are idiots, and everyone has the right to mock us. Chris hates us, and he’s right. We should not be with him. We should not be a thing. We should not have been born. I shall dominate YOU, and end our pitiful existence. Once and for FUCKING ALL!!! AHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!”

Design: Shadow Swagmaster's boss form overall resembles a giant Swagmaster, but with the general motif of a horror movie villain. He has black shaggy hair, a second mouth extending out of his main one, and is wearing a white hospital gown over his military uniform. Instead of legs, his lower half consists of a giant pile of half-molten precious metals, dirty jewels, and other items associated with luxury which are green and rotten. He has 11 daggers stabbing him in the back, each of which is connected to an individual floating mirror depicting the 10 Shadow Glitchers (plus Chris) reflected in them in a position of laughing at him.

Gameplay: TBA

Symbolism: Shadow Swagmaster overall represents Swagmaster's vanity and how most of what he says is a lie.

His boss design is modeled after several classic horror movie villains (his appearance being inspired by Samara from The Ring and his protruding second mouth is a reference to the Xenomorph). His lack of legs is a visual pun on how Swagmaster has "no legs to stand on" and instead relies on fibs to make himself seem valuable to people, which even then does not offer much in terms of helping him. The floating mirrors symbolize how his vanity is a cover for his insecurity at everyone seeing him as nothing more than a joke, with the daggers representing his fears that people will betray him (stabbing him in the back) if he ever attempted to create a genuine connection with them.

* Zero-Chris
* Zero-Sergeant Mark

### Sainan Royal Castle

The Sainan Royal Castle (Calamity Royal Castle) is the second Dungeon in the Kyomu Emotion Fortress, formed from a corrupted perversion of Peach's Castle.

Bosses

* Zero-Toad
* Zero-Peach

### Tenzai Koopa Palace

The Tenzai Koopa Palace (Disaster Koopa Palace) is the third Dungeon in the Kyomu Emotion Fortress, formed from a corrupted perversion of Bowser's Castle.

Bosses

* Zero-Bowser

### Kyohen Manga Studio

The Kyohen Manga Studio (Catastrophe Manga Studio) is the fourth Dungeon in the Kyomu Emotion Fortress, formed from a corrupted perversion of Axol's manga studio.

Bosses

* Zero-Axol

### Ten-Hen God Academy

The Ten-Hen God Academy (Cataclysm God Academy) is the fifth Dungeon in the Kyomu Emotion Fortress, formed from a corrupted perversion of the God Academy.

Bosses

* Zero-Melony

### Rei-Ochi Scout Camp

The Rei-Ochi Scout Camp (Ruination Scout Camp) is the sixth Dungeon in the Kyomu Emotion Fortress, formed from a corrupted perversion of the Scout Camp.

Bosses

* Zero-Shroomy

### Kokuhyou Maikura Farm

The Kokuhyou Maikura Farm (Damnation Minecraft Farm) is the seventh Dungeon in the Kyomu Emotion Fortress, formed from a corrupted perversion of the Minecraft world.

Bosses

* Zero-Steve

### Sangeki Police Station

The Sangeki Police Station (Tragedy Police Station) is the eighth Dungeon in the Kyomu Emotion Fortress, formed from a corrupted perversion of the Mushroom Kingdom's police headquarters.

Bosses

* Zero-X and Zero-FM

### Muzan Snow Workshop

The Muzan Snow Workshop (Atrocity Snow Workshop) is the ninth Dungeon in the Kyomu Emotion Fortress, formed from a corrupted perversion of Santa's workshop.

Bosses

* Zero-Enzo

### Deep Dark Web

The Deep Dark Web is the tenth and final Dungeon in the Kyomu Emotion Fortress, formed from the willpower of SMG0.

Bosses

* SMG0

## Personas

Like the original Persona 4, new Personas are obtained either through Shuffle Time in the dungeons or by fusing existing Personas together in the Velvet Room.

Note: The order of the Personas within their Arcana is based on the approximate order they can be obtained in, therefore later listed ones are overall stronger than the ones listed earlier. For information regarding the Personal Personas of the Shadow Glitchers and their Evolved Personas, see the Characters section above.

### Fool Arcana

*Personas of the Fool Arcana are "jack of all trades", with no preference towards any particular skill type. Representatives of this Arcana are heroes, fools, or protagonists.*

* Jibanyan (Fire)
* Cuphead
* Theo
* Larry-Boy
* Spongebob (Ice)
* Homer Simpson
* Tahu (Fire)
* Po
* MUI Goku
* Neptune (Unlocked by completing the Mario Social Link)

### Magician Arcana

*Personas of the Magician Arcana commonly specialize in Magic, particularly the Fire element. Representatives of this Arcana are generally magic-users or those associated with magic.*

* Magnifo (Ailment)
* Twilight Sparkle (Psychokinesis)
* Sir Benrey
* Merasmus
* CFW Magic (Ice)
* Harry Potter (Unlocked by completing the Meggy Social Link)

### Priestess Arcana

*Personas of the Priestess Arcana most often use Healing and Support Skills. Representatives of this Arcana are usually female magic-users, goddesses of wisdom, or actual priestesses.*

* Fluttershy (Healing)
* Miss Pauling
* Elena of Avalor
* Ruby Rose
* Dark Magician Girl
* Yuna
* Noire (Wind)
* Candelilla (Unlocked by completing the Princess Peach Social Link)

### Empress Arcana

*Personas of the Empress Arcana often use Ice and Healing Skills. Representatives of this Arcana are generally mothers/motherly figures, queens/female royalty, or important females.*

* Rarity
* Lovekov
* Tigrerra (Bless)
* Elsa (Ice)
* The Administrator
* Lucina
* Vert (Bless)
* Rei (Almighty) (Unlocked by completing the Tari Social Link)

### Emperor Arcana

*Personas of the Emperor Arcana often specialize in Physical and Electricity Skills. Representatives of this Arcana are kings/royalty figures or males that hold some sort of importance.*

* Cuzco (Fire)
* Simba
* Ice King (Ice)
* Jack Sparrow
* Lord Ainz (Curse)
* Senator Armstrong
* Technoblade (Unlocked by completing the Bob Social Link)

### Hierophant Arcana

*Personas of the Hierophant Arcana have no particular strengths or weaknesses. Representatives of this Arcana are male priests, gods of wisdom, or divine beings (paralleling the females of the Priestess Arcana).*

* Flain (Fire)
* Pop Fizz
* Jimmy Neutron (Electricity)
* Sensei Wu
* The Engineer
* Uncle Grandpa
* Raiden (Electricity)
* Alien X (Unlocked by completing the Chris Social Link)

### Lovers Arcana

*Personas of the Lovers Arcana often specialize in Healing and Support Skills. Representatives of this Arcana are fairies, important wives/husbands of another figure, figures associated with love, or figures associated with any kind of union.*

* Tinker Bell (Healing)
* Hello Kitty
* Unikitty (Psychokinesis)
* Off the Hook
* CFW Trick
* Plutia (Nuclear)
* Ladybug (Unlocked by completing the Saiko Social Link)

### Chariot Arcana

*Personas of the Chariot Arcana generally specialize in Physical Skills. Representatives of this Arcana are warriors or deities of war.*

* Rainbow Dash (Wind and Buffs)
* Lightning McQueen (Electricity)
* The Scout
* Tracer (Nuclear)
* Blanc (Physical and Curse)
* Peashy (Electricity)
* Kratos (Unlocked by completing the Shroomy Social Link)

### Strength Arcana

*Personas of the Strength Arcana generally specialize in Physical Skills. Representatives of this Arcana are warrior figures and heroes, or those who embody strength of body or character.*

* Applejack (Physical)
* The Heavy
* Skeletor
* Saxton Hale
* Dr. Coomer
* John Cena
* Dragonoid (Fire)
* Popeye
* Android 21 (Unlocked by completing the Sgt. Mark Social Link)

### Hermit Arcana

*Personas of the Hermit Arcana generally specialize in Ailment Skills. Representatives of this Arcana are actual hermits or figures that exist and operate from behind the scenes.*

* Razputin (Psychokinesis)
* Stealth Elf (Wind)
* Dr. Cockroach
* Gordon Freeman
* The Medic
* Mysterion (Curse)
* Aang (Wind)
* Bill Cipher (Unlocked by completing the SMG4 Social Link)

### Fortune Arcana

*Personas of the Fortune Arcana generally use Wind Skills. Representatives of this Arcana are figures that control or are associated with luck, fate, and/or omens.*

* Meowth
* Mugman
* Scrooge McDuck
* Oogie Boogie
* Crash Bandicoot (Wind)
* ShishiRed Orion (Unlocked by completing the Toad Social Link)

### Justice Arcana

*Personas of the Justice Arcana generally specialize in Light Skills. Representatives of this Arcana are angels and figures associated with justice, order, or vengeance.*

* Freelancer
* Sheriff Woody
* Bravenwolf (Fire)
* The Soldier
* Wonder-Red (Bless)
* Kamen Rider Ichigo
* CFW Brave
* Mazinger Z
* All Might (Unlocked by completing the X and FM Social Link)

### Hanged Man Arcana

*Personas of the Hanged Man Arcana generally specialize in the ability to survive. Representatives of this Arcana are generally figures that exist between two forces, those who find themselves transitioning, or martyrs.*

* Goat Simulator
* Gru (Ice)
* Belle (Fire)
* Vortigaunt
* Kamen Rider Skull
* The Pyro
* Darth Vader (Unlocked by completing the Bowser Social Link)

### Death Arcana

*Personas of the Death Arcana generally use Dark Skills. Representatives of this Arcana are generally figures either directly linked to death or are notable for dying themselves.*

* Freddy Fazbear (Fear)
* Dr. Zomboss (Electricity)
* Golden Bat
* Chainsaw Man
* Danny Phantom
* Jack Skellington (Curse)
* Ryuk (Unlocked by completing the Axol Social Link)

### Devil Arcana

*Personas of the Devil Arcana generally specialize in Curse Skills. Representatives of this Arcana are generally demons/devils or evil figures.*

* Kyubey
* Bendy
* Vice
* Weegee (Curse)
* Wilfre (Curse)
* Aku (Unlocked by completing the SMG3 Social Link)

### Temperance Arcana

*Personas of the Temperance Arcana are well-rounded. Representatives of this Arcana are figures associated with balance and moderation. Most of the Temperance Personas are also creatures rather than humanoids.*

* Rabbid
* Volectro (Elec)
* Agumon (Fire)
* Eruptor (Fire)
* Driger (Thunder)
* Draciel (Ice)
* Dranzer (Fire)
* Dragoon (Wind)
* RX-78 Gundam
* Trombe (Unlocked by completing the Steve Social Link)

### Tower Arcana

*Personas of the Tower Arcana generally use Physical Skills and possess poor Magic abilities. Representatives of this Arcana are figures that have fallen from grace and those associated with destruction or righteousness.*

* Tails Doll (Curse)
* Isaac (Ice)
* T.J. Combo (Physical)
* The Combine
* Scorpion (Fire, Curse)
* Spawn
* Sephiroth (Unlocked by completing the Enzo Social Link)

### Star Arcana

*Personas of the Star Arcana commonly use Wind or Ice element Skills. Representatives of this Arcana are astrological figures (those associated with outer space), multi-talented figures, or those with many spheres of influence.*

* Pinkie Pie
* Buzz Lightyear (Nuclear)
* Invader Zim
* Steven Universe
* El Chapulin Colorado (Physical)
* Shrek
* Galactus (Unlocked by completing the Luigi Social Link)

### Moon Arcana

*Personas of the Moon Arcana use Physical skills with average Magic stats. Representatives of this Arcana are figures associated with the moon, people with psychic powers, evil figures associated with treachery, or figures possessing the power of illusion.*

* The Spy
* Discord
* Nihilanth (Psychokinesis)
* G-Man
* Sailor Moon (Unlocked by completing the Melony Social Link)

### Sun Arcana

*Personas of the Sun Arcana commonly use Light and Fire Skills. Representatives of this Arcana are figures associated with the sun, light, or fire.*

* Natsu Dragneel (Fire)
* Uzume (Fire)
* Naruto (Unlocked by completing the Fishy Boopkins Social Link)

### Judgement Arcana

*Personas of the Judgement Arcana generally specialize in Light or Darkness Skills. Representatives of this Arcana are associated with Judgement Day/Apocalypse myths or are tied directly to the judgement of mankind.*

* Chop Chop (Curse)
* Sweet Tooth
* Lord Giff (Curse)
* Voltron
* CFW Judge
* Sonic.EXE (Curse)
* Thanos (Unlocked by completing the Waluigi Social Link)

## Symbolism

* This game is represented by the color **orange**. Color theory associates orange with things like joy, warmth, enthusiasm, and creativity among other things. In Memesona Creeper, the color **black** is added to the color palette.
* The Personas of Memesona are based on fictional characters from common culture, instead of the mythology/folklore basis of canonical Persona. This actually makes sense, as human mythology generally holds no significance to the world of SMG4.
* The Velvet Room of Memesona takes the form of a fancy concert hall.