Some tips:
Defence doesn't exist in SMT4 unless you use buffs so everything will hurt like a ************. This goes both sides so exploit that with Smirks
Use a magic build, Demon Whisper lets you use every nonpassive skill in the game and magic means you get to use all elements without investing in other stats, plus, the more you demon whisper the same skill, the stronger it gets. The reason for this is that Smirk is ****ing broken and you get to proc Smirk constantly by exploiting weaknesses whereas strength builds need to rely on crits, not to mention MP gets absurdly cheap when you unlock the Chakra walk skills. Ergo, only put level up points in magic and agility so you can hit stupidly hard and become a dodge tank. The stats cap at like 255 iirc
FUSE YOUR DEMONS. They are expendable and let you get better stats and resistances, a smart one for early game is Pele as she blocks all Agi spells, she's very good against the first real boss because of it
USE ITEMS. Items have limited slots for a reason so if you're hurting for health but have some life stones or beads, don't be afraid to use them.
Use buffs. SMT really makes buffs important, it cannot be understated how much of a difference a single Makakaja, Rakukaja, Takakaja or Sukakaja makes. Likewise, debuffs really **** with enemies hard.
I'll be happy to help with anymore advice if you like.
The patch ****ed with the music lmao