Final Fantasy II WonderSwan Color details, screens

[02.23.01] » New information and 3 new screenshots from Square's second Final Fantasy remake.

   Though the second of Square's Final Fantasy remakes for WonderSwan Color has been pushed back to May in Japan, the company has announced some of the new features for the handheld port of Final Fantasy II.

   The second Final Fantasy was the first in the series to feature a strong plot and well defined characters, and the WSC version will further develop these with the addition of new story scenes and new dialog. Beyond the graphical upgrade on the WSC, Square is also implementing the same interface and gameplay tweaks found in the port of the first game. The extremely useful run button and quick save features will make a return, and the menus and item screens will be redesigned in keeping with the later games of the series. Characters will also attack a new enemy when their currently targeted foe is defeated, a feature also found in the first port. In addition, Final Fantasy II WSC will offer a new "Original Mode," accessible only after finishing the game.

   Bandai has also announced they will be producing another limited edition WonderSwan Color package for the release of Final Fantasy II in May. No details on the special edition have been given, but it will likely be similar to the special boxed set offered for first Final Fantasy port.

   As usual with the WonderSwan Color, the possibility of a US release has not been mentioned. With a stateside arrival for the handheld still very much up in the air, Final Fantasy II will likely remain a Japan exclusive. Meanwhile, optimistic Westerners can check out 3 new screens of the game in action.