Sega announces Phantasy Star Online Version 2

[03.14.01] » Battle mode, new levels and Mags to appear.

   Famitsu today revealed the first details and screenshots of Phantasy Star Online Version 2. The quasi-sequel xexpansionretains the same look and play style as Phantasy Star Online; indeed, saves from the first game will function in PSOv2. However, Sonic Team has added many of the most requested features.

   Phantasy Star Online Version 2 will feature several new game modes. Up to four players will be able to square off online in various competitions, including a capture-the-flag game and a full-fledged battle royale. (Paranoid adventurers can rest easy; characters will still not be able to attack each other in the main questing mode.) A "Lobby Soccer" game supporting up to 12 players is also in the works.

   Two full-fledged areas, the Shrine and the Spaceship, will be added to the existing selection of four. PSO veterans will find additional challenge in a new "Ultimate" difficulty level; the character level limit has been raised to 200 to give players a chance in the tougher new areas. New monsters, Mags, rare weapons, and costumes have also been added. (Various Sega systems, including the Master System, Megadrive, and Saturn, are amongst the new Mags.)

   Phantasy Star Online Version 2 will fix a number of bugs present in the original. When players suffer a disconnect or game crash, only the items they are currently carrying will be lost; items stored in the "Check Room" vault will now be safe. (This change has already been incorporated into the North American and European releases of the first PSO.)

   Phantasy Star Online 2 will ship May 17th in Japan at a price of 4800 yen ($40 US). A North American release has already been confirmed, though no date has been attached.

   Thanks to Nick Rox for the information. Screenshots courtesy of Gaming Age and HK Dreamcast.