Phantasy Star Online ver. 2 to require fees in North America

[05.30.01] » Online play no longer free.

   IGNDC reports that Sega of America has confirmed it will incorporate an "online payment structure" in the North American release of Phantasy Star Online ver. 2 that will require gamers to pay to play online. Sega would not specify what kind of payment plan would be used, but it will likely be a monthly charge, the same system used for both Japanese releases of Phantasy Star Online.

   The original Phantasy Star Online will remain free to North American gamers, aside from the cost of the game package itself. Players should be warned, however, that once a save has been into the Phantasy Star Online ver. 2 world, it cannot be used with the original PSO.

   Phantasy Star Online ver. 2 is due out this July in North America.