Phantasy Star Online ver. 2 multiplatform connectivity in limbo?

[09.08.01] » While technically feasible, GameCube and Dreamcast owners may not be able to interact in Sega's online RPG.

   New reports indicate that players of the GameCube version of Phantasy Star Online ver. 2 may not be able to interact with Dreamcast-using players after all. While connectivity between the two systems is indeed possible - and, in fact, has already been completed, as demonstrated by Sega representatives - director Yuji Naka is reportedly considering leaving the feature out for other reasons.

   An interview posted on Japan's 2 Channel Network Game BBS and translated by Phantasy Star Online Zone suggests that Naka is leaning towards separating the two versions.

   According to the interview, SonicTeam's original plan was to make certain rare items available only in the Dreamcast version and certain other ones available only in the GameCube version, forcing players to trade items to collect them all. Soon after the Dreamcast version of PSO ver. 2 was released, however, the entire roster of items was made available with GameShark codes. As a result, Naka is leaning towards separating the GameCube servers because he - according to the translation - "...would not want to make an online game where there already exist tons of cheaters running around ruining the game."

   Although Sega demonstrated the technological possibility of Dreamcast / GameCube interaction on television, the company has still yet to issue an official statement on whether or not the final GameCube release will be compatible with existing Dreamcast servers.