PSO GameCube name change and package information

[03.30.02] » Game and modem? Game, modem, and spam? Game, modem, keyboard, and spam?

   Yuji Naka has finally revealed more information concerning the upcoming GameCube edition of Phantasy Star Online, including a title change and available packaging deals. In Japan, the game will be called Phantasy Star Online Episode 1 & 2, to signify the contents of the original Dreamcast releases of PSO (Episode 1) as well as the new additions for the GameCube version (Episode 2).

   Additionally, Naka listed four available package deals scheduled for Japanese release. No such combinations were announced for the title's North American release, though it is likely that several options will be available. The planned packages are as follows:

- Game and modem: 9,800 yen (US$74)
- Game, keyboard, and modem: 16,600 yen (US$125)
- Game, modem, and GameCube system: 37,700 yen (US$284)
- Game, keyboard, modem, and GameCube system: 44,500 yen (US$335)

   Also, in an effort to build excitement for the title, a trial version of the game will be made available in late May, allowing players to connect to the network free of charge for a period of one month. Once the trial period ends, an updated version of the game will arrive in the mail and begin charging players to connect to the network: 600 yen (US$4.50) for 30 days or 1,500 yen (US$11.00) for three months. For those who are uncertain how much time they will have to devote to playing the game online, this is a marked improvement over Version 2's rigid three-month minimum.