FF VIII PocketStation dilemma unraveled

[07.15.99] » PocketStation support will remain in U.S. version.

   Ever since Sony announced that the PocketStation wouldn't arrive in the U.S. in 1999, gamers have been wondering what would happen to the Final Fantasy VIII items and summons available only through use of the memory card-sized peripheral. Would Square move the items to new locations? Or would they go the way of the Pico Magnum and Dark Wave?

   Yesterday, Square answered the question: PocketStation support will remain in the English version of Final Fantasy VIII. The PocketStation-exclusive items will be initially inaccessible, but should Sony ever release the PocketStation in North America, players will be able to return to FF VIII and discover the missing secrets. (Those with imported PocketStations will be able to collect the items from Day One.)

   Sony has only announced that the PocketStation would not appear in North America in 1999, thanks in large part to manufacturing shortages in Japan. As the peripheral is reported to also be compatible with the PlayStation 2, however, it may cross the Pacific next year or further in the future.