Massively http://massively.joystiq.com Massively http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://massively.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Massively http://massively.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Phantasy Star Online 2 Episode 2 trailer shows new race, planet]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/14/phantasy-star-online-2-episode-2-trailer-shows-new-race-planet/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/14/phantasy-star-online-2-episode-2-trailer-shows-new-race-planet/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/14/phantasy-star-online-2-episode-2-trailer-shows-new-race-planet/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

phantasy star online 2 episode 2
SEGA has released a high-def trailer for Phantasy Star Online 2's Episode 2 update. The clip introduces the Duman race, a new planet, and new weapons, too.

The trailer runs for a solid four minutes, buy you'll need to bring your mad Japanese language skills if you want to understand the voiceovers and the UI. There's plenty of combat footage on display as well as glimpses of the game's character creation and various environments. Check it out after the cut.

Continue reading Phantasy Star Online 2 Episode 2 trailer shows new race, planet

MassivelyPhantasy Star Online 2 Episode 2 trailer shows new race, planet originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 14 Jun 2013 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dumanf2pfree-to-playphantasy-starphantasy-star-onlinephantasy-star-online-2psopso2pso2-episode-2sci-fisegatrailervideoFri, 14 Jun 2013 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Phantasy Star Online 2 English version coming to Southeast Asia]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/03/phantasy-star-online-2-english-version-coming-to-southeast-asia/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/03/phantasy-star-online-2-english-version-coming-to-southeast-asia/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/03/phantasy-star-online-2-english-version-coming-to-southeast-asia/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Phantasy Star Online 2 English version coming to Southeast Asia
Despite the fact that Sega delayed Phantasy Star Online 2's North American launch earlier this year, fans of the game in Southeast Asia will be happy to hear that an English version is coming their way as well.

A specific release date for either territory hasn't been given, but online game publisher Asiasoft has confirmed in an investor relations report (as reported by Gamespot UK) that they will be distributing both PSO2 and DC Universe Online to the Southeast Asia market.

[Thanks to BGO for the tip!]

MassivelyPhantasy Star Online 2 English version coming to Southeast Asia originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 03 Jun 2013 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>asiasoftdelayenglishenglish-versionf2pfree-to-playphantasy-starphantasy-star-online-2pso2sci-fisoutheast-asiaMon, 03 Jun 2013 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sega delays Phantasy Star Online 2's North American launch]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/26/sega-delays-phantasy-star-online-2s-north-american-launch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/26/sega-delays-phantasy-star-online-2s-north-american-launch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/26/sega-delays-phantasy-star-online-2s-north-american-launch/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Sega delays Phantasy Star Online 2's North American launch
Phantasy Star Online 2 boasted some impressive user numbers late last year, but that's apparently not enough to keep the title from being delayed in the West.

Publisher Sega "can officially confirm that PSO2 has been delayed," according to Polygon. The game was originally given an early 2013 North American launch window. Sega says that it does not have "any specifics but will update everyone as soon as there are more details to share."

Phantasy Star Online 2 has been playable for over a year, and was even showcased at PAX Prime 2012.

MassivelySega delays Phantasy Star Online 2's North American launch originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 26 Mar 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfree-to-playphantasy-starphantasy-star-onlinephantasy-star-online-2psopso2pso2-delaypso2-delayedsci-fisegaTue, 26 Mar 2013 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Phantasy Star Online 2 tops a million registered players]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/09/phantasy-star-online-2-tops-a-million-registered-players/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/09/phantasy-star-online-2-tops-a-million-registered-players/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/09/phantasy-star-online-2-tops-a-million-registered-players/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Phantasy Star Online 2 tops a million registered players
Sega has announced that Phantasy Star Online 2 has topped one million registered users in its native Japan. This is up from 730,000 registrations last summer, at which point the game also boasted peak concurrent user numbers above 91,000.

The firm is celebrating by doling out prizes to 100 players between October 17th and November 7th. Goodies include an Alienware laptop featuring a special PSO2 design, tickets to the Phantasy Star Series 25th Anniversary Concert, t-shirts, posters, and more.

MassivelyPhantasy Star Online 2 tops a million registered players originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 09 Oct 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1-million-accountsf2pfantasyfree-to-playPhantasy-Star-Online-2pso2registered-user-numberssegaTue, 09 Oct 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Phantasy Star Online 2 will be free-to-play on the Vita in Japan]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/26/phantasy-star-online-2-will-be-free-to-play-on-the-vita-in-japan/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/26/phantasy-star-online-2-will-be-free-to-play-on-the-vita-in-japan/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/26/phantasy-star-online-2-will-be-free-to-play-on-the-vita-in-japan/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Play in a different science fiction wonderland inside your existing science fiction wonderland.
Japanese audiences will not be hurting for ways to play Phantasy Star Online 2 when it releases next year. Forget consoles or PCs; if you have a PlayStation Vita, you can jump right into the game for free. A fan translation of information presented at this year's Tokyo Game Show confirms that the game will be free-to-play on the Vita.

Of course, there are restrictions to using the free version. Vita players will be limited to only certain shared areas with PC players and will also be unable to play the game in any sort of offline mode. Players will also need to swap memory cards to change accounts, as the free version is tied to the PSN account information stored on a memory card.

Will this be true of the Western version as well? It's unknown, as Sega has yet to officially announce that Phantasy Star Online 2 will be on the Vita in the US. Keep your eyes peeled as the game gets closer to its Japanese release and more information comes out about localization.

MassivelyPhantasy Star Online 2 will be free-to-play on the Vita in Japan originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 26 Sep 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfree-to-playmobile-gamingmobile-mmosphantasy-starphantasy-star-onlinephantasy-star-online-2playstation-vitaportableportable-gamingportable-mmospsopso2sci-fisegavitaWed, 26 Sep 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SEGA releases three new Phantasy Star Online 2 trailers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/21/sega-releases-three-new-phantasy-star-online-2-trailers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/21/sega-releases-three-new-phantasy-star-online-2-trailers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/21/sega-releases-three-new-phantasy-star-online-2-trailers/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

SEGA releases three Phantasy Star Online 2 trailers at Tokyo Game Show
Phantasy Star Online 2 is making waves in Japan, particularly after SEGA unveiled three new trailers at the recent Tokyo Game Show. The game's PC client is currently live and playable in the region, with the North American version due sometime next spring.

SEGA is also prepping a PlayStation Vita version for 2013, and its users will share the same server as their PC client counterparts. Head past the break for the new PC trailer, the new Vita trailer, and a mobile devices trailer.

Continue reading SEGA releases three new Phantasy Star Online 2 trailers

MassivelySEGA releases three new Phantasy Star Online 2 trailers originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 21 Sep 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfantasyfree-to-playPhantasy-Star-Online-2pso2sci-fisegatrailersvideoFri, 21 Sep 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX Prime 2012: Hands-on with Phantasy Star Online 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/01/pax-prime-2012-hands-on-with-phantasy-star-online-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/01/pax-prime-2012-hands-on-with-phantasy-star-online-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/01/pax-prime-2012-hands-on-with-phantasy-star-online-2/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Someone's compensating.
I'm sure I'm not the only one around here who has fond memories of sitting in front of a Sega Dreamcast (a moment of silence, please), hacking-and-slashing my way through the original Phantasy Star Online, and I'm also sure that I'm not the only one who's positively giddy for Sega's upcoming Phantasy Star Online 2. So of course, when I found out I'd be able to get my hands on the game at PAX, I was pretty ecstatic.

But nostalgia can only go so far, and I'll admit I was somewhat nervous as I stepped up to the demo station. Would this new iteration in the PSO series live up to my rose-tinted memories of the title? I stepped into the boots of a Human Hunter to find out for myself.

Continue reading PAX Prime 2012: Hands-on with Phantasy Star Online 2

MassivelyPAX Prime 2012: Hands-on with Phantasy Star Online 2 originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 01 Sep 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conconventionexpof2pfeaturedfree-to-playhands-onpaxpax-2012pax-primepax-prime-2012penny-arcade-expophantasy-starphantasy-star-onlinephantasy-star-online-2previewpreviewspsopso2sci-fisegaSat, 01 Sep 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Phantasy Star Online 2 tops 700,000 users, 91,000 concurrent]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/27/phantasy-star-online-2-tops-700-000-users-91-000-concurrent/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/27/phantasy-star-online-2-tops-700-000-users-91-000-concurrent/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/27/phantasy-star-online-2-tops-700-000-users-91-000-concurrent/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Phantasy Star Online 2 tops 700,000 users, 91,000 concurrent
MMO companies are usually pretty secretive about their user numbers. Sega bucked that trend recently when it announced that 730,000 players had registered for Phantasy Star Online 2. The registration metric is pretty fluffy when it comes to actual player numbers, though, and fortunately the company also announced that PSO2 achieved a peak concurrent user number of 91,513 on July 7th.

These numbers are solely the result of the recent Japanese launch. The game is slated to debut in Europe and North America sometime in 2013.

MassivelyPhantasy Star Online 2 tops 700,000 users, 91,000 concurrent originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 27 Jul 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfree-to-playphantasy-starphantasy-star-onlinephantasy-star-online-2psopso2pso2-concurrent-userspso2-registered-userssci-fisegaFri, 27 Jul 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask Massively: All deckbuilders, all the time edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/12/ask-massively-all-deckbuilders-all-the-time-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/12/ask-massively-all-deckbuilders-all-the-time-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/12/ask-massively-all-deckbuilders-all-the-time-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

It's highly recommended if you feel like sitting down for a quick afternoon game and discovering that the sun has set.
Lately I've basically been unable to get enough of board games. I am sadly at the point that all I need to get excited about a game is the promise of cards and possibly some sort of combat. I'm going to blame Matt Daniel for introducing me to Thunderstone Advance because that introduced me to deckbuilders as a whole, and now I'm sitting here seriously considering buying a Japanese card game about assembling a maid harem. This is not a position I needed to be in.

And now for something completely different: this week's Ask Massively. This time around, we're tackling the curious issue of Phantasy Star Online 2's slow process of translation, one that could be described as "glacial." If you've got a question you'd like to see answered in a future installment of the column, leave it in the comments below or mail it to ask@massively.com. Questions may be edited slightly for brevity and/or clarity.

Continue reading Ask Massively: All deckbuilders, all the time edition

MassivelyAsk Massively: All deckbuilders, all the time edition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 12 Jul 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adviceadvice-columnask-massivelyf2pfeaturedfree-to-playhumormassively-metametaopinionphantasy-starphantasy-star-onlinephantasy-star-online-2psopso2sci-fisegaThu, 12 Jul 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Phantasy Star Online 2 hacked, NPCs clock flight time]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/12/phantasy-star-online-2-hacked-npcs-clock-flight-time/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/12/phantasy-star-online-2-hacked-npcs-clock-flight-time/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/12/phantasy-star-online-2-hacked-npcs-clock-flight-time/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Phantasy Star Online 2
There's out of reach, and then there is literally out of reach. Players trying to talk to NPCs in Phantasy Star Online 2's ship02 area were unable to do so yesterday because of an alleged prank by hackers that put the NPCs out of reach. Some NPCs in the free-to-play game were dangling high above players' heads, while others were placed behind glass barriers or atop high structures, preventing player interaction.

Sega stated it knows of the hack and is currently investigating; it assures customers that no player data were leaked in this hack. However, the company does ask players to move to another area if they notice NPCs moved to strange locations. Players can also report any cheating they discover in game.

MassivelyPhantasy Star Online 2 hacked, NPCs clock flight time originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 12 Jul 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pflying-npcsfree-to-playhackinaccessible-npcsnewsphantasy-starphantasy-star-onlinephantasy-star-online-2prankpsopso2sci-fisegaThu, 12 Jul 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Phantasy Star Online 2 coming to NA and EU early next year [update: it's official!]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/09/phantasy-star-online-2-coming-to-na-and-eu-early-next-year/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/09/phantasy-star-online-2-coming-to-na-and-eu-early-next-year/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/09/phantasy-star-online-2-coming-to-na-and-eu-early-next-year/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Phantasy Star Online 2 coming to NA and EU early next year
Looking forward to getting your grubby mitts on some hot Phantasy Star Online 2 action? Those in the west may have to be patient, but there's now a finish line in sight: Sega announced that PSO2 will hit North America and Europe in early 2013.

According to the PR, producer Satoshi Sakai says that the wait will be worth it: "The number one thing we want to provide players in Phantasy Star Online 2 is an adventure that changes every time they log in. Just as great table-top RPG experiences revolve around imaginative and unexpected encounters, we want players to consistently be surprised as they explore dungeons and undertake quests."

Phantasy Star Online 2 launched in Japan this past week.

[Thanks to Tom for the tip!]

MassivelyPhantasy Star Online 2 coming to NA and EU early next year [update: it's official!] originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 Jul 2012 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013eueuropef2pfree-to-playlaunchlaunch-windownanorth-americaphantasy-starphantasy-star-onlinephantasy-star-online-2psopso2q1-2013releaserelease-daterelease-windowSatoshi-Sakaisci-fisegauswestwestern-releaseMon, 09 Jul 2012 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Phantasy Star Online 2 launches in Japan this week, new vids abound]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/02/phantasy-star-online-2-launches-in-japan-this-week-new-vids-abo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/02/phantasy-star-online-2-launches-in-japan-this-week-new-vids-abo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/02/phantasy-star-online-2-launches-in-japan-this-week-new-vids-abo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Phantasy Star Online 2 - launching in Japan this week
Phantasy Star Online 2 isn't getting a lot of attention here in North America (or Europe or much of anywhere outside of Japan, for that matter).

Still, the open beta has delighted fans of the original game, and the game's official Japanese launch has been set for July 4th. MMO Culture has posted a few gameplay videos that may well whet your appetite for SEGA's console MMO sequel.

The site features the game's July update trailer as well as vids that show off the Ranger, Hunter, and Force class trailers. Check them all out after the cut.

Continue reading Phantasy Star Online 2 launches in Japan this week, new vids abound

MassivelyPhantasy Star Online 2 launches in Japan this week, new vids abound originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 02 Jul 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>class-trailersf2pfree-to-playgameplay-videosphantasy-starphantasy-star-onlinephantasy-star-online-2psopso2pso2-videossci-fisegatrailervideoMon, 02 Jul 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Signs and portents]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/01/one-shots-signs-and-portents/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/01/one-shots-signs-and-portents/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/01/one-shots-signs-and-portents/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

One Shots: TSW
We're deep in the throes of The Secret World's pre-launch weekend, and here to celebrate the game's arrival is Massively reader Sharvis, who sent in several potential One Shots of the game, including one of his character puzzling his way through a quest. He writes in,
I found this map of Kingsmouth with a strange symbol on it. It only served to mystify my character Cole. Something sinister is underfoot in Kingsmouth, but what could it be?
The plot thickens after the cut! Well, not really, but we do have a few more user-submitted screenshots to show off!

Continue reading One Shots: Signs and portents

MassivelyOne Shots: Signs and portents originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 01 Jul 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allodsallods-onlineastrum-nivalbrianna-royce-oneshotsbring-back-one-shotsf2pfactionfantasyfree-to-playfuncomgala-netgalleriesgallerygpotatohorrormythologyone-shotsphantasy-starphantasy-star-onlinephantasy-star-online-2pics-or-it-didnt-happenpsopso2reader-screenshotsreader-submissionssci-fantasysci-fiscreenshotscreenshotssecret-worldsegaskill-basedthe-secret-worldtswuser-submissionsSun, 01 Jul 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Navigating Phantasy Star Online 2's Japanese open beta]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/24/navigating-phantasy-star-online-2s-japanese-open-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/24/navigating-phantasy-star-online-2s-japanese-open-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/24/navigating-phantasy-star-online-2s-japanese-open-beta/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Navigating Phantasy Star Online 2's Japanese open beta
The good news is that Phantasy Star Online 2 is now in open beta, and it's free so everyone can come and check out how this sequel to the hit console series is developing. The bad news is that the beta currently only comes in the Japanese version, so while you can download the client, unless you can read Kanji, you might be a little lost.

Fortunately, the Phantasy Star Fan Blog is here to help with a guide that walks you through every stage of the beta process -- even if you're not a native Japanese reader. From registering and setting up the beta to fighting and grouping, this guide has it all covered. So if you're willing to do a little cross-referencing, you too could be enjoying PSO2 in no time at all!

Over 41,000 players simultaneously logged on to the beta a week ago, and the developers have pushed the level cap up to 30 as those numbers keep on climbing. Sega plans to release PSO2 later this summer on the PC, PlayStation Vita, and smartphones. There is currently no word as to when an English client will be released.

MassivelyNavigating Phantasy Star Online 2's Japanese open beta originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 24 Jun 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betaf2pfree-to-playguidejapanese-guidekanjiopen-betaphantasy-star-onlinePhantasy-Star-Online-2pso2sci-fisegaSun, 24 Jun 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Phantasy Star Online 2 producer reveals new planet, open beta details]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/phantasy-star-online-2-producer-reveals-new-planet-open-beta-de/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/phantasy-star-online-2-producer-reveals-new-planet-open-beta-de/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/phantasy-star-online-2-producer-reveals-new-planet-open-beta-de/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Phantasy Star Online 2 - desert planet
Phantasy Star Online 2's closed beta has caused a fair bit of excitement in the game's fan community. As open beta draws near, Sega is unveiling more of the MMO sequel's features.

The next testing phase will feature a new desert planet called Liliipa, not to mention new story quests, new costumes, and something called a time attack quest. Fan site Bumped.org has the details on these and other reveals from last week's live event in Tokyo.

PSO2 producer Satoshi Sakai also showed off a new snow zone on the planet Naberius. He told fans that the upcoming open beta will be level-capped at 30, while players at level 20 and above will have access to hard mode quests and encounters.

PSO2 is currently in development for Windows, Android, and iOS platforms. The open beta is tentatively scheduled for "early summer 2012."

[Thanks to Kassandra for the tip!]

MassivelyPhantasy Star Online 2 producer reveals new planet, open beta details originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 07 May 2012 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betafantasyjapanese-betaliliipaopen-betaPhantasy-Star-Online-2pso2pso2-fan-eventpso2-planetreal-world-eventssatoshi-sakaisci-fantasysci-fisegaMon, 07 May 2012 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA['No regrets': Sega defends Phantasy Star Online 2's F2P model]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/no-regrets-sega-defends-phantasy-star-online-2s-f2p-model/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/no-regrets-sega-defends-phantasy-star-online-2s-f2p-model/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/no-regrets-sega-defends-phantasy-star-online-2s-f2p-model/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Phantasy Star Online 2
Sega has "no regrets" about pursuing an aggressive free-to-play strategy for its upcoming Phantasy Star Online 2, according to series producer Satoshi Sakai. Sakai said that the developers were increasingly disturbed by the trend of F2P models promoting a pay-to-win environment and has decided to make PSO2 more fair to all players.

"By allowing a well made game like PSO to be accessible [to] more people, we felt that we had a chance to teach people that 'This is what online RPGs are supposed to be like,'" Sakai said. "There is nothing that requires payment that will take away from the intrinsic game experience if [it is] not purchased."

The devs have limited Phantasy Star Online 2's microtransactions to areas that are less likely to see abuse from players willing to trade cash for an in-game advantage over others. These areas include player room upgrades, more storage space, and trading features.

Sakai sees Sega as a pioneer in this regard: "I honestly think that Sega is the only maker that is willing to go this far. Even if we fail, if we can get people to say 'They were five years ahead of their time' then I'll have no regrets. I believe that there's meaning in the challenge itself."

Massively'No regrets': Sega defends Phantasy Star Online 2's F2P model originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 26 Apr 2012 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfree-to-playinterviewphantasy-star-onlinePhantasy-Star-Online-2psopso2Satoshi-SakaisegaThu, 26 Apr 2012 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Phantasy Star Online 2 posts a benchmark and character creator for all [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/phantasy-star-online-2-posts-a-benchmark-and-character-creator-f/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/phantasy-star-online-2-posts-a-benchmark-and-character-creator-f/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/phantasy-star-online-2-posts-a-benchmark-and-character-creator-f/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

If there was ever an excuse for breaking out the Genesis for some 16-bit nostalgia, this is it.
If you're an American fan of Phantasy Star Online 2 -- or heck, just a non-Japanese fan -- you're kind of out of luck at the moment. The game is currently not anywhere near a translated state, and testing has thus been mostly limited to Japanese players. If you're in that unlucky boat, however, things are getting at least a little bit better now. The game's character creator and benchmark has just been released for all, whether or not you're testing the game or even able to read the language.

A fan blog for the game features both screenshots of the character creator and corresponding benchmark as well as a guide to getting the program to work on your machine. While it's not quite the same as being able to log into the game and enjoy the testing sequence, it's at least a chance to get a taste of what the game will be like when (and if) it comes to our shores.

[Update: Thanks to Venova for the original tip as well as the news that there's an unofficial English patch for this benchmark toy!]

MassivelyPhantasy Star Online 2 posts a benchmark and character creator for all [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>benchmarkforeign-titlesgame-testingjapanjapanesephantasy-star-onlinephantasy-star-online-2previewspsopso2segasega-gamestestingupcoming-gamesThu, 05 Apr 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The MMO Report: Horsesteak edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/the-mmo-report-horsesteak-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/the-mmo-report-horsesteak-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/the-mmo-report-horsesteak-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The MMO Report
In tonight's ultra-short MMO Report, Casey complains that Phantasy Star Online 2 will launch for mobile platforms ahead of PC, drools all over the integration of DUST 514 and EVE Online, maintains a weirdly neutral face while discussing Anarchy Online's graphical overhaul, and regales us with an explanation of The Secret World's class-less game mechanics. He ends on a high note with a peek into Uncle Casey's mailbag and some mockery of World of Warcraft players' forum campaign to undo the latest round of Warlock nerfs. No one's ever done that before.

All this and some tips on Icelandic cuisine in the video beyond the cut!

Continue reading The MMO Report: Horsesteak edition

MassivelyThe MMO Report: Horsesteak edition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Mar 2012 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionanarchy-onlineaoblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcasey-schreinerccpccp-gamesdustdust-514eveeve-fanfest-2012eve-onlinefanfest-2012funcomhorrorhumoricelandmmo-reportnewsopinionPhantasy-Star-Online-2pso2roundupsecret-worldthe-mmo-reportthe-secret-worldtswvideovideosworld-of-warcraftwowThu, 29 Mar 2012 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Phantasy Star Online to be F2P, Android and iOS versions announced]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/phantasy-star-online-to-be-f2p-android-and-ios-versions-announc/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/phantasy-star-online-to-be-f2p-android-and-ios-versions-announc/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/phantasy-star-online-to-be-f2p-android-and-ios-versions-announc/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Phantasy Star Online 2 release chart
We know that the Guild Wars 2 beta coverage is all the rage today, but it's certainly not the only sequel worthy of attention. SEGA has announced that its upcoming Phantasy Star Online 2 will utilize a free-to-play business model, which of course means that the title will feature an item shop with microtransactions.

The studio has also revealed that, in addition to partaking of the already-announced PC and PS Vita versions of the game, Android and iOS smartphone owners will be able to get in on the fun as well. While it's not entirely clear how these new versions of the game will work, we do know that they will not allow cross-platform play as the PC and Vita editions will, though they will "share data with the [PC and Vita] versions," reports Andriasang.com. The smartphone versions of the game are planned for release in winter 2012, after the summer release of the PC version but before the spring 2012 launch of the Vita edition.

MassivelyPhantasy Star Online to be F2P, Android and iOS versions announced originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Mar 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androiddroidf2pfree-to-playiosphantasy-star-onlinephantasy-star-online-2playstation-vitaps-vitapso-2pso2segaMon, 26 Mar 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist dials up Phantasy Star Online: The highlights]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/31/the-game-archaeologist-dials-up-phantasy-star-online-the-highli/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/31/the-game-archaeologist-dials-up-phantasy-star-online-the-highli/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/31/the-game-archaeologist-dials-up-phantasy-star-online-the-highli/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Phantasy Star Online
The Dreamcast was a brief but shining aberration in the gaming world. Coming along years after Sega had fallen out of its position as a top-runner in the console market, it represented the company's big attempt to reclaim its former glory. While it failed to succeed in that respect and ultimately closed up shop in 2001 (ending Sega's interest in the console market), the Dreamcast became a gaming cult favorite responsible for some of the most innovative titles ever made. Games like Jet Grind Radio, Space Channel 5, and Shenmue have remained fan favorites long after the Dreamcast's demise, which shows the legacy that these dev teams left behind.

But perhaps the Dreamcast's greatest gift to the gaming world wasn't crazy taxis or space dancing but a surprisingly forward-looking approach to online gaming. In 2000, the Dreamcast took the first steps to bringing an online console RPG to market, and while it wasn't a true MMO, it certainly paved the way for titles like EverQuest Online Adventures and Final Fantasy XI.

It was bold, it was addictive, and it was gosh-darned gorgeous. Ladies and gentlemen: Phantasy Star Online.

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist dials up Phantasy Star Online: The highlights

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist dials up Phantasy Star Online: The highlights originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzardblue-burstchuchu-rocketconsole-mmodiablodial-updialupdreamcasteqoaeverquest-online-adventuresfeaturedffxifinal-fantasy-xigamecubeIsao-Okawajapan-game-awardjet-grind-radiomonster-hunterphantasy-star-onlinephantasy-star-online-2Phantasy-Star-Online-ver.2phantasy-star-universepsopso2psusegaShenmuesonicsonic-adventuressonic-teamsonic-the-hedgehogsonicteamspace-channel-5Takao-Miyoshithe-game-archaeologistthird-worldxboxyuki-nakaTue, 31 Jan 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Five phantastic videos from the Phantasy Star Online 2 alpha test]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/28/five-phantastic-videos-from-the-phantasy-star-online-2-alpha-tes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/28/five-phantastic-videos-from-the-phantasy-star-online-2-alpha-tes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/28/five-phantastic-videos-from-the-phantasy-star-online-2-alpha-tes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

title image
A decade ago, Phantasy Star Online brought the special multiplayer magic of the emerging MMO genre to console gamers around the world. Sega celebrated the game's 10-year anniversary with the announcement of a sequel due to hit the shelves in Japan this year. No word has been given on whether there will be a US or EU release, but that hasn't stopped international fans of the game from getting excited. PSO2 officially launched its second alpha phase yesterday, and foreign game review website Steparu managed to get itself an invite.

Fans of the original game's online play will be pleased to know that party gameplay has been given some much-needed improvements. There's no more need to make sure everyone is on the same quest; instead, the party leader picks a mission and the whole party gets it automatically. Mini-quests can pop up randomly during a dungeon, and completing them grants bonus experience. Boss fights are just as deadly and hectic as in the original, with fast-paced action and team members dying repeatedly throughout the fight. Steparu has published a comprehensive review of the early alpha, with videos of everything from dungeons and boss kills to furniture arranging. We've embedded a few of those videos after the cut.

Continue reading Five phantastic videos from the Phantasy Star Online 2 alpha test

MassivelyFive phantastic videos from the Phantasy Star Online 2 alpha test originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 28 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalpha-testbossboss-fightsconsoledungeonmultiplayernewsphantasy-starPhantasy-Star-OnlinePhantasy-Star-Online-2psopso2sci-fisteparusteparu.comvideoSat, 28 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Indulge your phantasies with new Phantasy Star Online 2 info, screenshots, and videos]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/26/indulge-your-phantasies-with-new-phantasy-star-online-2-info-sc/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/26/indulge-your-phantasies-with-new-phantasy-star-online-2-info-sc/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/26/indulge-your-phantasies-with-new-phantasy-star-online-2-info-sc/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Anyone with fond memories of jumping into Phantasy Star Online back on the Dreamcast (may it rest in peace) will surely be excited to hear that a bevy of new information, screenshots, and videos have been released for Phantasy Star Online 2. In PSO2, the player is part of a planetary investigation team known as the Arks. It would seem that the Arks are tasked with flying about the galaxy to strange new planets, meeting the inhabitants of said planets and killing them. Sounds fun, right? Right.

Right now, there are four confirmed weapons: swords and wired lances for Hunters, assault rifles for Rangers, and the gunblade-esque gun slash for all classes. Battlefields are randomly generated for each mission, keeping the gameplay fresh and exciting, and can include a variety of random events that are sure to keep players on their toes. PSO2 also introduces multi-party areas, which -- as the name would imply -- allow multiple parties to venture forth for fun and profit. Players are allowed a main class and a subclass, and instead of having overall character levels, the game utilizes class levels for each class the player has taken. There's much more information where this came from, so we recommend any players who are looking forward to PSO2 (or who are just feeling a bit nostalgic about the original) go check out the full posts. And lastly, for your convenience, all of the new screenshots have been collected in the gallery below, and the new videos are just past the cut.

Gallery: Phantasy Star Online 2

Continue reading Indulge your phantasies with new Phantasy Star Online 2 info, screenshots, and videos

MassivelyIndulge your phantasies with new Phantasy Star Online 2 info, screenshots, and videos originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphacharacter-creationcombatgalleriesgallerygameplayphantasy-star-onlinephantasy-star-online-2psopso-2pso2screenshotscreenshotssegasonic-teamvideovideosTue, 26 Jul 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[First look at Phantasy Star Online 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/25/first-look-at-phantasy-star-online-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/25/first-look-at-phantasy-star-online-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/25/first-look-at-phantasy-star-online-2/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

It's one thing to tease us with a short video and a title card announcing the sequel of the incredibly beloved Phantasy Star Online 2. It's another thing entirely to make us wait a half year to get any more details! But we'll shove aside our complaints in a heartbeat in favor of diving into a pool of luscious screenshots.

At a recent promotional event, Sega unveiled a sneak peek at Phantasy Star Online 2, including 15 screenshots that 4Gamer.net snagged for our enjoyment. The pictures show off the world details, character outfits, the UI, and even some shots of combat. Astute Sega fans may even recognize a reference to another hit Sega franchise lurking about.

Reportedly, the action-RPG is in alpha testing with a hopeful release date later this year on the PC. Take a look for yourself in the gallery below!

Gallery: Phantasy Star Online 2

MassivelyFirst look at Phantasy Star Online 2 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 25 Apr 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4gamer.netfirst-lookgalleryknucklesphantasy-starphantasy-star-onlinephantasy-star-online-2psopso2screenshotssegasonicMon, 25 Apr 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Phantasy Star Online 2 announced at the Tokyo Game Show]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/16/phantasy-star-online-2-announced-at-the-tokyo-game-show/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/16/phantasy-star-online-2-announced-at-the-tokyo-game-show/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/16/phantasy-star-online-2-announced-at-the-tokyo-game-show/#commentsFiled under: ,

Phantasy Star Online is dead -- long live Phantasy Star Online 2! Sega just announced the sequel to the hit MMO during a livestream event at the Tokyo Game Show. Slated for release in 2011, PSO2's unveiling was a surprise to just about everyone.

Phantasy Star Online released for the Sega Dreamcast 10 years ago, and launched a series of updates, iterations and sequels (including Phantasy Star Universe). While Sega was reluctant to show any gameplay or release any other details, the mere existence of the above title screen should send fans into a happy frenzy.

You can read the announcement at PSOWorld and watch the livestream video below.

Continue reading Phantasy Star Online 2 announced at the Tokyo Game Show

MassivelyPhantasy Star Online 2 announced at the Tokyo Game Show originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 16 Sep 2010 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingdreamcastlivestreamnew-titlephantasy-starphantasy-star-onlinephantasy-star-online-2phantasy-star-universepsopso2revealsegatgs-2010tokyo-game-showThu, 16 Sep 2010 13:45:00 EST