Phantasy Star Online Version 2 unveiled

Sega Japan has announced Phantasy Star Online Version 2 (Ver.2) for the Japanese Dreamcast console. Phantasy Star Online Ver.2 is not an append disc--it is a stand-alone game that contains the entire game. In fact, save data from the previous PSO can also be used in Ver.2. Players can also play online with users of the current version of PSO.

In PSO Ver.2, characters can reach a maximum level of 200 and have the opportunity to acquire new, rare items and mags. New stages include a spacecraft and the shrine stages. Players can also expect new monsters and bosses. On top of the currently available difficulty settings, Ver.2 will feature the ultimate mode, which will be the most difficult PSO setting. Additionally, players can now compete against others in the battle mode, and Sonic Team is also adding a soccer game that can be played in the lobby. Equipment and technique settings and save features have also been tweaked. Item loss prevention, which is currently available in the North American and European versions, will be implemented in Ver.2 for Japan.

Phantasy Star Online Version 2 is currently slated for a May 17 release in Japan and will be priced at 4,800 yen. Sega of America has not confirmed a North American release at this time, and when contacted, it said that it is currently evaluating the prospects of releasing PSO Ver.2 for that market.