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Shin Force ~ Phantasy Star ~
Phantasy Star Universe (PSU) Preview
Shinobi
Previewed
03.18.2006
Publisher
Sega
Developer
Sonic Team
Format
1x DVD
Origin
Import / Domestic
Available
Aug. 31, 2006 (Japan)
Fall, 2006 (USA)
Exclusive
No
Difficulty
Adjustable
Dimensions
3D
View
3/4 Overhead
Genre
Action/RPG
Player(s)
1
1-6 (online)
Options
Backup
Dual Shock 2
Requires
BB Unit
Network Adapter
Importable
n/a
04.19.2006
     > News of the impending release of Phantasy Star Universe for Microsoft's Xbox 360 gaming console has finally arrived.
03.18.2006
     > The Phantasy Star franchise started in 1988 as a turn-based RPG on the Sega Master System.  Three sequels of the same genre followed on Sega's 16-bit Genesis through 1994.  In late 2000 (Japan) and early 2001 (USA), Sega unleashed the online multiplayer action/RPG, Phantasy Star Online for the Dreamcast, which quickly took the console online world to new heights.  PSO was followed closely be the updated/enhanced PSO Version 2Phantasy Star Online Episode II followed on the GameCube and Xbox; PSO Episode III was only released for GameCube; and PSO Episode IV is exclusive to PC'sSonic Team now hopes to strike it big again with the impending release of Phantasy Star Universe for PS2 and PC, which combines a single-player action/RPG with multiplayer online components.

     > PSU is supposed to offer a 40 hour single player offline adventure, which can be continued in the multiplayer fee-based online adventure.  In addition to having online teams of up to 6 players now, the return of battle combos and message bubbles seem to be in order.  Included in the mix are an emotionally engaging story, traditional cut-scenes, strong character development, and highly detailed graphics.  The game's hero is 17 year old Ethan Waber, who is intent on saving his sister from the mysterious life forms called THE SEED.  Character customization will be greatly expanded over PSO, as will the new, enormous 3-planet world.  Getting around will be more interesting with controllable vehicles to command.  Lastly, Sega plans to have a steady stream of updates for the game over time...

     > Hey, I get why Sega is making PSU for Playstation 2.  What really makes no sense to me is their seeming lack of desire to make it for any other console!?  C'mon Sega, you even made Episode II for GameCube and Xbox!  Unless Sony is paying some huge ransom to keep this game exclusive, Sega should release this game on Xbox 360 and Nintendo Revolution in a timely manner.

First Impression
     > Phantasy Star Universe will surely be just what the doctor ordered: another engaging online action/RPG within the Phantasy Star realm that will enchant gamers for many, many hours.  As far as I'm concerned, the problem for now is that Sega is only making it for one home console, the Playstation 2, which is way too old for something this fresh.  We'll just have to wait and see if common sense strikes anyone in the house that built Sonic...
Potential
9+/10
~Shinobi~
Pictures / Screenshots
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Pictures courtesy: PhantasyStarUniverse.com

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