Phantasy Star Online 2 (PSO 2) is here. The open beta of the highly anticipated online RPG for Xbox One has started in the USA, and the first players are already experiencing their adventures.
What is Phantasy Star Online 2? The online RPG represents a mix of science fiction and fantasy. The online game has been playable in Japan since 2012, but it has only just made its way to the West after a long wait.
PSO 2 combines a classic RPG experience with an active combat system and the ability to change your class based on the mission. Phantasy Star Online 2 is based on the long-running RPG series Phantasy Star, which started in 1987 on the Sega Master System.
The surprise RPG is here
Why is it a surprise? For many years, Sega tried to release the game in the USA and Europe. But it just wouldn’t happen.
Without any prior announcement, Microsoft unveiled the game at E3 2019 in a grand show. Microsoft’s Phil Spencer announced the intention to release the game in the USA in 2020. Fans were thrilled. No one expected this. Phantasy Star Online 2 has long been considered a great online RPG in the MMORPG community, which is why some even worked their way through the Japanese version to be able to play. It has reached a sort of cult status and is among the most promising MMORPGs of 2020.
When did the open beta start? The open testing phase went live for Xbox One on March 17. PSO 2 is also slated for release on PC, but that version has no release date yet.
How long does the beta last and is there a wipe? Microsoft has not announced an end for the beta yet. At least for the next two weeks, it should continue. During this time, additional content such as new ships will be added. There will be no wipe after the beta.
Excitement among testers
How is the beta received? Players are thrilled. Even though the graphics are now quite outdated and the launch was plagued by some technical issues. Additionally, closed beta testers are still waiting for their rewards.
- Tomaso Yowney mentions on Twitter: “The game is great and brings back so many memories from my childhood. Thank you for that.”
- AntonioLopez__ is excited on Twitter: “Just like the golden times of Phantasy Star Universe!”
- ExigentJustice writes on Reddit: “I already spent 150 dollars in the first four hours. That says it all.”
Can I also participate? There is no region lock. However, you need to change your Xbox One to the USA or Canada region for the beta version of PSO 2 to be listed. Then you create an account and are allowed to play. The only limitation is that you cannot purchase anything in-game at that point.
An official start date in Europe has not been announced yet.
- Do you want to participate in PSO 2 and don’t know which class to play? Perhaps our tips can help you.
- Phantasy Star Online 2 has just launched for Xbox One, but a PC version is coming. According to the MMORPG’s manual, it will even be released on Steam.
