Phantasy Star Online 2: New Genesis
Setting: Science Fiction | Developer: Sega | Platforms: PC, Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S | Release: June 9, 2021 | Model: Free2Play
What kind of game is this? New Genesis is a kind of sequel to Phantasy Star Online 2, a space online RPG that was initially released in Japan in 2012 and came to the West in 2020. However, the two games are closely linked, so you can play them within one client and carry over some bonuses from one game to the other. You can even continue to use old characters.
With New Genesis, PSO 2 has become more of an MMORPG. An open world has been introduced in which you can level up, fight bosses, and mainly travel together with other players.
Another positive aspect is the revamped graphics and the new engine, which the old PSO 2 has benefited from.
The YouTuber TheLazyPeon has taken a closer look at New Genesis after the release and created a video about it:
What makes it special? In New Genesis, you explore unfamiliar worlds where you engage in battles against enemies with an active and action-packed combat system. You can dodge, jump very high, and even fly, making it a very fun MMO.
The game offers you 6 different classes with various abilities. It is also possible to learn a second class and mix abilities, as well as switch classes at any time with your character.
In the shop of the free-to-play game, you will find smaller quality of life improvements and many cosmetic items, but no pay-to-win.
How has it performed since release? At release, the player numbers for Phantasy Star Online 2 on Steam rose sharply. From around 5,200 players on average in January 2021, the numbers increased to up to 17,580 average players in the last 30 days.
However, the numbers have dropped significantly again recently. This is mainly due to the fact that there has been relatively little content published for New Genesis so far. This is also the biggest criticism from players of the MMORPG. They believe that the game released several months too early.
To find out how PSO2: New Genesis has been doing, read this article: How is the MMORPG Phantasy Star Online 2: New Genesis doing one month after release?
