From May 14 to 16, the beta of the MMORPG Phantasy Star Online 2: New Genesis took place. We take a look at how the test phase was received by the players.
What kind of game is this? PSO 2 New Genesis is a new MMORPG in the Phantasy Star universe, based on the original PSO 2 from 2012. It offers a new engine, completely new content, and a story that takes place 1,000 years after the “original”.
Additionally, in New Genesis, you explore a large open world, whereas you explored smaller areas in PSO 2.
- You create your character from 4 races and 6 classes. Through the character editor, you can customize the hero’s appearance down to the smallest detail.
- Combat is fast-paced and active, resembling more of an action game.
- It is even possible to fly, which is important for fully exploring the world.
- The unique aspect of the online game is that you can jump back and forth between the “old” and the new PSO 2. So you can also experience the earlier story if you wish.
When did the beta take place? It was a closed beta that could be played from May 14 to 16.
PSO 2 New Genesis has a lot of potential
What were the reactions? Participants in the test phase report that they generally had a lot of fun with the MMORPG. Especially the battles and movements in the open game world felt very good, including the flying and the ability to fight in the air.
The online game offered very smooth gameplay – which cannot be said for its performance. This probably needs to be optimized before release, as there were reports of stutters and lags.
Furthermore, some players had a problem with the UI. It currently appears outdated, as it is heavily based on that of the original Phantasy Star Online 2. It is somewhat cumbersome and inconvenient to access all functions.
Moreover, not everything could be tested yet. For example, not all skills of the classes were unlocked and battles were mainly limited to certain boss enemies. Endgame content was also not included, which is why testers could not make a statement about potential long-term motivation. Therefore, it is somewhat difficult to convey a truly comprehensive impression, as the MMORPG may feel quite different at release with all features.
Here, we summarize some voices from the community for you:
- barimari writes (via reddit): “I now understand that it’s more of an expansion with graphic updates, new combat, and open zones, rather than a completely new game.”
- goodmermingtons enjoyed the beta (via reddit): “It was a lot of fun and I’m looking forward to what else will be added at release.”
- SheepsFE has a problem with the UI (via reddit): “The UI has hardly changed, but at least it’s not all that crap that has been added to PSO 2 over the years. However, anyone who was put off by the UI in PSO 2 probably won’t like it in New Genesis either.”
- Professorbag explains (via reddit): “It feels really good in terms of combat and movements. But I fear that the content isn’t worth my time. However, I think the game has a lot of potential.”
- TheIronMark thinks (via reddit): “I played a bit and it was really fun. The combat feels much smoother than the original.”
- NTolegna advises to give it a try (via reddit): “It feels completely different from the original. Even in character progression. Nothing but the universe has stayed the same. Give it a try.”
- tordana was surprised (via reddit): “As someone who had no prior experience with PSO 2, I must say it felt like a sci-fi monster hunter. I did not expect that.”
What is still somewhat problematic? One problem that players still see is the transition between PSO 2 and New Genesis. It is said that it should be possible to jump back and forth between the two games. However, since the character progression system as well as the character models and cosmetic items are different between the two MMORPGs, players fear that the switch could be very complicated.
Player ARX__Arbalest explains the problem this way (via reddit): “I think my biggest concern is how the characters from PSO2 will be transferred to NGS. It seems that it’s overly complicated regarding the options – as there are two different bodies and two different types of cosmetics for NGS bodies and for original bodies/characters.”
An interesting MMORPG, not just for fans of PSO 2
What can we glean from the voices? Phantasy Star Online 2: New Genesis is an interesting MMORPG that has a lot of potential. Unfortunately, it was not possible to test everything during the beta, as the features were limited. But what could be played made many players eager for more.
Exploring the open world was fun, just like the smooth and fast battles against boss monsters. The creation of the hero with the many customization options was also well received.
Performance still needs optimization work, but that’s exactly what a beta is for. The biggest problem for testers was the interface. It simply feels outdated and far too convoluted and uncomfortable. Whether anything will change in that regard is still unknown.
Who is the game interesting for? PSO 2: New Genesis is primarily aimed at fans of the original. Fans who are familiar with the UI and have no problem with convoluted menus. But also anyone who enjoys a new MMORPG with active, action-packed combat, many movement options like gliding and flying, and an anime art style will surely have a lot of fun with PSO 2: New Genesis – as long as grinding for better gear doesn’t bother them.
Now we have to wait for the release, which is scheduled for June. A specific date has not yet been announced. Then everyone can join and try out how much they like the MMORPG. PSO 2: New Genesis will be released as a free-to-play game, funded by an in-game shop with optional comfort items like more inventory space.
Are you looking forward to Phantasy Star Online 2: New Genesis? Did you perhaps participate in the beta? Then share your experiences with the MMORPG in the comments.
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