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[StarCreator]

Current version: PSN 1.06, Title Screen 1.0401.2 (2013/4/24), patch download size: 24MB​

Phantasy Star Online 2 has gone portable! Hot on the heels of a very successful closed beta, users with Japanese PSN accounts can download this fully realized online experience for free on February 28! Hop online and fight against the Darkers with up to 11 other people.

To play, you will need at least an 8 GB memory card: 3.2 GB is needed for the game and 1.4 GB for extra data. You will also need a SEGA ID to play, and all in-game purchases will use the same payment systems as on PC (you cannot use funds from your PSN wallet).

The servers are shared with the PC version, and Hasemo does a great job keeping up with the updates there, so for general game information and updates I'll leave it to him:

• Phantasy Star Online 2 Import |OT2| Western Version Delayed, Come Play With Us
• Phantasy Star Online 2 Import |OT| YOUR MAJESTY
• Phantasy Star Online 2 - current state of the JP version (changes/content updates)

As a reminder, the official NeoGAF team is on Ship02. If you want in, contact the following team managers:

• Keii
• dr apocalipsis
• Twentytwo
• skyy
• Netto-kun
• djplaeskool
• Killthee

Do NOT contact me as I am not on the NeoGAF team and will not be able to invite you!​

Scheduled maintenance:

The servers undergo weekly scheduled maintenance beginning on Tuesdays at 10 PM EDT, typically coming back online by Wednesday 4 AM EDT. Note that patches for the game, if one is needed for a particular update week, typically go live almost as soon as maintenance starts.​

Is this coming out internationally?

We don't know. Only the PC version was mentioned to be potentially coming internationally; absolutely nothing was said regarding the Vita version. However, as the Japanese servers have been online since Summer 2012 and receive new content roughly every two weeks, any theoretical international version is already doomed to be forever behind the Japanese servers in content, and no prior iteration of Phantasy Star Online/Universe has been handled well internationally.​

It's in Japanese! What does everything mean?

The guides linked in OT2 cover most aspects of the game. Also, the androgyne has created a Vita-specific interactive guide: Vita PSO2 English translations​

How is this different from the PC version?

While the PC and Vita versions access the same game servers, there are restrictions on which blocks you can enter. The servers are split into three block types: PC only (0xx), Vita only (1xx), and PC+Vita (2xx). On any block allowing Vita clients, fields will be a little smaller and enemy rate will be reduced slightly, and only two emergency trials can be active at any time (versus the maximum of four simultaneous emergency trials on the PC only blocks). PSE Burst lasts longer on the Vita and PC+Vita blocks to compensate for the lower enemy count.

The Vita client has a variety of control schemes; the default control scheme is designed for players accustomed to the Phantasy Star Portable series while there is an alternate scheme that more closely resembles the default PC controller layout.​

So, what's new in the Vita version?

Play anywhere, whether over Wi-Fi or 3G. You MUST be connected to the Internet to play.

Chapter 9 of story mode will debut on Vita first, before PC players. Find out the relationship between the idol singer Kuuna and the Chrome Dragon.

Exclusive to Vita, you can clear Toro and Kuro's client order and summon them to battle with their partner cards.

Take photos with your character in the Augmented Reality camera mode.

And, of course, trophies.​

New player?

If you are new to the game, you should consider using the friend invite system! This system awards both the new and referring players with badges that can be turned in for exclusive items. The process on PC is outlined here: http://bumped.org/psublog/pso2-jp-friend-invite-system/

If you would like to refer me, you can use this information:

Ship: Ship02
My Player ID number: 10162205

You can also refer the following GAF users instead if you'd like. These users are also on Ship02 unless otherwise noted:

• Hasemo: 10077436
• Monosukoi: 11955330
• djplaeskool: 10172842
• Blueblur1: 10149616
• dr apocalipsis: 10148330
• kiryogi: 10101573
• Adamm: 12092964

What do I need to do to sign up?

You need to register for a SEGA ID first if you haven't already. Be aware that the registration process includes solving a Japanese captcha; if you have significant difficulty with this you can copy the captcha image and paste it here and maybe someone will be able to help (I am unfortunately not one of these people). A guide to registering a SEGA ID can be found here: http://bumped.org/psublog/phantasy-star-online-2-pre-open-beta-registration-guide/​

How do I switch accounts on my Vita?

From the February Vita PSN Game and Service thread:

Short Version -
First of all, note that:
1. A system can only be linked to one account at a time
2. A memory card can only be linked to one account at a time

To switch accounts, you must:
1. Restore the PS Vita System (Settings > Format > Restore)
2. Format the memory card (if you only have one) or swap in another memory card (if you have multiple)

Long Version here.

(Thanks to Kazerei and The Grim Heaper!)

What if I want the game on a card instead of downloading it?

There is a special package on sale in Japan that has a physical copy of the game as well as extras including item and music codes, a 30 day Premium set pass, and 1000 FUN points. Even when using the game card, you will still need to download 1.4GB of data to your memory card. The special package is available at the following retailers:

• CD Japan
• AmiAmi
• NCS
• Play-Asia

It has been reported that the card version works regardless of what region PSN account it is used on.​

Video:



Screenshots:

 

[ponpo]

Ahhhh cool.

The demo was fun but I think it's slightly too text heavy for my JP knowledge. I also would prefer to import the physical copy as to not take up 4gb of my 8gb JP card. We'll see though!

 

[RoKKeR]

I actually might try this pit, put my Japanese skills to the test. So I've got to make a separate PSN account then?

 

[StarCreator]

I actually might try this pit, put my Japanese skills to the test. So I've got to make a separate PSN account then?

Yes, if your account is not a Japanese account you'll need to make one to proceed. It gets a bit dicey juggling multiple PSN accounts on the Vita though, since the only way to change PSN accounts is to reset the system memory. I just added this to the OP, but:

How do I switch accounts on my Vita?
Short Version -
First of all, note that:
1. A system can only be linked to one account at a time
2. A memory card can only be linked to one account at a time

To switch accounts, you must:
1. Restore the PS Vita System (Settings > Format > Restore)
2. Format the memory card (if you only have one) or swap in another memory card (if you have multiple)

Long Version here.

(Thanks to Kazerei and The Grim Heaper!)

 

[Reveirg]

I'm REALLY hoping this one makes it to North America.

Can't wait to play this and I'm not much of a PC gamer.

 

[EsotericManiac]

so you're saying...

If I get an 8gb card and make a JPN account, I can play, and download, this for free?

 

[StarCreator]

so you're saying...

If I get an 8gb card and make a JPN account, I can play, and download, this for free?

Yes, the game is free on both PC and Vita. The cash options add some really nice stuff, but it's all nonessential or cosmetic.

 

[Jawmuncher]

I'm REALLY hoping this one makes it to North America.

Can't wait to play this and I'm not much of a PC gamer.

Well it's supposed to, recall sega said they had plans set. I'd bet money it makes it by the end of the year.

 

[Killthee]

I'm REALLY hoping this one makes it to North America.

Can't wait to play this and I'm not much of a PC gamer.

With the new consoles having architecture so similar to PC's, I would love it if they just went ahead and ported the PC version to the new systems.

so you're saying...

If I get an 8gb card and make a JPN account, I can play, and download, this for free?

Yup. The game is free to play. It'll all be in Japanese though since the Vita is a closed system and you can't edit the files like the PC version.

Well it's supposed to, recall sega said they had plans set. I'd bet money it makes it by the end of the year.

PC is coming. They haven't committed to bringing over the Vita version.

 

[AwRy108]

Thanks for the OP. Very troubling that the game requires an 8GB card, especially in terms of its potential to bring new Vita owners into the fold. IMHO, the game should just come with the friggin' card.

 

[Wonko_C]

With the new consoles having architecture so similar to PC's, I would love it if they just went ahead and ported the PC version to the new systems.

I bet it will be on Playstation 4 at least, including cross-play with the PC/Vita versions.

 

[StarCreator]

Thanks for the OP. Very troubling that the game requires an 8GB card, especially in terms of its potential to bring new Vita owners into the fold. IMHO, the game should just come with the friggin' card.

There's a limited run of card versions.

Looks like there's eight copies left on CD Japan - hadn't realized they were listing it because they mispelled it! http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/detailview.html?KEY=VLJM-35031

 

[djplaeskool]

This and Senran Kagura in the same week. Vita will be pulling some long hours.

Also got an app to use my Droid Bionic as a 4G hotspot without paying Verizon $30/mo. Want to test out how well that works with PSO2.

 

[Hasemo]

Great work with the thread! I'll post a list of people who can be contacted regarding joining Team NeoGAF at a later date - will be using my phone as a main Internet tool for a week or more.

 

[Reknoc]

Ahhhh cool.

The demo was fun but I think it's slightly too text heavy for my JP knowledge. I also would prefer to import the physical copy as to not take up 4gb of my 8gb JP card. We'll see though!

The PC version wasn't too text heavy for my JP knowledge.

 

[thetrin]

Just started playing the PC version for the first time since beta. I'm having a blast. I didn't realize you need an 8GB card for the Vita version, though. That's a bummer.

 

[Skilletor]

I have a spare 16gb card somewhere, but I haaaaaaaaaaaaaaate losing the organization of my bubbles. I want to play this.

I guess I could just dl it on PC.

 

[Schobeleth]

If account switching wasn't so tedious I'd do it. I want to play this sooooo bad (

 

[Killthee]

I have a spare 16gb card somewhere, but I haaaaaaaaaaaaaaate losing the organization of my bubbles. I want to play this.

I guess I could just dl it on PC.

If your PC can run it (and the requirements are pretty low btw), you should do it. There's also a fan translation patch for the PC version that covers most of the interface text.

http://psumods.co.uk/viewtopic.php?f=4&t=206

 

[ThatStupidLion]

damn i want this.

for people who play on the PC - how IAP is it?

can i have a blast and not get destroyed/waste hrs of my life if i don't man any in-game purchases with my real moniez?

 

[StarCreator]

damn i want this.

for people who play on the PC - how IAP is it?

can i have a blast and not get destroyed/waste hrs of my life if i don't man any in-game purchases with my real moniez?

As I stated earlier:

Yes, the game is free on both PC and Vita. The cash options add some really nice stuff, but it's all nonessential or cosmetic.

I've let my premium subscription lapse for the moment, and the biggest inconvenience so far is getting the number of client orders I've taken back under 20 so I can actually take more.

 

[Deband]

Is it coming to any home consoles? I feel like I'd play it more on them than pc.

 

[ThatStupidLion]

As I stated earlier:



I've let my premium subscription lapse for the moment, and the biggest inconvenience so far is getting the number of client orders I've taken back under 20 so I can actually take more.

<3 thank youuuuuu

i read most of the OP!! ...just skimmed some bits too.

 

[Takao]

Toro and Kuro?

Well, this version's staying Japan-only for sure.

Is it coming to any home consoles? I feel like I'd play it more on them than pc.

No, it's just been announced for Vita and PC. A separate game for smartphones will also exist.

 

[ZoddGutts]

Is it coming to any home consoles? I feel like I'd play it more on them than pc.

Wouldn't be surprise if it comes out on PS4 since Planetside 2 a F2P game is being hinted at releasing on it.

 

[StarCreator]

Wouldn't be surprise if it comes out on PS4 since Planetside 2 a F2P game is being hinted at releasing on it.

I have serious doubts of this being made for additional platforms unless it turns out to be braindead easy to port the PC codebase (PhysX calls and everything) to PS4. Developing a console port seems like it would be a pretty expensive endeavor for something they're not charging money for out of the gate.

 

[sechsterangriff]

People with 3G Vitas, don't forget you can actually play this anywhere!
Just make sure you have a good data plan though...

 

[DR2K]

Toro and Kuro?

Well, this version's staying Japan-only for sure.



No, it's just been announced for Vita and PC. A separate game for smartphones will also exist.

Toro and Kuro are in SFXT and PSallstars, both of which are on Vita.

 

[Takao]

Toro and Kuro are in SFXT and PSallstars, both of which are on Vita.

They were also in Wake Up Club ... if you're in Asia. They were removed from the western versions, lol.

 

[thetrin]

damn i want this.

for people who play on the PC - how IAP is it?

can i have a blast and not get destroyed/waste hrs of my life if i don't man any in-game purchases with my real moniez?

The IAP is pretty mild, actually. You can play the entire game without ever paying a cent. Most of the IAP stuff is either cosmetic, or a convenience (like additional character slots).

Also, if you have a PC capable of playing PSO2, play it on PC (and play on the Vita when you're not there). The PC version has bigger fields as far as I know, and it's the "definitive experience." I look forward to playing both, personally.

 

[Skilletor]

If your PC can run it (and the requirements are pretty low btw), you should do it. There's also a fan translation patch for the PC version that covers most of the interface text.

http://psumods.co.uk/viewtopic.php?f=4&t=206

Yeah, I have a decent PC. I haven't been keeping up with the game at all. I'll check this out tonight.

 

[StarCreator]

Yeah, I have a decent PC. I haven't been keeping up with the game at all. I'll check this out tonight.

Don't forget about the friend invite system! I sneaked that into the OP, but basically if you enter someone's player ID number -before- making your first character, both you and the other person receive reward badges as you level up.

Everyone I know started playing long before this system was implemented and there are plenty of things I want that need reward badges T_T

 

[Yjynx]

I hope sega can localize this immediately.

 

[the androgyne]

Petition for western release news by PSO World here: change.org. Can't hurt right!

 

[Hasemo]

Full list of Team NeoGaf manager player names, who you can contact for an invite:
Keii
Twentytwo
skyy
Netto-kun
djplaeskool
Killthee

Most of them aren't playing at the moment, but it should change with the release of the Vita version.

 

[Jubern]

Do we know if it is possible or not to play the card version w/ a US PSN account? There's a friend of mine who says he'd rather buy the card version if it allows him to play on his US account, he doesn't want to buy a new card and reformat every time he plays something else.

 

[seady]

Wait, this game was out on PC already, in Japan??

 

[Hazaro]

PSO2 is pretty awesome from playing the JP version on PC.

If you are interested you should pick it up on either platform. Text is pretty manageable with all the English guides out there.

 

[Jubern]

Wait, this game was out on PC already, in Japan??

It's been broadly available since, uuuuh, June last year or something.

 

[CaptainTiptop]

I'm looking to upgrade to a 32GB card soon, so I may use my 16GB to play this and the Soul Sacrifice demo.

Can't read a lick of Japanese, but it's just the same basic gameplay as PSO1, right?

 

[seady]

It's been broadly available since, uuuuh, June last year or something.

With zero hype and no one talks about it, I guess it flopped over there?

 

[Hasemo]

With zero hype and no one talks about it, I guess it flopped over there?

It's been a huge success in Japan.

 

[StarCreator]

Do we know if it is possible or not to play the card version w/ a US PSN account? There's a friend of mine who says he'd rather buy the card version if it allows him to play on his US account, he doesn't want to buy a new card and reformat every time he plays something else.

This isn't something we're going to know until it actually comes out; the game establishes a link between your PSN account and SEGA ID to handle authentication to their servers and there's no way of knowing if this link can be made with non-Japanese accounts. Given I already have a Japanese PSN account and have over 900 hours in the game, I'm not sure I'm willing to risk my account testing this; connecting to the game from outside Japan is technically against the game's TOS.

I'm looking to upgrade to a 32GB card soon, so I may use my 16GB to play this and the Soul Sacrifice demo.

Can't read a lick of Japanese, but it's just the same basic gameplay as PSO1, right?

Quite a bit is the same, but just as much is different. You should probably check the linked threads in the OT; they have a lot more general game information than this thread.

With zero hype and no one talks about it, I guess it flopped over there?

There's new content added to the game every two weeks and servers get packed full during Japanese peak hours, so no, it's not a flop.

 

[michaelius]

Can you play using 3G ?

 

[StarCreator]

Can you play using 3G ?

Yes.

 

[wwm0nkey]

So this should work on the US systems using that account trick right?

 

[StarCreator]

So this should work on the US systems using that account trick right?

I haven't heard of a Vita game being region locked yet and everything worked just fine during closed beta. Details on how to switch accounts are linked in the OT.

 

[Hi i'm Caleb]

Has this Vita version been hinted at or confirmed for the west?

 

[Killthee]

Has this Vita version been hinted at or confirmed for the west?

They haven't confirmed it or even hinted on a Vita release in the West. Heck the last time they even mentioned the PC release was back in Sept during PAX Prime : /

 

[Hi i'm Caleb]

They haven't confirmed it or even hinted on a Vita release in the West. Heck the last time they even mentioned the PC release was back in Sept during PAX Prime : /

Thanks for the update. Looks like ill be grabbing this and a new mem card.