Phantasy Star Online 2! Open Beta now!

[gato]

I'm actually in the Beta. I played pretty much all last night and apart from some ludicrous lag it's amazing.

This morning the lag is gone. The game is crack incarnate, i can see the full version consuming me.

When you have some free time could you answer me some questions?

How about the Arks Cash system?

How much did you spent of it? (the prizes seem quite reasonable but we still don't know about how much money would cost to get the Arks Cash).

Also, did you have FUN? Is it as exploitable as it sounds?

Anyway, between spoilers is the whole bunch of media I've been collecting from the webz.

VIdeos:

(not much in the way of gameplay, but you can see the story intro)

(a little look at the urban area)

(nothing much, except for some demonstration about how the spear weapon works, and I guess you cana lso hear the little changes they made to the music, I think they added a bit of PSO's forest)

Kailure - Forest Gameplay (Here the new music and the PSO bits I mentioned are more noticeable, also, I really hate that new announcer voice :< )

(the few seconds I watched about the first one were lagged as hell so I didn't consider them to be worth of posting)

Jmanx - Urban gameplay with commentary (we get to see some launcher action)

(we see some Talis action, that weapon is so boss)

(This one pretty much blew my mind, that battle was epic as hell)

(pretty much the same, but less epic and from a Ranger's POV)

(lvl 6 tries to solo a lvl 16 quest, does pretty well but ends up as one would expect)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yv8m7a98m5U (The freaking dragon speaks!? And it looks like they changed the boss music too! (or is that the music for the boost version of the boss?) Sounds awesome! Also, LOL at Rappy)

Dinosaur - Urban Recovery (Wheeeee! Launcher riding!)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1aJaheuO6ek (this guy sure likes to appear in the most random places)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6D0eSm3e26k

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VG54LHZX0mU (whoever thought of multi party areas is a freaking genius <3)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G9Mjx_f4gyQ (we can see some NPC's playing with the guy here)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RIqYtM3fI_g&amp

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6aAQdgvtGrs (lol crawling)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cnnyUMW7gi8

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H5MI8you44s

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_rTczFKCBgo (I'm not sure if it's the same music as the boosted one, but this one doesn't have the same voice than the other one)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AoyreTvCEZk

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R6zcN0NTG7w (Also, new music for the Rockbear)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P4b-IrpjQbc (rare version I guess? Not sure why they call them like that, also, PB chain at the end of the video)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_LrGYqvvNIU (HOLY SHIT! And one again, I'm not sure what to say about the extra names)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bs80nvnfXFc

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=980YBKZBjsw

Izuna - Hunter gameplay

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=64VZEwJdukE

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WOjMfB27iTs

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AR74CC01H_I

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wm0RLpPiE5Y

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wz1R5XE82ro (PSE burst!)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZy7I6vLVc8

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VTZKdV1nlRc

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3XdbtGYLpXs (who needs TTF?)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QDiRKYH7f9g (ever told you how much I love watching Rappy's running around and kicking all kinds of ass?)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B-g61anb98Y (I believe this is multiple burst activating at the same time, and it's GLORIOUS!)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lY48butxrd8 (here you can see a FOmarl playing with herself... ... ...)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8hxdNx2wwRk

Shakuri - Oh crap! Oh crap! Oh crap! (He didn't know hat that thing was and ran away, it's some sort of prison that catches you and triggers a Code : Rescue, which could suck for him considering he was playing solo)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5oxr0JbwzNc (Gee, I love this game's soundtrack! :V )

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kY01Rc-j5rA

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RULX2B04_7I (I'm linking this mostly because he manages to use Just Guard against the thing a few times)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6tWD0pNiSBA

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W74RKwCkL8U

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MBbgWlWerPg (that's the title, it actually looks like Urban Recovery)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8su9KMCRJew (it's a bug that apparently got fixed already, I'm almost sad about this, it would be awesome to lead my own army)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k78W8jdNFB8 (not that exciting IMO, but I wanted to link it just to show how easy can be to deafeat this guys when they are alone, I really hope harder difficulties changes this)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PyT_3YhrvPw (not sure what it is, I haven't been up to date with the beta and it's missions)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QvdjuDxomdY (Bug or exploit?)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eTSmKSd_pn8

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zXj70guTB7U (I love this soundtrack?)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yc-W2nEL-UU (I guess it's a sort of teaser for a community video project they were making)

Music:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zpyLdwfC5Ew

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1DKu3Dqta4Y (this one doesn't seem to be so well ripped, the guy had troubles putting together the 3 versions there are of this track)

http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL96B0F2D70E1A2AEE&feature=plcp (I know the Rockbear theme was already uploaded and linked above but the other ones are new and he'll keep uploading as he can)

Between this spoilers are the guides and useful stuff posted all over the nets.

Guide about MAGs from Ricardo @Bumped.

The PSO-World Force thread, for all your FO needs.

Client orders @Bumped

The PA/Bullets/Technic video thread.

The PSO2 research forum at PSUmods is a great source of data and I guess It'll keep being updated long after the closed beta is over, check the beta thread, it has some interesting bits like the translation patch and some pictures of yet unused levels and enemies.

And last (and I guess also least) have some random PSO-World moments:

One does not simply walk out of the campship

Useful advice for the young adventurer.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GHpO_9zcD1Y ( LOL )

Did I just summoned Vol Opt?

I can see the new symbol chat going to places...

Fancy.

Behold! The PSO2 fashion thread! (SRS BSNSS)

Fabulous!

Saucy.

In some actual news... Due to all the unforeseen problems with the server, the beta has been extended until the 30th.

And we will have a fan briefing at may 2nd.

1up also posted some impresions from the game (hooray for people outside of Japan noticing this! Thanks SEGA West for making an awesome job marketing announcing doing something with this game).

EDIT: Good night, sweet prince.

And that's it! Closed Beta is over and I'm finally done with this media post, thanks a bunch to all the people who took their time to record themselves so the poor people that weren't able to play (read: me) could experience a bit of PSO2.

Tomorrow we will have the fan briefing and I guess I'll collect some Closed Beta leftovers, but I think that's worth it's own post.

Edited May 1, 2012 by gato

[Pawn]

I'd originally decided to wait until confirmation and release of an international version; however after watching the playthroughs and seeing all of the screenshots on PSO-World I think I may have to join the Open Beta, language barrier or not. I've been using the character creator quite a bit to help satisfy my hype, but have ended up tweaking the same character for the last few weeks since now all I want is to actually play the game with them. =P

[gato]

I'd originally decided to wait until confirmation and release of an international version; however after watching the playthroughs and seeing all of the screenshots on PSO-World I think I may have to join the Open Beta, language barrier or not. I've been using the character creator quite a bit to help satisfy my hype, but have ended up tweaking the same character for the last few weeks since now all I want is to actually play the game with them. =P

I didn't do much to mine, except giving my HUcast a cowboy hat... Because cowboy hat.

Anyway! Yesterday we got the fan briefing.

There might be another test before the open test. (Possibly..)

This is what we've got from the briefing:

* PSO2 still plans to start early summer

* New Planet Lilipa (the desert one)

* Lilipa contains robot and darker enemies.

* New Snowy Naberius Field (which means there could be more than 1 area for each planet \o/)

* Dinians can talk (wait, the ones you were beating up on Caves? That's going to be awkward)

* Hard Mode (Starts at Level 20)

* Level cap of 30 in Open Beta.

* Level cap of 40 in the Official game. (So we are not going beyond Hard more for a while)

* Time Attack Quests (I read a mention of Challenge Mode somewhere)

* New Boss for Desert: Gwanada looks like a Beetle

* New Boss for Snow: Marmoth (Mammoth like enemy)

* Enemy Weapons.

* 3rd Evolution for Mags

* ゲッテムハルト Gechtemhalt? Story Character (?)

* As expected they didn't reveal any new weapon type (new weapons, yes, but not types), and we shouldn't expect them to do that until the game's release.

And here is a little more info.

Satoshi Sakai went on stage to present the 2nd Fan Briefing. He announced some of the results of the Closed Beta Test and introduced new features implemented in the Open Beta Test. Unfortunately the Open Beta Test dates were not announced today.

Later on PSO2 will implement a Desert Planet, new costumes, new story quests, and a time attack quest. But for now let’s go through what’s actually coming in the Open Beta.

Liliipa: A harsh environment where the whole planet is covered in sand. It has the remains of a civilization that existed once before. In many places there are structures that mine resources from the planet.

An area covered in sand. There’s hardly any traces of lifeforms, but there seems to be robots roaming about. They seem to have lost their masters and attack indiscriminately. The Arks have also confirmed the presence of the Darkers.

Gwanada: The Desert Boss, a large-sized Darker which lies hidden beneath the sand. Not only does it have large pincers, but it can easily manipulate its many tentacles. (so basically the darker version of the desert vipers? Cool!)

Gilnas: A large machine with a sturdy body. Within its body lies a hidden core. Unless you destroy the core, it will attack you even if its body is scattered in pieces. (so like Dubchics but with an individual core)

Signogan: Medium sized robot that moves very quickly. (I can't remember the name but I think there was something similar in Phantasy Star Zero, but this one is (way) faster)

And we also got the Spardans, who looks like a reskin of the Dagan but actually act more like Canadines.

And finally, you can also find some nice screens here.

EDIT: Annnnd updates!

Behold! The gloriouis return of the FROmar!

In Part 2, Sakai and Kimura took the stage to discuss about additional features and answer questions from fans. It even looks like they may hold a symbol art contest.

One of the questions asked if it would be possible to move our characters across ships. It appears due to the server issues, this won’t be implemented just yet and is kind of a difficult process yo do. However, they are currently testing this service to see how it pans out.

Another fan asked about the possibility of making Symbol Art outside of the game, the staff may think about it.

They are still investigating how they should have the pricing scheme for Arks Cash. They are thinking about charging something like 1AC = 1 Yen? Of course the prices in the CBT aren’t going to be the same as the official game.

There will be 8 types of weapon for the official release, but more will appear later on. During the presentation someone shouted for Double Sabers, and Sakai responded that they’ll put them in. In addition, expect to see the Knuckle weapon category. (I really hope FO and RA players don't start complaining about this, I'm sure there will be more types added later, I'm pretty sure mechguns were mentioned somewhere in the game's data)

Also at the end they showed off a new map. This map was described as a near futuristic mechanical area full of robotic enemies. They didn’t discuss the name of the map but you should expect to see it in the official game. (I'm betting this is the center of the Oracle)

Only those who were physically present were able to see this secret footage.

Edited May 3, 2012 by gato

[Boodendorf]

So I saw this game a few days ago and it got me pretty interested. I actually have played PSO bue burst on my pc, been having fun with a bunch of friends on it. Then the same friends talked about PSO2 and linked to me some youtube videos (heck one of the guy I subscribed even made 6 of them about the game) and holyyy craaaap it looked amazing, and I came when I saw how rangers played, fucking third person shooter <3<3<3. I downloaded the character creator as I just heard closed beta finished anyway and made my character, so here:

So yeah I'm definitely going for a RAcast with rifle. I also did the fps test it seems that I can run the game at 20 constant fps ;_;. I've read the above post and see how it goes without all the shading stuff.

EDIT: So I just set ShaderQuality to false and it litterally made the game ten times smoother. Holy crap it's awesome even if the game looks so ugly compared to how it's supposed to be.

Edited May 5, 2012 by Boodendorf

[gato]

So I saw this game a few days ago and it got me pretty interested. I actually have played PSO bue burst on my pc, been having fun with a bunch of friends on it. Then the same friends talked about PSO2 and linked to me some youtube videos (heck one of the guy I subscribed even made 6 of them about the game) and holyyy craaaap it looked amazing, and I came when I saw how rangers played, fucking third person shooter <3<3<3. I downloaded the character creator as I just heard closed beta finished anyway and made my character, so here:

So yeah I'm definitely going for a RAcast with rifle. I also did the fps test it seems that I can run the game at 20 constant fps ;_;. I've read the above post and see how it goes without all the shading stuff.

EDIT: So I just set ShaderQuality to false and it litterally made the game ten times smoother. Holy crap it's awesome even if the game looks so ugly compared to how it's supposed to be.

Edited May 7, 2012 by gato

[Pawn]

The official blog updated today with these guys:

In game:

There's not a lot of information on them yet, but it looks like the Rappies won't be the only cute little critters this time around. =] The desert planet already had a Star Wars vibe going on, but now it even has its own brand of Ewoks!

Edited May 18, 2012 by Lungo

[gato]

It's said that the artist who designed these Ewok thingies wants them to become the new PSO mascot (lol as if something could ever replace the glorious Rappy master race)

...

Though to his credit, they certainly look better than PSU's attempts at making a new cute animal.

*shudders*

Edited May 18, 2012 by gato

[Pawn]

A Pre-Open Beta starts in the second half of June! You can register for this tomorrow! =D

/big bold text and a smily face to mirror my excitement!

Quoted from Mike of PSO World:

The closed beta report is up but before I go in to it, here's the news on the next test:

*A "pre-open beta" test will be held during the later half of June.

*Open beta pre-registration for new accounts starts tomorrow. Registering for this will also get you in to the pre-open beta.

*Previously existing accounts should be able to participate no matter what.

*There will be some kind of reward for participating in the pre-open beta.

*If the pre-open beta goes off without any major problems, the open beta should start soon after it finishes.

For source, as well as a translated closed beta report with graphs an shiz, click here.

Also, Sakai updated the Phantasy Star blog. Translation by Kion at the PSO World forums:

The pre-open beta is a double check to make sure the servers are stable before going into a full-on open beta. The largest number of people logging on simultaneously before was 23,000 people. One of the goals of the pre-open beta is to test the servers under a larger load.

Game status:

Girls still made up 70% of the population and even after trying to make male newmans more appealing the adoption rate was only 5% (compared to 4% in the alpha).

Also compared to the alpha, people focused more on making one character as opposed to several characters. Either it takes too long to level up or more players were taking advantage of being able to multi-class their main better.

Input:

There was a lot of input from the community. Sakai appreciated talks on the official closed beta forums about how players wanted cash shops and stuff to be implements.

In the closed beta report 94% of people replied that they would play the game when it came out. That made the team extremely happy.

A large majority of player replied they'd play it only on pc, but 30% of people replied they wanted to play on vita and smart phone as well.

D'awww.

Edited May 22, 2012 by Lungo

[gato]

I spent most of the day wasting ym time reading SCHThack's reaction to this game. (Why I did this? I mean, I'm not mad at the reactions... Just at the fact that I wasted my time reading them)

Anyway, Ricardo published his own article about the report with pretty pictures and the like, sans the pics it's basically the same thing Lungo posted so I'm not going to quote it.

I was avoiding getting into the betas and alphas because my connection sucks (3G, stated by Sakai himself to not be enough to play the game) but I'm considering giving the open (and the pre open) beta a try... Just to give their servers more load. (in the most well intentioned way of course)

Edited May 23, 2012 by gato

[Pawn]

The link you've posted is much easier on the eyes. It's safe to assume that the lack of customisation for CASTs has brought their popularity down. They're normally the first I consider, but with the pitiful amount of parts you can choose from I ended up choosing pretty much the opposite:

This is the character I'll be using in the Pre-OB. I was also avoiding getting involved in the game; not due to my connection, but because I'd rather wait for an English version. However, after seeing all of the splendid pics and videos, I just have to have a go myself. Are you an active member at the PSO World forums, gato? I've rarely posted at all until now and it's been mainly just in the character threads. I wonder if there are enough SSMB members interested to form a little group?

Edited May 22, 2012 by Lungo

[Meow]

That was my char during the CBT, will probably keep using her from here on in.

In other words - I am pretty stoked for the open beta!! I also had a HUcast and a FOmarl but I didn't get screens of 'em.

[gato]

This is the character I'll be using in the Pre-OB. I was also avoiding getting involved in the game; not due to my connection, but because I'd rather wait for an English version. However, after seeing all of the splendid pics and videos, I just have to have a go myself. Are you an active member at the PSO World forums, gato? I've rarely posted at all until now and it's been mainly just in the character threads. I wonder if there are enough SSMB members interested to form a little group?

Actually, I'm not a member there, I used to be a member at SCHTHack but I left 1 year ago for no particular reason (other than not having enough willpower to log in).

As for a group, I would be all over that but I doubt you will be able to play with me (If I can even get to log in into the server).

But just in case, we can try to arrange something (be it here or in PSO-World, I wouldn't mind making an account there), I'll leave you my HUcast. (named gato)

I really think the hat was a big improvement compared to my original design.

The only problem (other than my connection) is that I think we need to complete some captchas before making an account (I guess we could ask the ones who got into the closed beta to write them for us like some people were doing on SCHTHack).

EDIT: Thinking about it, I think we have at least 4 people here willing to give this game a go, so I would love if we could get a group going.

EDIT2: Lo and behold! Ricardo posted a pre-beta registration guide!

I think I managed to register...

I guess now I play the waiting game.

Edited May 23, 2012 by gato

[Boodendorf]

I just registered for the pre obt . Can't wait for summer for this!

[gato]

I had a dream I've been thinking about this for a while and I decided to give this a shot, to see if we can make a little forum event of our own.

So... Do you love Phantasy Star Online? Do you want to give this game a try? Would you like to help SEGA to make this game a success? Are you tired of watching me cry because nobody pays attention to this?

Well, if your answer is yes to all of this then I have an idea for you...

Join The Unofficial SSMB Phantasy Star Online 2 Group! (we need to come up with a name for this)

FAQ:

01 ) What is Phantasy Star Online 2?

Phantasy Star Online is one of the most beloved series for SEGA fans all over the globe, one of the pioneers (huehuehue) in online gaming and all in all an amazing action packed RPG.

You can see me gushing a lot about it in the topic.

The sequel, Phantasy Star Online 2 it's going to be released at some point in the summer this year and it will be free to play and download, all you need is to create an account and you are good to go!

02 ) Okay, and what do you want us to do with this?

I'm trying to start a group of people to play PSO2 with. (or at least try to get some of you to play together, since my internet is not good enough for doing so)

03 ) Why do this and why now?

The main reason comes from something i wanted to do to help SEGA with this game, it turns out that the Closed Beta of the game had several lag and disconnection issues which was obviously unexpected for the team... After this, they decided to make an extra test before the open beta to stress test the servers, this is where I come in, I will join to test the servers and I would like to send as many people as possible.

04 ) What do I get from this?

There are many things you will benefit from joining.

* A chance to play the game before release.

* Give SEGA a little help without having to write reports in Katakana

* Those who join the Pre-Open Beta will not need to register for the Open Beta. (and this most likely will also apply for the final product)

* Whatever progress you do in the Open Beta might be transferred to the final game.

* Taking part of this test will give you a special reward for the game (yet to be revealed)

05 ) Okay, I'm interested, but how do I join?

Here you will find a complete guide with everything you need to know to register. If you follow this guide step by step you should be good to go, but if there is any change you missed something or couldn't complete everything there is a chance that SEGA might ask you to fill a captacha in Katakana before joining, if this presents a problem for you you can always ask for help to the people who took part of the closed beta, or use this. (but I repeat, if you follow the guide step by step none of this should be necessary)

06 ) All in Japanese?

There is no western release in the horizon and for the tests Japanese is the only language available. (this might change though, but we shouldn't expect it)

07 ) But I can't moonspeak!

Here is where the group thing comes into play, if we can get a group of players going the language barrier shouldn't be a problem, and unless we somehow manage to get a big and self sustained group, we will be most likely joining the guys at PSO-World and SCHThack in ship 2 - Block 20/21. (I call it the baka gaijin ship)

The menus and UI will be in japanese though, but if this bothers you then you can always check PSUmods, they have been releasing translation patches for pretty much every version of the game so far and they are most likely going to keep doing so (keep in mind, this patches are not supported by SEGA so use them at your own risks) until the final release. (they pretty much told us it wouldn't be possible for them to make a translation patch of the first public version)

08 ) Don't the japanese players get mad about this?

Well, if you want an excuse all the previous tests have been restricted to Japanese players (though that didn't stop us before) and this one in particular is first one where that requirement doesn't seem to be mentioned. (according to Ricardo @Bumped)

But the truth is, Japanese players usually don't mind about us (and neither seems like SoJ does), most of them know we come to enjoy/help with the game like they are so they don't really bother with this, some are even friendly enough and try to approach us.

Having said that, we are still just guests in their servers so you should always try to follow a few courtesy rules when dealing with the locals. (I use to think that if you are intelligent enough to register into a forum and post there then you should be smart enough to know how to behave yourself... But since the internet has proven me wrong more times than what I'm willing count I'm not taking any chances)

Behave like our own mods expect us to behave here, that means no spam, don't be a dick, don't post offensive stuff (and unlike the SSMB, this includes cursing), signatures shouldn't be longer than 600 pixels, all that stuff.

While it isn't necessary it would be nice to have at least some knowledge of the language before joining JP games, know how to thank and introduce yourself (this might be expanded upon later).

Also, check this posts... Or the whole thread they came from.

09 ) All right, I think I will join... When does this happen?

The date for the test hasn't been revealed yet but it's expected to happen in the latter half of June.

10 ) What!? Then why bother to announce this now?

Because it's better if we have enough time to organize something, also, since the registrations are already open we can clear any doubt you might have before it's too late.

11 ) That makes sense. So... When will I know when the test starts?

Keep an eye on Bumped, PSO-World and this very same thread!

You could also check for any email SEGA might send you.

12 ) Okay so, anything else I need to know about this test?

The Pre Open Beta Test will most likely last a really short time to stress the servers and will not be any different from the Closed one, which means:

* level cap of 20

* 3 playable areas (Forest, Caves and Urban)

* 4 bosses (Rockbear, Vol Dragon, Catedran and Dark Ragne)

* Weapons like Gunslashes, Rifles, Launchers, Partisans, Wired Lances, Swords, Rods and Talis.

* You might be given some free Arks cash to spend. (this isn't the purpose of this test so don't expect it)

* All the original classes and races are playable.

* First 2 chapters of story mode

* Mags

(let me know if I'm forgetting something)

The Open beta in the other hand will feature all of the previous things and something else.

* New Area (desert)

* New boss (Gwanada)

* Level cap of 30

* Hard mode

* New story quests

The game's minimum requirements are the following ones:

(keep in mind this are the closet beta reqs and they might be different for the final game)

OS: Windows XP/Vista/7 32 bit OR Vista/7 64 bit

CPU: Intel Core 2 Duo E6300

RAM: Windows XP：1.5GB or more

RAM: Vista/7：2GB or more

HDD: 8GB or more

RESOLUTION: 1280×720

GPU: NVIDIA GeForce 7800GT or similar or more.

SOUND: DirectX 9.0c or higher

But if you want to be sure, there is a character creation and benchmark test demo right here. (click in the big blue button at the bottom and then the button with the PSO2 logo)

13 ) And how about the final game?

Phantasy Star Online 2 will be free to play and download, there will be a limited amount of levels and weapons at the beginning but SEGA plans to update as the time goes.

The features of the final version will be all of the mentioned above and this ones:

* New Areas (frozen fields and an unnamed one yet to be revealed to the public)

* New Bosses (Marmoth and Snow Banshee and whatever the unnamed new area brings)

* Level cap of 40

* New story quests

* New costumes, hairstyles, parts and accessories

* Time attack quests

* More evolutions for mags

* It's not discussed at what point they will appear but it has been confirmed that weapons like Double Saber and Knuckles are in.

Since this game will be FtP a chunk of SEGA's earnings will come from some premium services/store, free players will be able to enjoy the game story/levels/important weapons to it's fullest but it's going to be quite restricted in some other areas.

* Free players will be limited to only 1 character slot (though as far as we know, you can still play with all 3 classes while using a single char), this can be expanded up to 12.

* Exp boosts, special consumption items and the like (this one is pretty much a standard practice in most cash shops), maybe the biggest offender is the classic scape doll (so better get some moon atomizers for your team or hope they drop somewhere).

* Expanded inventory space.

* Trade function, My room and My shop need to be rented, there is a pack that lets you get all of this. (which is basically, a subscription fee with another name).

* Extra Skill Tress (not sure if the wording here is right, but the most sure thing is that if you want to reset some skill choice you did at some point in the game you will have to pay for it).

* Clothes, hairstyles and other accessories (it's still not clear how much of this shop will be charged but I'm going to be pessimistic and assume all of it).

* There is going to be some sort of scratch that will give you costumes and other novelty items, granted that you win them (no way in hell I'm spending money in that though >_>).

And I guess that's all you need to know about the game, if there is any other questions you have feel free to drop them here.

I'll probably add a members list later if I manage to pull this off.

[gato]

Okay, the group thing might or not fail (I frankly think it's already a failure because I didn't plan for this... Oh well, I learned something from this )

But let's set aside my mild depression first world problems for not getting attention for a while, because we have some news!

As well as my tries to get people's attention, Sakai also decided to do his own thing and start his own PSO2 beta pre-registration campaign!

Here is the most important things I got from this blogpost.

The official site updated today by revealing a special prize for pre-registering for the Open Beta Test. Anyone who has pre-registered for the open beta test will get the Rappy Mini Doll room item. (so I guess the reward for joining the POB is this cute little bastard, those who participated in previous tests will also receive their Rappy)

Open Beta Test Minimum Requirements

OS: Windows XP 32bit | Windows Vista or Windows 7 32bit or 64bit

CPU: Intel Core 2 Duo E6300 or above

RAM: Windows XP：1.5GB+ | Vista or Windows 7：2GB+

HDD: 8GB or more

GPU: NVIDIA GeForce 7800GT or similar or higher

Direct X: Direct X 9.0c or higher

The pre-open beta test has the same minimum requirements above. The open beta minimum requirements are different than the official game’s. The latest service pack is required.

But that's not all! Yesterday 4Gamer and Sakai revealed some of the rare weapons we can expect to find at the game, not only that, they've also revealed the (non cell) lvl 100 MAG evolutions, you can check all of this here.

Due to SSMB's media limit I can't post all the pics, but I'll share my favorites.

Cruel Coffin [Gunslash]

Made out of solid ice; emits an ice cold effect.

Bouquet Rifle [Assault Rifle] (and an awesome suit)

At first it looks like an ordinary bouquet, but it’s actually a lethal rifle.

Rust Device [Partisan]

A spear from the Planet Lillipa

Rappy Fan Fan [Talis]

Throw cute imitation rappy feathers!

We’d never use real rappy feathers… Never

(BS, I used real feathers in PSO and it was Fabulous!)

Monoceros (Tech Type MAG)

Edited June 2, 2012 by gato

[gato]

Brace yourselves! POB is coming!

Pre Open Beta Test Dates:

6/15/2012: 19:00 ~ 24:00 JST

6/16/2012: 19:00 ~ 24:00 JST

As you can see, this is a pretty darn limited time, but I was expecting this because it's mostly a test to stress the servers, Beta Test is where we will get to play the game.

Pre Open Beta Test looks to ask if any of the following problems will occur:

* Will unexpected communication delays occur?

* Will the server reach its limits on allowing a certain number of people to connect at the same time?

* Will large-scale disconnections occur?

* Will any other problems occur on the servers?

If there are no major problems, we will then move on to the Open Beta Test. Unfortunately your play data in the Pre-Open Beta test is reset once the test is over. If everything goes smoothly, Sakai plans to start the Open Beta within a week of the pre-open beta test. If there are no problems in the Open Beta test, they will quickly start the official game.

The Pre-Open Beta Test will add a special quest and the Desert planet among other things.

Those who participate in the Pre-Open Beta Test will receive the Bouquet Rifle (i freaking love that suit) if they clear the following quest:

* 【プレOBT限定】砂漠任務 Desert Mission

The Bouquet Rifle will be delivered to you some time in the Open Beta Test. All classes may equip the Bouquet Rifle, however, only the Ranger has access to the Photon Arts.

The pre-open beta will add a special quest and the desert field. This quest has special requirements only for the Pre-Open Beta Test and is available to play at level 1. However in the Open Beta Test, you will not be able to play the desert field at level 1.

In the Pre-Open Beta it is not possible for you to purchase Arks Cash. Thus, you will have access to My Room and My Shop for free during this period.

* During the Pre-Open and Open Beta you will not be able to purchase Arks Cash, so My Room and My Shop will be available to all players during this time.

* While your premium set ticket is active, the FUN points you receive for logging in consecutively each day will increase.

* Using the Aesthetics counter, the following features are free: Eye Pattern, Eye Color, Eyebrows, Eyebrow color, Eyelashes, Makeup Pattern 1&2.

* You can level up your character to Level 30 in Open and Pre-Open Beta.

* Planet Lillipa will be added along with new Robot type enemies and brand new Darkers.

* Weak elemental attributes were added to some enemies.

* You can now obtain a mag at level 5 instead of 10.

* Instead of Level 50, a mag can evolve to its second form at Level 30.

* Food Device effectiveness has decreased. (boo)

* During the Pre-Open Beta, a special quest will be added so you can gain access to the desert immediately. If you clear this quest you will receive the Bouquet Rifle at the Open Beta. The Bouquet Rifle can be equipped by all classes.

* Hard mode is available for each quest if the character is level 20 or above. However, in order to access hard mode you must complete a specific client order.

* The time limit, enemy levels, and PSE occurrence rate has been adjusted in the Emergency Quest (City).

* Some new emergency trial variations were added.

* The second matter board was added. The matter board completion screen will also be shown in the camp ship after the quest results screen is shown.

* You can accept client orders even if you do not use the Matter Board.

* They will re-examine the locations of certain hard to find characters. (I assume that’s for the pink haired Newman.)

* To reduce server load, there will be less chairs to sit on in the lobby.

* The Item lab and Tekker shop has moved down a floor.

* There have been changes to the structure of each class skill tree..

* EXP FULL will be displayed when you kill an enemy and you are at the highest class level.

* You will be notified on screen when the boost item effects wear off.

* 16 button gamepads are now supported and configurable.

* A max frame rate function was added.

* Virtual full screen mode selection.

* Full screen mode resolution selection.

* If you connect to PSO2 from a net cafe, you can receive net cafe points and use an exclusive shop (this obviously only works for Japan)

* Optimizations to make the game run lighter will be carried out if necessary after the official release.

* For the Open Beta, they thought they could implement a video capturing mode, but this is now abandoned.

Arks Cash Prices

Today we are announcing the pricing plans for Phantasy Star Online 2:

* Game: Free to Download

* Billing: The Basic Game is Free (supported by Cash Items)

* Premium Set: 1300AC

* AC Scratch: 1 Scratch is 200 AC

* Other Cash Items: 150 AC ~

PSO2 will be Free 2 Play and Free to Download. You can play quests and story missions for free. Free players will not have limits imposed on their class levels nor playing time. They will not allow the direct sales of highly over powerful weapons that could affect game balancing. Through updates you can enjoy new bosses, new fields, and new quests for free!

Through communication, you can gain FUN points for use with the Free Gacha “FUN Scratch.” In this scratch, you can obtain room items, music disks, and additional lobby actions. Through here, you can get some exclusive features for free, for example, you may receive a ticket that lets you open up your My Room and My Shop for Free for 3 Days!

For paying users, you can enjoy additional features through Arks Cash. The items included under Arks Cash are not required for playing. There are no direct sales of highly over powerful weapons nor cash quests. 1 AC = 1 Yen! (this is something good right? I believe this was the convertion rate we had in PSU)

Premium Set: 1300 AC

* 30 Days = 1300 AC

* 60 Days = 2500AC

* 90 Days = 3600AC

The Premium Set will cost 1300 AC or 1300 Yen. This will open up additional and exclusive features for paying customers. The premium set is most suitable for players who’d wish to pay monthly for the game. (this was pretty obvious :V)

Premium Set Contents:

* My Room

* My Shop

* Exclusive Features (Listed Below)

* Premium Storage Box

* Item Trader

* Premium Block

* FUN Points Boost

Don’t forget you can still get a ticket for free to use My Room and My Shop for 3 days. My Room, My Shop, and Storage expansions could be purchased separately for 700 AC. You can also take out items from your expanded storage box after the ticket expires.

AC Scratch: 200 Yen

AC Scratch Gold: 500 Yen

The items included in the AC Scratch are not required to play the game. The scratch is for players who want their characters to be stylish. or for those who want items to enjoy the game more.

Various items are included in the cheaper 200 AC scratch, however the Gold version only contains clothes and parts.

AC Scratch contents include:

* Clothes, Parts and Accessories.

* Additional voices and lobby actions.

* Boost Items, Items that assist in weapon grinding or mag raising

* Etc.

AC Scratch GOLD contents include:

* Clothing and Parts

Other Cash Items:

* Additional Characters, Aesthetics Salon: 500 AC

* “System Type” Items: 300 AC ~

* Consumption Items: 150 AC ~

As for the Aesthetic Counter, the following changes occurred:

* You may now change the Eye Pattern, Eye Color, Eyebrows, Eyelashes, and Makeup Pattern 1&2 for Free!

* Items you’ve obtained through AC Scratch (costumes, hairstyles, and accessories) can be changed for free at the counter.

We've also gotten some info regarding the Forest reskin Tundra, you can check it out here.

EDIT: As a side note, there has been a suspiciously well timed and extremely vague announcement regarding PSU XBOX 360 servers (the last bastion of western PS fans if my memory doesn't fail me) closing in the next months, take this with a brick of salt but it could mean something in the near future... Or nothing. (and judging SEGA's current situation, I'm kind of siding towards the later)

Edited June 8, 2012 by gato

[Pawn]

Blimey! At first I glanced at the dates and thought 'OMG JUST ONE WEEK AWAY', then I actually read that it's only running for ten hours in all. O: It's not a bad time for Europe if you don't work weekends, but it's rather inconvenient if you live in America. Still, hopefully things will run as planned and we'll launch into the Open Beta the following week.

EXCITEMENT ACTIVATED.

Edited June 8, 2012 by Lungo

[Candescence]

Well, that POB window is actually near-perfect for me, since I live in Australia, which is almost aligned with Japan time-zone wise. Pretty sweet.

Edited June 8, 2012 by Masaru Daimon

[gato]

If my calculations are correct I have exactly 12 hours of difference with Japan, which means for me the servers will be open from 7:00 to 12:00... Which is a quite crappy time for me, but I swear upon *insert higher being of preference here* that I'll do my very best to get that bouquet (or crash and burn in the process because my internet sucks)!

Also, Ricardo stopped updating his post so I guess that's all we're getting this week.

EDIT: Apparently, someone derp'd the programmed date for the open beta. (which means, the date if the POB goes according to Sakai plans)

June 21st

Of course, since this wasn't confirmed try to not take it as a fact.

Edited June 10, 2012 by gato

[gato]

Guys... Guys...

The POB client is ready for download!

And as usual, Ricardo shares some guides and other comments.

Phantasy Star Online 2 Players Site has launched, and features a wealth of information. This post will act as a guide to getting the game as well as vital information about the test and rules. Refer to a future blog post for an actual game guide.

Click the BIG SPACEY BUTTON to get the downloader.

During the Pre-Open Beta unexpected malfunctions may occur that could result in your character data being wiped, rollbacks, etc. If a problem occurs, you must immediately submit a bug report (in japanese) at the bug report page.

Submit the following reports here:

* Bug Reports

* Feedback

* Wicked Users (Cheater/Hackers) (lol wicked)

Please note that all data in the Pre-Open Beta Test is deleted at the end of this test and will not carry over to the Open Beta.

There are five ships (servers) in the Pre-Open Beta:

Ship01：フェオ Feo

Ship02：ウル Ur

Ship03：ソーン Thohn

Ship04：アンスール Ansul

Ship05：ラグズ Laguz

Please take note that you can not move your character to another ship. Please make sure you choose a ship you and your friends will be playing on. The PSOW/PSUBLOG/GAMEFAQS/FACEBOOK communities will be choosing Ship 2 and Block 20/21. (I'm going there too FYI) Other gaming communities will choose different ship numbers so please refer to their websites for information on which ship and block you should connect to.

As the test moves on, NEW ships will be added based on need. Please keep in mind that you can not purchase Arks Cash during the Pre-Open Beta Test, this means you can not create a 2nd character on any ship. (You will have to delete your first character and remake them on another ship.)

The Pre-Open Beta version of PSO2 can load the characters you created in the character creation demo. We highly recommend you begin to finalize your characters now before participating in the Pre-Open and Open Beta test. If you saved your character data in the Closed Beta, PSO2 Pre-Open beta client can also load that character.

The contents listed in the Arks Cash shop is roughly similar to the official version. Unfortunately, during the Pre-Open Beta, you can not purchase Arks Cash, therefore, all players who participate during this test will have access to My Room and My Shop.

During the Pre-Open Beta you can input an item code for certain weapons in the Arks Lobby, My Room, and Camp Ship. Since the data is reset once the test is complete, hold on to your item code since you will be able to type it in again in the next test.

Currently you can type all “Nacht” versions of weapons through the vision phone. This includes Rocket Punch, AntiARifle, PicoPico Hammer, Lord Axion, and Gaebolg. The Open Beta Test data transfers over to the official release, so you do not have to type them in another time.

PSO2 Launcher Screen

ゲームスタート : Game Start (Starts the Game and Patches)

環境設定: Settings

ファイルチェック: File Check will check the integrity of all patches.

終了: Will close the launcher.

When you first start PSO2, you may note that the game is running slowly. We recommend changing your graphical sliders down to 1 or 2 to make the game run faster.

Simple Settings

Top Buttons: (Left to Right)

簡易設定: Simple Settings

基本: Basic Settings

画面: Screen

描画: Drawing Settings

音声: Sound

機能: Functions

Bottom Buttons: (Left to Right)

設定を保存: Save Settings

初期化: Reset

公式サイト: Website

戻る: Return

The large slider from 1 to 5 is a quick way to change the major graphic settings for the game. Lowering your slider down to 1 will run the game faster.

Screen Settings

ウィンドウモード Window Mode

* ウィンドウモード表示 Windowed Mode

* フルスクリーン表示 Full Screen Mode

* 仮想フルスクリーン表示 Virtual Full Screen Mode

画面サイズ Screen Size: Choose a Resolution (1280*720)

最大フレームレート Maximum Frame Rate: 60 fps

文字の大きさ Text Zoom [Right Column]: 1280

PSO2 Draw Settings

テクスチャ解像度 Texture Settings

* 高解像度 High Resolution

* 通常 Normal

* 圧縮 Compressed

シェーダー品質 Shader Quality

* 標準 Standard

* 簡易 Simple

There are 2 major graphical situations, “Simple Shaders” or “Standard Shaders”. In the PSO2 English communities we normally refer to “Simple Shaders” as the “Shader-less” or “Shaders Off” or “SD Graphics” version.

Shaders can greatly impact the performance of your game, therefore we recommend those with integrated or lower end graphic cards to move the slider down to 1 to run the game with simple shaders. Shaders will be on by default if the graphical slider is set to 3. You may save your changes by clicking the first button on the left, then click the last button to return.

Basic Settings

Language and Monitor

* 言語設定 Language Settings: Only Japanese language is currently supported. (Officially)

Monitor Screen in Lobby

* 巨大モニター動画を再生する : Play Videos

* 巨大モニター動画を再生しない: Do not Play Videos

(I'm not entirely sure why would they put a switch for those videos)

Manner Up!

During your course of PSO2, you’ll meet many players and interact with them. However, sometimes a slight remark, or action may trouble your team mates

Prohibited Actions:

* Real Money Trading Services

* Cheat Tools / Item Modding and Duping

* Unauthorized access / Program modifications.

* Obstructing Administration / Stealing or Fraud

When users are caught performing these actions their accounts may be banned from playing the game. In addition to those actions stated above, other prohibited actions include:

* Altering Stats

* Speed Hacks

* Use of outside programs that affect the game.

* The use of (external programs) to perform actions automatically.

* Slandering specific players or groups.

* Obstructing Admin (events, false reports, pretending to be admin, etc.)

* Account Phishing

* Etc.

(Ricardo fixed his derp, this piece of text is laid here in memory of this event.... NEVAH FORGET)

I decided to include the "good manners list" for 2 reasons.

1) It's so obvious and unnecessary for most of the average players that I found it hilarious

2) If any of you reading this get caught using a translator or all in all being a dick (even while not speaking Japanese) don't complain when the hammer hits you.

In Ricardo's post there are also some rules concerning Screenshot and Video posting, but they seem to be pretty much the same rules they had already so I'm not posting them here

Edited June 15, 2012 by gato

[Pawn]

Cheers mate! It's installing as I type, and I shall be joining everyone on Friday in Ship 2 at Block 20/21.

I really want to play with shaders on but my graphics card overheats after some time in just the character creator. I guess I could give it a shot and see if it's significantly worse in play.

[gato]

A friendly reminder to all of you.

People have been trying to give the game a test run (just to see the title and ship selection screen) and found themselves downloading a patch... This wouldn't be anything out of the ordinary but the patch takes forever to download and is prone to disconnection errors.

Normally I would chalk it up to my awful connection but since there are other people reporting this I'd recommend you guys to patch this before the servers open, we have a limited time to stress test the servers (and get the flower bouquet) and I think we should make the most of it by not waiting an eternity for the game to patch itself.

Also, if you had any of the translation patches installed, this one will override those files (we have reports of the patch not working with this version anyway, so I don't see any reason to keep them, wait for a new version of the translator if there is one)

[Pawn]

Hah that was great, playing PSO again for the first time in 7/8 years. I forgot I was going out this morning so I was only able to play for half of today's beta. I spent most of it in solo missions and a less populated block just to try to get a handle on everything. I completely forgot to buya controller or Xbox 360 wireless adapter so ended up playing with an old Saturn-style gamepad lol. It worked fine but it doesn't have enough buttons for this game. =P

I did check out Block 20/21 last minute to see how laggy it would be, but it wasn't actually too bad. I'm more concerned about the fact that I can't understand a word in the game. The actual gameplay, playing through missions, is all right but when it comes to shops and storage I have bugger all idea what I'm doing. I just hope that either Sega don't mind the fan patches or translate the game soon themselves.

Edited June 15, 2012 by Lungo

[gato]

I hope you understand me for not taking the time to repost Ricardo's guide for the POB.

As for the test itself, it was awesome. The timing of the test was awful for me (I think I only managed to play 1 hour and tomorrow it'll be the same) so I didn't get to do a lot, but I would be lying if I said I didn't enjoy my little time there... I even got to play with another guy! He was as surprised as me when I told him I was using a 3G modem and we didn't have a single problem (my nephew got to a multi party area and didn't have much lag either)

I think it's safe to say the servers are working.

As a side note, it looks like someone tried to add me as a friend or something like that (can't moonspeak) and I simply answered lolno, if it was any of you guys let me say I'm really sorry, I was testing my connection and didn't want to risk it by bringing more people to the party.

Anyway, can't wait to try the game again tomorrow! (but my hopes of getting the bouquet seems quite grim considering the dificulty of the mission and the litle time I have to play it)

ps: the Desert area's music is freaking eargasming.

Hah that was great, playing PSO again for the first time in 7/8 years. I forgot I was going out this morning so I was only able to play for half of today's beta. I spent most of it in solo missions and a less populated block just to try to get a handle on everything. I completely forgot about buying a controller or Xbox 360 wireless adapter so ended up playing with an old Saturn-style gamepad lol. It was fine but it doesn't have enough buttons for this game. =P

I did check out Block 20/21 last minute to see how laggy it would be, but it wasn't actually too bad. I'm more concerned about the fact that I can't understand a damn thing in the game. The actual gameplay, playing through missions, is all right but when it comes to shops and storage I have bugger all idea what I'm doing. I just hope that either Sega don't mind the fan patches or translate the game themselves soon.

Ricardo's guide is a good place to start.

As for translations, Agrajag said it wasn't worth to work in this version of the game (for the little time it will be running), but he will see if he can do something for the Open Beta.

Edited June 15, 2012 by gato

[gato]

Okay, POB is over... and it was awesome...

Incoming screen dump!

Cast surfing is best surfing.

Fighting can get pretty crazy at times...

Screw the matter board! Imma chill.

And of course... The Last minutes were pretty crazy.

Lucky for us, apparently those rumors posted back then were true and we are getting the Open Beta in a few days!

21/06 - 16:00 JST

Initiate! Code : Hype

(and yes, Theodore was freaking everywhere >_>)

Edited June 16, 2012 by gato