Phantasy Star Online 2: New Genesis comes to PS4 on August 31

blog.playstation.com:

High up in the list of longest-running video game franchises at 33 years and change, Phantasy Star has touched the lives of many and inspired quite a following. And, that journey is set to continue. Today, we’re happy to announce that our action-RPG Phantasy Star Online 2: New Genesis comes to PS4 on August 31. If you’re new to the series, let me give you a quick primer.

Phantasy Star has morphed over the last three decades, but some concepts remain the same. Initially developed for the Sega Master System in 1987, these single-player RPGs eventually became a quadrilogy and, though mostly set in the same star system, could each be enjoyed as a standalone adventure. The inclusion of sci-fi and classic fantasy thematic aspects made these games unique at the time, while players journeyed across multiple planets, explored dungeons, and fought fearsome foes. The four titles were highly acclaimed for their gameplay and visuals.

In 2000, the series inspired one of the first console games that featured online multiplayer: Phantasy Star Online. The game’s party-based systems and combat-based PvE play made it one of the earliest pioneers of online gameplay in the console market. 2006’s Phantasy Star Universe would carry on the series’ penchant for having each entry feature a new setting and story, while evolving its hallmark sci-fi-infused combat. Finally, in 2012, Phantasy Star Online 2 launched its own stellar journey to the stars.

August 31 marks the launch of Phantasy Star Online 2: New Genesis on the PS4. It’s a massive update, as the game system and graphics engine were completely overhauled and exploration changed from hub-based to true open-world, as well as featuring a new story and cast of characters set over 1,000 years