Star Ocean The Second Story R Developers On How It's "An Entirely Different Experience"

screenrant.com:

is an upcoming remake of the classic JRPG that was released over two decades ago. Developed by Gemdrops, Inc. and published by Square Enix, the title intends to stay true to the core pillars of the original while also updating key facets for new players. is slated to release later this fall, introducing a whole new generation of fans to the beloved PS1 game.

The sci-fi fantasy classic centers on two protagonists: space cadet Claude C. Kenny and Nedian Rena Lanford, both of which are available as player characters. introduced both interesting mechanics and art styles, with things like the Private Action system influencing character relationships and a hybrid aesthetic of pixel art and photorealism. The title contains several branching storylines and changes based on player choices surrounding things like which characters they add to their party and the bonds they form. The series remains popular today, with recent releases receiving critical praise, but is where many features the series is known for began to take shape.

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In a conversation translated by Kohya Bamba, sat down with 's development producer and director Yuichiro Kitao and art director Yukinori Masuda to discuss the balancing act behind the game's development, drawing in new players, and staying true to the title's roots.

Screen Rant: I would love to hear about the elements that you thought were the most important in the original game that you wanted to make sure to really maintain in this new version.

Yuichiro Kitao: So first and foremost, the most important part or the essential part that we as the development team wanted to keep or retain from the original installment was to retain