Square Enix is still on a roll, re-releasing some of its classic games with either a complete remake or with the idyllic HD-2D care, such as Crisis Core –Final Fantasy– Reunion or Live a Live. Recently it announced the highly acclaimed second installment in the Star Ocean series, returning as Star Ocean The Second Story R. First released in Japan in 1998 on the PlayStation console, Star Ocean The Second Story R will return as a 2.5D remake, launching on November 2, 2023.
In a new trailer unveiled today, Square Enix provided fans with a first look at Star Ocean The Second Story R. The trailer showcases the game's new, stunning visual direction, action-packed gameplay, battle sequences, and all-new character illustrations by series veteran Yukihiro Kajimoto, as well as a beautifully rearranged soundtrack by the original composer, Motoi Sakuraba.
Star Ocean The Second Story R, has been revitalized with a charming 2.5D aesthetic that combines beautiful 3D environments with nostalgic 2D pixel characters, offering players both a classic RPG and modern gameplay experience. Players can expect to find some of the original features that made the original release so memorable alongside brand-new gameplay features, including fast-paced, real-time combat and battle mechanics to strategically defeat foes, customizable party progression with an array of skills, including Cooking, Art, Metalcraft, and more. Three new difficulty modes have also been introduced, including "Earth," which provides a standard experience, "Galaxy," for those looking for a more satisfying challenge; and "Universe," for seasoned players looking to put their skills to the ultimate test.
The epic story begins with Claude, a Federation officer, who finds himself transported to an undeveloped planet. While searching for a way home, an encounter with a girl named Rena draws them into a quest to save her people, just as an ancient prophecy foretold. Players will begin their adventure with either Claude or Rena and depending on their choice, the perspectives and the allies players will change. Players will get to know party members through the unique 'Private Actions System,' which will allow them to grow relationships and unlock a variety of different endings.
The second Star Ocean introduced the dual-protagonist feature, also presented in the series' latest entry, Star Ocean The Divine Force. In both games, the player can choose between the male protagonist from the sci-fi world or the female, native to a predominantly medieval underdeveloped planet.
Standard Physical Editions of Star Ocean The Second Story R are available to pre-order now for the Nintendo Switch, PS5 & PS4 consoles, as well as the Standard Digital Edition for PS5 & PS4 consoles and PC. Pre-orders for the Standard Digital Edition for Nintendo Switch will be available later. Players who pre-order the physical or digital editions will receive the following digital content as a pre-order bonus:
- Pangalactic Federation Longsword
- Forest Knuckles
- Sunrise Ring
- Set of recovery items (Mixed Berries x20 + Resurrection Potion x20)
So if you want to get those perks, check out our comparator for the best deals on Star Ocean The Second Story R and prepare to explore the galaxy besides the legendary Kenny family.
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