More PSO to come after Episode III?, EGM's Rumor Mill Options

[Bryn]

It's an itty bitty tidbit in the most recent EGM, and granted it's in the Rumor Mill, but still, it's a few bread crumbs thrown to nibble on.

From EGM

What you heard: "Phantasy Star Online will be done, dead, nada, ziltch after Episode III C.A.R.D Revolution comes out."

The Q's sources say: Well, this one's half right - Episode II will be the last chapter...of this PSO story. It'll wrap up the current plot line of Red Ring Rico and Pioneer 1 and 2, but it's definitely not "over for good." Talk that sonic Team is working on a new, full-length PSO has been going on for some time, but the hot tip now is that the game will feature a full, separate offline Phantasy Star in addition to the online adventure.

So..maybe...possibly..hopefully? ^ ^

[HC82]

Well Phantasy Star is a Sega cash cow. It would be foolish on thier part to end the series. Hopefully PSO has been more of a learning experience for Sonic Team. Many of the past mistakes on PSO(far too numerous) will allow ST to create a better product this time around.

PSO is one of the few action rpgs, which actually is IMO true action based gameplay. I do use the word "roleplaying" loosely when I refer to PSO as an rpg, but many supposed action rpgs are really point&click/turned based rpgs with the ability to move your character as you please, instead of waiting your turn to attack. Diablo and .Hack are good examples. They really aren't any where as action based as PSO. In this case performing combos, avoiding attacks, etc.

With all that said it is one of the reasons why I enjoy PSO, yet the overall lack of combat development(for my personal tastes) in relation to what your character can and can't do should be improved in future PSOs(ex. defend, counter attack, abilities etc...).

Iam sure Sonic Team has heard our complaining on what needs to be added, lets just hope they aren't under budget and can actually afford to spend some time with it.