Phantasy Star Online 2: Episode 3 is coming out on August 27 in Japan. Sega recently broadcasted one of their regular livestreams for Phantasy Star Online 2. Some of Episode 3’s more notable introductions include a fourth accessory slot, a new character class and a new planet, but Sega is also planning a slew of balance adjustments, gameplay experience changes, and new content in conjunction with Episode 3.The PSUBlog detailed many of the incoming changes for this next episode: here is a sample of some of them.
Updates for the ARKS Lobby includes an airport-themed design for the gate area and a tropical design for the shopping area. Sega seems to enjoy keeping the ARKS Lobby fresh with new decor or events. It appears that the Lobby will also change in its appearance if a quest has been accepted or if an Emergency Quest is underway.
There are many changes for mechanics and general playability. Movement speed while running has received a boost, and Sega has also created a Recommended Quest feature. Equipment templates have also been introduced. When creating characters, there are new facial adjustment variations available, and players will also be allowed to adjust the placement of accessories. Sega has also planned some interface changes, including HP and PP displays over characters, which sounds like quite a nice addition.
The changelog for the seven returning classes (all of which are now initially available!) is also detailed in the livestream recap post, along with some basic refresher notes for the new Bouncer class. Each of the seven returning classes are receiving a combination of balance adjustments and new skills. Sega is also implementing some broader changes like boosting the speed of most Strike-type attacks and changing skill trees.
As a closer, check out this tour of the new casino coming to the ARKS Lobby! And for an in-depth look at all of the changes, be sure to check out the above-linked PSUBlog entry.
