Phantasy Star Online 2 Showcases Updated Graphics and Photo Mode

Sega held its latest Phantasy Star Online 2 livestream event—the PSO2 Station—on January 23, 2021, and previewed a number of changes coming in future updates to the nearly 9-year-old MMORPG. Chief among the updates is a major graphical overhaul set to accompany the release of Phantasy Star Online 2: New Genesis, the hybrid sequel-reboot of PSO2.

The Phantasy Star Online 2 graphical overhaul features updated textures, character models, and effects to bring PSO2 more in line with New Genesis‘ look. Most critically, new “Lobby Action” poses will be made available. The poses show off updated animation rigging for the characters, adding things like finger movement. Finally, you can set up a pinky swear, or say “No” by crossing your index fingers together. Also showcased was the “Screenshot Creator Studio” (or “SS Studio”), a dedicated photo/posing mode featuring new graphical options, backdrops, and props to use for in-game photography.

Check out a preview of the latest from Phantasy Star Online 2‘s Episode 6 update in the embedded video, starting at about 13:56 to 18:00 and then continuing at 32:00 to 36:00:

Other changes included new costumes and character creator options to match New Genesis. To celebrate the 20th Anniversary of Phantasy Star Online, a PSO-themed event will also be held, featuring Rico Tyrell, Ash Canaan, and Kireek from the original Dreamcast-based game. Players will be able to acquire their Partner Cards and summon them as NPC party members after clearing their Client Orders.

The new update will also add a new event, a series of 12-player cooperative raids that take place over multiple areas. Sega megafans will also appreciate the return of Ark Ship Fire Swirl, a quest based on Burning Rangers.

Phantasy Star Online 2 is immediately available on PC and Xbox One worldwide, as well as on Nintendo Switch and PS4 in Japan. The new updates will roll in between late February 2021 and March 2021 for the Japanese edition of the game. A release window for the global edition is expected at a later date (the core Episode 6 update dropped on December 9, 2020). New Genesis is slated for a 2021 release and will allow current PSO2 players to carry over their accounts.