Phantasy Star Universe Expansion Announced

SEGA today announced that Phantasy Star Universe: Ambition of the Illuminus, will be available for download on the Xbox 360, and will be in stores for the PlayStation 2 and PCs in Fall 2007. Phantasy Star Universe: Ambition of the Illuminus is the expansion to the epic sci-fi action role-playing game, Phantasy Star Universe. Gamers can now experience the wonders of the Gurhal System through the eyes of a personalized avatar – whether tackling quests online with a party of up to six adventurers, or fighting through the next chapters of the exciting story missions that started its single player experience in the original Phantasy Star Universe.

Phantasy Star Universe: Ambition of the Illuminus allows gamers to experience an even richer and more varied Phantasy Star experience. Players will explore exciting new levels, such as the Ruins of Old Rozenom City and the subterranean Granigs Mines, where they will encounter new and more powerful enemy types and bosses, and master additional versatile class types.

The expansion further enriches the online Phantasy Star Universe experience with newly created and enhanced gameplay and customization features. Players can commune in new and expanded lobby areas filled with colorful decorations and music, including the new Casino Voloyal where roulette and slots can earn players special casino-only items. Character and weapon customization is even deeper with the introduction of a slew of new weapon types, armor, Photon Arts, and clothing. Also, each Guardian’s individual Room is upgraded with far greater options for customization. A new grid system allows players to decorate the walls and place new interactive items and furniture anywhere they want in the Room.

Phantasy Star Universe: Ambition of the Illuminus continues the exciting single player action-RPG storyline as a new Human Fundamentalist group, known as the Illuminus, disrupts the peaceful Gurhal System throwing the Gurhal Government into chaos. Using their custom-made Guardian, players investigate a series of single-player missions where they will meet familiar characters like Ethan Waber from Episode 1, and other new characters including GUARDIAN instructor, Laia Martinez.

Since its introduction in 1988, Phantasy Star has revolutionized the RPG genre by creating new standards through innovative gameplay as well as being the first console RPG to offer an online experience in Phantasy Star Online. This new installment also expands the popular online adventure of its predecessor and continues the quest for peace in the Gurhal System.

Phantasy Star Universe is currently searching for GUARDIANs to participate in a new community event in the game. Operation Firebreak begins on May 25, and calls for the entire Phantasy Star Universe community to work cooperatively to defeat a new SEED-based threat.

Phantasy Star Universe: Ambition of the Illuminus will be available on the Xbox 360 for download via Xbox Live, and in stores on the PlayStation 2 system and PC. With a GUARDIANS License, gamers can experience the new customizable and highly interactive features online. Players can purchase a GUARDIANS License for Xbox 360, PlayStation 2 system and PC online for $9.99 a month. The GUARDIANS License is also available at a discounted rate of $49.99 for six months of online play on the PlayStation 2 system and PC. Sony Computer Entertainment America takes no responsibility for this offer.