Sega has confirmed that the beta version of "Phantasy Star Online 2" for Sony's PlayStation 4 will kick off sometime next month. However, as noted by the company, the game's test version will only be launched in Japan.
The upcoming title is an updated version of the game that originally came out for the Microsoft Windows platform in 2012. This was then followed by a PlayStation Vita port in 2013.
According to Siliconera, the beta test for the PlayStation 4 version of the game will then be followed by its official release, which is scheduled to happen in spring of this year. The site also noted that unlike the other multiplayer games launched for the next-gen gaming system, those who will get to test out the online role-playing game will not be required to open a PlayStation Plus subscription account.
Again, the beta version will only be available in Japan. The developer has not yet confirmed when or if "Phantasy Star Online 2" for the PlayStation 4 will arrive in the west including the U.S, Dual Shockers reported. But, as announced by the company last year, it has plans to launch the game worldwide.
Apparently, according to speculations, Sega is still trying to gauge the possible success of the game's U.S. version. One way it is reportedly doing so is by analyzing how audiences will react to the anime adaptation of the game, which is titled "Phantasy Star Online 2: The Animation."
The animated film debuted in Japan on Jan. 7 and is also scheduled to premiere in the U.S. sometime this year, according to International Business Times. It centers on Itsuki Tachibana and was directed by Keiichro Kawaguchi, who also helmed other Japanese animated films including 2013's "Monster X Hunter: The Last Mission."
According to rumors, Sega might wait for the animated film to debut in the U.S. first before releasing the game in the country. This way, the company will be able to determine if the franchise will be popular enough in the region to support the online multiplayer game.
