SEGA Announces Phantasy Star Universe: Ambition Of The Illuminus – The Official Expansion ON Xbox 360, PlayStation®2 System, and PC
Newest addition to the epic Sci-Fi action RPG extends the expansive single player and online multiplayer universe
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
LONDON & SAN FRANCISCO (April 26, 2007) - SEGA® Europe, Ltd and SEGA® of America, Inc. today announced that Phantasy Star Universe: Ambition of the Illuminus, will be available for download on the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, and in stores for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system and PCs in Autumn 2007. Phantasy Star Universe: Ambition of the Illuminus is the expansion to the epic sci-fi action role-playing game Phantasy Star Universe.
Phantasy Star Universe: Ambition of the Illuminus continues the exciting action-RPG storyline of Phantasy Star Universe. A new Human Fundamentalist movement, known as the Illuminus, disrupts the peaceful Gurhal System throwing the Gurhal Government into chaos. Using their custom-made Guardian, 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, as well as mastering additional versatile class types. Using their custom-made Guardian, players will meet familiar characters like Ethan Waber from Episode 1, and other new characters including GUARDIAN instructor Laia Martinez, whilst they fight through the next chapters of the exciting story missions that started its singleplay experience in the original Phantasy Star Universe.
The expansion further enriches the online Phantasy Star Universe experience with newly created gameplay and customisation features. Players can commune in new and expanded lobby areas filled with colourful decorations and music, including the new Casino Voloyal where roulette and slots can earn players special casino-only items. Character and weapon customisation is even deeper with the introduction of a slew of new weapon types, armour, Photon Arts, and clothing. Each Guardian's individual Rooms are upgraded and now offer a greater level of customisation, with a new grid system that allows players to decorate the walls and place new interactive items and furniture anywhere they want in the Room.
Since its introduction in 1988, Phantasy Star has revolutionised 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. Phantasy Star Universe: Ambition of the Illuminus will be available on the Xbox 360 for download via Xbox Live®, and in stores on the PS2 system and PC. With a GUARDIANS License, gamers can experience the new customisable and highly interactive features online. Players can purchase a GUARDIANS License for Xbox 360, PlayStation 2 system and PC online for 9.99 (£6.99) a month.
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.
For art and assets, please visit www.sega-press.com. For more detailed information on the game, please visit the official website at www.phantasystaruniverse.com.
About SEGA® Europe Ltd.
SEGA® Europe Ltd. is the European Distribution arm of Tokyo, Japan-based SEGA® Corporation, and a worldwide leader in interactive entertainment both inside and outside the home. The company develops and distributes interactive entertainment software products for a variety of hardware platforms including PC, wireless devices, and those manufactured by Nintendo, Microsoft and Sony Computer Entertainment Europe. The SEGA® Europe Ltd. Web site is located at www.sega-europe.com.
About SEGA® of America, Inc.
SEGA® of America, Inc. is the American Publishing arm of Tokyo, Japan-based SEGA® Corporation, a worldwide leader in interactive entertainment both inside and outside the home. The company develops, publishes and distributes interactive entertainment software products for a variety of hardware platforms including PC, wireless devices, and those manufactured by Nintendo, Microsoft and Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. The SEGA® of America, Inc. Web site is located at www.SEGA.com.