When Phantasy Star Online 2 : New Genesis (PSO2NGS) first released there was a notable lack of content. With only one main zone/biome to explore, only level 20 level cap and story content that took maybe 4 hours; many were disappointed. NGS's release was further problematic since it sapped all energy away from the excellent base PSO2, once again demonstrating the modern video game industry's tendency to release products have baked.

2 years later NGS has been updated with a significant amount of content, this includes a storyline that should take around 15-20 hours and a greatly increased level cap (70 vs. 20 at launch). More importantly 3 other regions of content have been added making a much more complete feeling game. Put simply; NGS is now in the state it should have been in at launch. To reiterate, base PSO2 could have easily been ran these pass 2 years while NGS was being developed, while frustrating it is worth looking at NGS in it's more complete state.

At it's core, NGS is an online ARPG with fantastic combat much like its predecessor. Classes all have a unique playstyle and the combat is highly engaging. With regular attacks, special attack (called 'photon arts'), dodging, abilities and an extremely well implemented block, the combat has a lot to work with to be very satisfying. Enemy design focuses on weak points that can be exploited for increased damage, each enemy has a different one, as well as different attack styles to block and dodge. Enemies may also have 'breakable parts' which can be focused on to stun an enemy or open up a weak point. Different classes do this in different ways so the combat has a lot of depth.

The world itself is quite pretty and colourful, though can lack noticeable landmarks at times. The movement is at least very smooth and the jumping is very functional. Climbing mountain sides can be awkward though given the lack of a climbing mechanic. The world design is functional if a little uninspired, playing on a basic grass, desert, snow and volcano archetypes.

The story isn't great, full of cliches and general anime tropes. IF you like anime this will be fine but if you don't (and I don't) much of this is going to be cringe. Voice acting ranges from OK to poor. Story progression is mandatory so this can't be avoided but you can at least skip the cutscenes.

The online component is well implemented mostly focusing on 'urgent quests'; large team events that usually involve a major boss fight. These occur randomly and give some incentive to play with other players easily. The game also includes in game concerts which are fun but lack variety unless there's an event. These concerts also don't have the excitement of base PSO2's concerts which had more audience interaction which helped show off the games excellent character editor.

Ultimately PSO2NGS can be easily recommended if the games combat clicks with you, which it did for me. The game finally has enough content to justify its release, I hope it's enough to revitalize the game, they should also support the original PSO2 since they're different enough to attract different audiences. Try it if you're into games like Genshin Impact, Black Desert and to a lesser extent Breath of the Wild. Avoid if you hate realtime action combat or just hate anime nonsense.

Time Played - 31hrs 30mins
Platform - PC (can be played on Steam, Epic, Microsoft Store, Xbox and PSN)
Rating - 8/10
Completion Date - May 16 2023