Pre-Orders Kick-Off Today for Nintendo Switch™, PlayStation®5, PlayStation®4 and PC
SYDNEY (22 June 2023) – Today Square Enix Ltd. announced the highly acclaimed second instalment in the STAR OCEAN series, STAR OCEAN® THE SECOND STORY™ is returning as STAR OCEAN® THE SECOND STORY R™. First released in Japan in 1998 on the PlayStation® console, STAR OCEAN THE SECOND STORY R will return as a 2.5D remake, launching on November 2, 2023. The RPG will be available for Nintendo Switch™, PlayStation®5 (PS5®) and PlayStation®4 (PS4™) consoles, and PC via STEAM®. Pre-orders are available now.
In a new trailer unveiled today, SQUARE ENIX provided fans with a first look at STAR OCEAN THE SECOND STORY R. The trailer showcases the game’s new, stunning visual direction, action-packed gameplay, battle sequences and all-new character illustrations by series veteran Yukihiro Kajimoto, as well as a beautifully rearranged soundtrack by original composer, Motoi Sakuraba.
Watch the Announce Trailer, here:
STAR OCEAN THE SECOND STORY R has been revitalised with a charming 2.5D aesthetic that combines beautiful 3D environments with nostalgic 2D pixel characters, offering players both a classic RPG and modern gameplay experience. Players can expect to find some of the original featuresthat made the original release so memorable alongside brand-new gameplay features including fast-paced, real-time combat and battle mechanics to strategically defeat foes, customisable party progression with an array of skills, including Cooking, Art, Metalcraft, and more. Three new difficulty modes have also been introduced including “Earth” which provides a standard experience, “Galaxy” for those looking for a more satisfying challenge, and “Universe” for seasoned players looking to put their skills to the ultimate test.
The epic story begins with Claude, a Federation officer, who finds himself transported to a undeveloped planet. While searching for a way home, an encounter with a girl named Rena draws them into a quest to save her people, just as an ancient prophecy foretold. Players will begin their adventure with either Claude or Rena, and depending on their choice, the perspectives and the allies’ players recruit will change. Players will get to know party members through the unique ‘Private Actions System’, which will allow them to grow relationships and unlock a variety of different endings.
STAR OCEAN THE SECOND STORY R will launch with Japanese and English text and voiceover language support, with voiceovers performed by members of the original cast. Subtitle support for French, Italian, German, and Spanish will also be available via a software update at launch.
STAR OCEAN THE SECOND STORY R will be available for Nintendo Switch, PS5, PS4 and PC via STEAM on November 2, 2023. For more information, visit: https://square-enix-games.com
About the STAR OCEAN Series
Developed by tri-Ace Inc. and published by Square Enix, the STAR OCEAN series is a long-running action-RPG series spanning multiple entries and commemorated its 25th anniversary in 2021. The series is known for its exciting gameplay, epic storylines, diverse cast of characters, as well as its innovative approach to action combat. In 2019, an HD remaster of the first instalment in the series, STAR OCEAN First Departure R, released for the Nintendo Switch™ and PlayStation®4, delivering the classic title with updated visuals, audio, and several quality-of-life improvements to fans around the world. In 2022, STAR OCEAN THE DIVINE FORCE, the sixth main instalment in the series, delivered a fresh and exciting gameplay experience. The highly acclaimed second instalment in the STAR OCEAN series is returning as STAR OCEAN THE SECOND STORY R as a 2.5D remake and will release on November 2nd, 2023.
About Square Enix Ltd.
Square Enix Ltd. develops, publishes, distributes and licenses SQUARE ENIX® and TAITO® branded entertainment content in Europe and other PAL territories as part of the Square Enix group of companies. The Square Enix group of companies boasts a valuable portfolio of intellectual property including FINAL FANTASY®, which has sold over 173 million units worldwide; DRAGON QUEST®, which has sold over 85 million units worldwide; and the legendary SPACE INVADERS®. Square Enix Ltd. is a London-based, wholly owned subsidiary of Square Enix Holdings Co., Ltd
More information on Square Enix Ltd. can be found at https://square-enix-games.com.
