Phantasy Star Online Episode I & II

"A game which is worth the trouble"

Not many people play online games on the Xbox anymore. No matter how much you are going to argue, it's true. Everyone loves playing PC online game, and prefer them. To a certain extent, it's probably true. But it does not mean this game should bite the dust. Why? Read below;

What is it like?
It's a MMORPG with fixed maps rather than "Explore wherever you want". You level up, kill monsters, and get better equipment. Maximum level is 200, so it will keep you on your toes for about 1000 hours at least. That is, if you don't get bored. Your mission is to become the greatest Hunter around regol. Levelling up, getting better equipment, killing monsters. You know, the usual. And of course, questing with other friends.

Graphics: 7/10

In the end, I'd have to say it is so so. Nothing too earthshaking, but enough to keep you playing. There are almost 1000 weapons at your disposal. Many of them legendary, meaning only one or two in the whole game will have them. Many weapons are player based, meaning the weapon will not bind itself to the user until he has killed 10,000 monsters with that blade in the unreleased form. Quite interesting and different to most games.

Gameplay: 10/10

This game is not turn based fighting. I even consider World of Warcraft turn based fighting. In this game, theres no auto attack. Every click is every attack. This way, it keeps you focused on the game at all times. You either love it or hate it. Simple as that. If you're lazy and you can't be bothered to tap buttons to fight, and you'd rather side on your backside and watch your character do everything, then this game is not for you.

Sound: 7/10

Average to say the most. Just the usual environmental music, with some fast beating whilst you are dueling a boss. Enough to keep you listening but not enough to keep you humming. Doesn't get annoying, but you would probably rather have your own Hi fi playing in the background.

Lag: 6/10

Different to the PC version. Depending where you are and your internet connection. It does make a difference. If you have a bad connection and just having a bad day altogether then the lag will kill your character more than anything else.

Community: 8/10

Not bad, better than most out there believe it or not. Find yourself a good Team, and consider yourself "In". But still, it is harder to talk and communicate with a Xbox unless you have a keyboard.

Overall: 8/10 (Not an average)

I don't take averages, because some parts are more important than others. If anything, it's gameplay that boosts this game to the 9/10 it deserves. It has a unique style which many many other games lack. Sonic Team, mission complete!

Pros:
*LOADS of weapons
*Balanced classes
*Good gameplay

Cons
*Graphics could be improved
*Gets repetitive later
*Could be laggy

Peace~ Moonsummit AKA Ink Eyes

Reviewer's Score: 8/10, Originally Posted: 08/03/06