Phantasy Star Online 2 New Genesis launched in 2021, introducing a new open-world MMO format to the popular sci-fi action series, offering continuous updates to engage its dedicated player base. Game Rant sat down with Series Producer Yuya Kimura to discuss the recent December update and its impact on new and returning players, as well as insights into the game's development and player feedback.
Yuya Kimura shared that the December update is aimed at improving the overall player experience, with features such as increased experience earned, better equipment matching, and eased story progression. Additionally, Kimura highlighted the team's dedication to listening to player feedback and revealed that adjustments have been made to make the game more accessible for new and returning players, addressing challenges in participation requirements, rewards, and boost campaigns.
Q: What are the key additions from the December update that players can look forward to?
Kimura: The December update brings significant enhancements to the game, including a special event called Super Genesis Festival to celebrate the game's half anniversary. Additionally, players can expect permanent improvements, such as increased experience earned, better equipment matching, and eased story progression, making it easier for new and returning players to catch up with veterans.
Kimura also emphasized the team's commitment to addressing player feedback and revealed that adjustments have been made to participation requirements, rewards, and boost campaigns to ensure an enjoyable experience for all players.
Q: How does the team gather and prioritize player feedback for updates?
Kimura: The development team collects and compiles user feedback and requests from various sources, including official website submissions and social media, on a weekly basis. The team then holds meetings to discuss and address the feedback, determining the approach and prioritization for implementing player-suggested changes.
Kimura highlighted the comprehensive approach of collecting qualitative and quantitative data to make informed decisions for the game's updates, ensuring that the team prioritizes the most pressing issues and player needs.
Q: How does the December update support new and returning players in overcoming challenges in the game?
Kimura: As the game reaches its 2.5-year milestone, Kimura acknowledged the growing disparity between new/returning and veteran players. To address this, the team has implemented various adjustments to ease participation requirements, review reward balances, and launch boost campaigns for new and returning players, ensuring a more welcoming experience in NGS. Kimura encouraged the community to explore the updated game and join in the ongoing celebrations through the Super Genesis Festival campaign.
Furthermore, Kimura confirmed the team's commitment to ongoing adjustments and developments to create a more inclusive and enjoyable environment for all players.
Q: What are the standout features that have significantly impacted the game since its release, capturing players' excitement?
Kimura: Kimura highlighted the introduction of the Creative Space and the newest class, Slayer, as significant updates that resonated with players, offering diverse experiences beyond combat-focused content. Additionally, the recurring release of formidable boss enemies, such as Dark Falz, has provided enjoyable challenges for players, reflecting the team's dedication to delivering high-quality, engaging content.
Furthermore, Kimura recognized the community's vocal interest in non-combat content, inspiring the team to prioritize the release of the Creative Space and plans for the continuous development of new fields and quests.
Q: What elements do you believe are essential for a Phantasy Star game, and how does New Genesis embody these?
Kimura: Kimura emphasized the importance of player affection for their characters, achieved through combat animations, interactions, and customization. He highlighted the game's commitment to providing extensive character creation options, a vibrant world that accommodates diverse expressions, and content that emphasizes communication beyond battles, reflecting the core values of the Phantasy Star series and the team's dedication to delivering an immersive and personalized gaming experience.
Kimura expressed his gratitude to the ARKS Defenders and the Phantasy Star community, inviting players to join the ongoing Super Genesis Festival to celebrate the game's 2.5-year milestone and explore the latest updates and content.
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