Phantasy Star Ø heads west (CVG 9/1/09)

Phantasy Star Ø (that's 'Zero') is headed for European and American stores in winter 2009, Sega has confirmed.

The action-RPG has already "enjoyed great success" over in Japan, which Sega says is thanks to "intuitive gameplay, unique style and engaging online multiplayer modes".

Here's the blurb on the plot: "Phantasy Star Ø takes place on an alternate Earth 200 years after the "Great Blank," a massive war that has reduced the once-prosperous civilization to almost nothing. The surviving Humans have worked hard to exist peacefully and have rebuilt thriving cities.

"Those that adventure past the outskirts of these cities, Hunters, explore the vast wilderness and hunt dangerous monsters in an effort to keep their cities safe.


"Players will take up the role of the Hunters and select from three types of races, classes and gender for a total of 14 customisable character types. Each character type will provide a unique experience and give players access to a great range of items, armour and weapons."

The game's fully Wi-Fi capable, with a unique Visual Chat feature to let you communicate with others.