View source for Ambition of the Illuminus＋ Edition/Press release

SEGA Announces Phantasy Star Universe: Ambition Of The Illuminus+ Edition - Free Downloads On Xbox 360™, PlayStation®2 System, And PC

Press Release 31 March 2009

Newest Addition to the Epic Sci-Fi Action RPG Extends the Online Multiplayer Universe

SAN FRANCISCO & LONDON – SEGA® of America, Inc. and SEGA® Europe Ltd. today announced that Phantasy Star™ Universe: Ambition of the Illuminus+ Edition, will be available as a free series of downloads on the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system and PCs beginning Fall 2009. Phantasy Star™ Universe: Ambition of the Illuminus+ Edition further expands the epic sci-fi action role-playing game, Phantasy Star Universe: Ambition of the Illuminus. Gamers can now further explore the marvels of the Gurhal System, employing over 100 new items - many of them iconic items from previous Phantasy Star titles - in their fight against the threat of the SEED, with more to come in future patches.

Phantasy Star Universe: Ambition of the Illuminus+ Edition allows gamers to experience an even richer and more varied Phantasy Star experience. Players will have access to exciting new mission types, such as the special GUARDIANS Advanced Missions that will test even veteran GUARDIANs to the limit, and players will have to use all their skills to overcome these new challenges.

The expansion further enriches the online Phantasy Star Universe experience with newly created and enhanced gameplay and customization features. The all-new GUARDIANS Advanced Style system allows players to customize their characters as never before, with a slew of options players can choose from to enhance aspects of their avatars, such as Type Customization and Style Customization, ensuring that no one character will be the same as another. In addition, the new items being added will further allow players to diversify in their fight against the threat of the SEED.

Since its introduction in 1988, Phantasy Star has revolutionized the RPG genre by creating new standards through innovative gameplay as well as being the first console RPG to offer an online experience in Phantasy Star Online. This new series of updates also expands the popular online adventure of its predecessors and continues the quest for peace in the Gurhal System.

Phantasy Star Universe is currently searching for GUARDIANs to participate in a new community event in the game. Shred the Darkness begins in May 2009, and calls on the community to band together to face an all new SEED threat that will combine exciting multiplayer missions with a strong narrative further explaining the mysterious forces at work behind the SEED. Meanwhile, an item design contest will give budding artists a chance to see their weapon and clothing designs make it into the game. For more information on this contest, please visit the official website at http://www.phantasystaruniverse.com.

Phantasy Star Universe: Ambition of the Illuminus+ Edition will be available on the Xbox 360 for download via Xbox Live®, and on the PlayStation 2 system and PC through the in-game patching system. With a GUARDIANS License, gamers can experience the new customizable and highly interactive features online. Players can purchase a GUARDIANS License for Xbox 360, PlayStation 2 system and PC online for $9.99 a month. The GUARDIANS License is also available at a discounted rate of $49.99 for six months of online play on the PlayStation 2 system and PC. Sony Computer Entertainment America takes no responsibility for this offer.

For art and assets, please visit http://segapr.segaamerica.com. For more detailed information on the game, please visit the official website at http://www.phantasystaruniverse.com.

About SEGA® of America, Inc.

SEGA® of America, Inc. is the American Publishing arm of Tokyo, Japan-based SEGA® Corporation, a worldwide leader in interactive entertainment both inside and outside the home. The company develops, publishes, and distributes interactive entertainment software products for a variety of hardware platforms including PC, wireless devices, and those manufactured by Nintendo, Microsoft, and Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.

About SEGA® of Europe, Ltd.

SEGA Europe Ltd. is the European Publishing arm of Tokyo, Japan-based SEGA Corporation, and a worldwide leader in interactive entertainment both inside and outside the home. The company develops, publishes and distributes interactive entertainment software products for a variety of hardware platforms including PC, wireless devices, and those manufactured by Nintendo, Microsoft and Sony Computer Entertainment Europe. SEGA Europe's web site is located at http://www.sega-europe.com.