Square Enix has dropped an unexpected playable demo for the upcoming remake of Star Ocean: The Second Story, titled Star Ocean: The Second Story R. The demo is available for PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Switch, and PC via Steam and allows players to experience the first few hours of the game with either Claude C. Kenny or Rena Lanford as the main protagonist.
Star Ocean: The Second Story R: What is it about?
Star Ocean: The Second Story R is a full reimagining of the original PlayStation game, which was released in 1998 in Japan and 1999 in North America and Europe. The remake features a modern take on the original pixel art with fused 2D and 3D graphics, newly animated cutscenes by Production I.G, a re-recorded soundtrack, and additional story elements. Moreover, the developer also shared an eight-minute gameplay trailer for the game at the same time. The trailer shows combat scenes, exploration, fishing, the Bonus Gauge, and more.
The game also boasts a fast-paced real-time action combat system with new mechanics such as “Break” and “Assault Action” that allow players to stun enemies and perform follow-up attacks with their allies. In addition, players get to experience new battle mechanics, full Japanese and English voiceovers, and much more.
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The storyline of the title revolves around Claude C. Kenny, a young officer in the Pangalactic Federation who is transported to an undeveloped planet after touching a mysterious device, and Rena Lanford, a young girl from that planet who mistakes him for a legendary hero. Their adventure begins together, spans multiple worlds, and a sinister plot threatens the galaxy. You can play as either of these characters and depending on your choice, the perspectives and the allies you can recruit will change.
Star Ocean: The Second Story R is scheduled to be released for the Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and PC via Steam on November 2, 2023. Further, the game will also feature protagonists from across the Star Ocean series as guest characters in certain scenarios. Additionally, players who pre-order the game will receive a bonus theme song, extra weapons for the two protagonists and other DLC items.
