Sega is celebrating the 25th anniversary of Phantasy Star Online, but only in Japan. Fans are still happy — it at least shows that the company has finally acknowledged the importance of the game.
In recent years, Sega has been actively returning to its classic franchises: a new Shinobi has been released, and work is underway on Crazy Taxi, Jet Set Radio, and Virtua Fighter. But one of the most anticipated games remains Phantasy Star Online, which the company has hardly mentioned.
The legendary Dreamcast project received sequels and updated versions, but many believe that they do not convey the magic of the original. Sega has long shown no interest in the franchise, so fans enthusiastically welcomed at least the fact that the 25th anniversary is being celebrated.
For the anniversary, the company opened a store in Shinjuku (Tokyo) and an online store (no international delivery), where various Phantasy Star Online merchandise is sold.
Sega's attention to the classics increases the chances of a future remaster or re-release, even if there are no signs that this will happen yet. But for fans, this is already a sign that their favorite game has not been forgotten.
