STAR OCEAN THE SECOND STORY R: Questions with the Development Team
STAR OCEAN THE SECOND STORY R remakes a PS1 classic for a new generation of gamers. We asked the developers what to expect.STAR OCEAN THE SECOND STORY is one of the greats. The remarkable RPG is regarded as a true classic - a sprawling adventure that fused sci-fi and fantasy together to create something truly memorable.
Now it’s back… and it’s better than ever! STAR OCEAN THE SECOND STORY R is a remake that captures everything that made that beloved game so… well, beloved, but adds new features, revamped combat and a stunning new 2.5D art style that fuses beautiful pixel art with 3D environments.
You can get a sense of what to expect in the trailer:
It’s set to be the perfect entry point into the STAR OCEAN series - and a nostalgic trip for fans, but how did it come to be? We asked the developers:
Why remake STAR OCEAN THE SECOND STORY?
STAR OCEAN THE SECOND STORY is an especially popular entry in the series, and we’ve heard many requests for a remake. 2023 is the 25th Anniversary of the original game and that, along with the increased profile of the series thanks to STAR OCEAN THE DIVINE FORCE, makes this the perfect time to bring this classic RPG back.
The original STAR OCEAN THE SECOND STORY is one of the most fondly-remembered RPGs of its era. Why do you think that is?
When you think of the traits of great RPGs, two of the most important are the colorful characters and the story. The original STAR OCEAN THE SECOND STORY used many methods to make these elements truly shine - the multi-faced story development with two protagonists, characters appearing from both science fiction and fantasy, the side quest systems that let you explore the lives of these characters and the abundant variety of endings.
Thanks to this, the game delivered a rich and meaningful experience that left a really strong impression in the minds of players.
Of course, these elements are present in STAR OCEAN THE SECOND STORY R too. We have implemented renewed illustrations that bring the story to life even more, and new systems that allow you to play through the side stories more conveniently!
Why did you choose the beautiful new 2.5D art style for this remake?
When we were developing the title, we wanted to have refreshing new visuals that captured the appeal of pixel art and the distinctive ‘JRPG” flavor it brings.
Not only did we improve the quality of the pixel art, we also used a particular pixel art shader to imagine what these characters, who have left a great impression on players, would look like if they lived in a 3D world.
What new features have you added for this remake?
We haven’t changed the story from the original STAR OCEAN THE SECOND STORY, but we have renewed many components of the game.
For example, we have completely renewed the effects, and rebuilt the world, including the world map, all the cities and dungeons with a new style. You’ll find many quests and items in these areas. The world we’ve created is beautiful and worth exploring!
There are now multiple language options too. You can play with the English or Japanese voice acting from STAR OCEAN Second Evolution on PSP. Alternatively, you can play the whole game with brand new Japanese voice recordings featuring the PS1 version’s original cast!
Plus we’ve greatly revamped the combat system, turning the iconic STAR OCEAN battles that fans know and love into something high-speed, extravagant and exhilarating. We wanted to create a feeling that you’re fighting together with allies - hang tight for future announcements about these systems.
What are you most excited for fans and new players to experience in STAR OCEAN THE SECOND STORY R?
We can’t wait for players who played the original title to see how the locations of the original game have been beautifully and newly brought to life in this game and enjoy the memorable stories with their allies.
As for players who are about to experience STAR OCEAN for the first time, we hope that you enjoy the exciting and high-speed battle of STAR OCEAN THE SECOND STORY R, and enjoy a journey into a world where fantasy and science fiction collide.
Many thanks to the development team for their answers. STAR OCEAN THE SECOND STORY R launches November 2, 2023 for Nintendo Switch, PS5, PS4 and PC via Steam.
Preorder the game to get access to some awesome preorder bonuses including:
- Weapon for Claude: Pangalactic Federation longsword
- Weapon for Rena: Forest Knuckles
- Sunrise Ring accessory
- 20 x Resurrection Potions
- 20 x Mixed Berries
In addition to the Standard Edition, a STAR OCEAN THE SECOND STORY R COLLECTOR'S EDITION is available as a special, limited quantity set made for both newcomers and fans. It includes”
- STAR OCEAN THE SECOND STORY R Standard Edition game
- Collector's Edition goods box
- STAR OCEAN THE SECOND STORY R ORIGINAL SOUNDTRACK COLLECTOR'S EDITION
- STAR OCEAN THE SECOND STORY R ART BOOK
- STAR OCEAN THE SECOND STORY R Mini Acrylic Stand Collection Box
To get the game, follow the links below:
Want to know more about the game? The Star Ocean team also has a new Q&A on Steam, along with the newly announced PC requirements! Check it all out here: