A beloved title in the Star Ocean action role-playing franchise from Square Enix was announced during the June 21 Nintendo Direct to be receiving a remake later this year. Following the 2019 remake of the original Star Ocean, the next title to be receiving a remake is Star Ocean The Second Story. Initially released in 1998 for the PlayStation, the game later saw an enhanced re-release called Second Evolution in 2008. A further enhanced version, Second Evolution Download Edition, was released in 2015 for PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, and PlayStation Vita, but never saw distribution outside of Japan.
Star Ocean The Second Story tells the tale of the human Claude, who becomes stranded on a mysterious planet and must find his way home. Claude is assisted in his journey by Rena, a native of the planet. Players can choose to play as either Claude or Rena, and this choice will affect how the story turns out as well as what allies are able to join the party. As Claude and Rena investigate why he ended up stranded, they uncover a mysterious prophecy and a threat dangerous enough to destroy the entire world.
Two worlds. One fateful encounter.
Introducing a modern 2.5D remake of one of our most beloved titles – #StarOcean The Second Story R.
Landing on Nintendo Switch, PS5/4 and Steam on November 2, 2023. pic.twitter.com/EbIr3AJLbg
— STAR OCEAN (@StarOcean) June 21, 2023
Titled Star Ocean The Second Story R, the remake features updated graphics in a 2D-3D style with a retro pixel feel inspired by previous titles such as Octopath Traveler and the remake of Live A Live. The real-time combat system will be updated to feature chain attacks that can stun enemies as well as follow-up attacks from allies not currently in the party. With over a dozen allies to recruit, tons of enemies to fight, and an expansive world to explore, this remake will introduce this classic science fantasy RPG to a new generation of fans!
Star Ocean The Second Story R is currently scheduled to release for the Nintendo Switch on November 2, 2023. It has not yet been confirmed whether a free demo will be released in advance, although it is likely.
Is this your first time experiencing the Star Ocean series, or are you already familiar with Second Story? Will you be choosing Claude or Rena as your playable hero when the remake launches later this year? Which classic game would you like to see get a “2D-3D” remake next? Comment below and let us know!
