Star Ocean: The Second Story holds a special place in many RPG enthusiasts’ hearts.
Now, Gemdrops has breathed new life into this classic with Star Ocean: The Second Story R, a remake that not only honors its roots but elevates the experience for both longtime fans and newcomers.
A Tale of Two Spheres
The game begins with a choice: embark on your journey as Claude C.
Kenny, a young Earth Federation ensign, or Rena Lanford, a mysterious girl with unexplained healing abilities.
This dual-protagonist system offers unique perspectives on the unfolding story, adding replay value and depth to the narrative.
The plot revolves around the Sorcery Globe, a mysterious meteorite that’s wreaking havoc on the planet Expel.
While the story might seem convoluted at times, it’s the charming cast of characters and their interactions that truly shine.
Visual and Auditory Delights
Star Ocean: The Second Story R boasts a stunning 2.5D visual overhaul.
Character sprites now inhabit beautifully rendered 3D environments, striking a perfect balance between nostalgia and modern aesthetics.
The attention to detail is impressive, from swaying grass to shimmering water effects.
Motoi Sakuraba’s iconic soundtrack has been given new life with an arranged version, though purists can opt for the original score.
The game also features both English and Japanese voice acting, catering to different preferences.
Combat Evolved
The combat system, always a highlight of the Star Ocean series, has been further refined in this remake.
Battles remain fast-paced and action-packed, with players controlling one character while AI manages the rest. New additions include:
- Assault Actions: Use the D-pad to call in party members for powerful assist moves
- Break Mechanic: Deplete enemy shields to make them more vulnerable to attacks
These fresh elements add layers of strategy to the already engaging combat, keeping encounters exciting throughout the game.
Crafting and Side Content Galore In Star Ocean: The Second Story R
Star Ocean: The Second Story R doesn’t skimp on side activities.
The robust crafting system returns, allowing players to create powerful items, weapons, and accessories.
New minigames like Cooking and Bunny Races provide entertaining diversions from the main quest.
Quality of Life Improvements
Gemdrops has implemented several features to make the game more accessible:
- Visual cues for Private Actions and plot points on the map
- Improved UI for easier combat management
- Adjustable difficulty settings
While some may find the base difficulty easier than the original, these changes make the game more approachable for newcomers without sacrificing depth.
A Few Quirks Remain
Despite the polish, a few quirks from the original persist. The story can feel disjointed at times, particularly in the second act.
Some character arcs, like the romantic tension between Claude and Rena, may leave players wanting more resolution.
The Verdict
Star Ocean: The Second Story R is a masterclass in how to remake a beloved classic.
It preserves the charm and core gameplay fans adore while introducing modern conveniences and visual upgrades.
Whether revisiting a favorite or experiencing the story for the first time, this remake offers an unforgettable journey across the stars.
With its blend of sci-fi and fantasy, engaging combat, and a cast of memorable characters, Star Ocean: The Second Story R proves that some classics genuinely are timeless.
As you embark on your adventure to uncover the mysteries of the Sorcery Globe, you’ll find that this reimagined reality of Expel is well worth exploring.
