Star Ocean: The Second Story R, a fully-fledged remake by Square Enix and developer Gemdrops, takes a beloved classic in a long-running series to new heights. The game’s reimagined version offers a 2.5D aesthetic that seamlessly blends 2D pixel characters with beautiful 3D environments to great effect. Boasting numerous additional enhancements and new features, this modernized JRPG caters to both longtime fans and newcomers alike. We’re reviewing the PlayStation 5 version.
The original game has always had a reputation as a gem within its genre, blending fantasy and science fiction in a visually striking style – and all of that has of course been retained for this remake. The game lets players choose between two protagonists, Claude or Rena, each offering a distinct perspective on what is a captivating storyline. Your choice of protagonist influences the narrative, altering perspectives and recruitable allies, providing an incentive for multiple playthroughs (or a different route through the story if you played the original). The Private Actions system further deepens character relationships, adding additional layers to the immersive storytelling.
While the core plot is a standard “good vs evil” fantasy story with sci-fi twists, the extensive character interactions become a standout feature. These scenes, offering a mix of meaningful choices, banter, and character development, breathe life and personality into the narrative. This character-driven focus helps carry the overall plot to even greater heights, making the storytelling a rewarding experience from beginning to end.
Star Ocean: The Second Story R gracefully transitions between various locations, from bustling towns to dangerous dungeons and large world maps. The remake introduces new elements, such as the P.A. (Personal Action) System and the I.C. (Item Creation) System, both of which contribute to the game’s depth and complexity from a gameplay perspective.
The Personal Action system, allowing players to shape their party through decisions on party members, is a testament to the developers’ drive to add innovation to the game, offering a refreshing departure from traditional JRPG norms. Additionally, the I.C. System adds a layer of fun and creativity, with a multitude of tasks and skills, making it one of the most enjoyable in-game skill systems we’ve seen in the genre in a while. The customization options, which include cooking, art, metalcraft, also elevate the gameplay experience.
Combat in Star Ocean: The Second Story R maintains the chaos and fun of old school JRPGs, with real-time battles and strategic depth. And while the combat may feel limited by modern standards, how innovative it was at its time of release still shines through. The Break system, Assault Actions, and the pairing of powerful gear with a plethora of skills contribute to thrilling battles that come alive visually in this remake. The combat’s simplicity, paired with enjoyable mechanics, stands the test of time and remains a strong aspect of the game.
The inclusion of difficulty modes allows players to tailor their experience, catering to both those seeking a relaxing and more narrative-driven journey and those craving a more challenging adventure. But however you play, Star Ocean: The Second Story R’s graphical overhaul is a resplendent achievement. The fusion of 2D sprites into 3D worlds, with dynamic lighting and meticulous attention to detail, creates a gorgeous visual experience where the screenshots don’t do it justice. The new character illustrations by Yukihiro Kajimoto, combined with the 3D environments, deliver an especially fresh and captivating look.
Motoi Sakuraba’s rearranged soundtrack further enhances the audio experience, breathing new life and richness into iconic tunes. The orchestral score, coupled with full-band performances and strings, adds a layer of grandeur to the game. The game’s English and Japanese voiceovers, featuring the original voice cast, provide a fully voiced experience for all event scenes.
Star Ocean: The Second Story R is more than a remake; it’s a testament to the enduring legacy of the Star Ocean franchise. At the same time, it both captures the essence of the original while elevating it to new heights. The intricate narrative choices, engaging gameplay mechanics and stunning visuals make it a standout JRPG experience. While some may find the combat simplistic by today’s standards, its charm and enjoyment remain intact. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or a curious newcomer, this remake stands as a resounding success, inviting players to embark on a timeless journey across space and fantasy in one of this year’s best RPGs.
Score: 8.7/10
Press Play Media 