Sakai Addresses the TOS Change and Future Updates

Sakai added a clause to the PSO2 terms of service which basically forbids other countries from playing it. There was a similar description from the Alpha and Beta test but it has now returned.

They have already planned to launch PSO2 separately in North America / Europe in 2013. Also they are looking into launching it in Asia separately.

One of the reasons for this TOS change is to make it easier to address malicious users. Unfortunately it appears most of the malicious acts are coming from overseas territories. Even today, they had to take down the game for maintenance just to address exploits found by these players.

Since there have been many good foreign players who have already made progress into the game, they really do no want to cut off the connections of everyone playing outside of Japan. HOWEVER, if malicious acts from overseas players continue, they will be forced to take drastic measures. In addition, they are no longer accepting foreign card payments anymore also as a countermeasure against malicious players.

Of course there will be malicious activity in the future, and he asks that everyone continues to use the wicked user form to report them.

 

Future Updates

In September, three new classes and five new weapon categories are going to be implemented into the game. The new classes are in similar line with the 3 existing classes consisting of close range combat, long distance combat, and tech and you'll be able to use the new weapon categories with these classes. In order to access these new classes, you must be level 30 in either Hunter, Ranger, or Force, and clear a specific client order. When you change to  the new classes you'll start at level 1.

Since many players have requested the ability to move their characters across different ships, he plans to implement this service in the update in September. And by popular demand, he's going to update the way the recycle shop works which can only mean one thing! Not only will you be able to use AC costumes to trade, but you can also use the items you get from the AC Scratch.

In addition to the existing client orders, he's also going to implement something like a daily client order. With "Daily Orders" the client order contents are different each day.

Even the team features are going to be expanded upon. There will be client orders that team members can perform. If you accumulate points, you can have your very own Team Room!

 

Premium Package Mag

It was mentioned that the premium package was going to have a mag evolution device. PSO1 players should be familiar with the Sato mag! Also expect 5 original weapons in the premium package. What they are is a mystery at this point.

 

PSO2 JP: Patch (8/10/2012)

An update is required in order to continue playing Phantasy Star Online 2. When you open the launcher, press the “ファイルチェック” file check button to begin the patching process. You can also just start the game and it will begin patching automatically.

Launcher is currently:

  • Version 01.02.07

Client Update

You can confirm these version numbers at the lower left corner of the Launcher, and lower right corner of the Game Client.

Patch Size

  • 18MB

Patch Notes

  • Corrected the bug with the Aesthetics Counter.
  • Countermeasures towards malicious exploits that hinder others’ gameplay.
  • Countermeasures against cheat tools.

(If you are downloading the game for the first time, you will have to download an update which requires 3.6GBs of free space.)

 

リスト型アカウントハッキング

Sega has sent out a warning stating they have confirmed evidence where malicious users may try to login to your SEGA ID. They believe these malicious users may try to gain unauthorized access through what Sega called "list type account hacking" or in other words, use leaked password lists to gain entry into your account.

This style of hacking occurs when a malicious user illegally obtains a list of Passwords and User IDs leaked from a company or service then tries to login with them. Through unauthorized logins, it is possible they may steal meseta or items, or abuse important character data.

They are currently investigating this issue, but so far, they have not confirmed any cases of leaked registration information on their end. However, with this style of hacking, if you use the same user id and password on other sites, you are at higher risk.

Sega recommends you create a unique password that you do not use in any other service to prevent further damage. They strongly urge you change it regularly.

You can change your password by accessing the SEGA ID Login Page (use lexilogos for captcha) and press the パスワードを変更する (left most button) to change your password. It will first ask you for your current password then ask you for your new password twice. Afterwards press the top button to register it.

Sega suggests that you:

  • Set a hard to guess password
  • Set a password unique to PSO2
  • Not to mention your password to others.
  • Change your password after playing in a public space.
  • Have up to date antivirus software.
  • Be careful of sites that may trick you into entering your PSO2 login information  (phishing)
  • Not to install cheat programs (which is also against the TOS)

 (We are not able to confirm whether this information was related to the recent major mmo security breach.)

 

PSO2 NA/EU: Phantasy Star Online 2 Playable at PAX

Sega of America announced they will have 9 playable titles at Penny Arcade Expo.

 

Screenshot of the Alpha Test lobby at PAX

In regards to this screenshot:

It's a random screenshot that is being read into too deeply. Edward also said this was going to be the PAX showfloor booth. Spoilers ahoy – it's not going to look like the Alpha lobby. ~Clumsyorchid

Penny Arcade Expo Lineup:

  • Aliens: Colonial Marines
  • The Cave
  • Hell Yeah! – Wrath of the Dead Rabbit
  • Jet Set Radio
  • NiGHTS into dreams…
  • Phantasy Star Online 2
  • Sonic Adventure 2
  • Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed
  • Unannounced digital title (new IP)

Catch them in booths 242 and 252 from August 31st, 2012 through September 2nd, 2012.