Coming soon to Phantasy Star Universe is the long-awaited Supplemental Update. This major update for the online game represents not just an influx of new missions, items, options, and even character outfits, but a whole new way to play the game. Featuring a host of game balance adjustments for weapons, abilities, and character classes, the update will also provide the ability for max-level players to continue to customize their skills even after hitting the level cap.

The update is due early this Summer, and over the next several weeks we will be rolling out previews of the content. While a large portion of the Supplemental Update itself is available soon — including the all-important ability to acquire “AEXP”, which allows for character customization to take place at max level — different missions and features will be rolled out all summer long in a series of packed updates.

Of course, end game experience is key in any MMO-type game. Getting to the level cap is always a unique experience, but what about once you’re there? Phantasy Star Universe is about hunting the best and most rare weapons from the biggest bosses, and maxing your character’s abilities like that. But now? I look forward to seeing our always-lively forums lit up with discussions of how best to spend the “AEXP” points which allow for customization of end-game characters.

Also introduced in the update will be special GUARDIANS Advanced Style missions — these missions will offer unique challenges to players, with automatic “level caps” for the missions and restrictions on the weapon types that can be used, as well as other unique conditions. If that sounds like a throwback to the “Challenge Missions” of PSO — or for that matter, the upcoming Phantasy Star Portable 2 — well, that’s intentional. This new class of missions in game — with more slated to be added throughout the summer — is a chance to play a new way, with new challenges.

For a lot more details and information, here’s the first two parts of our preview for the Supplemental Update:

• Preview Part 1: Balance Changes and Job Type Updates

• Preview Part 2: GUARDIANS Advanced Style

If you would like to learn more about the game, check out phantasystaruniverse.com for lots of background and details!

Stay tuned: There’s more to come soon!