In a year filled with remakes, Square Enix has one more to offer fans, and no, we're not talking about Super Mario RPG - it's Star Ocean: The Second Story R.
Originally released in 1999 for the PlayStation 1 and developed by tri-Ace, being published by Enix (before their merger with Squaresoft), Star Ocean: The Second Story is the second title in the long-standing franchise which now spawns over a dozen titles.
Most importantly, it was the first game to be released outside of Japan, garnering a loyal fanbase that continues to enjoy the classic action RPG title and was pleased to hear about the remake, Star Ocean: The Second Story R.
Whether you're a new fan or a long-standing devotee, let's tell you everything you need to know about Star Ocean: Second Story R.
Star Ocean: Second Story R - Release date and platforms
Star Ocean: Second Story R will come out on 2 November. Unlike the original, which was a PlayStation 1 exclusive, this version will launch on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, and PC (via Steam).
This remake is being developed by Gemdrops. They are known for titles such as CRYSTAR and COGEN: Sword of Rewind.
Star Ocean: Second Story R isn't the first remake of the 1999 classic. A remaster, Star Ocean: Second Evolution, developed by Tose was released for the PlayStation Portable in 2008.
Do I need to play the first Star Ocean?
Despite what the name might suggest, no, you don't need to play Star Ocean to fully immersive yourself in the story of Star Ocean: The Second Story R.
It's a standalone story meaning that the first game isn't necessary at all and won't impact your experience.
Star Ocean: Second Story R - Cost
The price for the standard edition of Star Ocen: The Second Story R will remain the same regardless of platform (Switch, PS4, and PS5), being priced at $50 or the equivalent depending on your region.
A limited-edition collector's edition, which can only be acquired via the Square Enix store is priced at $200 and includes the following:
- Star Ocean: Second Story R Standard Edition game
- Collector's Edition goods box
- Star Ocean: Second Story R original soundtrack
- Star Ocean: Second Story R art book
- Star Ocean: Second Story R Mini Acrylic Stand Collection Box
Star Ocean: Second Story R - Pre-order bonuses
Regardless of the version you want to pre-order, you'll get the following rewards:
- Weapon for Claude: Pangalactic Federation longsword
- Weapon for Rena: Forest Knuckles
- Sunrise Ring accessory
- 20 x Resurrection Potions
- 20 x Mixed Berries
And that's all you need to know! We'll have more Star Ocean content in the future. For more on RPGs, check out our Sea of Stars review, a modern indie RPG that pays tribute to the likes of Star Ocean, Mario RPG, and more.