Phantasy Star Online III: C.A.R.D. Revolution

Is this supposed to be a proper sequel or something? Hold on - yes, it is actually - so take a look at the third, and perhaps final PSO title.

	Version GameCube	Developer Sonic Team	Publisher Sega	Genre MMO RPG

By Joseph Jackson

Some of the most common feedback from gamers getting their first impressions of Phantasy Star Online III at this year's E3 went along the lines of: "What the hell? Joke's over, show me the real game now!"

Having seen nothing about PSO3 before E3, there were plenty of unsuspecting gamers floored by the form manifested in the third and 'rumored' final chapter of PSO. Some figured that since the first 2 episodes were Online RPGs complete with highly addictive adventure gameplay elements and multiplayer online features, they'd get a continuation of that, complete with a new story and quest to embark on.

And who can blame them? Based on the first two episodes, gamers assumed the third installment would follow the same formula. But Phantasy Star Online: Episode III is a full fledged 3D turn-based Card game.

Some highly addictive gameplay elements are still on the 'cards', however. C.A.R.D. Revolution continues the tradition with a fun looking title filled with online features, that will allow players to chat and then take the fights to the surface of the planet, engaging in a strategic combat using a turn-based Card system. Phew.

Phantasy Star Online Episode III: C.A.R.D. Revolution continues the story arc of its online predecessors with players assuming the roles of Hunters once again to explore the mysteries of the planet Ragol. Episode III expands on the Phantasy Star Online universe by combining RPG team-based battle tactics with the mechanics of deck settings and card collection.

Episode III allows players to chat about gameplay strategy and how their day was at school and what Veronica in 7th grade said when they asked her out. Afterwards, players then journey to the planet's surface to strategically deal their deck of cards in turn-based Card battles.

Arks and Bosses or Hunters and Items make up your decks and you'll need to utilize different strategies in order to claim victory. The many unique online strategies that will present themselves through multiplayer combat will certainly provide Episode III with enough replayability to keep players coming back for more punishment.

Fortunately for those who aren't online-enabled, PSO Episode III will also have offline play modes that feature both single player and a multiplayer mode that supports up to 4 players.

Although details are very sketchy at the moment, PSO3 will reportedly utilize some kind of GBA connectivity feature, although it's currently unknown which GBA title will be the lucky recipient of this feature.

Graphically, Episode III looks pretty good for a card battle game. Featuring lush beautiful colors and textures all around, this is probably the best looking card game we've seen.

Even though some have pointed out that PSO3 seems more a side story than a true sequel for the series, it looks to be another solid Sonic Team offering that should whet the appetites of strategy gaming fans. So wipe away those tears and give PSO3 your undivided attention when released early 2004. Who knows, it may just surprise you!