Network Mode is constantly updated with new missions and areas to explore along with special events, shop updates and game balance tweaks. Players can tackle Free Missions in parties of one to six players and play additional single player Story Missions that advance the story past Story Mode's conclusion.
In Network Mode, the character you create becomes a member of the GUARDIANS, stationed in the Gurhal System. More Extra Mode quests become available as you reach certain points in the story. Extra Mode is basically a stripped down version of Network with some differences, such as it being single player only, the Common Box feature is not present and neither is the player shop feature. You can create your own character, form parties with characters from Story Mode, and set off on your own adventures. Extra ModeĮxtra Mode becomes available as you progress in Story Mode specifically after the fourth chapter of Story Mode is completed. These will be available in the cities on the three planets and the Guardian's Colony and can be accessed through the various Mission Counters present in said cities. By completing chapters, players will unlock optional side missions known as Free Missions. Cutscenes and dialogue boxes move the story forward in between the actual missions where the battles occur. The game consists of 12 chapters that are presented with an opening and closing scene similar to standard Japanese anime. Ethan Waber, and his companions must make their way through the planets cutting through the SEED. The story revolves around a deadly new force, known as the SEED, that attacks the Gurhal System galaxy. In Story Mode, you follow the adventures of Ethan Waber in a single player game. The game features three modes of play: Story Mode, Extra Mode, and Network Mode (online mode).
Players also have access to their own room, called the "My Room" feature, and can create common and unique items through the Item Synthesis system as well as selling their own items through their player shop in online mode. In some of the game modes, custom characters created via a detailed character creator are the only playable characters and can be customized by equipping different clothes items available in the various in-game shops. The combat system consists of standard attacks and Photon Arts, special attacks that consume points associated with each weapon, that can be evolved to include multiple hits chained together to form powerful combos. The battles are in real-time and your character develops by leveling up his or her level and character class, upgrading his or her armor and equipment, and acquiring new attacks. Developed by Sonic Team and published by Sega, Phantasy Star Universe is an action RPG where players take on missions as Guardians to battle monsters and enemies threatening the Gurhal System. Phantasy Star Universe is the spiritual successor to the Phantasy Star Online series of games.