Anyone who knows me well enough knows the .hack series of games are some of my favorite games of all time. From the original four that captivated my mind through their impressive story telling and unique presentation (making you feel like you were logging into a real online game), to the G.U. series that brought new mechanics and new levels of visual presentation, there was always a reason to stay "logged-in" to "The World". Yes, they're not the greatest games, but they have quite the cult following which is why when news breaks of a possible new game in the series, many fans like myself pay close attention. Some time ago it was announced that the animated .hack movie, ".hack//Other Side of the World", will be a hybrid Blu-ray disc that also includes new .hack fighting game: ".hack//Versus" for PS3.
So far several characters have been revealed including Tsukasa of .hack//SIGN fame, Haseo and Ovan from the .hack//G.U. trilogy, Sakuya from .hack//Quantum, and new characters Sora and "9" from the movie. True to form, Haseo will be able to change from his first form all the way to Xth form in battle, and Sora will be able to use "Exceed" that will allow her to level up and summon Orca and Balmung in battle. The gameplay is very similar to the other CyberConnect2 game, Naruto Shipuuden Ultimate Ninja Storm Generations, and will even include online multiplayer. Japanese fans will even get the chance to grab the limited "The World" special edition that will include a set of 25 jacket-size posters, a mini theatre brochure, a ".hack//Extension" DVD, and a 48-page art book. Please excuse me while I lock myself in a sound-proof room and "squee" for two-and-a-half days.
Now comes the bad news: ".hack//Link" for PSP never made it to the 'States which means this might not either. It was a shame in that case as .hack//Link was a incredibly fun game that I really wish was in english so I could understand just what the heck is happening when I play it. Fortunately, Siliconera has a "Take us back to "The World" campaign that can help make sure we don't have to endure the loss of another .hack game's localization. All you have to do for that is head to Namco Bandai's American facebook page and let them know just how much you want .hack, advice that comes directly from CyberConnect2's CEO Hiroshi Matsuyama! I must say I would give up one of my testicles (my left, it's my least favorite) for localization for both this and //Link so let's all get on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/NamcoBandai) and demand our fair share of .hack!!
Thanks to Siliconera for the digging! http://www.siliconera.com/tag/hack-versus/
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