Square Enix has released Star Ocean: The Second Story R for Nintendo Switch 2, expanding the availability of its remake of the 1998 role playing game to the newest generation Nintendo console. The Nintendo Switch 2 edition includes graphical enhancements and quality of life updates, and joins the existing versions available for Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4 and PC via Steam.
Star Ocean: The Second Story R presents the original adventure with a 2.5D visual style, combining 3D environments with 2D pixel characters. Players can switch between the original soundtrack and a newly rearranged version, while both Japanese and English text and voice options are supported. The voice cast includes performers from earlier versions of the game. Those using the Japanese voiceover can select either newly recorded performances from the original cast or the cast featured in Star Ocean: Second Evolution for PlayStation Portable. Other additions include fast travel and revised presentation for the game’s Skills, Specialties and Item Creation systems.
The story follows Claude, a Federation officer who is transported to an underdeveloped planet while searching for a way home. After meeting a girl named Rena, the pair become involved in a journey to save her people and fulfil the events described in an ancient prophecy. Players can begin the game as either Claude or Rena. This decision changes the perspective of the story and affects which characters may join the party. The game also features real time combat, character development systems and Private Actions that influence relationships between party members and can lead to different endings.
Square Enix is also running a limited time sale for several entries in the series on selected platforms. Star Ocean The Divine Force and its Digital Deluxe Edition are discounted by 60%, while Star Ocean: The Last Hope 4K & Full HD Remaster is discounted by 70%. Star Ocean: The Second Story R is available at a 50% discount.
