Phantasy Star Online 2: New Genesis Expansion Won't Replace Original PSO2 Game

There may be some confusion about Phantasy Star Online 2's future following New Genesis's reveal, which is slated to hit PC, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X in 2021. However, publisher Sega has shared a new video confirming that the two universes will coexist.

While New Genesis will serve as a "complete redesign" of the traditional Phantasy Star Online 2 experience, the expansion will not outright replace PSO2 in any way. In fact, the New Genesis expansion will operate as a compliment to Phantasy Star Online 2, allowing you to play both universes with the same character. Unfortunately, certain elements--like level, class skills, and Photon Arts--will not transfer between universes.

"You can continue to enjoy the original PSO2 even after PSO2: NGS has been released," developer Online R&D said. "Accounts that have been playing PSO2 will be able to hop between PSO2: NGS and PSO2."

Alongside a massive overhaul that includes an extensive graphics redesign, the New Genesis expansion introduces a number of new additions to the online free-to-play action-RPG. This includes more character customization options for more exact personalization, new enemy types, added movement abilities, a revamped combat system, and much more.

While you wait for New Genesis to arrive, PSO2 will see some new content this August on PC and Xbox One. A new location--Earth--will open up for exploration, featuring a new mysterious enemy you'll have to investigate and take out. The August update will also come with an increased level cap and various other goodies.