8 Steps to Get Started in PSO2

1. Choosing a Platform

Choosing the right platform to play Phantasy Star Online 2 (PSO2) is an important decision that can greatly influence your gaming experience. PSO2 is a multi-platform game, available on PC, Xbox, and PlayStation. Each of these platforms offer unique advantages and features that cater to different types of gamers.

If you're a PC gamer, you might appreciate the higher levels of control and customization this platform offers. PCs generally provide better graphic performance, which can significantly enrich your gaming experience. They also allow for extensive customization; you can amplify the game settings to suit your personal preferences, and even upgrade your hardware for better game performance. Additionally, playing on a PC gives you the flexibility to use various input devices such as a mouse and keyboard, or a controller.

On the other hand, gaming consoles like Xbox and PlayStation offer a different kind of experience. They can provide the comfort of playing on a larger screen, which can be more engrossing. These platforms offer the convenience of a dedicated controller, which some players might find more comfortable and intuitive for gameplay. They also typically offer more stable performance, as the hardware and software are boostd for gaming.

However, it's important to consider your personal preferences and circumstances when choosing a platform. Take into consideration factors such as your current hardware, the potential cost of acquiring new hardware, and your preferred style of gameplay. For example, if you already own a gaming console, it might be more cost-effective to choose that platform. Or if you prefer the flexibility and customization options of a PC, that might be the better choice for you.

2. Creating an Account

To start playing PSO2, you first need to create a game account. The process for creating an account varies slightly depending on the platform you choose.

Xbox

1. Download the PSO2 game from the Xbox store.
2. Launch the game and select "Create New Account" on the title screen.
3. Follow the prompts to create your account.

PC

1. Download the PSO2 game from the official website or from a digital distribution platform such as Steam.
2. Install the game on your PC.
3. Launch the game and select "Create New Account" on the title screen.
4. Follow the prompts to create your account.

PlayStation

1. Download the PSO2 game from the PlayStation store.
2. Launch the game and select "Create New Account" on the title screen.
3. Follow the prompts to create your account.

Remember to keep your account information secure and do not share it with others.

3. Choosing a Race

Choosing your race in Phantasy Star Online 2 (PSO2) can have a significant impact on your gameplay, as each race has its unique strengths and weaknesses. The game offers four races to choose from: Human, Newman, Cast, and Deuman.

Human

Humans are the most balanced race in PSO2, with evenly distributed stats across strength, dexterity, and intelligence. They have no particular weaknesses, making them a solid choice for beginners or those who prefer a balanced playstyle.

Newman

Newmen are known for their superior intelligence and photon sensitivity, making them excellent at techniques. They have high mental power and evasion, which makes them proficient at dealing damage from a distance. However, their physical strength and durability are relatively low, making them less ideal for close combat.

Cast

Casts are robotic beings known for their superior physical strength and durability. They excel at ranged and melee combat, and they have the highest HP and defense among all races. However, they lack in technique points and mental power, making them less effective at using techniques.

Deuman

Deumans are a hybrid race with high strength and dexterity, making them effective at both physical attacks and techniques. They have the highest critical hit rate among all races, but their overall defense is relatively low.

Remember, while the race you choose can influence your gameplay, it's not a binding decision. You can still excel in any class and playstyle regardless of your race, and much of your character's performance will depend on your equipment and how you play the game.

Ultimately, it's best to choose a race that you feel comfortable with and that complements your preferred playstyle. Consider not only the statistical advantages but also the stylish and lore aspects of each race, as these can amplify your overall gaming experience.

4. Choosing a Class

Choosing a class in Phantasy Star Online 2 (PSO2) is a critical aspect of your gameplay and will significantly influence your gaming experience. Each class has its unique abilities, strengths, and weaknesses. The game offers nine classes to choose from: Hunter, Fighter, Ranger, Gunner, Force, Techer, Braver, Bouncer, and Summoner.

Hunter

The Hunter class is a melee class that focuses on high defense and physical attacks. They can wield a variety of weapons such as swords, wired lances, and partisans. Hunters are excellent for beginners due to their durability and straightforward playstyle.

Fighter

Fighters are a melee class known for their high damage output and speed. They can use twin daggers, double sabers, and knuckles. However, they have lower defense, making them a bit more challenging to play.

Ranger

Rangers are a ranged class that excels in providing support and dealing damage from a distance. They can use rifles and launchers. Their abilities often revolve around weakening the enemy and boosting the team's damage.

Gunner

Gunner class is a high-risk, high-reward class that specializes in mid-range combat. They can use twin machine guns. Gunners require a higher skill level due to their complex mechanics and lower defense.

Force

Force class is a technique-based class that focuses on offensive magic. They can use rods and talises. This class has a wide range of abilities, from dealing damage to healing allies.

Techer

Techers are a technique-based class that excels in support roles. They can use wands and talises. Their abilities often revolve around healing, buffing allies, and debuffing enemies.

Braver

Bravers are a hybrid class that can excel in both close and ranged combat. They can use katanas and bullet bows. This class is flexible and can adapt to various situations.

Bouncer

Bouncer class is a hybrid class that can use both physical and technique attacks. They can use dual blades and jet boots. This class is versatile and requires a good understanding of the game mechanics to be played effectively.

Summoner

Summoners are a unique class that summons pets to fight for them. They can use harmonizers. This class is relatively easy to play and is excellent for beginners.

Remember, while your choice of class can significantly influence your gameplay, it is not permanent. You can change your class at any time in the game, so feel free to experiment and find the class that suits your playstyle the best. Make sure to try out different classes and find the one that you enjoy the most.

5. After Completing the Tutorial

Once you've completed the tutorial, you're ready to fully immerse yourself in the vast world of PSO2. Here are some steps to set yourself up for success:

Understand Your Class

Take the time to understand the class you've chosen. This means knowing your class' strengths, weaknesses, and abilities. Learn the best strategies for your class and how to optimize your gameplay.

Join a Team

Consider joining a team. Teams in PSO2 are similar to guilds in other MMOs. Being part of a team allows you to play with others, learn from more experienced players, and participate in team quests.

Equip Your Character

Make sure your character is properly equipped. This includes having the right weapons, armor, and items. Always be on the lookout for better equipment.

Start Quests

Begin doing quests. Quests are a great way to gain experience, learn more about the game, and acquire items. Try to complete as many quests as possible.

Probe the World

Don't be afraid to examine. PSO2 has a vast and diverse world. Exploring can lead to finding quests, items, and meeting other players.

Remember, the most important part is to have fun and enjoy the game. It's not about being the best, but about enjoying the journey.

6. Understanding Game Mechanics

Phantasy Star Online 2 (PSO2) is a complex game with many mechanics that you will need to familiarize yourself with as a new player. Here's a basic guide to help you get started:

Combat System: Combat in PSO2 is action-based and requires timing, positioning, and method. Each class has its unique set of abilities known as Photon Arts for weapons and Techniques for magic, which can be used to deal damage, heal, or provide other effects. Utilizing these effectively is key to succeeding in combat.

Character Progression: As you complete quests and defeat enemies, your character will earn experience points (EXP). Accumulating enough EXP will level up your character, improving their base stats and unlocking new abilities. You can also augment your abilities by equipping and upgrading your weapons and units (armor).

Meseta: Meseta is the main currency in PSO2. You can earn Meseta by completing quests, selling items, and participating in the player market. It's used for purchasing items, enhancing equipment, and various other aspects of the game.

Photon Points (PP): PP is a resource used to perform Photon Arts and Techniques. It regenerates over time and through certain actions in combat.

Mags: Mags are pet-like companions that assist you in battle. They provide stat boosts and can perform powerful Photon Blasts when their energy gauge is full. Feeding and caring for your Mag can influence its stats and the type of support it provides.

Emergency Quests: These are special, time-limited quests that appear randomly while you're in the field. Completing these quests can reward you with high amounts of EXP and rare items.

Client Orders: These are tasks given by various NPCs (Non-Player Characters) in the game. Completing Client Orders can reward you with EXP, Meseta, and items.

This is just a basic overview of PSO2's game mechanics. As you progress through the game, you'll encounter more advanced mechanics that will require a deeper understanding. Don't be afraid to ask more experienced players for help or look up guides online. Remember, the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy your journey in the world of PSO2.

7. Leveling Up in PSO2

Leveling up in Phantasy Star Online 2 (PSO2) as a newbie can seem disheartening at first, but with a clear understanding of the game's mechanics and progression system, you can quickly rise through the ranks. Here's an exhaustive guide to help you on your journey:

1. Complete Quests:

Quests are your primary source of experience points (EXP) in the early stages of the game. Main quests, often called "Story Quests", guide you through the game's storyline and offer substantial EXP rewards. Client Orders are side quests given by NPCs that also provide EXP and other rewards.

2. Participate in Emergency Quests:

Emergency Quests are time-limited events that offer high EXP rewards. These quests occur randomly while you're in the field, and completing them can greatly accelerate your leveling process.

3. Use EXP Boost Items:

EXP Boost items enhance the amount of EXP you gain from killing monsters and completing quests. These items can often be obtained from completing Client Orders, participating in campaigns, or through the Excube Exchange Shop.

4. Join a Party:

Playing in a party with other players increases the amount of EXP you gain from quests and battles. It also allows you to tackle more challenging content that may be too difficult to complete solo.

5. Grind in the Advanced Quests:

Once you reach level 40, you can start participating in Advanced Quests. These quests offer a higher level of confront but also provide more EXP. To access Advanced Quests, you need to use Advance Capsules, which can be obtained from drops or the Photon Drop Exchange Shop.

6. Level Up Your Class:

Each class in PSO2 has a separate level progression. Switching to a new class will start you off at level 1, but leveling multiple classes can give you a broader range of skills and abilities to use.

7. Use the Tokyo Bonus Key:

The Tokyo Bonus Key is a special item that unlocks a bonus quest with a high EXP reward. It's often given as a login bonus or reward for clearing certain Client Orders. The quest it unlocks is relatively easy and can be completed quickly, making it an efficient way to level up.

Remember, leveling up in PSO2 is not just about gaining EXP. It's also about learning your class, improving your skills, and understanding the game's mechanics. Don't rush the process; take the time to enjoy the game and your progression will come naturally.

8. Terminology

Here are some commonly used terms in PSO2:

1. EXP: Experience Points
2. Meseta: The main currency in PSO2
3. Photon Points (PP): Used to perform Photon Arts and Techniques
4. Photon Arts (PA): Special abilities for weapons
5. Techniques (Techs): Magic abilities
6. Mags: Pet-like companions that assist in battle
7. Emergency Quest (EQ): Special, time-limited quests
8. Client Orders (CO): Tasks given by NPCs
9. NPC: Non-Player Character
10. Field: The area where you probe and battle
11. Units: Armor pieces
12. Weapon Camo: Item that changes the appearance of your weapon
13. Skill Tree: The abilities and skills of your character
14. Subclass: A secondary class you can have in addition to your main class
15. Advanced Quest (AQ): High-level quests available from level 40
16. Quest Counter: Where you accept and complete quests
17. Casino Coins (CC): Currency used in the Casino
18. Rare Drop: A drop with a high rarity level
19. Lobby: The main social area in the game
20. Alliance: A group of players, similar to a guild in other MMOs
21. Weapon Potential: Hidden abilities of a weapon that can be unlocked
22. Dark Blast: A transformation that gives you powerful abilities
23. Trigger Quest: Special quests activated by trigger items
24. Urgent Quest: Another term for Emergency Quest
25. Rappy: A rare and iconic enemy in the Phantasy Star series
26. Grinding: The process of enhancing your weapons
27. Affixing: The process of adding abilities to your items
28. Bouncer (BO): A class in PSO2
29. Braver (BR): A class in PSO2
30. Summoner (SU): A class in PSO2
31. Fighter (FI): A class in PSO2
32. Hunter (HU): A class in PSO2
33. Gunner (GU): A class in PSO2
34. Ranger (RA): A class in PSO2
35. Force (FO): A class in PSO2
36. Techer (TE): A class in PSO2
37. Main Class (MC): The primary class of your character
38. Sub Class (SC): The secondary class of your character
39. Multi-Party Area (MPA): An area where multiple parties can play together
40. Party Marker: A marker used to communicate with your party during quests