Still, Phantasy Star Online represents a tremendous leap forward for online console gaming. Hopefully these minor flaws will be ironed out in the coming weeks. Graphically, PSO is a winner. The sharp character designs and lush textures give the DC a hefty workout. Animation is well done-your characters attack with all the flair you'd expect, and each enemy sports a unique set of moves.
Boss battles are particularly stunning, with gigantic characters flailing wildly about the screen.
Although there's not much slowdown to speak of, the game itself moves rather slowly. Your characters stroll through the environments at a very relaxed pace, and a typical enemy shuffles sleepily towards your party instead of leaping ferociously into the fray. There are a few other niggling issues. By far the most irritating aspect of PSO is the camera, which reacts with sloth-like speed and doesn't follow the onscreen action at all. You'll constantly find yourself centering the camera via the L-Trigger at the most inopportune times.