I got into the Phantasy Star series in 2012. Obviously, the retranslation was out by then, so that would be my first experience with the series. I could not have asked for a better one! I’ve since played the original localization, and was shocked at how many directions and story details were omitted, so kudos to SMS Power! for retaining them in the retranslation.

Since then, Maxim has released v2.00, which incorporates many new and amazing features that can smooth out and update the classic experience.

Positives:

• Expanded menus for longer item names, as well as four lines per dialogue box.
• Retranslation and relocalization, which retains all of the directions and hints from the Japanese original.
• Intelligently written without seeming pretentious or inserting any memes.
• Retained beautiful FM sound synth, featuring the ability to toggle between FM and PSG sound through the new Sound menu.
• New options to multiply walking speed, experience, meseta, and halve encounter rate.
• Choice to toggle between a questionable new font and Phantasy Star IV’s menu font.
• Incorporates my Brunette Alis mod as yet another option.

Criticisms:

• I still think the new default font is butt-ugly. (Luckily you can change it ASAP and it saves to SRAM!)
• I disagree with the choice to rename spells.

This was the definitive Phantasy Star experience back in 2008, and in 2020, now more than ever that still rings true. It’s highly recommended, and I would even go so far as to recommend it over the Switch port. If you’ve never played Phantasy Star before, now is the time.