Blue Orb announced today that Phantasy Star Universe for the Xbox 360 and PS2 will have in-game text messaging with the Phantasy Star Universe Special Edition Texter, a new accessory that will retail for $34.95 for PS2 and $39.95 for Xbox 360. Two questions immediately pop into my mind. Why? and Who is playing Phantasy Star Universe anymore? Full details below:


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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

New In-Game Messaging Product Introduced for 'Phantasy Star Universe' Players

Phantasy Star Universe Special Edition TexterTM Lets Players on the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 2 System Send Text Messages Directly From Their Game Controllers

Orlando, Florida (May 30, 2007) - Blue Orb, Inc. today announced a new accessory product for players of Phantasy Star Universe that allows them to type text messages directly from their game controller. The new Phantasy Star Universe Special Edition Texter is a Phantasy Star Universe-themed version of the Texter game messaging product from Blue Orb for use with the Xbox 360T video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and PlayStation2 computer entertainment system. Under license from SEGA of America, Inc., the Special Edition Texter is designed specifically for Phantasy Star Universe gamers.

"We built the Texter to make texting a seamless part of gameplay," stated Walt Wilson, Chief Operating Officer, Blue Orb, Inc. Wilson added, "We've worked with SEGA to make this Special Edition Texter the next great tool for the Phantasy Star Universe gamer. Every aspect of the design and packaging was driven by people who love the game-and it shows."

Gamers can use the Texter with the Xbox 360 or PlayStation 2 system in online environments for in-game text messaging, with additional messaging options through the Xbox Live Dashboard for Xbox 360 players. Typing with the Texter is much faster than using on-screen keyboards and also replaces the need for an external USB keyboard, making messaging a natural part of the gaming experience.

The Phantasy Star Universe Special Edition Texter comes packaged with posters and stickers featuring characters from the game. Additionally, a "Guardian's Code" included with every Special Edition Texter allows the purchaser to get a free Phantasy Star Universe t-shirt in his or her size from the Blue Orb Web Site.

The Phantasy Star Universe Special Edition Texter for the PlayStation 2 system will retail for $34.95, and the model for the Xbox 360 will retail for $39.95. Both models will be available in June 2007. Pre-orders may be placed now at www.shopsega.com.