PSO2 (JP) Arks Party, November Update Info, and a Giant Rappy

The first ever Phantasy Star Online 2 offline meetup took place Saturday in Japan, hosted by PSO2 producer Satoshi Sakai and director Yuya Kimura. Fan site Shogai PSO was able to attend and get some new info on what's coming in the November content update (which we already know will be including the Ruins field, as well as new boss Zeshreida).

On their site is a transcript and audio recording of a chat with the two PSO2 devs. Here's some of the info they were able to find out, translated courtesy of Keii in our forums:

Photon Shop: This new shop which will accept Photon Drops as currency and will carry devices, weapons, armors, etc.

Excube System: A feature mentioned briefly by Sakai earlier this month. This system will allow players who have reached the maximum level and experience to trade in surplus experience in special shops. These shops will include new mag devices, 10 star units and other great things!

Also mentioned are new costumes (possibly the recently revealed PS Vita tie-in costumes) and new story content (which is likely tied to the Ruins field addition).

SEGA also unveiled its new "Arks Briefing Room" at the BigBox in Tokyo where the Arks Party was held, as covered by 4gamer. The room features a 4-player gaming rig that is designed to fully immerse players in the PSO2 experience. The room sports four EMPEROR 1510 gaming chairs, valued at about $10,500 each, and players can make reservations to rent them by the hour. Sakai and Kimura were present to cut the ribbons and a giant Rappy was on hand to keep the peace.