SEGA of America will expand its online role-playing game, Phantasy Star Universe, with a brand new expansion pack called Ambition of the Illuminus. This new expansion, scheduled to launch this fall, will be available for download on the Xbox 360 and in stores for the PlayStation 2 and PC. Phantasy Star Universe: Ambition of the Illuminus continues the storyline of Phantasy Star Universe. A new Human Fundamentalist movement, known as the Illuminus, disrupts the peaceful Gurhal System throwing the Gurhal Government into chaos. Using their custom-made Guardian, players explore new levels, such as the Ruins of Old Rozenom City and the subterranean Granigs Mines, where they encounter new and more powerful enemy types, as well as mastering additional class types. Players will also meet familiar characters like Ethan Waber from Episode 1, and other new characters including GUARDIAN instructor Laia Martinez, while they fight through the next chapters of the story missions that started its singleplay experience in the original Phantasy Star Universe.

The expansion puts the focus on the online Phantasy Star Universe experience with newly created gameplay and customization features. Players can commune in new and expanded lobby areas filled with colorful decorations and music, including the new Casino Voloyal where roulette and slots can earn players special casino-only items. Character and weapon customization is even deeper with the introduction of a slew of new weapon types, armour, Photon Arts, and clothing. Each Guardian’s individual Rooms are upgraded and now offer a greater level of customization, with a new grid system that allows players to decorate the walls and place new interactive items and furniture anywhere they want in the Room. You can find out more about the expansion by visiting www.phantasystaruniverse.com . Thje first screens from the expansion are available right here on GameShark.com .