Sony Computer Entertainment America continues to fuel the PlayStation 2 with new games, even if they are PSP ports. Things are different in Japan where SCEJ hasn’t released a PS2 game since 2007. Even third party publishers like Nippon Ichi and Gust moved on to the PS3, making this year’s PS2 line up heavy on visual novels.
One game from SystemSoft Alpha, creators of the Daisenryaku series, stands out. Tir Na Nog, slated for April 29, could be the last PS2 RPG. Looks like this PC port doesn’t have a high budget either. The shifty character sprites are reminiscent of Populous. At least the setting is offbeat. Tir Na Nog infuses Irish mythology and fantasy elements to craft the story. A PSP version is scheduled to come out the same day as the PS2 release.
There is still a healthy selection of PS2 JRPGs such as Devil Summoner 2, Mana Khemia 2, and later Sakura Taisen for us to enjoy this year, but the well is almost dry. Tir Na Nog might be at the bottom.