How Phantasy Star Universe: Clementine Compares to the Console Experience
September 18, 2025
I decided that I wanted to see what a new game experience was like on Phantasy Star Universe: Clementine, the private server on PC, versus Phantasy Star Universe: Ambition of the Illuminus for the PlayStation 2. I downloaded Clementine from the official website, created an account, and opened the game through Wine on my Debian system. I had recently posted an article about starting a new game in the PlayStation 2 version's story mode. Unfortunately, Clementine does not offer a story mode, so I jumped online to recreate Aremythion. From the character select screen alone, it was clear that the graphics were much better. I chose to make him similar to his PlayStation 2 counterpart.
The first major difference I noticed was the lack of English voice acting. Everything is in the original Japanese, and much of the text is also in Japanese. Clementine's wiki offers mods for audio and visual enhancements, but by default you are simply dropped in with no clear direction. Talking to the NPC by the elevator on the first floor provides a quick run-through that essentially serves as the text version of the story mode tutorial. There is also a "getting started" guide on the wiki, but since I have played before, I skipped it. Even so, I noticed some improvements that were not present the last time I played.
My human character starts with the same equipment as his PlayStation 2 counterpart. My first stop was the fifth floor to check with Mina at the special mission counter. Story missions are unavailable, but Clementine features other options such as daily missions. The daily CLEM Camp, available once you reach level 10, helps boost levels quickly. There is also a daily raffle system where completing missions earns you a token that can be exchanged for an item. The goal is really to grind, level your character, and enjoy the same core loop familiar from Phantasy Star Online and Universe. The last time I played, I found the game fairly easy, and I admittedly didn't dive too deeply into equipment and stats.
I started leveling in the Unsafe Passage mission at the Linear Line Platform. I set a password to play solo for now. The gameplay feels smooth, and the atmosphere is still incredible. The aesthetic and music remain top notch. I do miss the sense of purpose that comes with the single-player campaign on the PlayStation 2, but the gameplay itself is strong. For those seeking fun combat and community, I would highly recommend this version. For a stronger sense of accomplishment and story-driven engagement, the console versions are the better choice.
My next stop was the Aurorey Viewing Plaza Area to take on the Fight for Food mission. During this run, my Tornado Break photon art for the Sword leveled up enough to unlock a second attack. As photon arts grow, they evolve and become more powerful. From what I understand, many items have also been added from other Phantasy Star Universe titles, such as Phantasy Star Portable. After defeating the SEED "plant" monster (SEED-Vitace), I entered Aurorey Viewing Plaza, did some shopping at the vendor, and then returned to Clyez City through the Transfer Terminal Area.
From past experience, most players gather on the fifth floor and at the Guardian Hub in Clyez City. These areas are usually more active during events and weekends, while weekdays tend to have lower populations even at night. I traveled to Holtes City on planet Parum, but I still needed a few more levels before moving on from Linear Line missions. Instead, I walked around and did some window shopping. At Cubic Design, I looked at outfits I might buy in the future, though I would need to grind more for the meseta. Mildly defeated, I returned to Clyez City to check out my room.
Rooms function much like they do on the consoles, but Clementine offers more customization. I didn't have a name ready for my partner machine, so I skipped using its services this session. Players can also open personal shops using Open Shop remodeling tickets, and other remodeling tickets allow you to change the layout and appearance of your room. Clementine often holds regular events. I missed out on the Sonic Resort Blast event during the summer, but there are also seasonal events for holidays.
I can't really say one version is better than the other. The console experience is best if you want story, though much of it was lost when SEGA's official servers shut down years ago. The Clementine experience focuses more on community and gameplay, with the chance to meet new people and enjoy the cooperative grind. Team Clementine is also actively developing another private server project, Starlight, for the original Phantasy Star Online 2. If you see me online in Clementine, don't hesitate to say hi.
+ Aremythion +