The Star Ocean series has been going on for a long time now, and remains a quietly successful aside to the bigger JRPGs out there. In 2009 the Xbox 360 was treated to the latest release within the franchise; Star Ocean 4: The Last Hope. The title was well received, however a Playstation counterpart was not announced. Now, at last, gamers can pick up Playstation 3's Star Ocean.

The production of this version is not a straight port, but instead is titled the 'international' edition, and features some minor extras. Firstly, the original Japanese voice track has been included as an option. This can be a welcome feature for those preferring their JRPGs with a bit more authenticity. Also, gamers can change the HUD show to reveal the original Japanese artwork for characters. Not a massive extra, but welcome nonetheless.

Now the game itself, and Playstation 3's Star Ocean will not disappoint. The title expands the fighting system of earlier installments in the series, providing a straightforward but fun attack approach that is gradually levelled up as time goes on. Fresh features like the Rush gauge add a new take on the combat, rewarding fast handed gamers with further benefits.

The story that runs throughout Playstation 3's Star Ocean is suitably grand, as one might anticipate from developers Square Enix. A great feature is the optional Private Actions, which permits players to interact among their characters to achieve a broader sense of character development. This may not be essential to the story, but is great for those hoping to completely immerse themselves with the feel for the characters.

It may have taken a long time, however Playstation 3's Star Ocean is unquestionably worth the delay. The graphics, while maybe below Final Fantasy standards, are still stunning and also the story will reward you the more you put into it. Any followers of the genre should definitely explore this brilliant title.