The Steam port of Grandia 2 will feature updated HD-quality graphics, along with gamepad support, a new difficulty mode for veteran players, and an optional Japanese voice track.
Originally released for the Sega Dreamcast in 2000, Grandia 2 features a unique combat system that allows combatants to roam 3D-rendered landscapes as they await their turn, potentially cancelling out enemy attacks with well-timed strikes. The game also offers a skill point system that lets players upgrade character attacks and abilities as they wish.
Grandia 2 was later ported to the PlayStation 2, and multiple spinoffs followed in its wake, including 2000’s Grandia: Parallel Trippers and 2002’s Grandia Xtreme. A full-fledged sequel, Grandia 3, launched for the PS2 in 2005. The most recent series entry, 2009’s PC MMORPG Grandia Online, ceased operations in 2012.
Grandia 2 was one of only a handful of RPGs that launched for the Sega Dreamcast during its brief lifespan. Other notable RPGs from the era include Vatical Entertainment’s Elemental Gimmick Gear, Sting’s Evolution series, and Sega’s own Skies of Arcadia.
Grandia series developer Game Arts previously developed the Sega CD RPGs Lunar: The Silver Star and Lunar: Eternal Blue, both of which later saw upgraded releases for the original PlayStation courtesy of publisher Working Designs. The studio’s most recent games include the PSP-ported Lunar: Silver Star Harmony, experimental puzzle-platformer Dokuro, and the action-RPG Ragnarok Odyssey ACE for the PlayStation Vita and PS3.
GungHo’s upcoming PC port commemorates the 15th anniversary of Grandia 2‘s release. The project entered development after GungHo polled its fans regarding potential remakes of legacy Game Arts releases. Grandia 2 emerged as the poll’s winning title.
Grandia 2 Anniversary Edition will be priced at $15 when it hits Steam on August 24.
