After Team Sonic expressed uncertainty at the online compatibility of the GameCube version of Phantasy Star Online, Sega has stepped in to clear up some of the confusion. In a statement released earlier today, Sega clarified its plans with the announcement that while the trial version of PSO will not be broadband compatible, the finished version is expected to be broadband compatible. The news comes as a result of Nintendo's decision to release the GameCube broadband adapter later this summer, separately from PSO. As a result, it is currently not known whether or not the adapter will be released at the same time as the game in Japan.

Sega also had some good news to dispense: online play in the trial version, though it will not offer broadband compatibility, will be free of charge. That said, potential server fees for the final version are still undisclosed. Sega has also remained tight-lipped on pricing for the game, although it has been indicated that the company will offer both a package including PSO and a GameCube modem and keyboard. Phantasy Star Online is set for release in Japan sometime this May.