Great news for all you Europeans craving a healthy hand-held dose of Phantasy Star, Sega has officially announced that PSP will be jumping the puddle to European shores in Spring 2009. With the US release being March, we can probably expect the game to make it to Europe shortly afterwards. More details and the new images after the jump.

LONDON (October 16, 2008) – SEGA® of Europe, Ltd. today announced that Phantasy Star Portable™ will be coming to Europe exclusively for the PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system. Based on a recent chart topping and critically acclaimed Japanese title, gamers can now experience the exhilarating RPG adventure of the Phantasy Star Universe series anytime, anywhere.

“The Phantasy Star Universe series offered a compelling role-play experience with excellent multi-player modes in delightful atmospheres,” commented Gary Knight, European Marketing Director for SEGA Europe. “These aspects are represented authentically in Phantasy Star Portable, including exclusive new features just for the PSP version allowing fans of this series to enjoy the quest on the move.”

Featuring over 150 new weapons and items exclusive to the PSP version, Phantasy Star Portable takes place just after the events of Phantasy Star Universe. Players will partner up with Vivienne, a brand new character to the series, to investigate an outbreak of wild animals that may possess the remnants of a once-powerful malevolent force. Selecting from three class types and four different races, players will be immersed in the intriguing single-player Story Mode and addictive Phantasy Star Universe co-op gameplay. Teaming with up to three others, players will experience new adventures via the PSP wireless connection. Exclusive new missions and hardcore features, including Item and Enemy Book records and Titles are unlocked by achieving difficult goals; this will add tremendous replay value to Phantasy Star Portable making it the most addicting action-RPG on the PSP system.

Phantasy Star Portable will be released in Spring 2009 exclusively for the PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system.