Valkyria II to have multiplayer modes

In an interview with the PlayStation blog, SEGA has confirmed that the PSP sequel to its tactical PS3 RPG Valkyria Chronicles will feature ad-hoc multiplayer modes.

Both co-op and versus play will be supported, the unnamed representative said, but left it at that. "We can't really talk too much about it in detail yet."

In fact, the incorporation of multiplayer was a deciding factor in the shift from home console to handheld, SEGA revealed.

"When we looked at the BLiTZ battle system specifically - especially in the Japanese market - co-op play and wireless play is becoming more and more popular and we felt that would expand the gameplay for the title in a great way," the rep said. "When we went further in that direction we discovered that the PSP is the perfect platform to take advantage of that."

Translation: SEGA wants a slice of Capcom's Monster Hunter pie and has elected to use the stylish Valkyria Chronicles (set in an alternate World War II) to shoulder its way into the booming Japanese market for handheld social play. It's not the only one: Square Enix's Dragon Quest IX, currently riding high in the Japanese charts, has broken with series tradition by moving to a handheld console (the DS, in that case) and including a co-op multiplayer mode.

Valkyira Chronicles II launches in Japan this winter and in the West next summer. The PS3 original was one of last year's hidden gems, so it's well worth keeping an eye on.