Sega D-Direct is taking preorders for Phantasy Star Online Episodes 1 and 2 up till April 30. By preordering you will be able to receive the trial edition in addition to the final version, a modem, and/or a keyboard on May 31. You will also get to take part in beta testing of the game, which will take place from May 31 to June 30. Two packages will be available:

Phantasy Star Online Episodes 1 and 2 Modem Set - 9,800 yen (about $80 US)
What you get on May 31: Trial edition and modem
What you get in summer: the final version of PSO Episodes 1 and 2.


Phantasy Star Online Episodes 1 and 2 Full Set - 16,600 yen (about $140)
What you get on May 31: Trial edition, modem, and keyboard
What you get in summer: the final version of PSO Episodes 1 and 2

If you do not own a GameCube, you can also purchase a GameCube set from D-Direct for 27,900 yen (around $230 US). The GameCube set comes with a GameCube, 1 controller, 1 AC adaptor, a 59 black memory card, and a stereo AV cable.

Sega's website also posted a list of Q&A's.

Q: What are the contents of the Trial Edition?
A: In addition to Episode 1, a major portion of Episode 2 including the dense woods area will be accessible. And you can also play online with 4 other people simultaneously.

Q: Will the save data of the Trail Edition be transferable to the final completed version?
A: It will not be possible. In the final version, we would like everyone to start out the same.

Q: Will the modem and keyboard be sold separately?
A: When the final version of the game releases this summer, the modem and keyboard will be available separately for purchase.

Q: What are the prices of the keyboard and modem?
A: They are not yet determined.

Q: Will the trial edition be compatible with the broadband adaptor. How about the final version?
A: The trial edition will not support the broadband adaptor. If you would like to participate in testing the trial edition, please preorder the modem set or the full set. As for the final version, we are still discussing it with Nintendo. As of right now, it is not yet determined. As for the release of the broadband adaptor, there are still no plans to release it on the date of the game’s release or that time period.

Source: GC Advanced