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| genre = [[Action role-playing]]
| developer = [[CyberConnect2]]
| publisher = [[
| creator = [[Hiroshi Matsuyama]]
| writer = {{unbulleted list|Tatsuya Hamazaki|[[Kazunori Itō]]|Miu Kawasaki}}
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| first release date = May 18, 2006
| latest release version = ''.hack//G.U. Last Recode''
| latest release date =
| parent = [[.hack (video game series)|.hack]]
}}
'''''.hack//G.U.''''' is a series of [[single-player]] [[action role-playing game]]s for the {{nowrap|[[PlayStation 2]]}}, developed by [[CyberConnect2]] and published by [[
The series has also been adapted into a [[manga]], a [[light novel]], and an animated film.
The story focuses on a character named [[Haseo]]. He hunts another player named "Tri-Edge" who killed his friend Shino within the game and left her in a [[coma]] in real life. Haseo joins an organization that is also tracking Tri-Edge. The reason Shino and other players fall into comas is connected with AIDA, a mysterious computer anomaly that infects their characters. During the release of the games in Japan, [[Bee Train]] produced ''.hack//Roots'', which depicts Haseo's first days in ''The World''. The series has also been adapted into a [[manga]], a [[light novel]], and a [[Computer-generated imagery|CGI]] film.▼
▲The story focuses on a character named [[Haseo]]. He hunts another player named "Tri-Edge" who killed his friend Shino within the game
Critical reception to the games has been lukewarm with reviewers focusing on how the developers dealt with the issues regarding the previous ''.hack'' games and the execution of the storyline across the three titles. The first game got higher ratings; critics praised the addition of new gameplay features while parts from the story have been labeled as filler. Average scores declined across the three games. A [[High-definition video|high-definition]] [[Video game remake|remaster]] of the trilogy, '''''.hack//G.U. Last Recode''''', was released for [[PlayStation 4]] and [[Microsoft Windows]] in November 2017, and was released on [[Nintendo Switch]] in March 2022. The remaster marks the first time that ''.hack//G.U.'' was released in Europe. The collection received more praise than the original trilogy for solving issues with the gameplay and presentation but was criticized for the lack of variety in dungeons.▼
Despite strongly positive reception by the games players, Critical reception to the games upon release was mixed, with reviewers focusing on how the developers dealt with the issues regarding the previous ''.hack'' games and the execution of the storyline across the three titles. The first game got higher ratings; critics praised the addition of new gameplay features, while parts from the story focused on developing the cast beyond Haseo himself and their relation with him had been labeled as filler despite such advancing the purpose of the greater story, Haseo's own development, and such sidestories fitting with .hack 's motif of the time as framing itself as a story occurring within the world of an MMORPG and defined by a set player's experience in that realm. Though the character depiction and development of Main Character Haseo remained consistently praised with how such was executed.
▲
==Gameplay==
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''.hack//G.U.'' simulates a [[massively multiplayer online role-playing game]] (MMORPG); players assume the role of a participant in a fictional game called ''The World''. While in ''The World'', the player controls the on-screen [[player character]], [[Haseo]], from a third-person perspective (with optional first-person mode).<ref name="ignreview"/> The player may control the camera using the game controller's right [[analog stick]]. Within the fictional game, players explore monster-infested fields and dungeons as well as "Root Towns" that are free of combat. They also can "[[login|log-off]]" from the game and return to a [[desktop environment|computer desktop]] interface which includes in-game [[e-mail]], news, and [[Internet forum|message boards]], as well as desktop and background music customization options.<ref name="page2review">{{cite web | author=Sullivan, Meghan | date=October 5, 2007 | title=.hack//G.U. Vol.1//Rebirth Review | website=IGN | url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2007/10/05/hackgu-vol1rebirth-review?page=2 | access-date=September 7, 2012 | archive-date=October 4, 2012 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121004074136/http://www.ign.com/articles/2007/10/05/hackgu-vol1rebirth-review?page=2 | url-status=live }}</ref> In ''Reminisce'', an optional card game called "Crimson VS" becomes available. The player may [[saved game|save the game]] to a [[memory card]] both from the desktop and within ''The World'' at a Save Shop. After the player completes the game, a Data Flag appears on the save file, which allows the transfer of all aspects of the player character and party members to the next game in the series. This can also be applied to previous games if the player first finished the ''Reminisce'' or ''Redemption''.<ref name="rpgamerpreview">{{cite web | author=Athab, Majed | date=October 5, 2007 | title=Much to Reminisce, Much to Anticipate | website=RPGamer | url=http://www.rpgamer.com/games/hack/hackgu2/hackgu2prev.html | access-date=September 26, 2012 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130202211445/http://www.rpgamer.com/games/hack/hackgu2/hackgu2prev.html | archive-date=2013-02-02 | url-status=dead }}</ref>
Root Towns are non-combat areas in ''The World''. The player may restock on items, buy equipment, or chat and trade with other "players" of ''The World''. The player may also undertake optional quests and visit guilds.<ref name="page2review"/> A key feature of all towns is the Chaos Gate. This blue portal is used to travel between towns (called "servers") as well as access the fields and dungeons where battles take place.<ref name="ignreview"/> A [[password (video games)|password system]] controls the characteristics of each area. Depending on the characteristics of each word in the three word phrase, the resulting area may have different attributes such as prevalence of monsters or items, among other features.<ref name="genre">{{cite web|url=https://hardcoregamer.com/2017/11/10/review-hackg-u-last-recode/278923/|title=Review: .hack//G.U. Last Recode|website=Hardcore Gamer|date=10 November 2017|access-date=August 5, 2020|archive-date=24 July 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200724075059/https://hardcoregamer.com/2017/11/10/review-hackg-u-last-recode/278923/|url-status=live}}</ref>
''.hack//G.U.'' is an [[action role-playing game]]; players attack monsters in real time.<ref name="genre"/> However, the action pauses whenever the menu is opened in order to select magic to cast, items to use, or skills to perform. The player only directly controls Haseo; the other characters are controlled by the game itself. The player may either provide guidelines ("Free Will", "Rage", "Life", etc.) or issue direct commands (for example, to cast a particular magic at a particular enemy) to the computer-controlled characters. Monsters roam the environments freely or guard treasure chests. Once combat is initiated, via a "surprise attack" or the player being spotted, a wall erects around the combat area to prevent escape. Weapons give the player access to the Skill Trigger feature which allows Haseo to perform a powerful attack. At his initial power level, Haseo can only wield dual short swords; he earns the right to equip additional weapons like broadswords and scythes over the course of the game. In ''Reminisce'', he gains the ability to instantly change weapons in the middle of combat and scan the enemy for weapon weaknesses. If a party lands a large combo against an enemy with one of those hits being a regular attack, the victim becomes vulnerable to an enhanced type of Skill Trigger called "Rengeki" upon the landing of the regular attack.<ref name="ignreview"/> Rengeki attacks deal double damage, give an experience point bonus, and fill the aggressor party's Morale gauge, which allows the party to use a combination attack. Certain plot-related fights, called "Avatar battles", use a different interface which incorporates [[shoot 'em up]] gameplay elements. After depleting the opponent's health, players must charge up a "Data Drain" to end the battle.<ref name="page2review"/>
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In late 2014, Aura disappears, resulting in the slow decay of ''The World'' and the Internet as a whole. In response, the [[video game publisher|company]] that administrates ''The World'', CC Corp, sets up "Project G.U." and tasks them with remedying the problem. They come up with the "Restore Aura (RA) Plan", in which they attempt to retrieve the fragments of Morganna—an AI that served as Aura's "mother"—and seal them into [[player character]]s (PCs) of ''The World''.<ref>{{cite video game|title=Terminal Disc |developer=CyberConnect2 |publisher=Bandai |date=2006-10-24 |platform=PlayStation 2|quote='''Jun Bansyoya:''' It was thought that by sealing each piece of Morganna Factor separately into character data, players could then take control of them one at a time.}}</ref> In theory, this would allow the Project G.U. programmers to manipulate the Morganna program to recreate Aura. Only certain "chosen" players could control these special "Epitaph PCs".<ref>{{cite video game|title=Terminal Disc |developer=CyberConnect2 |publisher=Bandai |date=2006-10-24 |platform=PlayStation 2|quote='''Jun Bansyoya:''' When someone would try to log in to "The World" using one of these characters an unbearable vertigo, nausea, and headache would paralyze him. The Morganna Factor, just as it had in the cases of Skeith and Sora, showed a high affinity for human minds. But perhaps that was only towards the chosen ones.}}</ref>
After locating candidates to operate the Epitaph PCs, the team proceeds to test the RA Plan despite concerns over "anti-existences" that might damage the Internet. The program fails catastrophically and destroys over 80% of the data for ''The World''.<ref>{{cite video game|title=Terminal Disc |developer=CyberConnect2 |publisher=Bandai |date=2006-10-24 |platform=PlayStation 2|quote='''Jun Bansyoya:''' The R.A. program's failure and the huge fire that accompanied it caused over 80% of "The World's" data to be lost.}}</ref> Instead of trying to salvage the data, CC Corp develops ''The World R:2'' and releases it to a new generation of players.<ref>{{cite video game|title=Terminal Disc |developer=CyberConnect2 |publisher=Bandai |date=2006-10-24 |platform=PlayStation 2|quote='''Jun Bansyoya:''' They reasoned that instead of working towards repairing the old game's data, it would be a better idea to apply their resources to a new generation game. A new game project the company had dubbed "R:2."}}</ref> However, this new game is less popular than its predecessor and becomes plagued by "[[player versus player#Player
===Characters===
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==Development==
[[File:Hiroshi Matsuyama 20080704 Japan Expo 03.jpg|thumb|CyberConnect2 CEO [[Hiroshi Matsuyama]] worked in the series as director.]]
Development for ''.hack//G.U.'' began in October 2002, towards the end of the first ''[[.hack (video game series)|.hack]]'' series' production cycle, with [[CyberConnect2]]'s president [[Hiroshi Matsuyama]] as director.<ref name="Dengeki">{{cite web | year=2005 | title=.hack//GU Interview | publisher=[[Dengeki]] | url=http://dol.dengeki.com/soft/recommend/hack/ | language=ja | access-date=2010-12-16 | archive-date=2012-02-25 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120225050008/http://dol.dengeki.com/soft/recommend/hack/ | url-status=live }}</ref> It was first announced in June 2004 under the working title of "Project G.U.".<ref>{{cite web
Graphically and technologically, the game is an improvement on the original ''.hack'' series. As a series, the setting and concept presented in the games are darker and more mature than before.<ref name="IGNTGS"/> In terms of gameplay, ''.hack//G.U.'' was made more action-oriented than the first ''.hack'' games with Haseo being able to connect combos with other characters from the party.<ref name="GameSpot"/> The interactions between the characters outside ''The World'' were expanded to further simulate the experience of playing a MMORPG. This was based on ''.hack'' and the ''[[.hack//SIGN]]'' anime in which the characters had to leave ''The World'' in order to take care of "real life events."<ref name="gamespy2">{{cite web | date=September 21, 2005 | title=.hack//G.U. | website=[[GameSpy]] | url=http://ps2.gamespy.com/playstation-2/hackgu/652580p3.html | access-date=September 12, 2012 | archive-date=March 1, 2011 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110301093824/http://ps2.gamespy.com/playstation-2/hackgu/652580p3.html | url-status=live }}</ref> Matsuyama claimed that ''Rebirth'' was longer than the four games of the first series combined and that the three ''.hack//G.U.'' games would not be "three parts to the same game".<ref>{{cite web | author=Gann, Patrick | date=2005-05-19 | title=E3: Bandai Reveals .hack//G.U. | publisher=RPGFan | url=http://www.rpgfan.com/news/2005/1506.html | access-date=August 5, 2010 | archive-date=December 16, 2011 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111216132208/http://rpgfan.com/news/2005/1506.html | url-status=live }}</ref> Unlike the previous series where the animated tie-in ''[[.hack//Liminality]]'' was included as a bonus DVD, the development team opted to integrate the animated story into [[webisode]]s available in-game.<ref>{{cite web | author=Haynes, Jeff | date=2006-05-02 | title=Pre-E3 2006: .hack// G.U. Hands-on | website=IGN | url=http://ps2.ign.com/articles/704/704103p1.html | access-date=2010-08-05 | archive-date=2011-06-29 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629134811/http://ps2.ign.com/articles/704/704103p1.html | url-status=live }}</ref> Bandai also released a "Terminal Disc" with the special edition of ''Rebirth'', which further expands the franchise's backstory and bridges the gap between the two game series.<ref name="special">{{cite web | author=Hatfield, Daemon | date=September 18, 2006 | title=.hack//G.U. Vol.1 Gets Birthdate, Special Ed. | website=IGN | url=http://ps2.ign.com/articles/733/733320p1.html | access-date=August 5, 2010 | archive-date=June 29, 2011 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629134817/http://ps2.ign.com/articles/733/733320p1.html | url-status=live }}</ref>
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| total_width = 320
}}
Just as ''.hack'' and ''.hack//Sign'' were conceived as interconnected projects, Matsuyama wanted to do the same with ''.hack//G.U.'' and ''[[.hack//Roots]]''. This time, he wanted them to feature the same lead character, Haseo.<ref name="ameblo">{{cite web|url=https://ameblo.jp/cc2-piroshi/entry-11622748288.html|title=松山洋による20,000文字手記"「.hack//G.U.」全記録"後編【2】|website=CyberConnect2|access-date=June 13, 2020|archive-date=October 3, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201003171235/https://ameblo.jp/cc2-piroshi/entry-11622748288.html|url-status=live}}</ref> However, it was difficult to keep the writing consistent across projects. Matsuyama brought Tatsuya Hamazaki in to help with this challenge due to his experience working on the previous ''.hack'' project. Hamazaki wrote the game's script so the team could focus on developing the game. On Hamazaki's advice, two different writing teams worked on the game and the anime simultaneously.<ref name="ameblo"/> The second game is subtitled "The Voice that Thinks of You" in Japanese; Matsuyama says this refers to the web of relationships between characters, including how Haseo remembers Shino's voice, how Atoli thinks of Haseo, and most importantly what Ovan means to Haseo.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.excite.co.jp/news/article/Inside_89659/?p=6|title=【インタビュー】『.hack//G.U.』発表10周年、CC2松山洋に"続編の可能性"を訊いた|website=Excite|date=23 July 2015 |access-date=July 3, 2020|archive-date=July 3, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200703230602/https://www.excite.co.jp/news/article/Inside_89659/?p=6|url-status=live}}</ref>
Matsuyama has stated that the acronym "G.U." has twelve meanings related to the plot of the games but the central theme is "[[Bildungsroman|growing up]]" in many respects.<ref name="Dengeki"/><ref name="IGNTGS">{{cite web | author=Nix | date=2005-09-15 | title=TGS 2005: .hack//GU Update | website=IGN | url=http://ps2.ign.com/articles/651/651082p1.html | access-date=2010-08-05 | archive-date=2009-10-03 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091003010552/http://ps2.ign.com/articles/651/651082p1.html | url-status=live }}</ref> Haseo grows up as a character over the course of the series, developing his inter-personal skills and his worldliness. Matsuyama considered [[Kite (.hack)|Kite]], the lead of the previous games, as a kind and relatable character and thus wanted the new game to feature a different type of lead character.<ref>{{cite magazine|url=https://www.famitsu.com/news/201710/04143310.html|title=『.hack』シリーズの歩みを松山洋氏＆内山大輔氏が振り返る！ "『.hack//FanBook』発売記念トークショー"リポート|magazine=Famitsu|access-date=June 13, 2020}}</ref> In contrast, Haseo begins the series with a vengeful personality similar to main characters of [[shonen manga]] who exhibit iconic traits such as "rage, despair, conflict, courage, and victory".<ref name="remaster">{{cite web|title=Reminiscing On .hack//G.U. With CyberConnect2's Hiroshi Matsuyama|url=https://www.siliconera.com/reminiscing-hackg-u-cyberconnect2s-hiroshi-matsuyama/|work=Siliconera|date=10 November 2017|access-date=June 6, 2020|archive-date=6 June 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200606161115/https://www.siliconera.com/reminiscing-hackg-u-cyberconnect2s-hiroshi-matsuyama/|url-status=live}}</ref>
Haseo and Ovan were designed by Seiichiro Hosokawa. They were Hosokawa's first creations as a rookie at CyberConnect2.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.facebook.com/CyberConnect2.EN/posts/1972828666117274 |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/iarchive/facebook/321277101272447/1972828666117274 |archive-date=2022-02-26 |url-access=limited|title=CyberConnect2(EN) |work=CyberConnect2 |publisher=Facebook |access-date=June 26, 2020}}{{cbignore}}</ref> The staff asked previous artist [[Yoshiyuki Sadamoto]] for feedback on the character. As a result, some aesthetics from Haseo's design featured in the games' original trailers were removed from the finished product.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gamesradar.com/the-minds-behind-hackgu/5/|title=The minds behind .hack//G.U.|website=GamesRadar|access-date=June 14, 2020|date=September 6, 2006|author=Nutt, Christian|archive-date=June 14, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200614225504/https://www.gamesradar.com/the-minds-behind-hackgu/5/|url-status=live}}</ref> Haseo was influenced by Manji from the manga ''[[Blade of the Immortal]]'' by [[Hiroaki Samura]] while Atoli's design was mix between Western and Eastern culture with a bird theme forming her naming and design.<ref name="cape">{{cite web|url=https://www.4gamer.net/games/151/G015172/20130413005/|title=資料と共に振り返る「.hack」の11年。松山＆新里氏が当時を語る「『.hack』シリーズ完全設定資料集」発売記念トーク＆サイン会レポート|website=4Gamer|access-date=July 14, 2020|language=ja|archive-date=June 6, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200606220354/https://www.4gamer.net/games/151/G015172/20130413005/|url-status=live}}</ref> For Haseo's Xth form design, his [[bangs (hair)|bangs]] were made to symbolize his continued immaturity.<ref name="ameblo"/> Haseo can pursue a romance with certain other characters over the course of the games. Although Atoli was intended to be the main heroine, the team had issues while writing her to the point that Matsuyama himself chose other characters to romance when playing the game alone. This motivated Matsuyama to make her more appealing for the second chapter of ''.hack//G.U.''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.excite.co.jp/news/article/Inside_89659/?p=11|title=【インタビュー】『.hack//G.U.』発表10周年、CC2松山洋に"続編の可能性"を訊いた|website=Excite|date=23 July 2015 |access-date=July 3, 2020|language=ja|archive-date=July 3, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200703230600/https://www.excite.co.jp/news/article/Inside_89659/?p=11|url-status=live}}</ref>
The two leads, Haseo and Atoli, were voiced by [[Takahiro Sakurai]] and [[Ayako Kawasumi]]. Matsuyama was surprised by Sakurai's performance during Avatar battles where Haseo yells to summon Skeith; these were among Matsuyama's favorites as a result.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.excite.co.jp/news/article/Inside_89659/?p=12|title=【インタビュー】『.hack//G.U.』発表10周年、CC2松山洋に"続編の可能性"を訊いた|website=Excite|date=23 July 2015 |access-date=July 3, 2020|language=ja|archive-date=July 5, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200705024524/https://www.excite.co.jp/news/article/Inside_89659/?p=12|url-status=live}}</ref> Kawasumi also enjoyed voicing her character across thee series.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.4gamer.net/games/385/G038540/20180407006/|title=「LieN－リアン－」10周年記念ライブ「.hack//追奏」レポート。川澄綾子さん，小林沙苗さんら出演声優陣による生アテレコも|website=4Gamer|access-date=July 7, 2020|language=ja|archive-date=July 7, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200707220458/https://www.4gamer.net/games/385/G038540/20180407006/|url-status=live}}</ref> Other major actors include [[Megumi Toyoguchi]] and [[Mitsuki Saiga]].<ref name="Fan event"/> [[Kaori Nazuka]] reprised her role as Shino from ''.hack//Roots''. She enjoyed the process due to the friendship she formed with Sakurai and [[Hiroki Tōchi]] (Ovan) during the recording of the series.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://dengekionline.com/data/news/2008/1/22/d1225e2a2fc4a6d1e8a9318249201c0d.html|title=夜の池袋に"ハセヲ"現る——「.hack//G.U.TRILOGY」第2回舞台挨拶をレポート！|website=Dengeki Online|access-date=July 21, 2020|archive-date=July 22, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200722010448/https://dengekionline.com/data/news/2008/1/22/d1225e2a2fc4a6d1e8a9318249201c0d.html|url-status=live}}</ref> As in the previous games, Matsuyama appears and voices a character in Japanese, this time as Piros the 3rd.<ref>{{cite web| title=.hack//G.U. Vol. 3: Redemption Interview| website=IGN| url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2007/08/30/hackgu-vol-3-redemption-interview?page=3| date=August 29, 2007| access-date=September 12, 2012| archive-date=February 23, 2014| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140223061151/http://www.ign.com/articles/2007/08/30/hackgu-vol-3-redemption-interview?page=3| url-status=live}}</ref>
===Remaster===
[[File:LastRecodeVisuals.png|thumb|300px|A comparison between the graphics of the remaster
Matsuyama was motivated to remaster the trilogy in 2017 because it was nearing the 15th anniversary of the ''.hack'' series and ''.hack//G.U.'' takes place in 2017.<ref name="remaster"/> CyberConnect2 aimed to improve the visuals from the original trilogy to fit the PlayStation 4.<ref>{{cite web|title=.hack//G.U. Last Recode Brings Plenty Of System Changes Along With Visual Improvements|url=http://www.siliconera.com/2017/06/13/hackg-u-last-recode-brings-plenty-system-changes-along-visual-improvements/|work=Siliconera|date=13 June 2017 |access-date=June 13, 2017|archive-date=June 13, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170613151632/http://www.siliconera.com/2017/06/13/hackg-u-last-recode-brings-plenty-system-changes-along-visual-improvements/|url-status=live}}</ref> They wanted to create something that would meet the expectations of our fans. Thus the modifications to the game to deliver something that would be "fresh and nostalgic". A cheat mode was added to make progress faster. The fights were also revised to increase their speed and reduce any stressful feeling from the original product.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.siliconera.com/reminiscing-hackg-u-cyberconnect2s-hiroshi-matsuyama/|website=Siliconera|access-date=July 7, 2020|title=Reminiscing On .hack//G.U. With CyberConnect2's Hiroshi Matsuyama|date=10 November 2017|archive-date=6 June 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200606161115/https://www.siliconera.com/reminiscing-hackg-u-cyberconnect2s-hiroshi-matsuyama/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=.hack//G.U. Last Recode's Cheat Mode Gives People Options|url=https://www.siliconera.com/hackg-u-last-recodes-cheat-mode-gives-people-options/|work=Siliconera|date=10 November 2017|access-date=July 5, 2020|archive-date=July 5, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200705183614/https://www.siliconera.com/hackg-u-last-recodes-cheat-mode-gives-people-options/|url-status=live}}</ref> In order to improve the game, ''Last Recode'' employs a 1080p resolution with a 16:9 widescreen picture and 60 [[frames per second|fps]].<ref>{{cite web|title=.hack//G.U. Last Recode Video Comparison Shows the Visual Upgrades|url=https://www.playstationlifestyle.net/2017/09/22/hackg-u-last-recode-comparison-shows-visual-upgrades/|work=PlayStation Life Style|access-date=July 7, 2020|date=September 22, 2017|archive-date=July 7, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200707163731/https://www.playstationlifestyle.net/2017/09/22/hackg-u-last-recode-comparison-shows-visual-upgrades/|url-status=live}}</ref>
Matsuyama wanted to use the remaster as an epilogue to Haseo's story and to further promote it, the team designed a new form for combat. The new chapter, ''Vol. 4//Reconnection'', is meant to resolve the cliffhanger at the end of the original trilogy and conclude Haseo's story.<ref>{{cite web|title=.hack//G.U. Last Recode's Fourth Volume Ties Up Loose Ends|url=https://www.siliconera.com/hackg-u-last-recodes-fourth-volume-ties-loose-ends/|work=Siliconera|date=3 November 2017|access-date=July 5, 2020|archive-date=6 June 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200606161251/https://www.siliconera.com/hackg-u-last-recodes-fourth-volume-ties-loose-ends/|url-status=live}}</ref> The Japanese limited edition features a number of supplemental materials depicting events that take place after the end of the games including a [[CD drama]] about Haseo's job working for Pi while also looking after the comatose Ovan, a [[light novel]] centered on the supporting cast, and Bee Train's [[original video animation]] ''.hack///G.U. Returner''.<ref>{{cite web|title=.hack//G.U. Last Recode
''.hack//G.U. Last Recode'' was released for PlayStation 4 and Microsoft Windows on November 1, 2017 in Japan, and on November 3, 2017 in North America and Europe.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gematsu.com/2017/08/hackg-u-last-recode-launches-november-3-europe|title=.hack//G.U. Last Recode launches November 3 in Europe|website=Gematsu|date=August 29, 2017|access-date=December 2, 2021|archive-date=December 2, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211202153954/https://www.gematsu.com/2017/08/hackg-u-last-recode-launches-november-3-europe|url-status=live}}</ref> CyberConnect2 also considered a Nintendo Switch release due to widespread popularity of the system, but their offers were refused by Bandai Namco, citing costs of porting and sales prospects; Matsuyama also named the "long-standing relationship with [[Sony]]" and series' history of exclusivity to [[PlayStation]] consoles as possible reasons.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://nintendoeverything.com/cyberconnect2-wants-to-release-hack-g-u-last-recode-on-switch-but-bandai-namco-is-hesitant/|title=CyberConnect2 wants to release .hack//G.U. Last Recode on Switch, but Bandai Namco is hesitant
===Music===
Line 106 ⟶ 110:
| type = soundtrack
| artist = Chikayo Fukuda
| cover = blank
| alt =
| released = September 6, 2006
Line 125 ⟶ 129:
| type = soundtrack
| artist = Chikayo Fukuda
| cover = blank
| alt =
| released = January 24, 2007
Line 407 ⟶ 411:
| gr = no
| game1 = Vol.1//Rebirth
| mc1 = 69/100<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/
| game2 = Vol.2//Reminisce
| mc2 = 61/100<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/
| game3 = Vol.3//Redemption
| mc3 = 60/100<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/
| game4 = Last Recode
| mc4 = PC: 69/100<ref name="pcrecode">{{cite web |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/
}}
The series has received a lukewarm reception, but positive sales figures. In 2010, CyberConnect2 announced that sales of the ''.hack'' games exceeded 3 million combining both the first ''.hack'' series and the ''.hack//G.U.'' series.<ref name="sales">{{cite web | title=CyberConnect2 English site | publisher=CyberConnect2 | url=http://www.cyberconnect2.jp/en/company.html | access-date=August 5, 2010| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100414193259/http://www.cyberconnect2.jp/en/company.html | archive-date=2010-04-14 | url-status=dead }}</ref> ''Last Recode'' sold 300,000 copies worldwide.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.siliconera.com/hack-g-u-last-recode-reaches-300000-in-worldwide-shipments-and-digital-sales/|title=.hack//G.U. Last Recode Reaches 300,000 In Worldwide Shipments And Digital Sales|website=Siliconera|access-date=July 4, 2020|date=October 29, 2018|archive-date=July 5, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200705034634/https://www.siliconera.com/hack-g-u-last-recode-reaches-300000-in-worldwide-shipments-and-digital-sales/|url-status=live}}</ref> Patrick Gann of RPGFan recognized the development team's efforts to address the problems of the first ''[[.hack (video game series)|.hack]]'' series, succeeding in some respects and failing in others.<ref name="RFp1">{{cite web | author=Gann, Patrick | date=November 15, 2006 | title=.hack//G.U. Vol.1//Rebirth | publisher=RPGFan | url=http://www.rpgfan.com/reviews/dothackgu-rebirth/index.html | access-date=August 5, 2010 | archive-date=January 10, 2010 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100110125610/http://www.rpgfan.com/reviews/dothackgu-rebirth/index.html | url-status=live }}</ref> Like the first series, ''.hack//G.U.'' goes to great lengths to preserve the illusion of playing an online game, through in-game message boards and news reports, and Gann found that these elements gave more depth to the future world he was experiencing. He found fault in the formulaic progression between dungeons, checking email to find the next dungeon, but the battle mechanics were a marked improvement over the original series. Although the graphics were "spectacular", Gann criticized the limited and repetitive dungeon designs.<ref name="RFp1"/>
In his review of ''Reminisce'', Gann noted the relatively good quality of the voice acting, but called the translated script "hit or miss".<ref name="RFp2">{{cite web | author=Gann, Patrick | date=July 1, 2007 | title=.hack//G.U. Vol.2//Reminisce | publisher=RPGFan | url=http://www.rpgfan.com/reviews/dothackgu2-reminisce/index.html | access-date=2010-08-05 | archive-date=January 10, 2010 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100110053515/http://www.rpgfan.com/reviews/dothackgu2-reminisce/index.html | url-status=live }}</ref> [[Yuri Lowenthal]]'s performance as Haseo was also well received, with his acting having aged well across the years.<ref name="reminsce"/><ref>{{cite web|url=https://ricedigital.co.uk/hack-g-u-last-recode-review-ps4/|title=.hack//G.U. Last Recode Review (PS4)|website=Rice Digital|access-date=July 6, 2020|date=April 9, 2018|author=Jay, Mitch|archive-date=July 7, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200707134458/https://ricedigital.co.uk/hack-g-u-last-recode-review-ps4/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://archive.rpgamer.com/games/hack/hackgu3/reviews/hackgu3strev1.html |title=.hack//G.U. Vol. 3: Redemption - Staff Review |website=RPGamer |access-date=July 7, 2020 |date=April 9, 2018 |author=Ouden, Adriaan |archive-date=July 8, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200708070551/http://archive.rpgamer.com/games/hack/hackgu3/reviews/hackgu3strev1.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Minor changes to the battle system, such as being able to change weapons at any time, made ''Reminisce''{{'}}s combat more exciting. While Haseo was criticized for his immature personality in the first game, his development in following games has been praised.<ref name="reminsce">{{cite web | author=den Ouden, Adriann
Meghan Sullivan of [[IGN]] described the series as an overall improvement over the first series but complained that the Avatar battles were boring and a missed opportunity for a "very cool feature".<ref name="ignreview">{{cite web | author=Sullivan, Meghan | date=October 5, 2007| title=.hack//G.U. Vol.1//Rebirth Review | website=IGN | url=http://ps2.ign.com/articles/824/824509p1.html | access-date=August 5, 2010| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20100808145039/http://ps2.ign.com/articles/824/824509p1.html| archive-date= August 8, 2010<!--Added by DASHBot-->|url-status=live}}</ref> She also suggested that the storyline could be streamlined by allowing e-mail access within ''The World''. Despite deriding the "filler" story of ''Rebirth'', Sullivan found ''Reminisce'' to be much more enjoyable due to its more mature storyline, citing the interactions between the cast.<ref>{{cite web | author=Sullivan, Meghan | date=2007-10-05 | title=.hack//G.U. Vol.2//Reminisce Review | website=IGN | url=http://ps2.ign.com/articles/825/825340p1.html | access-date=August 5, 2010| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20100704160920/http://ps2.ign.com/articles/825/825340p1.html| archive-date= 4 July 2010<!--Added by DASHBot-->|url-status=live}}</ref> However, she found the new ''Crimson VS'' card game to be as "pointless" as the Avatar battles. The overall sentiment conveyed by multiple reviewers was that the new games would appeal to fans of the series, but would have been much better if released as a single game.<ref>{{cite magazine
The collection ''Last Recode'' was better received for bringing resolution to the original trilogy. Josh Torres of RPGSite praised the main narrative and improvements to the graphics.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.rpgsite.net/review/6297-hack-g-u-last-recode-review|title=Game Info.hack//G.U. Last Recode Review|website=RPGSite|access-date=July 4, 2020|date=November 5, 2017|author=Torres, Josh|archive-date=July 4, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190704002802/https://www.rpgsite.net/review/6297-hack-g-u-last-recode-review|url-status=live}}</ref> Garri Bagdasarov of PlayStation Universe lamented the lack of variety in dungeons in the first title but welcomed more replay value when facing other enemies.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.psu.com/reviews/hack-g-u-last-recode-review/|title=.hack//G.U. Last Recode Review|website=PlayStation Universe|access-date=July 4, 2020|date=November 5, 2017|archive-date=July 5, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200705021310/https://www.psu.com/reviews/hack-g-u-last-recode-review/|url-status=live}}</ref> Peter Triezenberg of RPGFan echoed these criticisms but noted that Haseo's character arc was one of the strongest parts of the narrative.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.rpgfan.com/reviews/hackGU_Last_Recode/index.html |title=.hack//G.U. Last Recode |website=RPGFan |access-date=July 4, 2020 |date=December 13, 2017 |author=Triezenberg, Peter |archive-date=June 12, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200612162352/https://www.rpgfan.com/reviews/hackGU_Last_Recode/index.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Aarón Rodríguez of Meristation also praised the narrative but felt the graphics were still lacking.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://as.com/meristation/juegos/hackgu_last_recode/analisis/|title=.hack//G.U. Last Recode|website=Meristation|access-date=July 4, 2020|date=November 28, 2017|language=es|author=Rodríguez, Aarón|archive-date=July 5, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200705164027/https://as.com/meristation/juegos/hackgu_last_recode/analisis/|url-status=live}}</ref> Ray Porreca of ''Destructoid'' liked Haseo's journey in the fourth volume of ''.hack//G.U.'' based on the handling of his relationships.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.destructoid.com/review-hack-g-u-last-recode-473055.phtml |title=Review: .hack//G.U. Last Recode |website=Destructoid |access-date=June 12, 2020 |author=Porreca, Ray |date=November 16, 2017 |archive-date=July 24, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200724033723/https://www.destructoid.com/review-hack-g-u-last-recode-473055.phtml |url-status=live }}</ref> The PC port earned positive responses overall though Cody Medellin of WorthPlaying cited issues in the usage of controls and keyboard.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://worthplaying.com/article/2018/1/15/reviews/106736/|title=PC Review - '.hack//G.U. Last Recode|website=WorthPlaying|access-date=July 24, 2020|date=January 15, 2018|author=Medellin, Cody|archive-date=July 24, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200724074357/https://worthplaying.com/article/2018/1/15/reviews/106736/|url-status=live}}</ref> Adam Beck of Hardcore Gamer found the content aged well and fitted properly in the PC as there were no framerate drops.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://hardcoregamer.com/2017/11/10/review-hackg-u-last-recode/278923/|title=PC Review - '.hack//G.U. Last Recode|website=Hardcore Gamer|access-date=July 24, 2020|date=November 10, 2017|author=Beck, Adam|archive-date=July 24, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200724075059/https://hardcoregamer.com/2017/11/10/review-hackg-u-last-recode/278923/|url-status=live}}</ref>
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==Related media==
{{see also|List of .hack media}}
As part of a larger multimedia franchise, the games have inspired a variety of subsequent novels, [[manga]], and film. An [[anime]] television series set before the events of ''.hack//G.U.'' was produced by [[Bee Train]] under the title of ''[[.hack//Roots]]''. The series depicts Haseo's first experiences playing ''The World''. It lasted for twenty-six episodes that aired in Japan between April 5 and September 26, 2006. ''[[.hack//G.U.+]]'' serves as a manga adaptation of the game's story.<ref name="Newtype 7 2 103">Smith, Lesley. ".hack//GU+". ''Newtype USA''. '''<!--volume-->7''' (<!--issue-->2) p. 103. February 2008. {{ISSN|1541-4817}}.</ref> It was published in the ''[[.hack//G.U.: The World]]'' magazine starting in November 2005 with art by Yuzuka Morita and story by Tatsuya Hamazaki.<ref>{{cite web| title=.hack//GU manga| publisher=Anime News Network| url=http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2005-10-28/.hack-gu-manga| access-date=September 6, 2012| date=October 25, 2005| archive-date=October 6, 2009| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091006040921/http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2005-10-28/.hack-gu-manga| url-status=live}}</ref> It was collected in a total of five ''[[tankōbon]]'' volumes published by [[Kadokawa Shoten]] between June 26, 2006 and March 23, 2009.<ref>{{cite web
A novel series written by Tatsuya Hamazaki and illustrated by Yuzuka Morita of the same name retells the story of the games with slight modifications, such as depicting Epitaphs as weapons instead of physical Avatars and a further exploration Haseo's background. Four volumes were published by Kadokawa Shoten between April 1, 2007 and August 1, 2008.<ref>{{cite web| title=.hack//G.U. 1| url=http://www.kadokawa.co.jp/lnovel/bk_detail.php?pcd=200612000042| language=ja| publisher=Kadokawa Shoten| access-date=September 6, 2012| archive-date=February 23, 2010| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100223093121/http://www.kadokawa.co.jp/lnovel/bk_detail.php?pcd=200612000042| url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| title=.hack//G.U. 4| url=http://www.kadokawa.co.jp/lnovel/bk_detail.php?pcd=200705000174| language=ja| publisher=Kadokawa Shoten| access-date=September 6, 2012| archive-date=February 23, 2010| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100223093251/http://www.kadokawa.co.jp/lnovel/bk_detail.php?pcd=200705000174| url-status=live}}</ref> Tokyopop published the novels in North America between February 10, 2009 and April 26, 2011.<ref>{{cite book | title=.hack// G.U. (novel) Volume 1: The Terror of Death| isbn=978-1427813817| last1=Hamazaki| first1=Tatsuya| date=10 February 2009| publisher=TokyoPop}}</ref><ref>{{cite book | title=.hack// G.U. (novel) Volume 4| isbn=978-1427815255| last1=Hamazaki| first1=Tatsuya| last2=Collinge| first2=Gemma| year=2011| publisher=TokyoPop}}</ref> Cyberconnect2 also produced ''[[.hack//G.U. Trilogy]]'',
==Notes==
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{{DEFAULTSORT:.Hack G.U.}}
[[Category:.hack video games|G.U.]]
[[Category:2006 video games]]▼
[[Category:Bandai Namco games]]
[[Category:Bandai Namco Entertainment franchises]]
Line 459 ⟶ 460:
[[Category:Video games set in 2017]]
[[Category:Video games using procedural generation]]
[[Category:Windows games]]
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