The SEGA Blog details the plan to bring Phantasy Star Online 2 to western audiences in 2013 as a free-to-play title in North America and Europe. Here's the Phantasy Star Online 2 teaser website, and here's a bit:

Ultimately, the game is shaped around the core idea of players extensively customizing their individual weapon combos and upgrading their own skills, combining the character progression of an RPG with the flat-out combat prowess of an arcade-action game. Mix in Phantasy Star’s unique and extensive style and incredible customization, and you have the recipe for an online multiplayer experience unlike any other.

For those of you who have traveled with us in the past, through the original RPGs, through the original Online or Portable adventures, or across the Universe: We hope you will make the journey with us to this exciting new realm. If you are new to Phantasy Star, we hope you will join us for a new adventure unlike anything else Online.