Critically Acclaimed Steins;Gate Releases August 25 in North America

Awhile ago, news reports confirmed that the localization of Steins;Gate was heading toward Western shores, and fairly recently, the visual novel officially released in Europe. However, North Americans continued to pine for their own release.

Thankfully, PQube has finally announced the North American release date of Steins;Gate, exclusive for the PlayStation 3 and PlayStation Vita. Additionally, North America will also be treated to the limited edition El Psy Kongroo Edition, which contains:

• Gorgeous, premium quality 126 page artbook featuring CG and Key Artwork
• Double Pin Badge set for new Future Gadget Lab Members
• Exclusive Metal Upa Replica
• Badge set and Metal Upa Presentation box

This limited edition will only be available for pre-order at the Rice Digital Store for only $79.99, which includes free shipping. Just from a quick digital glance, the El Psy Kongroo Edition package appears aesthetically pleasing overall, so it should live up to the high price tag. Luckily, this edition is also region free.

Steins;Gate has been considered the greatest visual novel ever to roam platforms, bringing about a tale of students discovering the ability to alter the past via texting and modded microwave. Of course, a certain corporation isn't exactly too happy about that as the students become involved with a conspiracy that surrounds said corporation. To change how the story unfolds, players must use their phones to send texts -- so the gameplay's a little bit of a unique take.

This exciting visual novel will release August 25 for the Vita and the PlayStation 3.