View source for .hack//G.U.

{{Short description|Video game series}}
{{good article}}
{{Infobox video game series
| title = .hack//G.U.
| image = .hackGULogo.png 
| caption = Cover of ''.hack//G.U. Vol.1//Rebirth''
| genre = [[Action role-playing]]
| developer = [[CyberConnect2]]
| publisher = [[Bandai Namco Entertainment]]
| creator = [[Hiroshi Matsuyama]]
| writer = {{unbulleted list|Tatsuya Hamazaki|[[Kazunori Itō]]|Miu Kawasaki}}
| artist = {{unbulleted list|[[Yoshiyuki Sadamoto]]|Seiichiro Hosokawa}}
| composer = Chikayo Fukuda
| platforms = {{unbulleted list|[[PlayStation 2]]|[[PlayStation 4]]|[[Microsoft Windows]]|[[Nintendo Switch]]}}
| first release version = ''.hack//G.U. Vol.1//Rebirth''
| first release date = May 18, 2006
| latest release version = ''.hack//G.U. Last Recode''
| latest release date = November 1, 2017
| 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 [[Bandai Namco Entertainment]] between 2006 and 2007. The series contains three games: ''.hack//G.U. Vol. 1//Rebirth'',{{efn|{{nihongo|Resurrection|再誕|Saitan}}}} ''.hack//G.U. Vol. 2//Reminisce''{{efn|{{nihongo|The Voice that Thinks of You|君思フ声|Kimi Omou Koe}}}} and ''.hack//G.U. Vol. 3//Redemption''.{{efn|{{nihongo|At a Walking Pace|歩くような速さで|Aruku you na Hayasa de}}}} As in the previous ''[[.hack (video game series)|.hack]]'' games, ''.hack//G.U.'' simulates a [[massively multiplayer online role-playing game]] (MMORPG) called ''The World''—the player controls a character who plays the fictional online game. They were directed by [[Hiroshi Matsuyama]] who aimed to address criticisms of the previous series. Its narrative, by Tatsuya Hamazaki, was written concurrently with ''[[.hack//Roots]]'', an [[anime]] set before the events of the games Produced by [[Bee Train]], which depicts Haseo's first days in ''The World''.  However, due to narrative and character discontinuity resultant from ''Roots'' being written by a completely different production team than the games, manga and novels released as part of G.U., ''Cyberconnect2'' now considers the prequel anime to be one of the non-canon entries within the .''Hack'' Franchise.

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 which caused her to be left 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.

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.

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 due to such solving some issues with the gameplay and presentation.

==Gameplay==
[[File:GU gameplay.jpg|thumb|left|The player's party, consisting of Haseo, Endrance, and Kuhn, is battling Sirius, another player. The pink color of Sirius' target box indicates that a Rengeki may be performed on him.]]
''.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=<nowiki>.hack//G.U. Vol.1//Rebirth Review</nowiki> | 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: <nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> 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"/>

==Plot==
===Setting===
''.hack//G.U.'' takes place in an alternate version of [[Earth]] in the year 2017. As depicted in the first ''[[.hack (video game series)|.hack]]'' game series, the "2nd Network Crisis" was an incident that occurred seven years ago in which many computer systems across Japan malfunctioned.<ref>{{cite video game|title=Terminal Disc |developer=CyberConnect2 |publisher=Bandai |date=2006-10-24 |platform=PlayStation 2|quote='''Jun Bansyoya:''' There's little doubt that the 2nd Network Crisis of 2010 was a direct result of "The World."}}</ref> Through the efforts of those games' hero, Kite, the incident resulted in the birth of Aura, the [[artificial general intelligence|ultimate artificial intelligence]] ([[artificial intelligence|AI]]), capable of making decisions for itself.<ref>{{cite video game|title=Terminal Disc |developer=CyberConnect2 |publisher=Bandai |date=2006-10-24 |platform=PlayStation 2|quote='''Jun Bansyoya:''' Aura had finally become the ultimate A.I. She attained a wisdom beyond that of humanity, and in doing so she formed a new system, a better system in which "The World" could exist.}}</ref> Under the guidance of Aura, ''The World'', the most popular MMORPG at the time, flourishes and the events of ''[[.hack//Legend of the Twilight]]'' occur during this four-year period.<ref>{{cite video game|title=Terminal Disc |developer=CyberConnect2 |publisher=Bandai |date=2006-10-24 |platform=PlayStation 2|quote='''Jun Bansyoya:''' The four-year period between 2011 and 2014 were golden years for "The World." ... [It] was Aura's idea, not CC Corporation's to create a replica of the Kite character and use it in a promotional giveaway campaign.}}</ref>

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 Killing|player killers]]" (PKs), players who target other players for fun and sport. The Epitaph PCs which had been lost during the RA Plan disaster resurface in the new version, attached to certain players of interest.<ref>{{cite video game|title=Terminal Disc |developer=CyberConnect2 |publisher=Bandai |date=2006-10-24 |platform=PlayStation 2|quote='''Jun Bansyoya:''' At least as long as the Chosen Ones don't access The World. If they do, they may unwittingly draw Epitaphs to themselves.}}</ref>

===Characters===
[[File:GU characters.jpg|thumb|The main characters of the series: (top row) Yata, Ovan, (2nd row) Pi, Kuhn, Alkaid, (3rd row) Endrance, Haseo, Atoli, Aina, (bottom row) Saku, Bo.]]
{{main|List of .hack characters}}
The main playable character of ''.hack//G.U.'' is [[Haseo]], a player of ''The World'' whose friend Shino fell into a [[coma]] after being attacked by a PK named "Tri-Edge" within the game.<ref>{{Cite video game |title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> Vol. 1: Rebirth |developer=CyberConnect2 |publisher=Bandai |quote='''Haseo:''' Wait, you know Tri-Edge? / '''Ovan:''' Six months now, and Shino hasn't come back to "The World" since Tri-Edge killed her. Meanwhile, the real-life Shino is lying in a coma. And no one seems to know the reason why. Tri-Edge, he is not a normal PK. |year=2006}}</ref> As a result, Haseo becomes obsessed with gaining the strength to defeat Tri-Edge and save Shino—he earns the nickname "Terror of Death" for his relentless hunting of PKs. As an Epitaph PC, Haseo is recruited into the new incarnation of Project G.U., which now handles [[debugging]] of ''The World''. Yata, who played a key role in the events of ''.hack'' under the name Wiseman, leads Project G.U., while other Epitaph PCs including Kuhn and Pi make up the rest of the group. Haseo's hostile nature attracts the attention of [[Atoli]], a member of the peace-loving Moon Tree guild, who resolves to befriend him. Haseo is also searching for [[Ovan (.hack)|Ovan]], Haseo's and Shino's former guildmaster who disappeared during ''[[.hack//Roots]]'' under mysterious circumstances.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gamesradar.com/the-characters-of-hackgu/|title=The characters of <nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> |website=GamesRadar|access-date=July 15, 2020|date=July 15, 2006|author=Nutt, Christian|archive-date=June 12, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200612160616/https://www.gamesradar.com/the-characters-of-hackgu/|url-status=live}}</ref>

=== Story ===
==== ''Vol. 1//Rebirth'' ====
After months of searching, Haseo finally encounters Tri-Edge and attempts to kill him but is hopelessly outmatched. In the battle, Tri-Edge uses an illegal [[Skill (role-playing games)|skill]] on Haseo, Data Drain, which corrupts his character data and resets it to [[Experience point#Level-based progression|level one]].<ref>{{Cite video game |title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> Vol. 1: Rebirth |developer=CyberConnect2 |publisher=Bandai |quote='''Memoir:''' You attacked Tri-Edge in anger to no avail. Tri-Edge attacked you with a strange beam of light. |year=2006}}</ref> Lacking the strength he once had, Haseo meets two friendly players, Silabus and Gaspard, who invite him to join their [[Clan (video games)|guild]].<ref>{{Cite video game |title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> Vol. 1: Rebirth |developer=CyberConnect2 |publisher=Bandai |quote='''Memoir:''' Silabus and Canard are still treating you like a noob. |year=2006}}</ref> Haseo is also approached by Kuhn and Pi who recruit him into Yata's organization of Epitaph PCs, players who can summon Avatars. This group's goal is to protect ''The World'' from AIDA, a mysterious [[software bug]] that has been infecting parts of the game which can only be defeated using an Avatar.<ref>{{Cite video game |title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> Vol. 1: Rebirth |developer=CyberConnect2 |publisher=Bandai |quote='''Yata:''' After all, the key that is needed to solve the riddle of AIDA, Tri-Edge, and the comatose players, is right here in this game, "The World." We share a common interest. /.../ '''Yata:''' At this point the only ones capable of combating AIDA are Epitaph users. |year=2006}}</ref>

During this time, Haseo is contacted repeatedly by Atoli, a gentle [[Healer (video games)|healer]] from Moon Tree guild who tries to convince him to enjoy the game and its world more.<ref>{{Cite video game |title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> Vol. 1: Rebirth |developer=CyberConnect2 |publisher=Bandai |quote=You are stopped in Mac Anu by a member of the guild Moon Tree. You meet a female player known as Atoli. |year=2006}}</ref> He is brusque and standoffish with her because her character model strongly resembles Shino's but she persists in trying to befriend him.<ref>{{Cite video game |title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> Vol. 1: Rebirth |developer=CyberConnect2 |publisher=Bandai |quote='''Memoir:''' For a second you saw Shino in Atoli. Pull yourself together and gather the Symbol Fragments to open the door to the Beast Temple. |year=2006}}</ref> Haseo awakens his Avatar, Skeith, while fighting in a tournament and he prevails over the champion Endrance, who was being controlled by AIDA. After Endrance's defeat, Atoli finds a strange red mark made by Tri-Edge and falls into the portal it creates. Haseo, Pi, and Kuhn follow her through the warp and see her struggling to open a [[locker]] in a white void. Tri-Edge ambushes them but they manage to defeat him.<ref>{{Cite video game |title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> Vol. 1: Rebirth |developer=CyberConnect2 |publisher=Bandai |quote='''Haseo:''' Wait, no! First you have to tell me about how to bring everybody back! |year=2006}}</ref> After he fades away, the locker opens to reveal AIDA, which infects Atoli.

==== ''Vol. 2//Reminisce'' ====
Haseo and the G.U. staff find themselves trapped inside the game, physically unable to leave or [[log out]]. Atoli recovers, but is rendered mute, able to communicate only through instant messages. Yata explains that AIDA has copied ''The World''{{'}}s server, trapping everyone inside to experiment on them. They transfer everyone back to CC Corp's servers to escape. Ovan directs Haseo to gather the Epitaph PCs together to solve the mystery of AIDA. Shortly afterwards, Haseo is approached by a player named Alkaid, concerned for her friend Sirius, who has been possessed by AIDA.<ref>{{Cite video game |title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> Vol. 2: Reminisce |developer=CyberConnect2 |publisher=Bandai |quote='''Memoir:''' To find Sirius' truth, Alkaid wants you to join the Tournament with her. Entering the Tournament is the only way to contact the AIDA-infected Sirius. |year=2006}}</ref> They enter into a tournament to fight Sirius, but Alkaid is ambushed by the AIDA-infected PK Bordeaux, which leaves her in a coma. Haseo requests Endrance's assistance for the rest of the tournament. They defeat Sirius and purge him of the AIDA that had stolen Atoli's Epitaph.<ref>{{Cite video game |title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> Vol. 2: Reminisce |developer=CyberConnect2 |publisher=Bandai |quote='''Memoir:''' Endrance came to your aid, and with his help you were able to defeat the AIDA-infected Bordeaux. |year=2006}}</ref>
 
With Atoli's Epitaph returning, she also recovers.<ref>{{Cite video game |title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> Vol. 2: Reminisce |developer=CyberConnect2 |publisher=Bandai |quote='''Memoir:''' You got back Atoli's Epitaph. Her wound healed on her arm. |year=2006}}</ref> However, her superior from Moon Tree, Sakaki, pushes her into a depressed fugue that leaves her vulnerable to AIDA again. Sakaki attacks his own guild to provoke Atoli into using her Avatar; he seeks to manipulate her and AIDA so he can gain control of the real world through the Internet. Haseo saves Atoli and defeats Sakaki after he purposely contaminates himself with AIDA in a last-ditch effort to gain control of the network.<ref>{{Cite video game |title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> Vol. 2: Reminisce |developer=CyberConnect2 |publisher=Bandai |quote='''Memoir:''' Atoli, being controlled by Sakaki, went on a rampage with her Avatar. But you separated her from AIDA with Data Drain. |year=2006}}</ref><ref>{{Cite video game |title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> Vol. 2: Reminisce |developer=CyberConnect2 |publisher=Bandai |quote='''Memoir:''' Sakaki willingly became "infected" by AIDA in order to gain power, but both he and his ambitions were defeated. |year=2006}}</ref> Following this, Ovan appears and reveals that he is the real Tri-Edge—his left arm contains the first hostile AIDA.<ref>{{Cite video game |title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> Vol. 3: Redemption |developer=CyberConnect2 |publisher=Bandai |quote='''Memoir:''' Tri-Edge's identity was revealed to be your former comrade, Ovan. |year=2007}}</ref> The enemy that Haseo had believed was Tri-Edge is actually Azure Kite, one of three AIs that Aura had created to destroy the AIDAs.<ref>{{Cite video game |title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> Vol. 3: Redemption |developer=CyberConnect2 |publisher=Bandai |quote='''Yata:''' Yes, of course. They are Aura's knights. Are these the "pursuers" Ovan mentioned? Are they the guardians of the systems? ''[...]'' '''Haseo:''' Then that means they were after anomalities in the system of "The World." They were after AIDA, and Ovan. |year=2007}}</ref> Ovan orchestrated Shino's and Alkaid's attacks and Sakaki's betrayal in order to push Haseo into becoming strong enough to kill the AIDA possessing him. Though Haseo succeeds in defeating Ovan, the coma victims do not recover.

==== ''Vol. 3//Redemption'' ====
With AIDA corruption spreading throughout the Internet, CC Corp executives fire Yata from Project G.U. and replace him with Sakaki. Mad with power, Sakaki forces Haseo into a tournament filled with AIDA-corrupted PKs. Haseo prevails in the tournament and defeats Sakaki. Haseo and the others find Yata who awakens as an Epitaph PC. They meet Ovan's sister, Aina, who has been trapped in ''The World'' after Ovan's AIDA attacked her. With all the Epitaph PCs awakened, Ovan challenges Haseo to another fight. In defeat, Ovan is able to use his Avatar's special ability "The Rebirth" which completely resets the Internet and cleanses it of AIDA, though he falls into a coma as a result.<ref>{{Cite video game |title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> Vol. 3: Redemption |developer=CyberConnect2 |publisher=Bandai |quote='''Ovan:''' The Rebirth is a safety device, a fail safe really left behind by the creator of "The World", a re-initialization program. However, only the fully awakened Terror of Death is capable of activating it. / '''Haseo:''' Me? / '''Ovan:''' And now, I will... release its power throughout the Internet! / ... / '''Ovan:''' AIDA hides throughout the entire network. That is the only way to erase it. |year=2007}}</ref> The G.U. members are saved by Zelkova, leader of Moon Tree, who reveals that Ovan's actions caused several comatose players to wake up, though others are still trapped within the game. Yata discovers the cause: an "anti-existence" called Cubia is trying to devour ''The World'', resulting in the death of all players.<ref>{{Cite video game |title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> Vol. 3: Redemption |developer=CyberConnect2 |publisher=Bandai |quote='''Memoir:''' The Rebirth eradicated AIDA by releasing a blinding light. But it also caused the emergence of Cubia, the Shadow of the Epitaphs. |year=2007}}</ref>

Aina summons Aura who hints to the party that the key to defeating Cubia is the eight Avatars. Haseo calls on all the players of ''The World'' to help in defending against Cubia's minions. With the combined powers of the eight Epitaph PCs including Ovan's spirit, Haseo destroys Cubia. With Cubia gone, all the remaining comatose players awake and Haseo meets Shino once again.<ref>{{Cite video game |title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> Vol. 3: Redemption |developer=CyberConnect2 |publisher=Bandai |quote='''Haseo:''' Shino. / '''Shino:''' Long time. |year=2007}}</ref> Upon meeting her, Shino motivates Haseo to be more honest with his feelings which causes him to pursue Atoli. A [[Alternate ending|hidden ending]] in the Forest of Pain shows Haseo a vision of Ovan; Haseo declares that they will meet again.<ref>{{Cite video game |title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> Vol. 3: Redemption |developer=CyberConnect2 |publisher=Bandai |quote='''Haseo:''' It was Ovan. You know. Ovan was smiling. Ovan will be back someday. I really don't know how I know that. I just know he will. |year=2007}}</ref>

==== ''Vol. 4//Reconnection'' ====
One year and three months after Cubia's destruction, Haseo learns from Pi that Ovan's body has been located in ''The World'' frozen in ice. Due to Skeith becoming destabilized, Zelkova seals Haseo's Avatar.<ref>{{Cite video game |title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> Vol. Last Recode |developer=CyberConnect2 |publisher=Bandai |quote='''Zelkova:''' Haseo. I am going to remove the seal I use on you. When your Avatar absorbed all the Epitaphs. |year=2017}}</ref> Haseo is unable to shatter Ovan's ice prison.<ref>{{Cite video game |title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> Vol. Last Recode |developer=CyberConnect2 |publisher=Bandai |quote='''Haseo:''' (I finally found him. And here of all places... Ovan. Masato Indou still lies in a coma in the real world.) |year=2017}}</ref> Haseo then meets Kusabira who informs him of an attack on the Net Slum a few days before at the hands of a gigantic monster created by the game's network issues, Vegalta. Kusabira tells Haseo that Vegalta has consumed Zelkova, her brother, and asks Haseo to save him before he dies. Haseo confronts the monster and frees Zelkova, who remarks that he does not have a sister but surmises her true identity. Kusabira is a remnant of AIDA that had developed human-like AI, and she called him her brother because he, too, is an AI native to ''The World''. Zelkova uses Kusabira's data to pacify Skeith's power and unseals the Epitaph, unlocking Haseo's final form and granting him access to the powers of all the Epitaphs at will.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.rpgsite.net/news/5962-check-out-what-haseo-s-5th-form-can-do-in-hack-g-u-last-recode|title=Check out what Haseo's 5th Form can do in <nowiki>.hack//G.U. Last Recode</nowiki> |website=RPGSie|access-date=July 15, 2020|date=August 23, 2017|author=Stenbuck, Kite|archive-date=July 15, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200715164642/https://www.rpgsite.net/news/5962-check-out-what-haseo-s-5th-form-can-do-in-hack-g-u-last-recode|url-status=live}}</ref>

Haseo successfully destroys Ovan's ice prison with this new power. Kusabira appears and merges with Ovan, reviving him. Vegalta returns and faces both Haseo and Ovan.<ref>{{Cite video game |title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> Vol. Last Recode |developer=CyberConnect2 |publisher=Bandai |quote='''Kusabira:''' I am you. You are me. We are to become one. / '''Pi:''' The black AIDA possessed Ovan. |year=2017}}</ref> With their Epitaphs merged into one being combining Skeith with Corbenik and the others' powers, the duo destroys Vegalta. Ovan reunites with his sister and friends. On the last day of service for ''The World R:2'', Haseo logs on and speaks with each of his friends to say goodbye to the game and them.<ref>{{Cite video game |title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> Vol. Last Recode |developer=CyberConnect2 |publisher=Bandai |quote=The World's coming to a close, and not even a single shrine maiden has shown up! What a disappointing way to go out... If only one would grace us with her perfect beauty... |year=2017}}</ref> Ovan invites him on one last adventure through a dungeon and they reflect on their memories together.<ref>{{cite video game|title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> Vol. Last Recode|publisher=Bandai|developer=CyberConnect2|year=2017|quote='''Haseo:''' You just wanted to go on an adventure with me. Why didn't you just say it from the start? We're friends. It's not like I wouldn't have come along with you anyway.}}</ref>

==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=<nowiki>.hack//GU</nowiki> 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| title=<nowiki>.back For More</nowiki> | website=IGN| url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2004/06/08/back-for-more| date=June 4, 2004| author=Lewis, Ed| access-date=September 22, 2012| archive-date=November 9, 2012| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121109161020/http://www.ign.com/articles/2004/06/08/back-for-more| url-status=live}}</ref> Instead of a direct sequel, CyberConnect2 developed it as an independent series with connections to the first ''.hack'' series that new players could still enjoy.<ref name="GameSpot">{{cite web| title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U. vol. 1//Rebirth Interview 1</nowiki> | publisher=[[GameSpot]]| url=http://www.gamespot.com/-hack-g-u-vol-1-rebirth/videos/hack-gu-vol-1-rebirth-interview-1-6157143/| date=September 5, 2006| access-date=September 12, 2012| archive-date=February 7, 2018| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180207005918/https://www.gamespot.com/-hack-g-u-vol-1-rebirth/videos/hack-gu-vol-1-rebirth-interview-1-6157143/| url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Fan event">{{cite magazine|url=https://www.famitsu.com/game/news/2006/05/07/103,1146997467,52600,0,0.html|title=ゲームもアニメも情報盛りだくさんの『<nowiki>.hack//G.U.』</nowiki>ファン感謝イベントが開催|magazine=Famitsu|access-date=July 7, 2020|language=ja|archive-date=July 7, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200707212615/https://www.famitsu.com/game/news/2006/05/07/103,1146997467,52600,0,0.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Players criticized the number of parts in the first ''.hack'' series. As a result, ''.hack//G.U.'' comprises three games instead of four. The first game's release date was delayed in order to coincide with the start of its manga adaptation and anime companion series.<ref name="gamespy">{{cite web | date=September 21, 2005 | title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> | website=[[GameSpy]] | url=http://ps2.gamespy.com/playstation-2/hackgu/652580p1.html | access-date=September 12, 2012 | archive-date=January 26, 2011 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110126063554/http://ps2.gamespy.com/playstation-2/hackgu/652580p1.html | url-status=live }}</ref> In Japan, the three games were released on May 18, 2006, September 28, 2006, and January 18, 2007, respectively.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/B000A85PI4/|website=Amazon.com|language=ja|access-date=July 24, 2020|title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> Vol.1 再誕|archive-date=March 16, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230316023833/https://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/B000A85PI4|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/B000BNBAZK/|website=Amazon.com|language=ja|access-date=July 24, 2020|title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> Vol.3 歩くような速さで|archive-date=December 3, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221203180157/https://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/B000BNBAZK/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/B000IEM7KY/|website=Amazon.com|language=ja|access-date=July 24, 2020|title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> vol.2 君想フ声(特典無し)|archive-date=August 25, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230825204604/https://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/B000IEM7KY/|url-status=live}}</ref> In North America, they were published on October 24, 2006, May 8, 2007, and September 10, 2007.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.ign.com/games/hackgu-vol-1-rebirth|title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> Vol. 1: Rebirth|website=IGN|access-date=July 24, 2020|archive-date=July 25, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200725001404/https://www.ign.com/games/hackgu-vol-1-rebirth|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.ign.com/games/hackgu-vol-2-reminisce|title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> Vol. 2: Reminisce|website=IGN|access-date=July 24, 2020|archive-date=July 25, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200725012002/https://www.ign.com/games/hackgu-vol-2-reminisce|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.ign.com/games/hackgu-vol3-redemption|title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> Vol.3: Redemption|website=IGN|access-date=July 24, 2020|archive-date=July 25, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200725003454/https://www.ign.com/games/hackgu-vol3-redemption|url-status=live}}</ref>

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=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> | 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 <nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> | 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: <nowiki>.hack// G.U.</nowiki> 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=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> 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>

===Scenario===
{{multiple image
 | footer    = Takahiro Sakurai (left) and Ayako Kawasumi voiced Haseo and Atoli in Japanese, respectively.
 | image1    = Sakurai Takahiro from "GODZILLA The Planet Eater" at Opening Ceremony of the Tokyo International Film Festival 2018 (31747117738).jpg
 | alt1      = Takahiro Sakurai
 | caption1  =
 | image2    = Ayako Kawasumi 20060805 Otakon 02.jpg
 | alt2      = Ayako Kawasumi
 | caption2  =
 | perrow = 2
 | 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=<nowiki>松山洋による20,000文字手記"「.hack//G.U.」全記録"後編【2】</nowiki>|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=<nowiki>【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</nowiki>|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: <nowiki>.hack//GU</nowiki> 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=<nowiki>『.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</nowiki> |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 <nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> 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 <nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> |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=<nowiki>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</nowiki> |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=<nowiki>【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</nowiki>|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=<nowiki>【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</nowiki> |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=<nowiki>「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</nowiki> |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=<nowiki>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！</nowiki> |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=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> 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=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> 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 <nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> 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=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> 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=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> 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=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> 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=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> Last Recode Premium Edition|url=https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/product/PLJS-74023|work=CDJapan|access-date=July 5, 2020|archive-date=July 27, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200727230408/https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/product/PLJS-74023|url-status=live}}</ref>

''.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=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> 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 <nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> Last Recode on Switch, but Bandai Namco is hesitant|website=NintendoEverything|date=September 2, 2020|access-date=December 2, 2021|archive-date=December 2, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211202160523/https://nintendoeverything.com/cyberconnect2-wants-to-release-hack-g-u-last-recode-on-switch-but-bandai-namco-is-hesitant/|url-status=live}}</ref> The Nintendo Switch version was eventually announced in December 2021, and was released worldwide on March 10, 2022.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gematsu.com/2021/12/hack-g-u-last-recode-coming-to-switch-on-march-10-2022|title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> Last Recode coming to Switch on March 10, 2022|website=Gematsu|date=December 2, 2021|access-date=December 2, 2021|archive-date=December 2, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211202140921/https://www.gematsu.com/2021/12/hack-g-u-last-recode-coming-to-switch-on-march-10-2022|url-status=live}}</ref>

===Music===
{{Infobox album
| name       = .hack//G.U. Game Music O.S.T.
| type       = soundtrack
| artist     = Chikayo Fukuda
| cover      = blank
| alt        =
| released   = September 6, 2006
| recorded   =
| venue      =
| studio     =
| genre      = [[Video game music|Video game soundtrack]]
| length     = Disc 1: 71:12<br/>Disc 2: 71:56
| label      = [[Victor Entertainment]]
| producer   =
| prev_title =
| prev_year  =
| next_title =
| next_year  =
}}
{{Infobox album
| name       = .hack//G.U. Game Music O.S.T. 2
| type       = soundtrack
| artist     = Chikayo Fukuda
| cover      = blank
| alt        =
| released   = January 24, 2007
| recorded   =
| venue      =
| studio     =
| genre      = Video game soundtrack
| length     = Disc 1: 71:41<br/>Disc 2: 72:03
| label      = Victor Entertainment
| producer   =
| prev_title =
| prev_year  =
| next_title =
| next_year  =
}}
''.hack//G.U. Game Music O.S.T.'' and ''.hack//G.U. Game Music O.S.T. 2'' are the [[soundtrack]]s for the ''.hack//G.U.'' games. The former contains 62 compositions from ''Rebirth'' while the latter contains 58 compositions from ''Reminisce'' and ''Redemption''. Both soundtracks come with a third disc with special features, such as game trailers, desktop wallpapers, and voice clips.<ref name="OST1">{{cite web | author=Gann, Patrick | title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> Game Music O.S.T. | publisher=RPGFan | url=http://www.rpgfan.com/soundtracks/hack-gu/index.html | access-date=2010-08-24 | archive-date=2010-12-01 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101201022907/http://rpgfan.com/soundtracks/hack-gu/index.html | url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="OST2">{{cite web | author=Gann, Patrick | title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> Game Music O.S.T. 2 | publisher=RPGFan | url=http://www.rpgfan.com/soundtracks/hack-gu2/index.html | access-date=2010-08-24 | archive-date=2010-01-10 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100110132823/http://www.rpgfan.com/soundtracks/hack-gu2/index.html | url-status=live }}</ref> Chikayo Fukuda returned to compose the music for the series. Mitani Tomoyo sang the main themes for the three games.<ref name="rpgamerpreview"/> Patrick Gann of RPGFan commended Fukuda's more mature sound, noting a greater emphasis on vocal tracks than before. He praised the use of piano as a key instrument and found this soundtrack to be more memorable overall.<ref name="OST1"/> Gann also appreciated the wide variety of styles from "silly character themes" and "rock-hard battle themes" to "beautiful piano solos".<ref name="OST2"/>

'''''.hack//G.U. Game O.S.T.'''''
{{Track listing
| headline = Disc 1
| title1 = Title
| length1 = 1:39
| title2 = Desktop
| length2 = 1:33
| title3 = Top Page
| length3 = 1:51
| title4 = Eternal City Mac Anu
| length4 = 2:51
| title5 = Hy Brasail, the Isle of Kings
| length5 = 2:10
| title6 = Warring City Lumina Cloth
| length6 = 2:29
| title7 = Town Shop
| length7 = 1:58
| title8 = Prairie - Clear
| length8 = 2:39
| title9 = Prairie - Cloudy
| length9 = 2:36
| title10 = Prairie - Evening
| length10 = 2:41
| title11 = Shinto Shrine
| length11 = 3:16
| title12 = Cave
| length12 = 3:10
| title13 = Battle
| length13 = 2:25
| title14 = Battle Victory
| length14 = 0:51
| title15 = Beast God Statue
| length15 = 2:15
| title16 = Doppelganger
| length16 = 0:54
| title17 = Boss Battle
| length17 = 2:32
| title18 = Arena - Lobby
| length18 = 1:48
| title19 = Arena - Entrance
| length19 = 1:58
| title20 = Arena - Red Demon Palace
| length20 = 2:47
| title21 = Arena - Victory
| length21 = 0:43
| title22 = Canard
| length22 = 2:17
| title23 = Raven
| length23 = 2:00
| title24 = Kestrel
| length24 = 2:27
| title25 = Moon Tree
| length25 = 2:46
| title26 = Icolo
| length26 = 2:05
| title27 = Online Jack 1
| length27 = 0:20
| title28 = Online Jack 2
| length28 = 0:32
| title29 = Online Jack 3
| length29 = 1:02
| title30 = Fly, Mecha-Grunty!
| length30 = 2:12
| title31 = Cernunnos Appears
| length31 = 1:25
| title32 = Abyss Quest Battle
| length32 = 3:46
| title33 = Yasashii Ryoute 
| note33 = English ver.
| length33 = 4:15
}}

{{Track listing
| headline = Disc 2
| title1 = Dawn Flight ~Opening Loop Demo Vol. 1~
| length1 = 1:53
| title2 = Welcome to The World
| length2 = 1:09
| title3 = Are You a Newbie?
| length3 = 1:43
| title4 = Terror of Death
| length4 = 2:08
| title5 = Arche Koeln Waterfall
| length5 = 1:58
| title6 = Laughing Fangs
| length6 = 1:32
| title7 = Dead World of Indieglut Lugh
| length7 = 1:51
| title8 = Serpent of Lore ~Yata's Theme~
| length8 = 1:51
| title9 = May I Help You?
| length9 = 1:56
| title10 = Big Sis and Me ~Sakubo's Theme~
| length10 = 2:25
| title11 = The Epitaph is Told ~Ovan's Theme~
| length11 = 2:10
| title12 = The Greatest Love ~Endrance's Theme~
| length12 = 2:10
| title13 = Sakaki of the Council of Seven ~Sakaki's Theme~
| length13 = 2:30
| title14 = Grima Raef Cathedral
| length14 = 2:21
| title15 = Slow Doberman ~Piros the 3rd's Theme~
| length15 = 3:22
| title16 = A Victory That Must Be Grasped
| length16 = 2:41
| title17 = I'm Right Here
| length17 = 2:49
| title18 = AIDA
| length18 = 2:27
| title19 = The Whereabouts of "Power" ~VS Tarvos~
| length19 = 3:31
| title20 = Worried Girl
| length20 = 1:36
| title21 = Morrigu Barrow Wall
| length21 = 2:38
| title22 = Two People's Differences ~VS Magus~
| length22 = 2:51
| title23 = To Lose Resolve
| length23 = 3:25
| title24 = "She" ~VS Macha~
| length24 = 2:46
| title25 = Victory Party
| length25 = 2:15
| title26 = Honeysuckle ~Shino's Theme~
| length26 = 1:08
| title27 = Everything In These Hands
| length27 = 4:04
| title28 = Yasashii Ryoute
| note28 = Japanese ver.
| length28 = 4:14
| title29 = Swaying Emotions
| length29 = 3:38
}}

'''''.hack//G.U. Game O.S.T. 2'''''
{{Track listing
| headline = Disc 1
| title1 = Over the Mountains ~Opening Loop Demo Vol. 2~
| length1 = 2:05
| title2 = Desert - Clear
| length2 = 2:32
| title3 = Desert - Cloudy
| length3 = 2:25
| title4 = Desert - Evening
| length4 = 2:25
| title5 = Celestial City Dol Dona
| length5 = 2:39
| title6 = Double Prayer ~VS Gorre~
| length6 = 2:56
| title7 = Collapse of the Moon ~Eclipse~
| length7 = 1:45
| title8 = Cobalt Oath ~Arena Holy Palace~
| length8 = 2:41
| title9 = Wailing Capital Wald Uberlisterin
| length9 = 2:10
| title10 = Coite-Bodher Battlefield
| length10 = 2:45
| title11 = To You, Dear
| length11 = 3:55
| title12 = Sugar Mansion Sif Berg
| length12 = 2:10
| title13 = Our Hero! Piros the 3rd! ~Piros the 3rd's Theme Part 2~
| length13 = 2:19
| title14 = Corridor
| length14 = 2:24
| title15 = The Casting Off of Ideals
| length15 = 2:31
| title16 = Here "I" Am
| length16 = 1:59
| title17 = Here I Come ~VS Innis~
| length17 = 3:16
| title18 = Briona Gwydion the Dragonbein Range
| length18 = 1:40
| title19 = Inverted City Megin Fi
| length19 = 1:50
| title20 = Dark Infection ~VS Corbenik~
| length20 = 2:50
| title21 = The Whereabouts of Truth
| length21 = 4:50
| title22 = Speed-Boy
| length22 = 2:20
| title23 = Puchi Running
| length23 = 2:06
| title24 = Winning Cheer
| length24 = 1:07
| title25 = We! The Grunties!!
| length25 = 2:06
| title26 = Great Temple of Caerleon Medb
| length26 = 2:41
| title27 = Gob Gob Gob! ~Theme of the Golden Goblins~
| length27 = 1:29
| title28 = Listen to What I Say! ~Negimaru's Theme~
| length28 = 1:34
| title29 = Tactics Time
| length29 = 1:58
| title30 = Heart of Crimson
| length30 = 1:56
}}

{{Track listing
| headline = Disc 2
| title1 = Eight Phases Illusions ~Opening Loop Demo Vol. 3~
| length1 = 1:48
| title2 = No More Shallow Dreams ~Aina's Theme~
| length2 = 2:04
| title3 = Avatar Space
| length3 = 3:00
| title4 = Aim for the Sky ~Arena Sage Palace~
| length4 = 2:23
| title5 = Dual City Breg Epona
| length5 = 2:56
| title6 = A Sea of Trees
| length6 = 2:37
| title7 = Nobody Knows ~Zelkova's Theme~
| length7 = 1:53
| title8 = Chain of Fate ~VS Fidchell~
| length8 = 2:50
| title9 = The Brilliant Justice Will Never Fade ~Piros the 3rd's Theme Part 3~
| length9 = 2:54
| title10 = Net Slum Tartarga
| length10 = 2:11
| title11 = Timeless Homeland
| length11 = 1:42
| title12 = The Hope of Dawn
| length12 = 2:10
| title13 = Eight Keys
| length13 = 2:15
| title14 = Final Overture
| length14 = 1:54
| title15 = The Third Crisis ~VS Cubia~
| length15 = 3:24
| title16 = Full Force ~VS Cubia Core~
| length16 = 2:54
| title17 = Final Bout ~VS Frenzied Cubia Core~
| length17 = 3:03
| title18 = You Were Smiling Softly
| length18 = 5:12
| title19 = Dimming Dawn
| length19 = 5:39
| title20 = And the Bells of Fortune Ring
| length20 = 1:43
| title21 = The Path You and I Walk
| length21 = 1:12
| title22 = To Love?!
| length22 = 1:16
| title23 = World of Sin Ran Hati
| length23 = 1:45
| title24 = Forest of Pain
| length24 = 2:44
| title25 = Riddle of the Creator ~Harald's Theme~
| length25 = 2:42
| title26 = Proto Gurah's Appearance
| length26 = 2:14
| title27 = Evil Machine
| length27 = 1:51
| title28 = The Brilliant Justice Will Never Fade ~Another Ver.~
| note28 = hidden track
| length28 = 4:20
}}

==Reception==
{{VG series reviews
| gr = no
| game1 = Vol.1//Rebirth
| mc1 = 69/100<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/-hack-g-u-vol-1-rebirth/critic-reviews/?platform=playstation-2 |title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U. vol. 1//Rebirth for PlayStation 2 Reviews</nowiki> |work=[[Metacritic]] |publisher=[[CBS Interactive]] |access-date=September 20, 2018 |archive-date=December 21, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181221051929/https://www.metacritic.com/game/playstation-2/hackgu-vol-1rebirth |url-status=live }}</ref>
| game2 = Vol.2//Reminisce
| mc2 = 61/100<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/-hack-g-u-vol-2-reminisce/critic-reviews/?platform=playstation-2 |title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U. vol. 2//Reminisce for PlayStation 2 Reviews</nowiki> |work=[[Metacritic]] |publisher=[[CBS Interactive]] |access-date=September 20, 2018 |archive-date=October 6, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181006171705/https://www.metacritic.com/game/playstation-2/hackgu-vol-2reminisce |url-status=live }}</ref>
| game3 = Vol.3//Redemption
| mc3 = 60/100<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/-hack-g-u-vol-3-redemption/critic-reviews/?platform=playstation-2 |title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U. vol. 3//Redemption for PlayStation 2 Reviews</nowiki> |work=[[Metacritic]] |publisher=[[CBS Interactive]] |access-date=September 20, 2018 |archive-date=September 26, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180926113931/https://www.metacritic.com/game/playstation-2/hackgu-vol-3redemption |url-status=live }}</ref>
| game4 = Last Recode
| mc4 = PC: 69/100<ref name="pcrecode">{{cite web |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/hack-gu-last-recode/critic-reviews/?platform=pc |title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> Last Recode for PC Reviews |work=[[Metacritic]] |publisher=[[CBS Interactive]] |access-date=September 20, 2018 |archive-date=September 26, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180926135502/https://www.metacritic.com/game/pc/hackgu-last-recode |url-status=live }}</ref><br />PS4: 76/100<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/hack-gu-last-recode/critic-reviews/?platform=playstation-4 |title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> Last Recode for PlayStation 4 Reviews |work=[[Metacritic]] |publisher=[[CBS Interactive]] |access-date=September 20, 2018 |archive-date=September 26, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180926212631/https://www.metacritic.com/game/playstation-4/hackgu-last-recode |url-status=live }}</ref><br/>NS: 76/100<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/hack-gu-last-recode/critic-reviews/?platform=nintendo-switch|title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> Last Recode for Switch Reviews|website=[[Metacritic]]|access-date=April 5, 2022|archive-date=April 6, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220406051647/https://www.metacritic.com/game/switch/hackgu-last-recode|url-status=live}}</ref>
}}

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=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> 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=<nowiki>.hack//G.U. Vol.1//Rebirth</nowiki> | 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=<nowiki>.hack//G.U. Vol.2//Reminisce</nowiki> | 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=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> 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=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> 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 | title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U. Vol. 2//Reminisce - Staff Review</nowiki> | website=RPGamer | url=http://www.rpgamer.com/games/hack/hackgu2/reviews/hackgu2strev2.html | access-date=September 28, 2012 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121010050832/http://www.rpgamer.com/games/hack/hackgu2/reviews/hackgu2strev2.html | archive-date=October 10, 2012| url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.rpgfan.com/reviews/hackGU_Last_Recode/index.html|title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> Last Recode|website=RPGFan|access-date=June 12, 2020|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> He concluded in ''Redemption'' that, while not perfect, the three-part format of the series was relatively more worth it than its previous iteration.<ref name="RFp3">{{cite web | author=Gann, Patrick | date=2007-09-25 | title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U. Vol.3//Redemption</nowiki> | publisher=RPGFan | url=http://www.rpgfan.com/reviews/dothackgu3-redemption/index.html | access-date=2010-08-05 | archive-date=2010-12-06 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101206050928/http://www.rpgfan.com/reviews/dothackgu3-redemption/index.html | url-status=live }}</ref> ''Redemption'' has been praised for its new gameplay features although writers lamented that they became available late in the game.<ref name="RFp3"/><ref>{{cite web | author=den Ouden, Adriann | title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U. Vol. 3//Redemption - Staff Review</nowiki> | website=RPGamer | url=http://www.rpgamer.com/games/hack/hackgu3/reviews/hackgu3strev1.html | access-date=September 28, 2012 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121014141101/http://www.rpgamer.com/games/hack/hackgu3/reviews/hackgu3strev1.html | archive-date=October 14, 2012| url-status=dead }}</ref>

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=<nowiki>.hack//G.U. Vol.1//Rebirth Review</nowiki> | 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=<nowiki>.hack//G.U. Vol.2//Reminisce Review</nowiki> | 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 | title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> Vol. 1: Rebirth Review | magazine=[[PlayStation: The Official Magazine|PSM]] | page=82 |date=December 2006}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | author=Barnholt, Ray | date=May 11, 2007| title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> Vol. 2: Reminisce | website=[[1UP.com]] | url=http://www.1up.com/do/reviewPage?cId=3159472 | access-date=August 5, 2010| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070715092530/http://www.1up.com/do/reviewPage?cId=3159472 | archive-date=July 15, 2007| url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | author=Joynt, Patrick | date=September 17, 2007 | title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> Vol. 3: Redemption | website=[[GameSpy]] | url=http://uk.ps2.gamespy.com/playstation-2/hackgu-part-3/820451p1.html | access-date=August 5, 2010 | archive-date=July 11, 2011 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110711072144/http://uk.ps2.gamespy.com/playstation-2/hackgu-part-3/820451p1.html | url-status=live }}</ref>

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=<nowiki>Game Info.hack//G.U. Last Recode Review</nowiki> |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=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> 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=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> 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=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> 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: <nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> 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 - <nowiki>'.hack//G.U.</nowiki> 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 - <nowiki>'.hack//G.U.</nowiki> 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>

==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=<nowiki>.hack//GU</nowiki> 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| title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki>+ 1| url=http://www.kadokawa.co.jp/comic/bk_detail.php?pcd=200603000117| language=ja| publisher=Kadokawa Shoten| access-date=September 6, 2012| archive-date=September 16, 2016| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160916174709/http://www.kadokawa.co.jp/comic/bk_detail.php?pcd=200603000117| url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki>+ 6| url=http://www.kadokawa.co.jp/comic/bk_detail.php?pcd=200811000410| language=ja| publisher=Kadokawa Shoten| access-date=September 6, 2012| archive-date=September 16, 2016| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160916180631/http://www.kadokawa.co.jp/comic/bk_detail.php?pcd=200811000410| url-status=live}}</ref> [[Tokyopop]] licensed the series for English publication in June 2007 and released all of its volumes,<ref>{{cite web| title=Tokyopop Confirms 38 Upcoming Manga, Manhwa, Novels| publisher=Anime News Network| url=http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2007-06-18/tokyopop-confirms-38-upcoming-manga-manhwa-novels| access-date=September 6, 2012| date=June 18, 2007| archive-date=March 18, 2009| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090318000002/http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2007-06-18/tokyopop-confirms-38-upcoming-manga-manhwa-novels| url-status=live}}</ref> from February 12, 2008, to September 1, 2009.<ref>{{cite book | title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki>+ Volume 1 (v. 1) |isbn=978-1427806352|last1=Hamazaki|first1=Tatsuya|last2=Morita|first2=Yuzuka|date=12 February 2008|publisher=TokyoPop }}</ref><ref>{{cite book | title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki>+ Volume 5 |isbn=978-1427817105|last1=Hamazaki|first1=Tatsuya|last2=Morita|first2=Yuzuka|date=September 2009|publisher=TokyoPop }}</ref>

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=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> 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=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> 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=<nowiki>.hack// G.U.</nowiki> (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=<nowiki>.hack// G.U.</nowiki> (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]]'', an animated film adaptation that abridges the story in order to appeal to players who do not have the time to play all three games.<ref name="film">{{cite magazine|url=https://www.famitsu.com/interview/article/1212162_1493.html|title=<nowiki>●松山 洋氏が語る『.hack//G.U. TRILOGY』</nowiki>|magazine=Famitsu|access-date=June 13, 2020|archive-date=June 14, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200614080514/https://www.famitsu.com/interview/article/1212162_1493.html|url-status=live}}</ref> The film was first screened in Japan in a Tokyo theater in December 2007. Bandai Visual later released it in DVD and Blu-ray format on March 25, 2008.<ref>{{cite web| title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> TRILOGY Blu-ray| date=25 March 2008| url=https://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/B000W553ZU/| access-date=September 10, 2012| archive-date=25 August 2023| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230825204515/https://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/B000W553ZU/| url-status=live}}</ref> In May 2011, Bandai Entertainment announced that they licensed the film for an English release but only with Japanese audio accompanied by English subtitles on August 18, 2009.<ref>{{cite web | title=Bandai Entertainment Adds <nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> Trilogy Anime| publisher=Animenewsnetwork | url=http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2008-08-09/bandai-entertainment-adds-.hack/g.u-trilogy-anime | access-date=2011-05-19| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110722113853/http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2008-08-09/bandai-entertainment-adds-.hack/g.u-trilogy-anime| archive-date= 22 July 2011<!--Added by DASHBot-->|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| title=<nowiki>.hack//G.U.</nowiki> Trilogy| website=Amazon| date=18 August 2009| url=https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002C39SWO/| access-date=September 7, 2012| archive-date=25 August 2023| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230825204445/https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002C39SWO/| url-status=live}}</ref> Following the closure of Bandai Entertainment, [[Funimation]] announced at [[San Diego Comic Con|SDCC]] 2013, that they have acquired the rights to four ''.hack'' titles including ''.hack//G.U. Trilogy''.<ref>{{cite web|title=Funimation Adds 4 .hack Anime|url=http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2013-07-18/funimation-adds-4-.hack-anime|publisher=Anime News Network|access-date=19 July 2013|archive-date=2013-07-22|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130722004812/http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2013-07-18/funimation-adds-4-.hack-anime|url-status=live}}</ref> The games' sequel is ''[[.hack//Link]]'', a [[PlayStation Portable]] game that takes place three years in the future with a new version of ''The World''.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://rpgland.com/games/reviews/hack-link/ |title=<nowiki>.hack//Link</nowiki> |website=RPGLand |access-date=July 24, 2020 |date=January 31, 2011 |archive-date=July 25, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200725051634/http://rpgland.com/games/reviews/hack-link/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

==Notes==
{{notelist}}

==References==
{{reflist}}

==External links==
* [http://www.hack.channel.or.jp/gu/main.html Official website] (Japanese)
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20080716134405/http://www.cyberconnect2.jp/gu/main.html Official archived website] (Japanese)

{{.hack}}
{{CyberConnect2}}

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