Dissidia Duodecim Prologus comes to PSN next week

The anticipated, star-studded sequel to Final Fantasy's Dissidia comes out March 22, but for those looking to get a head start, Square Enix is releasing a downloadable sample next week. Called Dissidia Duodecim Prologus, it's described as "a prelude that will enhance the player’s experience of the grand battle that lies ahead."

Despite the flowery description, it's basically a "lite" version of Dissidia, giving players some brawling action and a story mode that focuses on Final Fantasy XIII heroine Lightning. Prologus (and ultimately Duodecim) mark Lightning's first appearance outside of FFXIII.

In addition to getting a taste of Lightning's fighting skills, Prologus gives players the opportunity to unlock content that can be transferred over to Duodecim. Players will earn items for accomplishing various tasks in the game, which will be then be available when players boot up Duodecim.

To sweeten the deal, Square's tossing in Aerith - you may remember her from Final Fantasy VII - as another freebie for downloading Prologus. Though she's not a fully playable fighter, Aerith will be an Assist Character in Duodecim.

Basically, if you plan on buying Duodecim you might as well get Prologus too, if only for all the extra goodies you'll net by playing through it. Prologus will be $2.99 and available from the PlayStation Store with next Tuesday's regular store update.