Summary
TheYsseries standsamong the most iconic JRPGs, featuring steady progress in tandem with advancements in gaming technology. Debuting in 1987, this creation by Nihon Falcom introduced fresh concepts to the genre and went through revisions across its history that polished gameplay in each new release.
Though it might not be as celebrated asFinal Fantasy,Dragon Quest, orTales of,Ysestablished a loyal audience that cherishes its signature mechanics and a sense of originality unique to this saga. With recurring protagonist Adol Christin, the famed traveler’s many exploits add to a legacy that keeps bringing outstanding installments to this notable lineup.
10Ys 5: Lost Kefin, Kingdom Of Sand
A Unique Adventure Awaits For Players
Ys V: Lost Kefin, Kingdom of Sandstands out as one of the mostdistinctive entries in theYssaga. Released for the Super Nintendo in 1995, the title remains somewhat out of reach for many in the West due to the absence of an official English version. As a result, the only way to experience Adol’s quest is through fan translations of the original edition.
It offers gameplay that can be challenging for newcomers, but despite that, it delivers an entertaining adventure well worth playing. Those new to the series may want to start elsewhere, but for longtime followers, it’s a fascinating choice.
The first game in theYsseries is captivating and introduces a range of concepts that will be developed in future installments, defining what players will come to love in the subsequent titles. With that said, understanding the context of its release and the technological limitations of its time is essential to fully appreciate the experience ofYs I: Ancient Ys Vanished.
Playing the inaugural entry of the series offers a truly unique experience, as it provides a distinctly different interpretation compared to other well-knownJRPG series within the genre. Featuring fluid and straightforward gameplay, it is an accessible game and an unmissable experience for enthusiasts of Japanese games.
8Ys: The Oath In Felghana
Retro Combat In A Classic Ys Game
Ys 3: The Oath in Felghanawasoriginally released for the PlayStation Portableand re-released in 2023 for the Nintendo Switch in Japan under the nameYs Memoire: The Oath in Felghana. The game is set in the region of Felghana, Dogi’s homeland, one of Adol’s main partners in his journeys, which alone makes it a game worth playing for longtime fans of the series.
Featuring a top-down perspective, the gameplay combines a retro feel with simple yet highly effective and addictive combat. In addition to its action-focused approach, the game includes platforming sections and introduces several mechanics that have since become staples of the franchise. Additionally, fans praise its improved visuals, crisp sound design, and polished difficulty settings.
7Ys 6: The Ark of Napishtim
Players Must Unavel Ancient Mysteries
Ys 6: The Ark of Napishtimrepresents the series’ comeback in the West after a long gap without new releases, due in part to the absence of an official English edition ofYs V. Adol Christin is discovered unconscious in an unfamiliar place following an attack on his vessel.
This installment introduced notable gameplay enhancements, such as three distinct weapon categories, offering fresh layers of depth that remained influential in future releases. It also features a distinctive environment and engaging personalities who rival the strongest offerings in this universe, complete with fast-paced action and a noteworthy story that adds extra excitement.
Ys: Memories of Celcetawas originallypublished on PlayStation Vita, followed by later versions in a Kai format that brought improved quality-of-life features. It is viewed as an excellent gateway for those new to theYssaga, built around a straightforward premise in which Adol Christin has lost his memories while investigating the region of Celceta.
As he uncovers more about his past and the surrounding world, the game works as a superb introduction for those unfamiliar with the series. With accessible gameplay and concepts that would later be refined inLacrimosa of Dana-one of the most praised installments -Memories of Celcetaholds a special place in theYslineup.
Ys IX: Monstrum Noxwas released in 2019 for PlayStation 4 in Japan and later reached Western audiences in 2021. The game takes place in the prison city of Balduq, where Adol Christin is transformed into a Monstru - a being with supernatural powers tasked with fighting creatures from another dimension.
Monstrum Noxintroduced several innovations to the series, including unique traversal abilitiestied to each Monstrum’s powers, allowing players to explore the city in new and dynamic ways. With its darker tone and expanded focus on world exploration, it represents a bold evolution for the franchise.
Ys X: Nordicsis the latest entry in the franchise, carrying forward the lessons and evolutions accumulated over the decades. Although it is a recent release, the game is set chronologically after the events ofYs IIand features a young Adol Christin journeying toward the region of Celceta.
The titleintroduces several improvements in gameplay, including the Cross Action system, which allows for the simultaneous control of both Adol and Karja. Additionally, the game incorporates elements reminiscent ofLacrimosa of Dana, with a design that leans toward a metroidvania-style exploration, appealing to both long-time fans and newcomers eager to delve into the series.
Ys Sevenis regarded as one of the best titles in the series, with many fans highlighting its exceptional gameplay.Released in 2009, the title was widely praised for its variety of abilities and combat system, elements that became staples in subsequent entries.
In earlier titles, players had to switch between elemental weapons to deal damage to monsters and bosses. While the basic concept remains the same,Ys Sevenintroduced the ability for players to alternate between party members and use different attacks, adding a layer of strategy and variety that enhanced the gameplay experience.
The best way to start exploring theYs seriesis by playingYs Origin. Set 700 years before the events ofYs I, this title serves as an introduction to the franchise while retaining many of the modern mechanics that have become staples of the series and are widely praised to this day.
Additionally,Ys Originkeeps elements from the classic games, such as boss battle design, which is reminiscent ofZeldastyle, where players must figure out how the mechanics work to progress. Unlike other entries in the series, Adol Christin is not the protagonist here, and the story focuses on new characters, making it an excellent entry point for newcomers.
Widely regarded as one of the best action JRPGs in existence, this chapter shines through its fluid combat system, which grows increasingly engaging as players advance. So,Ys 8: Lacrimosa Of Dana, stands out for its fluid combat, one of the most refined in the series, and its layers of complexity that make the gameplay increasingly engaging.
The story takes place on an island after the shipLombardiasinks, with Adol Christin waking up in a deserted region. The plot revolves around exploring the island, meeting other survivors from the ship, and battling local creatures, as players strive to survive and help the Castaway Village - an outpost founded by the ship’s crew - thrive.
