Best Ys In Nihon Falcom’s Action JRPG Series

The Ys series stands among 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.

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Though it might not be as celebrated as Final Fantasy, Dragon Quest, or Tales of, Ys established 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.

10

Ys 5: Lost Kefin, Kingdom Of Sand

A Unique Adventure Awaits For Players

• Developer: Nihon Falcom
• Platforms: Super Famicom, PlayStation 2
• Release: December 29, 1995
• Genre: JRPG

Ys V: Lost Kefin, Kingdom of Sand stands out as one of the most distinctive entries in the Ys saga. 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.

9

Ys I: Ancient Ys Vanished

The Beginning Of Franchise

The first game in the Ys series 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 of Ys 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-known JRPG series within the genre. Featuring fluid and straightforward gameplay, it is an accessible game and an unmissable experience for enthusiasts of Japanese games.

8

Ys: The Oath In Felghana

Retro Combat In A Classic Ys Game

• Developer: Nihon Falcom
• Platforms: Windows, PlayStation Portable, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5
• Release: June 30, 2005

Ys 3: The Oath in Felghana was originally released for the PlayStation Portable and re-released in 2023 for the Nintendo Switch in Japan under the name Ys 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.

7

Ys 6: The Ark of Napishtim

Players Must Unavel Ancient Mysteries

• Developer: Nihon Falcom
• Platforms: Windows, Mobile, PlayStation 2, PlayStation Portable, Android, iOS
• Release: September 27, 2003

Ys 6: The Ark of Napishtim represents the series’ comeback in the West after a long gap without new releases, due in part to the absence of an official English edition of Ys V. Adol Christin is discovered unconscious in an unfamiliar place following an attack on his vessel.

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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.

6

Ys: Memories of Celceta

Discover Lost Memories Together

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Ys: Memories of Celceta

Systems

Released

September 27, 2012

Developer(s)

Nihon Falcom

OpenCritic Rating

Strong

Ys: Memories of Celceta was originally published 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 the Ys saga, 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 in Lacrimosa of Dana -one of the most praised installments – Memories of Celceta holds a special place in the Ys lineup.

5

Ys 9: Monstrum Nox

Supernatural Powers Awaits

Ys IX: Monstrum Nox was 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 Nox introduced several innovations to the series, including unique traversal abilities tied 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.

4

Ys 10: Nordics

An Epic Adventure With A Young Version Of The Protagonist

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Ys 10: Nordics

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Franchise

Ys

Released

October 25, 2024

Developer(s)

Nihon Falcom

Publisher(s)

Nihon Falcom

Ys X: Nordics is 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 of Ys II and features a young Adol Christin journeying toward the region of Celceta.

The title introduces 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 of Lacrimosa 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.

3

Ys Seven

A Dynamic Leap In Party-Based Combat

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Ys Seven

Released

September 17, 2009

Developer(s)

Nihon Falcom

OpenCritic Rating

Strong

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Ys Seven is 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 Seven introduced 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.

2

Ys Origin

An Excellent Way For Beginners To Start Playing The Series

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Ys Origin

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Released

May 31, 2012

Developer(s)

Nihon Falcom

OpenCritic Rating

Strong

The best way to start exploring the Ys series is by playing Ys Origin. Set 700 years before the events of Ys 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.

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Additionally, Ys Origin keeps elements from the classic games, such as boss battle design, which is reminiscent of Zelda style, 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.

1

Ys 8: Lacrimosa Of DANA

The Game Features One Of The Best Mechanics Among Action JRPGs

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 ship Lombardia sinks, 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.

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