For its tenth entry, Ys X: Nordics, Ys did something special: it eschewed the party system and open-world focus of previous titles and focused on dual protagonists. For series mainstay Adol Christin, this is far from his first rodeo. However, newcomer Karja more than holds her own. Magically shackled together, the two overcome massive odds in one of the series’ finest outings.
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However, true to form, there is also a wealth of side characters who lend color and depth to the story. Some of them are familiar faces, while others are completely new to the series. Let’s find out who the most likable characters are in Adol’s Nordic adventure.
8
Captain Gulliver
Free Medicine
Though he only has a small presence in the story of Ys X: Nordics, Captain Gulliver has a few defining moments where he becomes one of the most likable side characters in the game. First off, he is the leader of the neighborhood watch in Carnac, keeping the peace in his hometown.
Second, and most importantly, he gives you free medicine. Ys X: Nordics has a mechanic where, once you consume liquid healing items, their empty bottles can be refilled. In one of the game’s first extended combat sections, the refills are provided by none other than Gulliver himself.
7
Rosalind
Rusveri Inn’s Poster Girl
Past the prologue filled with familiar faces, Rosalind is one of the first newcomers you’ll encounter in Ys X: Nordics. She works at her family’s inn, treated as the pride and joy of the town. Rosalind is the same age as Adol, which is why she finds it easy to talk to him.
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Rosalind is the one who tells Adol of the Sea King Throne myth, setting the events of the story in motion. According to Rosalind, any adventurer who sits on the throne will have their wish granted. Intrigued, Adol decides to stay in town.
6
Cruz
Conscientious Son
Cruz is the son of the blue-bearded Romes Carpent. Though not as battle-hardened as his father, he is often the voice of reason among Carnac’s main clique. Cruz refuses bribery and often reminds his father of the obligations upon him. Even when the town is attacked by monsters, Cruz keeps a cool head and helps lead the townspeople to safety.
Also, he’s an anime character with blue hair and glasses, which he adjusts with his forefinger. You already know this character archetype; need we say more?
5
Rafe
Likeable But Secretive
Going off Rafe’s excellent character design, we wouldn’t blame you if you thought he was going to be a main character. However, he opts for a more subdued role in the story. While he is also part of the Carnacian friend group, he has spent time away from town. Even now, he doesn’t visit his family.
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When you first meet Rafe, he helps a child stay safe from a monster attack, cementing him as a likable character. However, despite his apparent lack of combat ability, Rafe is actually a secret mercenary.
4
Mirabel
Resident Nurse
Mirabel is an older member of the Carnacian friend group, though asking her what her exact age is does not end well for anyone. She is a nurse, introduced to Adol and Karja by Dr. Flair. Underneath her charming and flirtatious exterior, Mirabel is rather strict.
Unlike Adol and Dr. Flair, Mirabel is quickly able to convince Karja to change out of her Viking outfit into something a little less conspicuous. Her ability to convince the normally hotheaded Karja to dress down impresses our protagonist.
3
Grenn
Shounen Hothead
Grenn is a side character in the game but a main character in his mind. Part of Carnac’s underpaid militia, he is ever enthusiastic and has a strong sense of justice. Grenn often gets into arguments with Mayor Clement over what he perceives as unfair treatment of the militia. Out of the original friend group, only he escapes Carnac with Adol and Karja when the town is destroyed.
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Grenn is not as strong as he wishes to be — he doesn’t even qualify as a playable character — but there’s more to him than hotheadedness and clumsiness. With his naval skills, he can operate your ship’s cannons. Also, is it just us, or does he somewhat resemble — both in appearance and characterization — Gorou from Genshin Impact?
2
Jarl Grimson
Berserker
One of the coolest side characters in Ys history is Karja’s father, Jarl Grimson. He is the leader of the Balta Seaforce and is proudly aloof when not in combat. Jarl Grimson is one of only three characters, apart from Adol and Karja, who can use Mana to permanently defeat Griegr creatures.
Jarl Grimson can also enter a berserk mode at will, attacking viciously until his stamina runs out. While other members of the Balta Seaforce are also capable of this, Jarl Grimson is the only one capable of controlling it. He also takes care of legal disputes in his community.
1
Dogi
Best Friend
Series mainstay Dogi is one of the first characters to appear onscreen in Ys X: Nordics, and just as well. Dogi has been around ever since the first Ys games, and at this point, he is almost as beloved by fans as Adol himself.
With his hulking frame, bright blue hair, and genteel demeanor, Dogi is a wonderful contrast to the adventurous redhead leading the series. Always happy to accompany Adol on his adventures, Dogi often acts as the voice of reason — and often as the voice entirely — for our mostly silent protagonist.
JRPG
Action RPG
Hack and Slash
- Released
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October 25, 2024
- Developer(s)
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Nihon Falcom, PH3 GmbH
- Publisher(s)
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NIS America, Clouded Leopard Entertainment
- Engine
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Proprietary
- ESRB
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T For Teen // Blood, Language, Violence
- How Long To Beat
-
25.5 hours
- Number of Players
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1
- Steam Deck Compatibility
-
Unknown
- How Long To Beat (Completionist Runs)
-
72 hours
- OpenCritic Rating
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Strong