Story

Ys I & II is set in the mythical land of Esteria, a place teetering on the edge of chaos. The narrative follows the exploits of Adol Christin, a red-haired adventurer drawn to the island by tales of mystery and legend. As Adol arrives, he discovers that the once prosperous land is besieged by monsters, and a mysterious storm encircles the island, cutting it off from the outside world.

In Ys I, Adol’s journey begins with his arrival at the port town of Minea, where he learns of ancient books that hold the key to the island’s troubles. These are the Books of Ys, sacred tomes that chronicle the history and secrets of the vanished civilization of Ys. Adol’s quest involves recovering these books, each guarded by a powerful boss, to uncover the truth behind the calamity.

The story seamlessly transitions into Ys II, where Adol is transported to the floating land of Ys. Here, the plot thickens as Adol discovers the divine origins of the land and the twin goddesses, Reah and Feena, who protect it. The narrative unfolds with Adol battling dark forces and uncovering the sinister intentions of the evil cleric, Darm. The intertwined stories of Ys I & II offer a rich tapestry of heroism, destiny, and the eternal struggle between good and evil.

Gameplay

Ys I & II are renowned for their revolutionary gameplay mechanics, especially the “bump” combat system. Unlike traditional RPGs that rely on a separate battle screen, Ys implements real-time action where players control Adol directly on the field. The bump system requires players to collide with enemies off-center to inflict damage, a mechanic that emphasizes strategy and precision.

As players progress, they collect a variety of equipment and items that enhance Adol’s combat abilities. Armor, shields, and swords can be upgraded, providing a tangible sense of progression. Magic also plays a crucial role, especially in Ys II, where Adol gains access to spells that can heal, damage, or provide utility in various situations.

The game features an interconnected world with towns, dungeons, and wilderness areas, each filled with secrets to uncover and NPCs to interact with. The exploration is non-linear, allowing players to tackle challenges in various orders, which was a novel concept at the time of release.

Graphics and Sound

Ys I & II’s graphics are a charming blend of vibrant 2D sprites and detailed backgrounds, which have been lovingly remastered in various ports and remakes over the years. The visual style maintains a timeless appeal, with each environment meticulously crafted to enhance the storytelling and atmosphere.

The soundscapes of Ys I & II are legendary, composed by the renowned Yuzo Koshiro and Mieko Ishikawa. The soundtrack features a mix of orchestral, rock, and electronic elements that perfectly complement the on-screen action. Tracks like “Feena,” “Palace of Destruction,” and “Tower of the Shadow of Death” have become iconic within the gaming community, celebrated for their energy and emotion.

Legacy and Reception

Ys I & II have left an indelible mark on the action RPG genre, influencing countless games with their innovative mechanics and storytelling. Initially released on platforms like the PC-8801 and subsequently ported to systems such as the TurboGrafx-16, these games have been praised for their engaging gameplay and rich narrative.

The reception of Ys I & II has been overwhelmingly positive, with critics lauding the games for their tight mechanics and memorable soundtrack. They are often heralded as some of the greatest RPGs of their era, with a legacy that persists through numerous remakes and ports, including enhanced versions on modern platforms.

Ys I & II’s impact is evident in the continued success of the Ys series, which has expanded with multiple sequels and spin-offs. The games’ influence is also seen in the adoption of real-time action mechanics in subsequent RPGs, setting a standard for the genre.

Conclusion

Ys I & II stand as a testament to the timeless allure of classic RPG adventures. Through their compelling narrative, innovative gameplay, and unforgettable music, these games have cemented their place in the pantheon of gaming history. They continue to inspire new generations of players and developers, ensuring their legacy endures. Ys I & II are not just games; they are enduring stories of adventure, courage, and the eternal struggle between light and darkness.