The Ys series is a staple in the action RPG genre, renowned for its fast-paced gameplay, compelling stories, and iconic music. With numerous entries since its inception, it’s a challenge to rank these beloved games. Here, we delve into the rich history of Ys and rank the games based on their story, gameplay, graphics, sound, and legacy.

Ys I: Ancient Ys Vanished

Story

Ys I: Ancient Ys Vanished introduces players to Adol Christin, a young adventurer swept into a quest to save the land of Esteria from dark forces. As he explores the mysterious island, Adol uncovers ancient secrets and battles formidable foes.

Gameplay

Players experience a unique bump combat system where Adol attacks enemies by running into them. This gameplay style, while simple, offers a strategic depth that requires players to position themselves correctly to avoid damage.

Why it’s on this list

As the inaugural title, it set the stage for the entire series. Its innovative combat system and engaging story laid the groundwork for future titles.

Graphics and Sound

Although dated by modern standards, the game boasts a charming 8-bit art style. The music, composed by Yuzo Koshiro, remains a highlight, with tracks that are both memorable and atmospheric.

Legacy and Reception

The game is often praised for its simplicity and charm. It’s considered a classic in the action RPG genre, influencing many games that followed.

Ys II: Ancient Ys Vanished – The Final Chapter

Story

Ys II continues directly from the first game, with Adol transported to the floating continent of Ys. He faces new challenges and encounters allies who aid him in his quest to defeat evil and restore peace.

Gameplay

This title builds on the bump combat mechanics, introducing magic spells that add depth to combat and exploration. The addition of magic allows for more varied strategies in battles.

Why it’s on this list

Ys II expands upon the original’s foundation, enhancing the story and gameplay mechanics. It solidifies the series’ reputation for engaging action RPG experiences.

Graphics and Sound

With improved visuals over its predecessor, Ys II offers vibrant environments and character designs. The soundtrack continues to impress, featuring compositions that perfectly complement the game’s atmosphere.

Legacy and Reception

The game is lauded for its improvements over Ys I, regarded as a perfect companion piece that completes the story arc of the first game.

Ys III: Wanderers from Ys

Story

Ys III shifts the focus from Esteria to the land of Felghana, where Adol and his friend Dogi confront a sinister plot involving an ancient evil. The story unfolds with a more personal touch, emphasizing character development.

Gameplay

This entry marks a departure from the top-down view, adopting a side-scrolling perspective. The change introduces platforming elements, providing a fresh take on the series’ traditional gameplay.

Why it’s on this list

Ys III is notable for its experimental approach. Despite mixed reviews at the time, its unique gameplay and narrative style make it a memorable entry in the series.

Graphics and Sound

The game’s graphics are detailed for its time, with distinct character sprites and environments. Its soundtrack, composed by Mieko Ishikawa and Masaaki Kawai, is celebrated for its energetic and melodic compositions.

Legacy and Reception

While initially divisive, Ys III has gained appreciation over the years, particularly after the release of its reimagining, Ys: The Oath in Felghana, which refined its concepts.

Ys IV: The Dawn of Ys

Story

This entry is set after the events of Ys II, with Adol traveling to the land of Celceta. He uncovers the history behind the ancient land and its connection to the vanished kingdom of Ys.

Gameplay

The game returns to the top-down perspective, refining the bump combat system and introducing new features like transformation abilities, which add variety to the gameplay.

Why it’s on this list

Ys IV: The Dawn of Ys is often considered the definitive version of the fourth entry, praised for its engaging story and improved gameplay mechanics.

Graphics and Sound

The game features vibrant and detailed visuals that enhance its storytelling. The soundtrack, composed by Ryo Yonemitsu, is a standout, offering a diverse range of tracks that elevate the gaming experience.

Legacy and Reception

Despite its initial Japan-only release, The Dawn of Ys remains a fan favorite, celebrated for its ambitious narrative and polished gameplay.

Ys: The Oath in Felghana

Story

A remake of Ys III, The Oath in Felghana retells the story with enhanced depth and character development. Adol and Dogi return to Felghana to face new threats and uncover deeper mysteries.

Gameplay

This remake introduces a 3D engine with revamped mechanics, combining the series’ classic action with modernized controls and fluid combat. The game offers challenging boss battles and rewarding exploration.

Why it’s on this list

The Oath in Felghana is praised for revitalizing the original Ys III’s concept, offering a definitive version that appeals to both newcomers and series veterans.

Graphics and Sound

The game features impressive 3D graphics that bring the world of Felghana to life. Its soundtrack, a rearrangement of Ys III’s music, is a masterclass in video game composition, enhancing the emotional impact of the story.

Legacy and Reception

Widely regarded as one of the best games in the series, The Oath in Felghana received critical acclaim for its engaging gameplay and narrative improvements.

Ys VIII: Lacrimosa of Dana

Story

Ys VIII follows Adol as he finds himself shipwrecked on the mysterious Isle of Seiren. Alongside a mysterious woman named Dana, Adol uncovers the island’s secrets and a tale that transcends time.

Gameplay

The game introduces a party-based system, allowing players to switch between characters with unique abilities. Its fast-paced combat, coupled with exploration and crafting elements, offers a comprehensive RPG experience.

Why it’s on this list

Ys VIII is celebrated for its deep narrative and rich character development. It represents a high point in the series, combining classic Ys elements with modern RPG mechanics.

Graphics and Sound

The game showcases vibrant 3D environments and character designs. Its soundtrack, composed by Falcom Sound Team jdk, is a highlight, featuring a blend of orchestral and rock elements that enhance the epic scale of the adventure.

Legacy and Reception

Ys VIII received widespread acclaim for its story, gameplay, and music, solidifying its place as a standout title in the series and attracting a new generation of fans.

Conclusion

The Ys series stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of action RPGs, consistently delivering memorable experiences across its many entries. Each game, from the humble beginnings of Ys I to the ambitious Ys VIII, brings something unique to the table, ensuring its place in the pantheon of classic video games.