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Ys: Book I & II is a seminal action role-playing game that has left an indelible mark on the genre. Originally developed by Nihon Falcom, this title combines the first two games in the Ys series into a single, cohesive experience. Released for the TurboGrafx-CD in 1989, it was one of the earliest examples of CD-ROM technology being utilized to enhance video game storytelling and audio-visual presentation. This article delves into the intricate details of Ys: Book I & II, exploring its story, gameplay mechanics, graphics and sound, as well as its lasting legacy and reception.
Story
The narrative of Ys: Book I & II is both captivating and straightforward, focusing on the adventures of Adol Christin, a red-haired swordsman with a penchant for heroism. The game is set in the mythical land of Esteria, a place shrouded in mystery and plagued by a curse.
Ys Book I
In the first book, Adol arrives in Esteria, driven by tales of the land’s riches and the legendary city of Ys. Upon his arrival, he discovers that the land is besieged by monsters and an oppressive storm that has isolated it from the outside world. The young hero learns of an ancient prophecy that foretells a savior who will rescue the land from darkness. Encouraged by the inhabitants, Adol embarks on a quest to locate the six Books of Ys, which hold the secrets to the land’s salvation.
Throughout his journey, Adol explores various dungeons, battles fierce monsters, and uncovers the history of Ys, a civilization that vanished under mysterious circumstances. His goal is to collect the six books guarded by dark forces, each revealing a fragment of the ancient society’s past. As he progresses, Adol learns about the twin goddesses who once watched over Ys and the malevolent force that threatens to return.
Ys Book II
The second book picks up immediately where the first leaves off. With the six books in hand, Adol is magically transported to the floating continent of Ys. Here, he discovers a new world teeming with life, magic, and danger. His task is to assist the descendants of Ys in their fight against the demonic forces led by the sinister sorcerer Darm.
Adol’s journey in Book II delves deeper into the lore of Ys, revealing the true nature of the goddesses and the reasons behind the land’s fall into ruin. The narrative deepens with new characters, including Lilia, a young girl who aids Adol, and the enigmatic priestesses who guide him on his quest. The climax builds toward an epic confrontation with Darm, where Adol must use all he has learned to vanquish the evil threatening Ys and Esteria.
Gameplay
Ys: Book I & II is celebrated for its innovative gameplay mechanics, which set it apart from other RPGs of its time. The game employs a unique “bump combat” system, where players attack enemies by running into them rather than using traditional attack commands.
Bump Combat System
The bump combat system is both simple and strategic. Players must maneuver Adol to collide with enemies off-center to deal damage while avoiding taking damage themselves. This mechanic encourages players to think tactically about positioning and movement, especially as enemy patterns grow more complex.
Exploration and Progression
Exploration is a key component of Ys: Book I & II. Players traverse a variety of environments, from lush forests to dark caves and ancient ruins. Each area is filled with treasures, enemies, and NPCs who provide valuable information and side quests. The game’s progression is linear yet rewarding, with each new area presenting fresh challenges and narrative developments.
Inventory and Equipment
Adol’s success in battle depends on the timely acquisition of new weapons, armor, and items. Players collect gold from defeated enemies to purchase better equipment and must manage their inventory to ensure they are prepared for the increasingly difficult foes they encounter. The game also features a rudimentary magic system in Book II, adding another layer of depth to combat and exploration.
Graphics and Sound
Ys: Book I & II is renowned for its impressive use of the CD-ROM format, offering audiovisual experiences that were groundbreaking at the time of its release.
Visuals
The game features vibrant, colorful graphics that bring the world of Ys to life. Character sprites and enemy designs are detailed and distinct, while the environments are crafted with care, providing a sense of immersion and wonder. The animated cutscenes, a novelty at the time, are well-integrated into the storytelling, enhancing the narrative without overshadowing gameplay.
Soundtrack
One of the most celebrated aspects of Ys: Book I & II is its outstanding soundtrack, composed by Yuzo Koshiro and Mieko Ishikawa. The music ranges from energetic battle themes to atmospheric melodies that perfectly capture the mood of each locale. The CD quality audio was a revelation, setting a new standard for video game music and contributing significantly to the game’s emotional impact.
Legacy and Reception
Ys: Book I & II has left a lasting legacy in the world of video games, particularly within the action RPG genre. Upon its release, it was lauded for its innovative gameplay, engaging story, and groundbreaking use of CD-ROM technology.
Critical Acclaim
The game received high praise from critics and players alike, who appreciated its engaging narrative, challenging combat, and exceptional audio-visual presentation. It was considered a must-have title for the TurboGrafx-CD and is often credited with helping to popularize the platform.
Influence on the Genre
Ys: Book I & II’s impact extends beyond its immediate success. It influenced numerous action RPGs that followed, particularly in its approach to storytelling and music integration. The bump combat system, while unique, inspired developers to experiment with non-traditional combat mechanics in RPGs.
Legacy in the Ys Series
As the foundational entries in the Ys series, Book I & II set the stage for future installments. The series has grown significantly, with numerous sequels and remakes that build upon the themes and gameplay mechanics introduced in these early games. Ys: Book I & II remains a beloved classic, often revisited in retrospectives and celebrated for its contributions to the genre.
Conclusion
Ys: Book I & II stands as a testament to the power of innovation in video game design. Through its compelling narrative, strategic gameplay, and pioneering use of CD-ROM technology, it captured the imaginations of players and set a high bar for future RPGs. Its legacy endures, influencing game developers and delighting new generations of players who discover its timeless charm. As both a cornerstone of the Ys series and a landmark in gaming history, Ys: Book I & II continues to be celebrated for its impact and enduring appeal.
