Ys III: Wanderers from Ys stands as a remarkable installment in the beloved Ys series, capturing the hearts of fans with its engaging narrative and unique gameplay mechanics. Released initially in 1989 by Nihon Falcom, this game marked a significant departure from its predecessors by adopting a side-scrolling perspective, distinguishing it within the action RPG genre. This article delves into the intricate details of the game’s story, gameplay, graphics and sound, and its legacy and reception.

Story

Ys III: Wanderers from Ys focuses on the journey of Adol Christin, the red-haired hero known for his adventurous spirit. The story picks up after the events of Ys II, with Adol and his companion Dogi traveling to Dogi’s hometown of Redmont. The peaceful region is under threat from dark forces, and the duo is quickly drawn into a quest to uncover and stop the mysterious evil.

At the heart of the story is the legend of the Eldeen, an ancient race with ties to the mysterious ruins scattered throughout the land. Adol and Dogi arrive just as a series of natural disasters have begun to plague Redmont, including earthquakes and monster attacks. These events are linked to the revival of a malevolent force believed to be connected to the Eldeen.

As Adol explores the world around Redmont, he meets a cast of memorable characters, each contributing to the unfolding narrative. Chester Stoddart, a central figure in the story, is initially portrayed as an antagonist but is later revealed to have complex motivations tied to his sister Elena and their tragic past. The narrative is rich with themes of friendship, betrayal, and redemption, adding depth to the action-driven plot.

Gameplay

Ys III: Wanderers from Ys departs from the top-down perspective of its predecessors, adopting a side-scrolling view that sets it apart in the series. This change brought new challenges and opportunities for gameplay, offering a fresh experience for fans of the Ys franchise.

The side-scrolling format introduces platforming elements that require precise timing and movement, blending seamlessly with the traditional RPG mechanics. Players control Adol as he traverses diverse environments, battling enemies and overcoming obstacles. Combat remains action-oriented, with players needing to master Adol’s sword techniques and use of special items to progress.

The game maintains the series’ hallmark of fast-paced, fluid combat. Adol gains experience and levels up by defeating enemies, which enhances his abilities and stats. Equipment such as swords and armor can be upgraded and swapped out, providing strategic depth to the combat system. Magic rings, which grant special powers and abilities, add another layer of strategy, allowing players to tailor their approach to different challenges.

Exploration is a key component of Ys III, with the world filled with hidden paths and secrets waiting to be uncovered. The game’s dungeons are cleverly designed, each presenting unique challenges and puzzles that test the player’s skills and problem-solving abilities.

Graphics and Sound

Upon its release, Ys III: Wanderers from Ys was praised for its graphics, which showcased the capabilities of the hardware it was developed for. The side-scrolling perspective allowed for detailed sprite work and vibrant backgrounds, bringing the world of Ys to life in a new dimension. Character animations were smooth, and the enemy designs were varied and imaginative, contributing to the game’s visual appeal.

The soundtrack of Ys III is one of its standout features, composed by the renowned Yuzo Koshiro and Mieko Ishikawa. The music blends energetic tracks with haunting melodies, perfectly complementing the game’s atmospheric and emotional storytelling. Tracks like “The Boy’s Got Wings” and “Sealed Time” have become iconic within the gaming community, often celebrated for their complexity and emotional depth.

Sound effects also play a crucial role in enhancing the gameplay experience. From the clash of swords to the ambient sounds of the environment, the audio design immerses players in the adventurous world of Ys.

Legacy and Reception

Ys III: Wanderers from Ys has left an enduring legacy within the action RPG genre. Its combination of side-scrolling action and RPG elements was innovative for its time, influencing future titles within and outside the series. The game’s storytelling, characterized by its emotional depth and character development, set a standard for narrative-driven RPGs.

Upon release, Ys III received positive reviews for its engaging gameplay and captivating music. Critics praised its departure from the norm, although some fans of the series were initially divided over the change in perspective. Despite this, the game garnered a dedicated following, cementing its status as a classic.

Over the years, Ys III has been re-released and remade, most notably as Ys: The Oath in Felghana in 2005. This remake reintroduced the game to a new generation of players, enhancing the graphics, refining the gameplay, and expanding the story. The remake was met with critical acclaim and reaffirmed the game’s importance in the Ys series.

Conclusion

Ys III: Wanderers from Ys remains a significant entry in the Ys series, celebrated for its innovative gameplay and compelling narrative. Its side-scrolling perspective was a bold move that paid off, offering a fresh take on the action RPG genre. The game’s music and sound design continue to be lauded as some of the best in the industry, underscoring the emotional depth of the story.

The legacy of Ys III endures through its influence on subsequent titles and its remakes, ensuring that new generations of gamers can appreciate its unique charm. As a testament to the enduring appeal of the Ys series, Wanderers from Ys is a must-play for fans of action RPGs and those looking to experience a piece of gaming history.