Ys III: Wanderers from Ys stands as a unique entry in the celebrated Ys series, developed by Nihon Falcom. Released initially in 1989 for the NEC PC-8801, it marks a distinct departure from its predecessors by embracing a side-scrolling perspective, diverging from the top-down view that characterized the earlier titles. This shift, alongside its engaging narrative and challenging gameplay, has made it a memorable installment in the Ys franchise.

Story

The narrative of Ys III: Wanderers from Ys continues the adventures of the red-haired hero, Adol Christin, and his loyal companion, Dogi. Set three years after the events of Ys II, the story begins as the duo sets out on a journey to Dogi’s hometown of Redmont. Upon their arrival, they discover that the town is besieged by mysterious monsters and a series of peculiar events linked to the ominous Valestein Castle.

As Adol delves deeper into the intrigue surrounding Redmont, he learns about an ancient evil tied to the local legend of the Eldeen. The plot thickens with the introduction of various characters, each with their own motives and secrets, including Elena Stoddart, Dogi’s childhood friend, and Chester Stoddart, her brother, who plays a pivotal role in the unfolding drama.

The narrative weaves a tale of heroism, betrayal, and redemption as Adol confronts the malevolent forces threatening the region. The story, while not overly complex, is rich with lore and character development, making it a compelling experience for players invested in the world of Ys.

Gameplay

Ys III: Wanderers from Ys distinguishes itself with its side-scrolling action RPG gameplay. This change in perspective brought a new dimension to the series, focusing on platforming elements alongside traditional RPG mechanics. Players control Adol as he navigates various environments, battling enemies and bosses in real-time combat.

The combat system is straightforward yet challenging, requiring precise timing and strategic use of Adol’s sword skills. Players must learn enemy patterns and adapt their tactics to overcome increasingly difficult foes. The game also introduces a leveling system, allowing Adol to gain experience points and increase his stats, which is essential for tackling more formidable adversaries.

Exploration plays a crucial role in the game, as players must traverse diverse terrains, from forests and caves to the imposing Valestein Castle. The side-scrolling format emphasizes platforming, with jumping puzzles and environmental hazards adding an extra layer of complexity to the gameplay.

Equipment and inventory management are also integral to the experience. Players can find or purchase new weapons and armor, each with unique attributes that enhance Adol’s abilities. Magic rings provide additional powers, such as healing or increased attack strength, offering strategic options in combat.

Graphics and Sound

Ys III: Wanderers from Ys features visuals that, while modest by today’s standards, were impressive for the time of its release. The game’s side-scrolling perspective allowed for detailed sprite work and vibrant backgrounds, creating a visually appealing world for players to explore. The character and enemy designs are distinct and memorable, contributing to the game’s charm.

The sound design and music are standout elements of the game, as is typical for the Ys series. Composed by the legendary Yuzo Koshiro and Mieko Ishikawa, the soundtrack is a masterful blend of energetic and atmospheric tracks that enhance the gameplay experience. The music in Ys III is often cited as one of the game’s strongest aspects, with tracks like “The Boy’s Got Wings” and “Sealed Time” remaining fan favorites.

Legacy and Reception

Upon release, Ys III: Wanderers from Ys received a mixed reception from critics and players. While many appreciated the bold shift in gameplay style and the engaging story, others lamented the departure from the top-down perspective that had become a hallmark of the series. The game’s difficulty level was also a point of contention, with some players finding it overly challenging.

Despite these criticisms, Ys III has maintained a dedicated fanbase and is often praised for its innovation within the series. Its legacy is further cemented by the numerous ports and remakes it has received over the years, including versions for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), Sega Genesis, and TurboGrafx-CD. Each version introduced slight variations and enhancements, broadening the game’s appeal across different platforms.

The game’s influence is evident in its direct remake, Ys: The Oath in Felghana, released in 2005. This remake reimagines the original with updated graphics, refined mechanics, and an expanded storyline, demonstrating the lasting impact and popularity of Ys III among fans of the series.

Conclusion

Ys III: Wanderers from Ys is a remarkable chapter in the Ys saga, known for its bold experimentation and engaging narrative. While its departure from traditional gameplay elements divided opinion upon release, it has since been recognized as an innovative and influential entry in the series. The game’s challenging combat, memorable soundtrack, and rich lore continue to resonate with fans, ensuring its place in the annals of classic RPG history.

As a testament to its enduring appeal, Ys III has inspired remakes and adaptations that have introduced new generations of players to the world of Ys. Its legacy is a testament to the creativity and ambition of Nihon Falcom, solidifying Ys III: Wanderers from Ys as a beloved classic in the realm of action RPGs.