Ys III: Wanderers from Ys marks a notable departure from its predecessors in the Ys series, bringing new perspectives and challenges to the beloved franchise. Released initially in 1989 by Nihon Falcom, this game dared to deviate from the traditional top-down gameplay of its antecedents, instead opting for a side-scrolling action RPG style. This bold move set it apart and has since cemented its place in the annals of video game history.

Story

The narrative of Ys III: Wanderers from Ys follows the adventures of Adol Christin, the series’ iconic red-haired protagonist. The story kicks off as Adol and his loyal companion, Dogi, embark on a journey away from the island of Esteria. Their travels lead them to Dogi’s hometown of Redmont, a locale plagued by mysterious and sinister forces.

Upon arrival, Adol and Dogi discover that the town is under threat from an enigmatic figure named Count McGuire, whose minions terrorize the local populace. Coupled with the appearance of monsters and the growing menace from the nearby volcano, Mt. Elderm, Adol is thrust into a quest to unravel the dark secrets that threaten to engulf Redmont.

As the story unfolds, Adol’s journey takes him through treacherous terrains and dungeons, where he encounters a host of allies and adversaries. Key figures include Elena Stoddart, Dogi’s childhood friend, and Chester Stoddart, her brother, whose allegiances are shrouded in mystery. The plot thickens as Adol discovers an ancient power hidden within the bowels of Mt. Elderm, a force that could spell salvation or doom for Redmont.

Gameplay

Ys III: Wanderers from Ys distinguishes itself through its side-scrolling action RPG mechanics, a stark contrast to the top-down perspective of the first two games. This shift brought a fresh dynamic to the series, blending elements of platforming with the fast-paced combat Ys is known for.

Players control Adol directly, navigating through various environments, battling enemies, and overcoming obstacles. The combat system, while simplified, relies heavily on timing and strategic positioning, making each encounter a test of skill. Adol can wield a variety of weapons, each with unique attributes, and players must learn to switch tactics to effectively counter different foes.

Experience points and item collection play a crucial role in gameplay. As Adol vanquishes enemies, he gains experience, leveling up to increase his strength and resilience. Items such as healing potions and equipment upgrades are scattered throughout the world, encouraging exploration and rewarding players who venture off the beaten path.

The game also introduces a limited inventory system, requiring players to manage their resources carefully. This aspect adds a layer of strategy, as players must decide which items are essential for their journey and which can be left behind.

Graphics and Sound

For its time, Ys III: Wanderers from Ys pushed the boundaries of visual and auditory presentation. The side-scrolling perspective allowed for detailed sprite work and vibrant backgrounds that brought the world of Ys to life. Each region is distinct, from the bustling town of Redmont to the foreboding depths of Mt. Elderm, with environments designed to immerse players in the narrative’s unfolding drama.

The game’s sound design is particularly noteworthy, featuring a compelling soundtrack composed by the legendary Falcom Sound Team jdk. The music of Ys III is a blend of energetic rock and melodic themes, punctuating the action and enhancing the emotional weight of the story. Tracks like “The Boy’s Got Wings” and “Sealed Time” remain iconic, resonating with fans long after the game’s conclusion.

Sound effects complement the musical score, with each sword clash and monster roar adding to the atmosphere. The combination of graphics and sound in Ys III works harmoniously to create an engaging experience that captivates players.

Legacy and Reception

Ys III: Wanderers from Ys received a mixed reception upon its release, largely due to its departure from the series’ established formula. Critics and fans were divided over the side-scrolling gameplay, with some praising its innovation while others lamented the loss of the traditional top-down perspective. Despite these criticisms, the game gained a dedicated following, appreciated for its engaging story and memorable soundtrack.

Over time, Ys III has been revisited and reimagined through various ports and remakes, most notably the 2005 release Ys: The Oath in Felghana. This remake retained the core narrative of the original while updating the gameplay and visuals to align with modern standards, garnering critical acclaim and introducing a new generation of players to Adol’s adventures.

Ys III’s influence is evident in how it challenged conventions and expanded the possibilities of the action RPG genre. Its legacy continues to be celebrated by fans and developers alike, serving as a testament to the enduring appeal of the Ys series.

Conclusion

Ys III: Wanderers from Ys stands as a pivotal entry in the Ys series, marking a bold shift in gameplay style that both intrigued and divided its audience. Despite initial mixed reactions, the game’s compelling story, dynamic combat, and exceptional soundtrack have ensured its place in gaming history. Through subsequent remakes and adaptations, Ys III’s legacy endures, captivating new players and reminding veterans of the timeless adventures of Adol Christin. As a bridge between the past and future of the series, Ys III continues to inspire and influence the action RPG genre, underscoring the creativity and innovation that define Nihon Falcom’s storied franchise.