The Ys series (pronounced like "ease") is one of the longest running game series that's still getting new releases today. Running 10 games deep, the series started way back in 1987 on the NEC PC-8800 and has since released games on PS4, PS5, Switch, PC, and even Stadia (RIP). Some of the games have seen releases on modern hardware, making them easier to play and readily available to anyone. What's really cool about the series is that each game - with the exception of Ys Origin - follows the main character, Adol Christin, in his many adventures. Unlike Legend of Zelda where most games are a different incarnation of Link, each Ys game has the same Adol, but in a different point in time.
If you haven't played any of these games, you definitely need to. Especially if you're into action RPG's. In hopes of getting someone, anyone reading this hooked on the series, I'll gush all over this article about how great the series is.
Let's start things off with the chronological order of the series:
- Ys Origin
- Ys 1
- Ys 2
- Ys X: Nordics
- Ys IV: Memories of Celcelta
- Ys III: The Oath of Felghana
- Ys V: Kefin, The Lost Kingdom Of Sand
- Ys VIII: The Lacrimosa of Dana
- Ys VI: The Ark Of Napishtim
- Ys Seven
- Ys IX: Monstrum Nox
While you definitely don't need to play the games in that exact order to enjoy them, it's really cool to see small things you've learned in previous games being used in games later in the timeline.
Except for V, every single game in the series is available on Windows through Steam, GOG, and other digital marketplaces. Each game is relatively short too! If you don't have the time or patience for games that run longer than 35 hours, this series is perfect for you.
The combat is definitely what makes the series SHINE. The first two games, Ys 1 and 2, used a bump combat system. Instead of pressing a button to swing your sword, you instead run into an enemy and demolish them. Just like a semi truck! It definitely takes some getting used to. But once you do get used to it, it's cake. Most enemies die in one or two collisions and bosses require lots of strategy and quick-thinking. It's super fast-paced, pretty addictive, and unique as heck!
Origin, 3, and 6 all use a newer combat system where you actually get to do some hacking and slashing! You also have the ability to jump and combo your attacks together.
NOW WE'RE TALKING. Starting with Ys Seven, the combat is revamped and enhanced MUCH MORE. In this new combat system, you can have two party members journey along with Adol who are controlled by AI and attack alongside you. You can even switch control to one of them and play as another character! You can even dodge attacks! This system would make its way to Ys 8 and 9 and was also used in Memories of Celceta, which is a remake of Ys 4.
On top of all of that, the Ys series has some really, really good tunes. Not a single bad soundtrack in the entire series. Ys 8 and Origin are my two personal favorites.
Ys X hasn't been released in the US yet, but you could just get the Japanese version for Switch. I haven't played that one yet.
Hopefully any part of this has you interested in the series. They're seriously good! It's a shame that most of the series is only on PC, but if you do have a PC, laptop, or Steam Deck, GET THEM.
LATER.
