Ys is a beloved action RPG series, renowned for its fast-paced combat, engaging storylines, and memorable soundtracks. At SupremeDuelist.blog, we’re always looking to dive deep into the best that gaming has to offer, and today we’re tackling the question: What is the Best Ys Game? This article will explore the main entries in the series, ranking them based on their gameplay, narrative, and overall experience, giving you a clear idea of where to start.
The Ys series has a long and rich history, starting back in the 80s, and evolving over the years. This makes it a series with a large fanbase and a lot of diversity in styles and mechanics. We’ll consider factors like combat mechanics, story depth, and world design to determine the pinnacle of the series, so whether you’re a seasoned fan or a newcomer looking for a great action RPG, this guide will help you find the best Ys game for you.
Ranking the Main Ys Series
Ranking any series is subjective, but we’ve aimed to make this list as objective as possible by focusing on key elements of each game. Let’s dive into our take on the best Ys titles, starting with the bottom and working our way to the top.
Ys I & II Chronicles (The Beginnings)
While essential to the series’ lore and frequently bundled together, Ys I & II Chronicles are somewhat dated. The bump combat system, while innovative for its time, feels clunky compared to modern action RPGs. The story of Adol’s first adventures is compelling, but lacks the complexity and character development of later installments. The music, while iconic, can feel repetitive for extended play sessions. They are certainly historically significant, but not the best starting point for newcomers looking for the most polished experience. If you want to see where the series started however, these are a must play. These games are a foundational part of the series’ history and are still worth experiencing for those interested in understanding the roots of the Ys franchise.
Ys Origin (A Prequel’s Prowess)
Ys Origin is a fantastic prequel that delves into the events 700 years before the main series. It’s unique in that it doesn’t feature Adol as the protagonist, instead offering three distinct characters, each with their own unique gameplay styles and perspectives on the game’s story. The gameplay is a more refined version of the earlier entries, with a heavy focus on boss battles. While the narrative is good, it lacks the scope of Adol’s adventures. This makes it a fun and engaging title, but not quite at the top due to not featuring the main protagonist and the lack of exploration compared to other entries.
ys origin boss battle
Ys: Memories of Celceta (Exploration and Adventure)
Ys: Memories of Celceta is a reimagining of Ys IV, presenting a large, interconnected world that is a joy to explore. The combat system takes the basic mechanics of previous titles and adds more complexity, such as party-based combat. The story is engaging, focusing on Adol’s amnesia and the mysteries surrounding the Celceta forest. While the narrative can be a bit trope-heavy at times, the core gameplay loop of exploration and combat is excellent. Memories of Celceta is a solid choice, especially if you enjoy map exploration. It’s a fun and solid entry that brings a lot of fun exploration to the franchise. If you find yourself wanting more, check out our analysis of the best murder mystery games for more exploration and mystery.
Ys VIII: Lacrimosa of Dana (Refined Gameplay, Expanded Story)
Ys VIII: Lacrimosa of Dana takes the series to new heights by focusing on a desert island with some unique gameplay elements, such as base building and exploration. The combat is fast-paced and fluid, with a fun party system. Dana’s story and her connection to the overall plot add a deeper emotional layer to the game. The game is an engaging experience with lots of twists and turns, making it one of the best entries in the series. “Ys VIII has a great balance between action and story, and the integration of Dana’s narrative is brilliant,” states Dr. Emily Carter, a game narrative analyst from the University of Game Studies. It’s an important step forward for the series and for the gameplay and story.
Ys Seven (A Turning Point for the Series)
Ys Seven is a major turning point for the series, introducing the party-based combat system that would become a staple of later installments. The game offers a sprawling world to explore and a compelling narrative, marking a clear evolution in the franchise’s design. It was a significant step forward and set the stage for future successes. The story is not as involved or well told as some later entries, but it’s a fun experience overall. It’s often cited as a high-ranking title in the series. If you enjoy the Ys series, you may also like to see what we have to say about the best xenoblade game.
ys seven party combat
Ys: The Oath in Felghana (A Refined Classic)
Ys: The Oath in Felghana is a remake of Ys III, taking the side-scrolling gameplay and converting it to 3D, action-focused combat with a top-down perspective. It is praised for its fast-paced combat, challenging bosses, and engaging storyline that keeps you hooked from beginning to end. It is a must-play for any fan of action games. It is often lauded as a near-perfect action RPG, with tight controls and well-designed environments. This title is a testament to how a classic can be modernized. This game perfectly balances the old-school feel with modern gaming mechanics.
The Top Contenders for Best Ys Game
Now we get to the best of the best, the ones that often stand out in discussions of the best Ys game. These games elevate the series with outstanding quality and innovation.
Ys IX: Monstrum Nox (Verticality and Exploration)
Ys IX: Monstrum Nox introduces the Monstrum abilities which completely change the way the world is explored with great new combat abilities to boot, allowing for vertical exploration of a large city and a dark and mysterious plot. The combat is as tight as ever, and the addition of a more open, interconnected world adds a new dimension to the gameplay. It is an impressive game that takes the good of previous titles and adds new elements for a truly fantastic experience. The story is another strong point, adding new layers to the lore of the series.
ys ix monstrum exploration
Ys: The Ark of Napishtim (Classic Gameplay Perfected)
Ys: The Ark of Napishtim is a landmark title in the series. It takes the basic action RPG formula and enhances it with sharp, responsive combat and a well-told adventure story. The focus on exploration, coupled with difficult and engaging combat, makes it a standout entry. It is a significant milestone that many fans still look back to with great fondness. “The Ark of Napishtim really nailed the classic action RPG formula. It’s a gold standard,” commented renowned game critic, Kevin “Kev” Matthews. Its fast paced combat really makes this game a real gem in the series. It remains an important entry in the series, and is often cited as the best by long time fans.
The Definitive Best Ys Game
While all the Ys games have their strengths, one title consistently stands out:
Ys VIII: Lacrimosa of Dana (The Pinnacle)
While other titles can give it a run for its money, Ys VIII: Lacrimosa of Dana represents the peak of the Ys series for many players. The game successfully blends an engaging story, exciting combat, and a unique world that is simply a joy to explore. The dual protagonist system adds an extra layer of depth and emotional connection to the story, a feat the series has not achieved before or since. It is a modern masterpiece in the action RPG genre, and we are always happy to recommend it as the best Ys game. The exploration is some of the best in the series, and the base building adds a new layer to the gameplay that is really enjoyable. Its a title that is difficult to put down once you start.
Conclusion: Embark on Your Ys Adventure
Ultimately, the best Ys game is a personal decision, influenced by individual gaming preferences. However, Ys VIII: Lacrimosa of Dana is a strong contender and a fantastic starting point if you’re new to the series. At SupremeDuelist.blog, we are passionate about gaming and helping you discover the best titles the world has to offer. With its fast-paced action, engaging narratives, and rich world, the Ys series provides an excellent experience for all RPG fans. Whether you prefer the classic gameplay of Ys: The Ark of Napishtim, the fast combat of Ys: The Oath in Felghana or the story telling of Ys VIII: Lacrimosa of Dana, there’s a game in the series for everyone. Now it’s time for you to go and start exploring this series for yourself. If you want to check out another beloved game series, you can read our article on best commodore 64 games.
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