Ys X: Nordics Review

The Ys games have been a really decent go-to RPG for many people having a taste for this genre, and Nihon Falcon has successfully dropped another title, Ys X: Nordics, into the series. After hours of playthrough, it’s safe to say that the new gameplay aspects are outstanding, and the presence of familiar characters in the story that takes place between Ys: II and Ys: Memories of Celceta hit with nostalgia like never before.

The game has been released on multiple platforms, including PC, PlayStation 4, and Nintendo Switch. If you’ve played any of the previous titles, you’re in for a treat as the long-loved traditional protagonist, Adol Christin, embarks on a new adventure with his trusty seadog and friend, Káa.

Ys X: Nordics will have you delve into a unique Norse-inspired setting around the Obelia Guld, which again takes place between the events of Ys: II and Ys: Memories of Celceta. When Adol and Dogi return to Carnic, the seaside village, they soon find themselves entangled in the fuss and feud with the Normans, a culture that values sailing.

You’ll come across a group of eternal monsters called The Gréger, who are the main antagonists of the storyline. They pose quite a menace to all of the locals and Normans alike due to their sinister intentions. Early on, in Ys X: Nordics, Adol has no choice but to join forces with Káa, a strong pirate princess and another Mana user.

The connection they have between them constantly evolves as they encounter every challenge and adventure together. It’s quite enjoyable to see how Káa is given a chance to shine in Ys X: Nordics, all thanks to the story and interactions between the characters, even though you find Adol being usually quiet.

She manages to provide a vivid contrast to Adol’s usual modest heroics with her strong and domineering personality, and such a distinction enhances the plot quite a lot. The interactions of the non-playable characters of Carnic, who tend to have their own histories and arcs, are really able to bring the world of Ys X: Nordics to life, and it also serves as a decent foundation for all of Adol’s quest.

During the long playthroughs I made, the combat and gameplay mechanics of Ys X: Nordics felt flawless. It was also able to bring all that traditional excellence set by its predecessor entries in the series, and the thrilling and action-packed gameplay will leave you with no complaints. The game’s combat remains true to the series’ hack-and-slash gameplay, and the plethora of new powers and systems will leave you wanting more.

It was satisfying to see how you’re given the option of either landing simple strikes, skill-based attacks, or devastating combos with Adol and Káa in a strong Duo attack. The wide array of abilities available will act as your main driving force, along with a great deal of leeway and variety in battle and exploration.

For example, you’ll come across Mana String, which can be used as a grappling hook, letting you pass across gaps or pull in adversaries to land close-range strikes. Another example involves abilities like Mana Ride, which is basically a hoverboard for Adol.

What really shines the most in Ys X: Nordics is the Mana Burst feature, which makes Adol and Káa’s fighting style quite distinct. Both of them have burst abilities; Adol can clear paths by incinerating nearby barriers, while Káa is able to create ice platforms for easier navigation. All of these may seem quite simple, but they sure are impactful mechanics.

As you keep progressing into the game, you’ll notice the depth of the system of skills and tactics. Ys X: Nordics allows playable characters to work in tandem with one another in some really special ways. You’ll be required to plan for each fight, so I suggest taking time to strategize. You’re going to have to consider which characters or abilities you need to use since all enemies have their weak spots.

Keep leveling up, and you’ll get access to more powerful attacks and abilities, which will enhance your combat experience. Another impressive degree of strategy that has been added involves breaking the enemies’ character gauge before you’re able to damage the enemies’ health. This mechanic will be especially challenging during boss fights and other difficult engagements.

The techniques that were included in Ys X: Nordics for exploring the game’s extended environment are really something I’m going to have to commend. These stand out as the most appealing features in Ys X: Nordics. The islands in Obelia Gulf that Adol and Káa come across are filled with their exhilarating mysteries, riches, and NPCs.

You’re also able to take control of a ship, which stands as a new feature in Ys X: Nordics, which brings an open-sea experience similar to Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker. The ship is upgradeable, and you’re going to have a fast and exciting island traverse once you’ve upgraded enough, even though your ship’s initial speed should already feel modest.

However, sailing is not the only thing you’re going to be doing when you’re aboard your ship. The exploration part of Ys X: Nordics also does a commendable job of making you encounter hostile ships and engage in naval battles while at sea. These encounters allow boarding possibilities where Adol and Káa, again, must fight more waves of foes for important plunder.

To keep you from wasting time backtracking, the ship also provides you with a fast-travel option, which you unlock with H Stones. To keep exploring fun and interesting, Ys X: Nordics has also introduced quite a lot of mini-games with decent puzzle mechanics that cleverly use your character’s Mana powers.

Some environmental abilities, like ice platforms or the grappling hook, will be quite useful to unlock certain sections that are normally locked or retrieve hidden goods. If you want a more relaxing approach to the game, a soothing diversion to Adol’s adventure involves fishing with a periodic mini-game where different species of fish offer different rewards.

Ys X: Nordics has undoubtedly also offered a lovely aesthetic that really blends its vibrant surroundings with its fluid mechanics. This is especially something to admire, as the Ys series has never really prioritized state-of-the-art graphics.

Some faraway objects may lack clarity, or there may be occasional pop-ins, and Ys X: Nordics’ graphics don’t really push the limits of what current hardware can do. Nevertheless, the cel-shaded style of painting and the thoughtful color palette create a minimalistic and engaging appearance that is easily palpable.

Character designs and animations have allowed everyone in the cast to have their unique style. The bosses in Ys X: Nordics are also something to take note of due to their absurdly well-made animations and intricate models, which lend an air of grandeur and permanence to every single confrontation. Consistent high frame rates and fluent movements are the roots of a fast-paced action RPG. Thus, the occasional restrictions in the graphics fidelity feel like a modest sacrifice.

The Ys series has also built up its reputation for its top-notch energetic score. Ys X: Nordics provides an uneven but ultimately satisfying listening experience. A wide variety of musical styles are featured, and from all those furious fight themes with pulsating guitar riffs to serene ambient music that goes along with the exploration, were undoubtedly able to set the mood for my playthrough.

I wouldn’t say all the songs are equally impressive; some feel catchy and are able to take the action to another level, while others may seem bland and uninspired. The voice-acting also deserves all the praise it can get. Almost every dialogue captures the nuanced emotions and unique personality that come with every character. You’ll also have the option to have their voice either dubbed in English or Japanese.

To all the fans and the newbies, it’s quite easy to have you captivated by the plot and the innovative gameplay features that are introduced in Ys X: Nordics. You’ll rarely come across any dull moment because of all the fast-paced action RPG combat, exploration, special Mana skills, and not to mention the memorable music that makes up the game. You’ll be provided over 40 hours of gameplay for anyone who enjoys action RPGs, even remotely, who is sure to have a long-lasting impression of Ys X: Nordics.