Ys X: Nordics Reviews
Ys X: Nordics introduces an interesting combat system with Duo Mode, but it quickly becomes repetitive due to limited party dynamics and a lack of damage type mechanics. While the exploration and improved graphics are highlights, the slow-paced story, Saturday morning cartoon villains and so-so gameplay make the experience fall short of expectations, especially when compared to previous entries in the series.
Ys X: Nordics takes the series a step further and even appeals to fans of sea battles. The battles are fast and fun, the traversal across the different areas is nicely varied, even if the graphics unfortunately can't really keep up. If you fancy a Nordic anime setting and want to keep expanding your crew, this is the perfect game for you, even if you haven't played any of the Ys games.
Review in German | Read full review
Ys X: Nordics effectively combines classic Ys elements with modern gameplay, offering a rewarding action RPG experience. Centered on a younger Adol Christin, the game introduces the Duo Combat System and focuses on exploration via the ship Sandras. Despite some minor drawbacks in the early naval sections, it’s a must-play for both fans and newcomers, blending action, exploration, and character development seamlessly.
While some might find the early stages of the game a bit slow, I’d recommend sticking with it or focusing only on essential interactions to progress the quests—it makes the pace feel more manageable. Although I haven’t played many of the previous Ys titles, this one has definitely inspired me to revisit earlier games and further explore the adventures of Adol Christin!
Despite not reaching the high points of some of its predecessors, Ys X: Nordics is yet another thrilling action RPG that's consistent with the franchise's quality. Hopefully, the next Adol games will manage to make the most out of what was developed here and bring even more enticing journeys.
Review in Portuguese | Read full review
While the land-based exploration and fast-paced duo combat deliver the thrilling action Ys fans expect, the sea combat disappoints with its overly simplistic mechanics and slow pacing. Despite its shortcomings at sea, the game’s vibrant environments and energetic soundtrack make it a solid addition to the series.
Ys X: Nordics brings back the classic spirit of the franchise with fast-paced combat and revamped mechanics. The dynamic between Adol and Karja, united by a spell, creates a good starting point for the plot, and the duo combat system offers exciting moments, especially against bosses. The protagonists' customizations and abilities also give plenty of room to explore different combinations. However, the game stumbles in several aspects. The narrative, although promising, gets lost in superficial developments and unmemorable characters. Exploration, although well-intentioned with the addition of naval combat and transversal abilities, suffers from simplified maps and a lack of incentive to revisit areas. Overall, Ys X: Nordics is a fun adventure, but it could have been more memorable if it had made better use of its ideas.
Review in Portuguese | Read full review
Ys X: Nordics is a very fun action game with loveable characters and a soundtrack that’s sure to have one or two tracks that’ll stick in your mind. The Cross Action System allows for players to enact beautiful destruction and is sure to be a hit with action fans. It has a story that does enough to capture your attention and keep it through the duration of the game, and is a perfect starting point for those new to the Ys series. The naval gameplay does need some polish, but Falcom gave an excellent first attempt. While the game was hampered by some technical and visual issues, this should not deter you from playing this game. Longtime fans of the Ys series, as well as newcomers, will find a lot to enjoy in this game. I certainly had a lot of fun playing through it.
Ys X: Nordics showcases many outstanding elements the series excels at — combat, skills, music, and characters are on-point and some of the best we've seen in the nearly 40 years the series has existed.
Ys X: Nordics is presented as a solid addition to the franchise, offering evolved gameplay and new playable elements. The Mana String is quite interesting and gives many new possibilities to the protagonists that make the game more dynamic and fun. On the other hand, the naval combats, although interesting, have left us a little cold. Still, Ys fans are in luck because the spirit of Ys is still intact and in top form, and it's still devilishly fun.
Review in Spanish | Read full review
Ys X: Nordics is a crowning achievement for Falcom as one of its most vibrant and compelling action RPGs yet. The setting of the Obelia Gulf invokes a sense of adventure and mystery, while its characters, locations, and lore keeps players engaged. As the young hero Adol and the pirate princess Karja, players experience a combat system that sets the new standard for the franchise as well.
As far as Ys chronology goes, Adol’s latest adventure is nothing if not a big step backward. If you ask me, however, this game is a major step forward. Offering an incredibly compelling story, intuitive new mechanics, and a refreshing and unique take on the Ys formula without compromising its identity, Ys X: Nordics is a literal boatload of fun that series fans and newcomers alike. I’d say that good things are on the horizon for Adol from here on out, but, well, we already know that’s true.
I’m thrilled to report that Ys X: Nordics isn’t just good, but in many ways it represents Ys at its best. I have some foibles with it, such as an occasionally inconsistent presentation and a comparative lack of memorable environments. However, it’s a mostly successful modernization and refreshment in a series that was in need of exactly that. Coupling this with improvements to cutscenes elevating an already great story and some of the best boss fights in the series, and you have a game that won’t be leaving my mind any time soon. I’m always excited for what’s coming next with Ys, but as I reflect on this title, I’m downright impatient as I think of the ways they can push its changes even further. Our 10th is always a big deal, and it’s clear that Ys understood that.
One of the developer interviews mentioned something about implementing a Souls-like element to the game, which was a bit of a concern. Once the game was released, it kept the classic taste of Ys, all while adding creative cinematics thus if you’re once a fan, this game won’t disappoint. Classic ARPG masterpiece as Ys would be, we recommend everyone to give it a try.
Review in Korean | Read full review
Ys X successfully expands and evolves Falcom's action style. A clean, flowing story that befits the adventures of the young Adol is presented, accompanied by excellent BGM. Moreover, offering plenty of additional enjoyment through New Game+ was also delightful. The challenging content is also quite engaging, giving a glimpse of Falcom's efforts in preparing for a new era.
Review in Korean | Read full review