Ys IX: Monstrum Nox
Despite some pacing issues and repetitive level design, Ys IX: MonstrumNox is a worthwhile journey for Adol that pushes the series forward in the right direction by introducing a plethora of new gameplay elements that I hope to see expanded even further in the next adventure.
Overall, Ys IX: Monstrum Nox is both a solid addition to the Ys franchise, as well as a good starting point for newcomers. While the combat can get a little repetitive, the overall gameplay loop does enough to keep players coming back for more. Monstrum Nox can feel a bit generic in various aspects at times, but beneath the surface is a deeper RPG than expected. The overall narrative combined with interesting characters, solid gameplay, and strong side content make Ys IX: Monstrum Nox a fun experience.
A new chapter in the long-lasting Nihon Falcom series, that delivers exactly what you expect: classic JRPG experience with outdated tech and gameplay that is still fresh and entertaining.
Review in Italian | Read full review
Ys IX: Monstrum Nox is another solid action RPG, but it lacks the overall cohesion of its island-based predecessor. The city of Balduq is a disappointingly monotonous setting, and the game's storytelling often feels disjointed. But as is usually the case with Falcom's long-running series, it's the fast-paced, satisfying, and addictive gameplay that elevates the experience. Adol's latest adventure certainly isn't a classic, but for the most part, it's still a fun ride.
Ys IX: Monstrum Nox is several steps in the right direction for the series.
By the end of my adventure I almost felt embarrassed that I'd missed out on the Ys franchise for so long. It has some pacing and technical issues, but the loveable characters, intriguing story and fantastic combat and movement far exceeded my expectations and made me want to experience everything I've missed. Ys IX: Monstrum Nox has made me a Ys fan and I couldn't be happier about it.
Despite Ys IX: Monstrum Nox having some faults, it still provides a fantastic experience. Once you get past the dated graphics and simple combat, it's an engaging game that has a fascinating story. It's the type of thing where mindlessly killing enemies is fun but the world is so interesting you'll want to see what secrets it holds. Add in some cute characters, interesting mechanics, and plenty to do and it's hard not to see the value in Ys IX: Monstrum Nox.
Adol Christin's latest adventure stands out from the rest of the Ys games with a narratively darker tone and some of the best sidequests in the entire series yet.
Ys IX: Monstrum Nox brings a wide array of impressive gameplay elements in concert with a wonderful cast of characters to make an exhilarating, thoughtful package that's one of the series' best.
Ys IX is probably a step back if directly compared to Lacrimosa of Dana, due to the uneven balance between action and story, but it's still a very solid JRPG, graced by a fast paced combat system.
Review in Italian | Read full review





















