Ys X: Nordics - Review @ Siliconera

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Siliconera reviewed Ys X: Nordics:

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Review: Ys X: Nordics Isn't Always Smooth Sailing

The Ys series is one where if you're into the games, you're really into it. It forgoes traditional JRPG conventions by having each game serve as an adventure in the life of protagonist Adol Christin, almost like a throwback to classic adventure novels. The newest title Ys X: Nordics aims to bring it into the swashbuckling world of piracy. However, that's not exactly where the games strengths lie.

The story kicks off with Adol meeting Karja, a fierce "pirate princess," on his travels. Inadvertently, a magical tether binds the two. This connection sets the stage for an action-packed journey during which the pair must confront a looming magical threat. Their dynamic avoids the overdone "reluctant partnership" trope. Instead, Karja actually accepts her bond with Adol pretty quickly, which brings a refreshing sense of camaraderie to their interactions.

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Ys X: Nordics
This latest title in the Ys series takes us back to a younger Adol as he sets out on the open sea. Join him in his pursuit of the thrill of adventure! PS5 reviewed. Review copy provided by company for testing purposes.

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.

Food For Thought

• One of the mana traversal abilities is so fun and I wasted a ton of time just playing with it.
• It's so jarring to have the land combat and traversal be faster than ever, yet sea combat be slow as could be.
• Having a character referred to as the "Pirate Princess" really helped sell this game as a "classic adventure"

Score: 7/10