Ys X: Nordics marks a significant point in the Ys series as it stands as the (sort of) tenth numbered installment. This can be a bit confusing due to the many remakes and multiple attempts to create a canonical Ys IV, but focusing solely on the main entries, Ys X arrives with a lot of expectations. The game was first released in Japan last year and made its way to other regions by late October. Having been a fan of the Ys series for over a decade—starting with Ys VI: The Ark of Napishtim—I was naturally eager to jump into this new adventure. Over the years, I’ve played most of the series (except for Ys V and some of the Ys IV variants), and while every game had its charm, the last few entries especially impressed me. Ys VIII: Lacrimosa of Dana remains my favorite, and Ys IX: Monstrum Nox was nearly my top pick for 2021 once it reached global audiences. With that background, Ys X: Nordics had a high bar to clear.
Setting the Stage: Story and Characters
Ys X: Nordics is an action RPG developed by Nihon Falcom Corporation. Chronologically, the story is set shortly after Ys II: Ancient Ys Vanished – The Final Chapter. Players follow Adol Christin, the franchise’s long-standing hero, along with Dogi—who may or may not yet be his best friend—and Dr. Flair, a doctor from Lance Village introduced during Ys II. The trio travels to Celceta by ship, but the journey takes a turn when they are intercepted by the Balta Seaforce, a band of Viking pirates led by Karja. Unlike Adol’s typical shipwreck misadventures, this time they survive the encounter but are rerouted to the town of Carnac. Here, Adol stumbles upon a mysterious seashell that grants him mana powers—an ability rare among the Nordic people—and creates a magical tether linking him to Karja. This bond forces them to stay close, setting the stage for a compelling partnership.
Their newfound connection is put to the test when the town is attacked by monstrous creatures called Greigr. Only mana users can fend off these foes, so Adol and Karja must work together to survive. From there, the story unfolds into a complex tale involving the Trident—a trio of Greigr generals—the political intrigues of Grimson Balta, the leader of the Balta Seaforce and Karja’s father, and the legends surrounding the pirate Rollo of the Bloody Seas and the mythical Throne of the Ocean King.
Gameplay and Combat Mechanics
The core gameplay in Ys X: Nordics stays true to the action-RPG roots of the series. You control Adol or Karja from a third-person perspective, exploring islands, battling monsters with fast-paced real-time combat, and upgrading your skills and equipment. Notably, the game supports cooperative multiplayer, although I experienced it solo. Early on, players acquire a ship named the Sandras, allowing free exploration of the Obelia Gulf. This element introduces ship battles and island discovery, adding depth and variety to the gameplay loop.
The combat system is a refined evolution of what fans have seen since Ys Seven. While previous games featured multiple party members, each with distinct attack types and strategic weaknesses, Ys X streamlines this by focusing solely on Adol and Karja, both sharing a general attack style but specializing differently—Karja excels at breaking enemy armor, while Adol dishes out heavier damage once enemies are vulnerable. The introduction of an armor gauge and the “Break” mechanic adds a fresh tactical layer to fights.
Rather than relying on basic attacks, the game encourages players to spam special skills, which consume SP (skill points). These points regenerate slowly when a character is active but refill much faster when you switch to the other character, promoting a rhythm of switching between Adol and Karja during combat. This system incentivizes chaining different skills to build combos and gain SP discounts, making combat feel dynamic and strategic. Although I only fully grasped this mechanic near the endgame, it elevated the final boss fight into a spectacular experience.
Difficulty and Accessibility
Ys X: Nordics is not particularly difficult on the “Hard” setting, which I played through. The game does demand some attention to mechanics, especially blocking and dodging, which I momentarily forgot during the fight with a massive sandworm. Nevertheless, the streamlined two-character system gave me a greater sense of control and mastery. The previous games’ larger party system sometimes felt like juggling too many variables, which could dilute the experience. Here, focusing on just two characters helped me engage more deeply and effectively with the combat. The pacing remains brisk and exhilarating, with a satisfying balance between challenge and accessibility.
Progression and Exploration
Leveling up characters, unlocking new skills, and finding better gear are constant motivators. The exploration aspect is just as rewarding, whether you are sailing your ship, discovering islands, or upgrading your crew members and ship stats. While some mechanics like the “release line” system for enhancing abilities felt complex and slightly mysterious, they added a layer of depth for those who enjoy tinkering with character builds. Overall, the game’s speed and responsiveness make it a pleasure to play, maintaining the series’ trademark fast-paced action without feeling overwhelming or clunky.
The Story’s Unique Take
What truly stands out about Ys X: Nordics is its story. The series has always revolved around Adol Christin, a courageous swordsman with an insatiable curiosity who stumbles into epic adventures, faces overwhelming odds, and triumphs through perseverance. Ys X follows this formula initially, but then introduces new twists.
Early in the game, hints at darker conspiracies and legendary artifacts create an engaging narrative backdrop. The supporting cast grows on you, each character developing throughout the journey thanks to Adol’s influence. One interesting story element involves Adol’s “mental teleportations” to a mysterious island where he meets an enigmatic old man. I initially suspected this figure might be Hárr, the Norse god referenced in the game, but the plot unfolds in unexpected ways, deepening the mystery and emotional weight.
Exploring the Nordic World and Its Rich Environment
Ys X: Nordics takes players on a journey through a beautifully crafted world inspired by Nordic culture and mythology. The environment is expansive, ranging from windswept coastlines to dense forests and ancient ruins hidden across various islands. Each location feels alive and carries a unique atmosphere that encourages exploration. The game’s design emphasizes discovery, rewarding players who take the time to thoroughly explore the Obelia Gulf and its surroundings. Small towns, secluded caves, and mysterious landmarks are scattered throughout the map, each offering lore, challenges, or valuable resources that contribute to the progression of both story and character development.
The environmental storytelling is subtle but effective. Visual cues like weather changes, the architecture of villages, and remnants of past conflicts enrich the world-building. As you sail between islands on the Sandras, the dynamic weather system keeps the experience fresh, with storms occasionally forcing detours or adding urgency to navigation. This interplay between exploration and narrative elements helps immerse players in a living, breathing world that feels distinct from previous Ys titles.
Character Dynamics and Development
One of the standout aspects of Ys X: Nordics is the relationship between Adol and Karja. Unlike past entries where Adol’s companions were often helpful side characters, here Karja is directly tied to Adol through the mana bond, which deeply influences their interactions. This connection forces cooperation not only in combat but also narratively, highlighting themes of trust and partnership. Karja is not a mere follower but a fully fleshed-out character with his own motivations and growth arc, which unfolds alongside Adol’s journey.
The game invests time in fleshing out their personalities and the other supporting characters, including Dr. Flair and a few newly introduced figures. Side quests often delve into their backgrounds, motivations, and relationships with one another, adding emotional weight to the overall story. These quests can reveal hidden truths or resolve personal conflicts, which enhances the sense of camaraderie within the group. This approach helps players become more invested in the characters, making victories feel more meaningful and losses more impactful.
Combat Depth and Strategy
Building on the solid foundation of past Ys games, Ys X: Nordics refines combat with an emphasis on timing, positioning, and skill rotation. The break mechanic adds an important layer of strategy, encouraging players to exploit enemy weaknesses rather than simply focusing on raw damage. This creates dynamic combat scenarios where observation and adaptation are rewarded. Different enemy types require varied approaches, pushing players to switch between Adol and Karja frequently to capitalize on their complementary strengths.
The skill point management system ensures that players must think about when to unleash powerful abilities and when to conserve energy for sustained fights. This ebb and flow of resource management prevents combat from becoming repetitive and maintains a brisk pace. The ability to chain skills and build combos feels satisfying, especially as players unlock more advanced moves through progression. Boss fights in particular showcase this system well, often demanding that players use all tools at their disposal to overcome complex attack patterns.
Narrative Themes and Symbolism
Ys X: Nordics weaves several thematic threads throughout its narrative, touching on ideas of identity, legacy, and the clash between old traditions and new realities. The mana bond between Adol and Karja symbolizes not only their connection but also the intertwining fates of their people. This bond serves as a narrative device to explore themes of unity despite differences, a common motif in stories about Viking and Nordic cultures.
The game also delves into political intrigue and the consequences of power struggles within the pirate factions and local authorities. Characters like Grimson Balta offer shades of gray, avoiding simplistic villain archetypes and instead presenting complex motivations that challenge the player’s perceptions. The inclusion of mythological elements like the Throne of the Ocean King adds a layer of mysticism, connecting the story to larger cosmic forces and ancient history.
Visual and Audio Presentation
Ys X: Nordics benefits from improved visuals compared to earlier entries, with detailed character models and lush environments that capture the rugged beauty of the Nordic-inspired setting. The color palette often favors cold blues, greys, and earthy tones, reinforcing the mood of a harsh yet enchanting world. Cutscenes are well-animated and help convey key story moments effectively without interrupting the flow of gameplay.
The soundtrack continues the series’ tradition of energetic and memorable music. Themes blend traditional Nordic instruments and melodies with modern orchestral arrangements, creating a unique auditory experience that complements both exploration and combat. Voice acting, available in multiple languages, adds another layer of immersion, though some performances vary in strength. Overall, the audio design helps to elevate emotional moments and maintain tension during battles.
Final Thoughts on Ys X: Nordics
Ys X: Nordics successfully balances respect for the series’ roots with meaningful innovations that keep the experience fresh. By focusing on a smaller cast, refined combat, and a story deeply rooted in Nordic culture and mythology, the game offers both longtime fans and newcomers a rich adventure to dive into. Its blend of fast-paced action, thoughtful exploration, and character-driven narrative makes it a worthy addition to the Ys franchise.
The game might not revolutionize the series, but it certainly cements its place as a strong and memorable chapter. For those who appreciate action RPGs with engaging stories and a vibrant world to explore, Ys X: Nordics delivers a satisfying journey full of challenges and
The Richness of Side Quests and Worldbuilding
Ys X: Nordics shines not only through its main storyline but also through a wide range of side quests that significantly enrich the overall experience. These quests go beyond simple fetch or kill missions, often diving into the lore of the Nordic world and offering insight into the everyday lives of the inhabitants. Players encounter villagers with personal stories, ancient secrets waiting to be uncovered, and tasks that challenge both combat skills and problem-solving abilities.
The side quests frequently involve assisting characters in resolving disputes, exploring abandoned ruins for lost artifacts, or investigating strange occurrences linked to the Greigr menace. Each completed quest adds layers to the worldbuilding, painting a picture of a living society affected by the ongoing conflict between pirates, local factions, and mythical forces. These activities encourage exploration off the beaten path, motivating players to engage deeply with the environment and discover hidden narratives that enhance the emotional resonance of the game.
Moreover, some side quests connect directly to character development, offering glimpses into Adol and Karja’s pasts and personalities. Completing these missions sometimes unlocks new dialogue options, unique items, or special combat skills, which help to build a stronger bond between the player and the characters. This blend of storytelling and gameplay makes side quests feel meaningful and well-integrated rather than mere distractions.
Detailed Exploration of the Combat System
The combat mechanics in Ys X: Nordics take the fast-paced, action-oriented style the series is known for and refine it with several tactical layers. Central to the system is the interaction between Adol and Karja, whose abilities complement one another in crucial ways. Karja specializes in breaking through enemy armor and defense, making him essential in the early phase of battles where enemies tend to block attacks. Adol’s strength lies in delivering powerful damage once the enemy’s defenses are down, creating a satisfying flow between offense and defense.
One key innovation is the armor gauge, which visually tracks how close an enemy is to being broken. Players must carefully time their attacks to maximize damage during this vulnerable state, encouraging a rhythm that rewards patience and observation rather than button-mashing. This mechanic adds a strategic layer that deepens combat encounters without overwhelming players.
Skill usage is another vital component. Characters have access to a variety of special moves that consume skill points, which regenerate over time. The mechanic encouraging switching between Adol and Karja to manage skill point regeneration keeps combat dynamic and prevents overreliance on one character. It promotes continuous engagement with the combat system’s nuances, making fights feel like a dance of timing and resource management. Chaining skills together not only increases combo damage but also reduces the skill point cost, incentivizing creative and fluid playstyles.
Multiplayer Features and Cooperative Play
Ys X: Nordics offers a cooperative multiplayer mode that allows two players to team up and tackle the game’s challenges together. This feature adds a social dimension to the experience, allowing players to coordinate attacks, share strategies, and enjoy the story collaboratively. Although I played through the game solo, the multiplayer mode stands out as a compelling addition for those who enjoy cooperative gameplay.
Multiplayer battles emphasize teamwork, especially during tougher fights and boss encounters. Players can capitalize on each character’s strengths, with one focusing on breaking enemy defenses while the other delivers powerful counterattacks. The synergy between characters is heightened when controlled by separate players, leading to exciting moments of coordinated assault and tactical retreats.
Aside from combat, cooperative play enhances exploration by allowing players to split tasks or assist one another in solving puzzles and completing side quests. This shared experience can make the game more accessible for newcomers, as veteran players may guide others through complex mechanics or combat scenarios. Overall, the multiplayer aspect broadens the appeal of Ys X: Nordics by providing an alternative way to experience the story and gameplay.
Progression Systems and Customization Options
Character progression in Ys X: Nordics offers a robust system that rewards players for investing time in skill upgrades and equipment enhancement. Each character has a skill tree with a variety of active and passive abilities that can be unlocked using experience points gained from combat and quests. This system allows players to tailor their playstyle by focusing on offensive power, defensive capabilities, or utility skills that enhance mobility or resource management.
In addition to skills, equipment plays a vital role in combat effectiveness. Weapons, armor, and accessories can be found, crafted, or purchased throughout the game world. Many of these items come with unique properties or set bonuses that encourage experimenting with different gear combinations to find the most effective setup for various challenges.
The game also features the “release line” system, which allows players to further augment their characters’ abilities. This mechanic adds complexity and depth, rewarding players who enjoy fine-tuning their builds. While it may seem intricate at first, mastering the release line system can yield significant advantages in combat, making tough battles more manageable.
Ship upgrades also contribute to progression by improving travel and combat capabilities. Enhancing the Sandras’ speed, durability, or armaments impacts exploration efficiency and adds strategic elements to naval battles. These upgrades tie exploration and combat progression together, ensuring that both aspects of gameplay feel rewarding and interconnected.
Visual and Audio Enhancements Elevate Immersion
The visual presentation in Ys X: Nordics impresses with detailed environments that capture the rugged beauty of the Nordic-inspired world. Character models are expressive, and animations during combat and cutscenes convey emotion and urgency effectively. Lighting effects and weather conditions add realism and variety, reinforcing the sense of being in a vast, untamed region.
The audio design complements the visuals with a soundtrack that blends traditional Nordic musical elements with modern orchestral arrangements. This fusion creates an atmosphere that is both epic and intimate, suitable for both intense combat and quiet moments of exploration. Sound effects during battle are crisp and impactful, giving each strike and special move satisfying weight.
Voice acting brings characters to life, although some performances vary in emotional depth and delivery. Despite this, the dialogue helps deepen character relationships and makes story beats more engaging. Together, the audio and visual elements create a cohesive experience that draws players further into the game’s world.
Balancing Challenge and Accessibility
Ys X: Nordics strikes a careful balance between providing a satisfying challenge and maintaining accessibility for a broad range of players. The combat is engaging and demands attention to mechanics such as blocking, dodging, and managing skill points, but it rarely becomes frustrating or punishing. The two-character system simplifies party management compared to previous titles, reducing cognitive load without sacrificing depth.
Difficulty settings allow players to tailor the experience to their preferred level of challenge, from casual exploration to more demanding fights. The game’s design encourages learning through experimentation, rewarding those who take the time to understand enemy patterns and combat systems. Even on harder modes, the pacing keeps the action fluid, ensuring that gameplay remains exciting and rewarding.
The game’s checkpoint and respawn systems are generous, minimizing downtime after defeat and encouraging players to retry tough encounters without frustration. This design philosophy keeps the experience fun and motivating, even when facing complex bosses or large groups of enemies.
Final Impressions on Ys X: Nordics
Ys X: Nordics delivers a deep, engaging experience that respects the legacy of the series while introducing meaningful enhancements. Its combination of rich side quests, strategic combat, cooperative multiplayer, and layered progression systems offers plenty to explore and master. The game’s immersive world, brought to life through detailed visuals and a fitting soundtrack, invites players to lose themselves in its Nordic mythos.
By focusing on the interplay between Adol and Karja, the game brings fresh dynamics to character interaction and combat. The inclusion of multiplayer adds versatility to how players can enjoy the adventure, while the progression and customization options ensure that every playthrough can feel unique.
Overall, Ys X: Nordics is a rewarding journey for fans and newcomers alike, blending fast-paced action with thoughtful storytelling and worldbuilding to create a memorable chapter in the long-running franchise.
Mastering Combat and Skill Optimization
As players reach the later stages of Ys X: Nordics, the combat demands become increasingly intense and strategic, rewarding those who have fully embraced the game’s mechanics. Mastering the interplay between Adol and Karja is crucial, as bosses and elite enemies feature complex attack patterns and phases that test timing, positioning, and resource management. The armor gauge and Break mechanic remain central, but their importance grows, requiring precision in exploiting enemy vulnerabilities. Anticipating when to switch characters to optimize skill point regeneration is essential for maintaining a steady offensive flow.
Advanced players often experiment with different skill combinations to find synergistic effects, balancing between high-damage moves and utility skills that improve defense or mobility. Unlocking and upgrading passive skills can significantly alter combat style, such as reducing skill cooldowns or enhancing stamina regeneration. Understanding these nuances allows for tailored approaches to specific encounters, especially the more challenging endgame bosses.
The release line system becomes a vital tool for endgame progression. While initially complicated, it provides substantial buffs and unique effects that can turn the tide of battle. Players who invest time in fine-tuning this system can enhance survivability, damage output, and utility, enabling them to tackle the hardest content with confidence. This depth in combat customization keeps the gameplay fresh and engaging, even after dozens of hours.
Exploring Endgame Content and Challenges
Ys X: Nordics offers a variety of endgame activities that extend the life of the game beyond the main story. These include high-level side quests, secret dungeons, and difficult boss rematches that provide unique rewards and test player skill. The game encourages players to revisit explored areas with improved gear and abilities, uncovering hidden challenges and lore.
Ship battles take on new significance in the late game, as enemy fleets grow stronger and strategic upgrades become necessary. The Sandras’ enhancements impact not only travel but also combat performance on the seas, making ship customization an important aspect of the endgame. Managing crew members and resources introduces light management elements that diversify gameplay and give players more control over their experience.
The multiplayer mode remains a valuable asset for tackling endgame content, where coordination between players can make difficult encounters more manageable. Cooperative strategies evolve to include role specialization, with one player focusing on defense and crowd control while the other focuses on damage output. This mode offers a refreshing way to revisit challenging parts of the game with friends, reinforcing the sense of camaraderie that permeates the story.
Narrative Closure and Character Development
In the final chapters, the narrative of Ys X: Nordics delivers satisfying resolutions to major story arcs while deepening character relationships. The bond between Adol and Karja, forged through shared trials, reaches a compelling climax that highlights themes of trust, loyalty, and sacrifice. The evolving dynamics between them add emotional weight to the unfolding events, making their journey feel personal as well as epic.
The game reveals the true nature of the mysterious mana power and the origins of the Greigr, tying these elements to the broader mythology of the Nordic world. The story balances moments of quiet reflection with high-stakes confrontations, allowing players to appreciate the depth of the worldbuilding alongside the action.
Supporting characters receive meaningful conclusions as well, with their stories interwoven into the main plot and side quests. This attention to character arcs enriches the narrative, providing a well-rounded experience that respects player investment in the game’s inhabitants. The final sequences are paced to maintain tension while providing closure, leaving players with a sense of accomplishment and emotional resonance.
Conclusion
Ys X: Nordics stands as a remarkable installment in the long-running Ys franchise, successfully blending tradition with innovation. It honors the series’ roots by retaining fast-paced, exhilarating action while introducing new gameplay mechanics that add depth and strategy. The focus on two main characters streamlines combat without sacrificing complexity, offering players a balanced experience that is both accessible and challenging.
The rich story, set against the backdrop of a beautifully crafted Nordic world, provides a fresh narrative that expands the lore while staying true to the series’ spirit. Themes of friendship, courage, and discovery are woven seamlessly into the plot, supported by a diverse cast of characters whose development enriches the overall experience.
Exploration, side quests, and progression systems encourage players to engage deeply with the game world, rewarding curiosity and strategic thinking. The inclusion of cooperative multiplayer broadens the appeal and adds a new dimension to gameplay, allowing shared experiences that complement the solo adventure.
Visually and aurally, Ys X: Nordics impresses with detailed environments, evocative music, and immersive sound design that enhance storytelling and gameplay. The game’s pacing, difficulty balance, and thoughtful design ensure that it remains enjoyable from start to finish.
For longtime fans, Ys X: Nordics offers a worthy successor to previous entries, evolving familiar mechanics in satisfying ways. For newcomers, it provides an inviting entry point into the series, combining accessibility with rich content and engaging gameplay. Overall, Ys X: Nordics is a compelling journey that both celebrates and advances the legacy of the Ys franchise, cementing its place as a standout action RPG in modern gaming.