Ys X: Nordics Review – Magical Pirates

It’s interesting to see how franchises evolve overtime. Some series embrace their best elements, such as Disgaea and its characters, whereas other times they lose their way. In the case of Ys it has remained true to its roots, though the adventures themselves have certainly evolved. The fairly standard RPG has slowly embraced new, and unique ideas resulting in a number of fantastic experiences. The latest, Ys X: Nordics, hopes to find the same success with weird powers in a strange land. With Nihon Falcom still behind the wheel, will it be another success, or will it crash and burn like the other pirate game to release in 2024?

Ys X: Nordics starts with Adol sailing to a new adventure. Things seem hopeful until an unexpected pirate attack occurs. Things start to go south until they retrieve their target, and spare the rest. Following the attack the world starts to expand.

Adol quickly learns more about the Obelia Gulf, which includes the legendary Sea King’s Throne, a mysterious voice that needs his help, and a new power known simply as Mana. Shortly into this new adventure Adol is asked to meet an unknown person that turns out to be the Pirate he previously fought. She is surprised Adol can utilize Mana, but before she can find out more the two are bound together by the powerful force.

From here the adventure continues to expand on what makes the Obelia Gulf unique, along with answering the aforementioned questions. These come slowly, but is something players will likely be satisfied with. That is, assuming the unlikely pair can survive the various trials they face along the way.

Danger Approaches

At first Ys X: Nordics is a straightforward action RPG. Adol can jump, dodge, block, and attack to defeat a given foe. Overtime he gains additional skills, and once bound to Karja, access to Duo mode. When activated the pair fight in tandem, offering an immense boost in offensive, and defensive actions. At this point players can also swap to Karja, who offers a slightly different play style.

As the adventure progresses additional abilities are unlocked. One of the most notable is Mana String, a ranged ability that works similarly to a grappling hook. This can be used on various platforms, or to rush enemies in combat. It’s a great way to build momentum, or maximize damage in a tense situation.

Powerful Foes Await

Even if the core experience continues to expand, gameplay remains rather straightforward. Players attack unflinching enemies that force players to react. Thankfully, dodge, and block are rather forgiving. At least to the point where I’d say Adol is nigh unkillable if on the defensive.

In addition to melee combat, Ys X: Nordics adds ship based warfare. During these sections players control a ship, and can fire various canons. Said weapons will target enemies that meet specific conditions like proximity, and/or position. In all it really isn’t that exciting of a mode outside of raiding a ship.

Select powerful ships allow players to board. When invading, gameplay returns to traditional melee as waves of enemies attack. Defeating the hoard will give a wide variety of rewards. It’s a fun concept that really builds on the otherwise bland experience.

Outside of combat there is a plethora of things to do. These range from talking to the various NPCs in a city to get some additional insight, to fishing. It’s always nice to see these RPG staples present in an experience, along with unlockable cosmetics.

It’s also nice that Ys X: Nordics tries to keep things fresh. At times the pair will need to work together to overcome a series of challenges. Most of these are pretty easy, though I appreciate the duo needing to work together outside of combat. Along with that, there are locations to explore, gear to find, and a ton to see in this diverse and interesting world.

Ys X: Nordics Review Verdict

Editor’s Note: Ys X: Nordics was reviewed on PlayStation 5, and a copy was provided to us for review purposes.