Every Ys Game's Story In Chronological Order

Key Takeaways

Ys has a fragmented development history, with games released out of order, making it challenging for new fans.
Ys series includes diverse narratives set in unique locations with distinct gameplay mechanics.
Ys franchise redefines mythology and cosmology with each installment, offering fresh perspectives and engaging gameplay.

As a seasoned fan of the Ys series, I must say that each new adventure feels like a hearty slice of nostalgia wrapped in fresh, innovative gameplay. The way these games weave together complex narratives while maintaining the core essence of the franchise is truly commendable.

One of the oldest role-playing game (RPG) franchises, known as Ys, traces its roots back to 1987. The initial release, “Ancient Ys Vanished,” was merely the beginning of an epic tale whose thirst for adventure might be matched only by that of “The Legend of Zelda.” However, despite its rich heritage, the Ys series has not received the Western recognition it truly merits.

Indeed, it’s worth noting that Ys hasn’t had the most straightforward evolution over the past three decades. Even excluding a significant break due to an inopportune shift towards the Super Famicom, the series has seen three distinct gameplay systems. Interestingly, the games have often been released out of sequence, which is somewhat characteristic of Ys. Part of the appeal of Ys lies in its disjointed structure, but this can make it challenging for newcomers to dive into the JRPG series.

1 Ys: Origin

Yunica & Hugo’s Adventure In The Tower Of Darm

700 years prior to the start of the series, starring protagonist Adol Christin, the world was teetering on the edge of an apocalyptic end. Notably, the game Ys Origin, which is unique among mainline entries as it doesn’t follow Adol’s travel logs, focuses on three playable characters and unfolds within the final dungeon of Ys I—Darm Tower. Despite this deviation from the usual format, it only enhances the game’s enigmatic narrative.

In the game Ys Origin, a team descends to the earth from a floating island named Ys in search of the lost Black Pearl and the twin deities who are believed to be residing within Darm Tower. This event serves as the starting point for Adol Christin’s thrilling adventures, revealing how our contemporary world came into existence while also providing additional background information on Feena and Reah, two crucial characters from the original Ys duology.

2 Ys 1 & 2

Adol’s Adventure In Esteria & The Floating Continent Of Ys

Regarding the pair, Ys 1 and Ys 2 are essentially two parts of the same game. Generally known as Book I, Ancient Ys Vanished takes place in Esteria, where Adol embarks on his significant journey away from home to discover a new world. After overcoming the Stormwall surrounding Esteria, Adol becomes the first explorer to step foot on the isolated island, unknowingly diving into a divine conspiracy.

In Book II, Adol is propelled to the floating island of Ys, a legendary place frequently mentioned in Book I. This mysterious land, as Adol soon discovers, is where all the tales he heard about Esteria become reality. Here, he bravely confronts the Clan of Darkness directly. The first two installments of Ys, while relatively straightforward RPGs, are undeniably classic games presented beautifully. These games create an authentic fairy tale atmosphere.

3 Ys 10: Nordics

Adol’s Adventure In Obelia Gulf

In Ys 10, the narrative is set after the events of Ys 2: Ancient Ys Vanished – the Final Chapter, making it the tenth installment in the main series. However, it’s important to note that chronologically, it comes afterward. The game draws inspiration from Nordic and Norman cultures for its storyline. Once more, Adol, our central protagonist, embarks on a journey, this time to Celceta. The game is set across various islands in the Obelia Gulf, a region torn by conflict between the Normans and the Griegr. This turmoil results in Adol’s ship being attacked by pirates under the command of a Norman Princess.

During this conversation, Adol forms a connection with the princess, which enables the player to alternate between them both throughout the game. This results in numerous exchanges of dialogue between the characters, providing enjoyable back-and-forth conversations for players. The narrative revolves around the potent force of mana through the Lila Shell and seemingly indestructible creatures. As they delve into the enigmas surrounding these occurrences and resolve the turmoil that afflicts the Obelia Gulf, a bond develops between them.

4 Ys: Memories Of Celceta

Adol’s Adventure In Celceta

After his last escapade, Adol reunites with his long-term companion, Dogi, for some relaxation. However, their time together is brief as Adol departs from Casnan’s Frontier Town, eager to discover the mysteries of Celceta. Unfortunately, Adol experiences a memory loss and embarks on a mission to map the vast Great Forest for the approaching Romun Empire, which later becomes an adversary to him.

In the game ‘Tales of Graces f’ (also known as ‘Memories of Celceta’), what stands out isn’t just the story, but how it reflects on the overall structure of the Ys franchise. Just like every game is a chapter in Adol’s travel diary, each localization, port, or remake becomes its own unique interpretation. Prior to ‘Memories of Celceta’ becoming the most widely accepted version, ‘The Dawn of Ys’ and ‘Memories of the Sun’ presented significantly different accounts of Adol’s time in the land – with only his travel logs as a reference point.

5 Ys: Oath In Felghana

Adol’s Adventure In Felghana

Developer: Nihon Falcom
Platforms: Windows, PlayStation Portable, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5
Release: June 30, 2005

The game titled “Oath in Felghana” unfolds a year after the occurrences of “Memories of Celceta “, although it was initially launched. Our protagonist, Adol Christin, who is now 19 and taking some downtime from his adventures, finds himself in Dogi’s homeland, Felghana, and his birthplace, Redmont. However, this peaceful visit soon turns into another exhilarating journey for our hero. Interestingly, “Oath in Felghana ” is one of the less intense stories within the “Ys” series, primarily revolving around personal family matters, with the impending doom only making an appearance towards the end and never appearing too menacing or overwhelming.

In the town of Felghana, Adol takes an oath that proves pivotal in shaping him into a laid-back hero and explorer. Spending time here also marks his initial confrontation with a Galbalan, which lays the groundwork for one of the main plotlines in the Ark of Napishtim story.

6 Ys 5: Lost Kefin, Kingdom Of Sand

Adol’s Adventure In Xandria

Developer: Nihon Falcom
Platforms: Super Famicom, PlayStation 2
Release: December 29, 1995

The classic game “Kefin, Kingdom of Sand,” from the popular “Ys” series, is the only title yet to receive a remake. Interestingly, it was this very game that caused a nearly decade-long break for the franchise. However, let me clarify that “Lost Kefin” is not a poorly made game by any stretch of the imagination. It simply follows certain conventions typical of SNES role-playing games.

In essence, Xandria serves as an extraordinary backdrop and the narrative unfolds in a captivating manner, even with a time travel storyline that carries significant emotional resonance. Unlike his first four journeys, Adol’s sojourn in Xandria doesn’t delve deeply into lore, but it does prepare him for the adventure in the Ark of Napishtim, making him more seasoned.

7 Ys 8: Lacrimosa Of Dana

Adol’s Adventure On The Isle Of Seiren

In the continuation of the tale from Ys 5, our hero Adol begins his journey armed with the finest sword from Lost Kingdom. However, fate has a cruel twist in store as Adol encounters the greatest shipwreck known. Washing ashore on the Isle of Seiren, Adol finds himself compelled to unite with other castaways to survive the island’s challenging environment.

In Ys 8, for the first time in the series, the storyline is shared between the protagonist Adol and another character named Dana. While Adol’s adventure unfolds in the present, Dana’s story is set in the past. Their interwoven narratives significantly revise the franchise’s mythology and cosmos.

8 Ys 6: Ark Of Napishtim

Adol’s Adventure On The Canaan Islands

Developer: Nihon Falcom
Platforms: Windows, Mobile, PlayStation 2, PlayStation Portable, Android, iOS
Release: September 27, 2003

The Ark of Napishtim stands out as it seamlessly integrated five games’ worth of lore into a grand narrative, much like how the first Avengers movie marked the beginning of Phase 1 in the Marvel Cinematic Universe for Ys. The Eldeen, previously mentioned by Galbalan in The Oath, gains significant importance, and the Romun Empire assumes the role of Adol’s primary adversary throughout the story.

The Ark of Napishtim is located on the Canaan Islands and offers a subtle exploration of how colonialism and imperialism impact indigenous communities, without implying their invaders are providing any true benefit. What truly sets Ys 6 apart is its ability to connect the dots and bring together the various loose ends in the series.

9 Ys Seven

Adol’s Adventure In Altago

Approximately six months after the events in Ark of Napishtim, Adol arrives at Afroca – the continent he originally intended to visit upon his departure from his hometown. The story of Ys Seven expands on existing lore, suggesting that there’s a wealth of untold tales and mysteries within this universe beyond what was previously revealed during the Eldeen arc.

In some fashion, Ys Seven set a new standard for Adol’s journeys, extending the gameplay time significantly beyond what was common in previous installments. While most games could be completed within 10 hours, Ys Seven surpassed this mark, setting the series on a path that has maintained its lengthy nature ever since. However, it wasn’t without its strengths. Initially, Ys Seven appears to follow a predictable Ys storyline, but midway through, it delivers an impressive twist that turns everything upside down.

10 Ys 9: Monstrum Nox

Adol’s Adventure In Balduq

In the sequence of events, Ys 9: Monstrum Nox stands as the most somberly themed game yet. The protagonist, Adol, finds himself in the mature phase of his life, and this time his journey leads him to the city of Balduq, infamously known as a penal settlement. Regrettably, Adol’s past actions have earned him a jail sentence from the Romun Empire.

In an unprecedented manner, Monstrum Nox offers insights into Adol’s character that no other game has managed before, and following the legacy of Lacrimosa of Dana, Ys 9 is expected to sow seeds towards a potential masterpiece similar to Ark of Napishtim.

2024-11-15 12:54

Every Ys Game’s Story In Chronological Order