When a long running series like Ys releases a new game, fans are usually happy to hear it. But, Ys X: Nordic newcomers might wonder if they should play nine other games just to enjoy this one.
If you’re looking to dive into Ys X: Nordics but aren’t sure if you need to play all the previous games in the series, rest easy. The answer is no, you don’t have to. Ys X can be a great starting point, even for newcomers. While the series has a long history, nearly a dozen main entries alone, its structure allows jumping in mostly anywhere.
The Ys series features fast-paced action RPG gameplay and the adventures of Adol Christin. Adol is the red-haired hero who explores dangerous lands and uncovers ancient mysteries. Each game focuses on a different adventure of Adol’s journey, which is chronicled in a series of standalone adventures. While all the games follow Adol, they don’t require players to be familiar with every previous story.
Is Ys X: Nordics a standalone game?
Because Ys games focus on different chapters of Adol’s life, you’ll occasionally find references or callbacks to previous adventures. However, each Ys title offers a standalone experience. A complete story that doesn’t rely on extensive knowledge of the earlier games. It’s more like reading an anthology series than reading a single continuous narrative. So, if you’re interested in Ys X, you won’t be lost if you haven’t played all the others.
One advantage of Ys X: Nordics is that it features a younger Adol, exploring the earlier parts of his adventures. This means that even the minor callbacks to other games are pretty minimal. Since the story takes place before many of Adol’s adventures, there isn’t a huge focus on past events. It’s more about immersing you in a new setting with fresh challenges and enemies. This means a classic Ys adventure without the baggage of needing to catch up on previous lore.
In short, if you’re considering jumping into Ys X, you don’t have to worry about feeling out of place or missing crucial plot details for not playing the other games. It’s accessible, letting you enjoy the combat and story even if it’s your first time exploring the world of Ys. The game’s narrative and gameplay stand strong on their own, making it a great entry point for both series veterans and newcomers alike.
Ys X: Nordics will release on PC, Playstation 4, PlayStation 5, and Switch on October 25, 2024.
Published: Oct 25, 2024 03:01 am