Platform: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Switch
Developer: Falcom
Publisher: Marvelous Europe
With over three decades of history, the Ys series remains a cornerstone of action RPGs. Ys Memoire: The Oath in Felghana, a remastered classic, offers both newcomers and long-time fans a chance to explore one of the franchise’s most beloved entries. While it doesn’t reinvent the wheel, it delivers an adrenaline-packed experience brimming with action, exploration, and nostalgia.
The game begins with Adol Christin, Ys’s iconic red-haired hero, and his companion Dogi arriving in Dogi’s homeland. The town of Redmont is plagued by monsters, corruption, and missing persons. True to his nature, Adol dives into the chaos, ready to restore order. While the story is straightforward, it serves its purpose—keeping players engaged as they navigate the adventure’s twists and turns.
Fast-Paced Combat That Shines
The Oath in Felghana stands out for its blisteringly fast combat. At its core, it feels more like a hack-and-slash game than a traditional RPG, with rapid swordplay that demands precise movement and split-second reactions. Adol’s attacks start simple but are complemented by magical bracelets that grant powerful abilities like fireballs or wind-based spinning strikes. Combat isn’t just satisfying; it’s challenging. Enemies hit hard, and bosses are relentless, requiring players to learn patterns and adapt strategies.
Platforming and Exploration
Exploration plays a huge role in Felghana, with areas packed with secrets and hazards. Using bracelet powers to reach high platforms or evade traps adds a light platforming element to the gameplay, while its Metroidvania-inspired design encourages backtracking. Unlocking new abilities to access previously unreachable areas feels rewarding, making the relatively small world feel dynamic and interconnected.
However, progression can be frustrating for modern players. The game lacks objective markers or a quest log, relying instead on old-school exploration and conversations to guide players forward. This can occasionally lead to confusion, especially when progress hinges on seemingly minor interactions or items.
Brutal Yet Satisfying Boss Fights
Boss encounters are a highlight, pushing players to their limits with precise patterns and punishing attacks. While the difficulty spikes may alienate some, overcoming these challenges feels immensely satisfying. For those who prefer a less punishing experience, lower difficulty options are available.
Remaster Enhancements
As a remaster, Ys Memoire: The Oath in Felghana offers subtle improvements. The visuals are cleaner, the soundtrack has been modernized, and Adol now has voice acting, giving the silent protagonist a welcome personality boost. Still, these updates are modest, leaving the game feeling more like a polished re-release than a transformative upgrade.
Ys Memoire: The Oath in Felghana is a must-play for action RPG fans, combining lightning-fast combat, thrilling exploration, and epic boss battles. Despite its lack of modern conveniences like clear direction or quest markers, the game’s charm and rewarding gameplay shine through. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of the Ys series and a fantastic entry for both newcomers and series veterans.
