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Ys Memoire: The Oath in Felghana

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Ys Memoire: The Oath in Felghana
Item: Ys Memoire: The Oath in Felghana
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2025

GenresAdventure, Action, RPG, Single Player

AvailableJan 7, 2025

PlatformPlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4

DeveloperFalcom

Overview

Released for PSP in 2010, Ys: The Oath in Felghana was highly acclaimed as a masterpiece in the Ys action RPG series. This high-definition remastered version further improves the game with additional elements: Fully Voiced Event Scenes Including the Long-Awaited Addition of Voiceovers for Adol In addition to voiced events for the game’s more than 30 characters, voiceovers have also been added for protagonist Adol Christin, who will be voiced by Yuki Kaji. Coupled with narration by Banjou Ginga, players will be able to enjoy an even more dramatic story. New Visuals Added! You Can Also Switch Back to the Old Versions “Refine Versions” of the illustrations for every character that appears during the story have been created for this remastered release. The “Classic Versions” that were used in the PSP and PC versions will also be included, so you switch between “Refine” and “Classic” during the game depending on your preference. Remastered Graphics and Sounds Remastered in high-definition for Switch! Not only can you enjoy more beautiful graphics upgraded to high-definition image quality from the original PSP version, you can also enjoy higher-quality background music and sound effects. Switch Between Three Sound Settings There are three in-game background music sound settings to Switch from: the “Original Version” used in the PC version of Ys: The Oath in Felghana, and the “PC-8801 Version” and “X68000 Version” sounds from its ancestors. High-Speed Mode and Beginner-Friendly Support Features Increase your speed while moving on the field and in battle by 1.5 to two times. This can be activated at any time with the push of a button, allowing you to more comfortably enjoy the game. Additionally, the game is equipped with various support features for action game beginners, such as “Not Fall,” which allows you to recover instantly without taking damage if you fall from a high place.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Ys Memoire: The Oath in Felghana charms with its engaging character dynamics and brisk pacing but falls short on narrative depth. Critics praise its rich world-building and interpersonal relationships, yet many note the story's simplicity and minimal impact on character actions. While it provides a nostalgic adventure for fans, the overall sentiment is that it prioritizes gameplay over a complex story, offering a delightful but predictable experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

27%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

73%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The overall sentiment towards the story of Ys Memoire: The Oath in Felghana reflects a mix of charm and engagement, particularly in its character dynamics and narrative twists. Critics like Checkpoint Gaming highlight the "charming bite-sized fantasy story" that is rich in world-building, while Game8 praises the intricate mystery and political conspiracies that keep players engaged. Many reviewers, such as GamingBolt and GamingTrend, appreciate the interpersonal relationships and character moments that add depth to the narrative, even if the plot itself is not overly complex. The game is described as having a brisk pacing that enhances the experience, with Nintendo Life noting emotional stakes that contribute to a cozy and intriguing adventure. Conversely, several critics express concerns regarding the story's depth and complexity. GameBlast points out that while the story is interesting, it lacks significant impact on character actions, and Player 2 considers it weaker compared to other entries in the Ys series, emphasizing a focus on action over narrative depth. Critics like Eurogamer Germany and Digitally Downloaded echo this sentiment, describing the story as simple and straightforward, lacking in depth and character development. Multiplayer.it mentions localization issues that detract from the overall experience, while SpazioGames criticizes the narrative for being minimal and predictable, focusing more on gameplay than storytelling. The consensus among critics suggests that while Ys Memoire: The Oath in Felghana boasts a charming and engaging narrative, it ultimately serves more as a vehicle for gameplay rather than a standout story. The game is appreciated for its character interactions and brisk pacing, as noted by critics like God is a Geek and Tech-Gaming, but many reviewers agree that it lacks the depth and complexity found in other titles within the series. Overall, the story is seen as functional, providing a nostalgic experience for fans of the original while not pushing the boundaries of narrative sophistication.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Ys Memoire: The Oath in Felghana delivers thrilling, fast-paced combat that keeps players engaged with demanding boss fights and a satisfying action RPG loop. Critics laud its depth and engaging mechanics, but navigation issues, a lack of innovation, and limited customization detract from the experience, leading to a button-mashy feel. While the gameplay is enjoyable and rewarding, it may not fully satisfy all players due to these notable shortcomings. Overall, the game earns a mixed but generally favorable reception.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

71%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

29%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Ys Memoire: The Oath in Felghana has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, particularly for its fast-paced and engaging combat mechanics. Reviewers like Checkpoint Gaming and GameGrin highlight the thrilling nature of the action RPG combat, emphasizing the demanding boss fights and enjoyable gameplay loop. Critics such as GamingTrend and CGMagazine praise the depth and excitement of the combat system, noting the blend of hack-and-slash elements, magic abilities, and strategic boss encounters that keep players engaged. The game’s straightforward controls and the ability to chain attacks, as mentioned by Worth Playing and Tech-Gaming, contribute to a satisfying experience that appeals to both newcomers and veterans of the genre. However, several reviewers pointed out notable shortcomings in the gameplay. Game8 and GameSpew specifically mention navigation issues due to the absence of a mini-map and a clunky menu system, which can detract from the overall experience. Critics like GameBlast and Hey Poor Player express concerns about the simplicity of the combat mechanics, suggesting that the gameplay can become repetitive over time and lacks significant innovation. Additionally, while the fast-paced nature of the combat is appreciated, some critics, including PlayStation Universe and Wccftech, argue that the limited character customization and combat options may not appeal to all players, leading to a button-mashy feel that diminishes long-term engagement. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Ys Memoire: The Oath in Felghana offers an enjoyable and fast-paced gameplay experience, albeit with some notable drawbacks. The combat is frequently described as exhilarating and rewarding, particularly in boss encounters, with many reviewers like God is a Geek and Siliconera highlighting the need for skill and reflexes. However, the lack of depth in combat options and navigation issues are recurring themes in the critiques, suggesting that while the game excels in certain areas, it may not fully satisfy all players. The combination of engaging mechanics and some limitations leads to a mixed but generally favorable sentiment surrounding the gameplay of this title.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Ys Memoire: The Oath in Felghana impresses with nostalgic charm and enhanced character portraits, appealing to fans of the original. However, critics highlight its dated graphics, muddy textures, and inconsistencies that fail to meet modern standards. While the remaster offers some visual upgrades, it's best appreciated for its nostalgia rather than cutting-edge visuals.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

26%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

71%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

In analyzing the graphics and visual design of Ys Memoire: The Oath in Felghana, several reviewers noted positive aspects, particularly the nostalgic charm and character portrait enhancements. Critics like GameSpew and Tech-Gaming praised the remastered high-definition visuals and redrawn character portraits, which contributed to an overall improved visual experience. GameGrin highlighted the crisp visuals and improved sprite work, while Checkpoint Gaming acknowledged the refined character portraits, suggesting that these updates provided a sense of care in the remastering process. Additionally, Player 2 appreciated the option to switch between new and classic character art, allowing players to choose their preferred aesthetic, which adds a layer of customization to the visual experience. However, the critiques also pointed out significant shortcomings. Many reviewers, including Game8 and GamingBolt, expressed that the game's age is evident through muddy textures and outdated designs, indicating that while the visuals have been remastered, they still feel dated. Impulsegamer noted that despite a resolution bump, the graphics largely retain the look of a 20-year-old game. Critics like Wccftech and GamingTrend echoed this sentiment, stating that while there are minor improvements, the overall graphics do not meet modern standards. Furthermore, some reviewers mentioned inconsistencies in visual quality, with RPG Site highlighting noticeable tiling issues and upscaled textures that detract from the experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Ys Memoire: The Oath in Felghana offers some appealing visual updates, it struggles to fully modernize its graphics to match contemporary standards. The remaster is appreciated for its nostalgic charm and character enhancements, as noted by critics like SpazioGames and Pure Nintendo, but it is also criticized for retaining many elements that feel outdated. The balance between retro aesthetics and modern expectations appears to be a central theme in the reviews, with many critics suggesting that the game is best enjoyed for its nostalgic value rather than as a cutting-edge visual experience.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Critics are raving about Ys Memoire: The Oath in Felghana for its remastered soundtrack and stellar voice acting that add emotional depth and elevate the gameplay experience. While some side characters’ voice work has drawn criticism, the overall audio enhancements—featuring high-quality sound design and multiple soundtrack options—are seen as significant improvements, solidifying the game’s status as a standout entry in the series.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

70%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

30%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Ys Memoire: The Oath in Felghana have received overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics, particularly highlighting the remastered soundtrack and enhanced voice acting. Game8 praised the "stellar voice acting" for adding emotional depth to the story, while GameBlast noted the improvements in sound design with high-definition audio and new voice options for the protagonist. GameGrin and GameSpew echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the availability of three different soundtrack versions and the overall enhancement of audio quality compared to the original. Critics like GamingBolt and Wccftech celebrated the soundtrack as some of Falcom's best work, with fast-paced tracks that complement the game's atmosphere, making the auditory experience a standout feature. However, not all feedback was entirely positive. Some critics pointed out limitations in the voice acting, particularly for side characters. For instance, COGconnected mentioned that while the soundtrack is amazing, the voice acting can sometimes be grating. Finger Guns echoed this sentiment, noting that some character voices were annoying despite the importance of fully voiced narrative scenes. Additionally, Tech-Gaming pointed out that while the sound design offers variety, the remastered PSP version's sound was slightly compressed, which may detract from the overall experience for some players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the sound design and music of Ys Memoire: The Oath in Felghana significantly enhance the gameplay experience, with the majority praising the remastered soundtrack and voice acting as key improvements. Critics like SpazioGames and Vandal highlighted the energetic and fast-paced nature of the soundtrack as one of the game's best aspects, while others appreciated the ability to switch between multiple soundtrack versions, showcasing the evolution of the score. Despite some criticisms regarding voice acting quality, the overwhelming sentiment remains that the audio enhancements contribute positively to the overall enjoyment of the game, marking it as a notable entry in the series.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

"Ys Memoire: The Oath in Felghana" scores big with critics for its voice acting, especially the newfound voice of protagonist Adol Christin, adding depth and modern flair to the remaster. While praised for enhancing character personality, some reviewers point out limitations due to a simplistic story and lack of subtitles. Overall, the addition of voice work is seen as a positive update, aligning the game with contemporary standards, despite minor criticisms about its impact.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

18%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

82%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in "Ys Memoire: The Oath in Felghana" has been widely praised by critics, particularly for its enhancement of character depth and storytelling. Game8 highlights the voice acting as a significant highlight of the remaster, emphasizing how it adds personality to the characters. Similarly, GameBlast and GameGrin note the introduction of new voice lines for the protagonist, Adol Christin, marking a departure from his previously silent portrayal. This fresh element has been welcomed by many, with Player 2 calling it "awesome" that Adol is finally voiced. Critics like Tech-Gaming also appreciate that the new spoken voicework aligns the game with more modern entries in the Ys series, enhancing the overall audio experience. However, not all reviews are entirely positive. Some critics express concerns about the limitations of the voice acting. Worth Playing mentions that while there are good performances, they are somewhat constrained by the simplistic story, suggesting that the material may not fully utilize the actors' talents. Additionally, COGconnected points out a practical issue: Adol's lines are not subtitled, which could be frustrating for players. Critics like Vandal also note that while Adol's voice acting is a notable addition, it does not significantly impact the overall experience, implying that the remaster may not fully capitalize on this new feature. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the addition of voice acting, particularly for Adol, is a welcome and engaging update that enhances the game's experience. While there are some criticisms regarding the depth and impact of the performances, the majority of reviewers, such as RPG Site and Siliconera, agree that the new voice work contributes positively to the remaster. The sentiment is largely favorable, with many acknowledging that this development brings the game in line with contemporary gaming standards, even if some aspects remain underwhelming.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

"Ys Memoire: The Oath in Felghana" shines on PS5 with smooth performance and helpful features, but faces minor stutter issues. The Nintendo Switch version also delivers a solid experience, particularly in handheld mode, though it struggles with frame rate stability in Turbo Mode. Critics appreciate the modern enhancements but note room for improvement across both platforms. Overall, a solid remaster that retains the original's charm while modernizing gameplay.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

52%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

48%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of "Ys Memoire: The Oath in Felghana" on both the PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch has garnered a mix of positive feedback from critics. On the PS5, reviewers like GameBlast and Impulsegamer highlighted the game's smooth performance, with Impulsegamer calling it "flawless" and GameBlast noting the inclusion of features like Turbo Mode and a no-fall damage option that contribute to a stable gameplay experience. Critics such as TheSixthAxis praised the game for running at a higher resolution with a consistent framerate, while Wccftech mentioned new quality-of-life improvements that enhance the overall experience. On the Nintendo Switch, the remaster has been well-received, with Digitally Downloaded emphasizing its smooth 60 frames per second performance, and CGMagazine noting tightened visual performance that improves overall stability. Reviewers like Nintendo Life and Noisy Pixel also appreciated the quality-of-life adjustments, such as Turbo Mode and dual audio options, which contribute to a smooth gameplay experience. Despite the positives, there are notable concerns regarding technical performance on both platforms. On the PS5, Game8 pointed out occasional stutters and menu issues that can disrupt gameplay, while PlayStation Universe mentioned a lack of modern quality-of-life improvements that may hinder accessibility for newer players. Meanwhile, on the Nintendo Switch, critics like RPG Site and Siliconera reported frame rate issues, especially in Turbo Mode, with RPG Site noting that the game runs better in handheld mode but still suffers from visual inconsistencies. Additionally, while Multiplayer.it and Vandal mentioned stable performance, there were still hints of limitations in the remaster compared to modern expectations. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that "Ys Memoire: The Oath in Felghana" offers a generally solid technical performance across both platforms, with the PS5 version receiving praise for its smooth and stable gameplay, albeit with some minor issues. The Nintendo Switch version also performs well, especially in handheld mode, but critics have pointed out areas for improvement, particularly regarding frame rate stability in certain scenarios. While both platforms have their strengths and weaknesses, the enhancements and quality-of-life features have been positively noted, suggesting that the remaster successfully modernizes the experience while retaining the charm of the original title.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Ys Memoire: The Oath in Felghana has engaging gameplay and features like New Game+ and Boss Rush that appeal to fans, but its short 10-15 hour campaign and minimal new content limit replay value. Critics note that while dedicated players might enjoy multiple playthroughs, the brevity and steep difficulty could deter casual gamers, resulting in mixed reviews on its overall replay appeal.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

29%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

67%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The opinions regarding the replay value of Ys Memoire: The Oath in Felghana highlight several positive aspects that appeal to different types of players. Critics such as Player 2 and Tech-Gaming emphasize the engaging gameplay and the inclusion of features like New Game+ and Boss Rush modes, which provide additional challenges and incentives for replaying the game. GameBlast acknowledges that while the campaign is short, the presence of extras like a boss rush mode can add some replayability. Furthermore, critics like God is a Geek and Noisy Pixel note that the challenging gameplay and rewarding exploration contribute to a satisfying experience that encourages multiple playthroughs, especially for fans of the series. However, many reviewers also express concerns about the game's limited replay value. Game8 and Wccftech highlight that the relatively short campaign, ranging from 10 to 15 hours, may deter players from replaying it immediately, especially given the minimal content additions compared to the original PC version. Critics like Hey Poor Player and Impulsegamer point out that the game's brevity could lead to a lack of motivation for players to engage in multiple runs, as the core experience may feel repetitive after the initial playthrough. Additionally, while some critics appreciate the inclusion of difficulty settings, others, such as Finger Guns and Digitally Downloaded, mention that the steep difficulty could deter casual players from fully engaging with the game. Overall, the consensus among critics reflects a mixed sentiment regarding the replay value of Ys Memoire: The Oath in Felghana. While features like New Game+, various difficulty levels, and engaging combat are recognized as strong points that could encourage replayability, the game's short length and limited content additions are significant drawbacks. Critics like GameSpew and Worth Playing suggest that while completionists may find value in exploring every aspect of the game, the overall appeal may be more pronounced for dedicated fans rather than newcomers. Thus, while the game offers some incentives for replay, its limited depth and brevity may ultimately restrict its replay value for a broader audience.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

65%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

35%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment towards "Ys Memoire: The Oath in Felghana" is largely positive, with many critics praising its engaging gameplay, nostalgic charm, and successful remastering of a classic title. Reviewers like Checkpoint Gaming and GameGrin highlight the game's enjoyable combat mechanics and engaging story, making it particularly appealing for newcomers to the series. The remaster has been noted for its enhanced graphics and audio, with critics such as GameBlast and Wccftech commending the improvements that breathe new life into the game while retaining its core essence. The compact design and well-paced narrative have also been positively received, with GamingTrend and Tech-Gaming emphasizing the game's ability to deliver a satisfying action RPG experience. However, several reviewers pointed out notable drawbacks that prevent the game from being universally acclaimed. Critics like Game8 and Hey Poor Player mentioned that while the remaster is solid, it lacks substantial updates that would justify its price point. Some reviewers, including Worth Playing and Shacknews, noted that the game may feel simplistic or dated compared to modern standards, lacking the depth and complexity that players might expect from contemporary RPGs. Additionally, concerns were raised about visual limitations and character art updates, as highlighted by GamingTrend and Eurogamer Germany, which detracted from the overall experience for some players. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that "Ys Memoire: The Oath in Felghana" is a worthwhile remaster that successfully captures the charm of the original while providing enhancements that cater to both new and returning players. Critics like Player 2 and CGMagazine assert that it stands as one of the best versions of a classic action RPG, despite its flaws. While it may not break new ground or appeal to those seeking modern gameplay innovations, the game remains a strong entry in the Ys series, offering a nostalgic yet enjoyable experience for fans of the genre.

TL;DR

"Ys Memoire: The Oath in Felghana" receives positive reviews for its engaging gameplay, nostalgic charm, and solid remastering. Critics praise its enhanced graphics and audio, making it appealing to newcomers. However, some note a lack of substantial updates for its price, and it may feel simplistic compared to modern RPGs. Overall, it's a worthwhile remaster that captures the essence of the original while providing a satisfying experience, though it doesn’t innovate beyond its classic roots.

MONSTER

Reviews

66 reviews found

Noisy Pixel

Nintendo Switch

Jan 6, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Ys Memoire: The Oath in Felghana is a meticulously crafted action RPG with exceptional boss design, a timeless soundtrack, and rewarding gameplay experience. Despite limited NPC development, the game remains captivating and offers a definitive release for fans of the genre.

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CGMagazine

Nintendo Switch

Jan 6, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Ys Memoire: The Oath in Felghana is praised as one of the best action RPGs of all time, with the remaster enhancing its strengths and securing its place among the all-time greats.

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Nintendo Life

Nintendo Switch

Jan 7, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Ys Memoire: The Oath in Felghana is a simple yet enjoyable action RPG that excels in pacing, combat, visuals, and audio enhancements. It may not be groundbreaking, but it delivers a satisfying experience without overreaching.

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GamingTrend

PlayStation 5

Jan 6, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Ys Memoire: The Oath in Felghana is praised for its sharp and compact game design, engaging gameplay, and solid story. The questionable character art update and occasional pixelated textures are noted as drawbacks, but the game remains a strong entry in the Ys series.

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TheSixthAxis

PlayStation 5

Jan 6, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Ys Memoire: The Oath in Felghana is a flawlessly aged, fast-paced action game that celebrates the origins of the franchise.

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Tech-Gaming

PlayStation 5

Jan 8, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Ys Memoire: The Oath in Felghana is praised for preserving the game's potencies and offering quality-of-life features to prevent it from feeling antiquated. The gameplay modifications, engaging combat, and charming visuals contribute to a positive experience for players, making it a recommended title for fans of the franchise.

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God is a Geek

Nintendo Switch

Jan 6, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Ys Memoire: The Oath in Felghana is a classic action RPG with fast-paced combat, epic boss fights, and rewarding exploration, despite some issues like lack of direction and difficulty spikes.

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GameGrin

PlayStation 5

Jan 6, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Ys Memoire: The Oath in Felghana is a classic Action RPG that has been improved with sharper graphics and enhanced audio. Enjoyable gameplay and engaging story make it a great experience for newcomers to the Ys series.

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Wccftech

PlayStation 5

Jan 7, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Ys Memoire: The Oath in Felghana successfully brings the remake of the third entry in the Ys series to modern consoles, offering a fast-paced and engaging experience with enhanced visuals and quality-of-life improvements. While it may feel more straightforward compared to recent entries, it delivers on the core Ys action.

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COGconnected

Nintendo Switch

Jan 7, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Ys Memoire: The Oath in Felghana is fun but difficult, offering a solid story, slick combat, and great soundtracks, despite its flaws in graphics and platforming.

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