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Ys X: Nordics

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Ys X: Nordics
Item: Ys X: Nordics
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2024

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, RPG, Single Player

AvailableOct 25, 2024

PlatformPlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, PC, PlayStation 5

DeveloperFalcom

Overview

Ys X: Nordics is a brand-new adventure set in the northern sea Obelia Bay, featuring young adventurer Adol Christin as the protagonist. Please look forward to this latest title in the Ys series, from the development team that brought you Ys VIII: Lacrimosa of Dana and Ys IX: Monstrum Nox.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

"Ys X: Nordics" garners mostly positive reviews for its engaging characters and compelling narrative, especially the dynamics between Adol and Karja. Critics praise its Viking-inspired setting and structure, but some argue the story lacks depth and emotional weight, with pacing issues and predictability noted. While it entertains and appeals to both newcomers and series veterans, several reviewers feel it doesn't quite match the heights of previous installments, leaving some wanting more from its narrative.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

53%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

37%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

10%

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

The overall sentiment surrounding the story of "Ys X: Nordics" is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its engaging narrative and character development. Reviewers like But Why Tho? highlight the strong character arcs and personal growth, while GamingBolt and RPG Fan commend the intriguing narrative that revolves around Adol, Karja, and their adventures against formidable foes. Finger Guns appreciates the structured story filled with twists and turns, leading to a satisfying payoff. Additionally, critics such as Hey Poor Player and Noisy Pixel emphasize the emotional complexity and strong character dynamics, particularly between the protagonists, which adds depth to the narrative experience. The game’s Viking-inspired setting and the incorporation of Nordic lore are also noted as appealing elements, making the story accessible and enjoyable for both newcomers and series veterans. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the story's depth and execution. Some reviewers, like Cubed3 and Digitally Downloaded, argue that the narrative lacks quality and fails to deliver a well-rounded experience, with Adol's character not resonating as a believable 17-year-old. Critics such as Inverse and Movies Games and Tech mention pacing issues and a lack of emotional gravitas, suggesting that while the story is entertaining, it doesn't reach the heights of previous entries in the series. Furthermore, Multiplayer.it and RPG Site describe the story as predictable and serving mainly as a vehicle for gameplay, which detracts from its overall impact. In summary, while "Ys X: Nordics" is generally well-received for its engaging characters and narrative structure, critics are divided on its depth and emotional resonance. The consensus indicates that the game offers a fun adventure with strong character dynamics, especially between Adol and Karja, as noted by Shacknews and Tech-Gaming. However, several reviewers caution that the story may not be as compelling or innovative as previous installments, with some elements feeling formulaic or lacking in consequence. Overall, the game appears to strike a balance between entertaining storytelling and gameplay, appealing to fans of the franchise while leaving some critics wanting more in terms of narrative depth.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Ys X: Nordics impresses with its innovative Duo Mode allowing simultaneous control of characters, delivering fast, engaging combat and memorable boss battles. Critics praise the dynamic gameplay but note flaws: naval combat feels simplistic, and the overall combat depth may lack variety, leading to potential repetitiveness. While the game signifies a bold evolution in the series, it requires refinement in balance and complexity for an even better experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

62%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

34%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Ys X: Nordics has garnered a generally positive reception from critics, highlighting several innovative features and mechanics that enhance the overall experience. Reviewers like But Why Tho? and Eurogamer Germany praised the introduction of new combat mechanics, particularly the Duo Mode, which allows players to control two characters, Adol and Karja, simultaneously. This system has been described as fast, responsive, and engaging, with critics noting that it adds depth and strategic options to combat. The boss battles have been highlighted as a standout feature, with GamingBolt and RPG Fan noting their distinctiveness and challenge. Additionally, the naval combat, while simplified, has been recognized as enjoyable, with Hey Poor Player mentioning its methodical nature and the potential for upgrades. Despite the numerous positives, several critics pointed out notable drawbacks in the gameplay. Some reviews, such as those from Shacknews and Siliconera, indicated that the naval combat lacks depth and can feel simplistic or slow-paced compared to the fast-paced land combat. Additionally, Finger Guns and PlayStation Universe mentioned that while the combat remains fun, it can become repetitive over time. Critics like Cubed3 expressed concerns about the overall depth of the combat system, suggesting that the focus on only two playable characters might limit gameplay variety. Furthermore, some reviewers noted balance issues and control complexities within the Duo Mode, which could hinder the experience for some players. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that Ys X: Nordics offers an engaging and dynamic gameplay experience, particularly with its innovative combat mechanics and exploration elements. While the introduction of the Duo Mode and naval combat has been well-received, there are concerns regarding the depth and balance of these systems, with some critics feeling that they could benefit from further refinement. As highlighted by critics such as Inverse and RPG Site, the game represents a significant evolution in the series, combining fast-paced action with strategic depth, yet it is clear that there are areas for improvement, particularly in the naval combat and overall complexity of the gameplay.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Ys X: Nordics divides critics on its graphics: some hail it as the best-looking in the series with impressive art and smooth performance, while others slam it for outdated visuals and poor animation. This split highlights a clash between artistic strength and technical shortcomings, leaving players either enchanted or disappointed.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

21%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

67%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

13%

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

The opinions regarding the graphics and visual design of Ys X: Nordics present a mixed bag of sentiments, with some critics praising the game for its artistic merits. But Why Tho? highlights the title as the "best-looking" in the series, noting detailed character models, impressive art direction, and smooth performance on the PS5. Similarly, Noisy Pixel commends the beautiful environments and smooth performance, while PlayStation Universe points out improved visuals and character animations, particularly during combat. Critics like Siliconera also appreciate the game's gorgeous art style, suggesting it stands out as the prettiest entry in the franchise. These positive remarks indicate that there are elements of visual appeal and polish that resonate with certain players, especially in terms of character design and vibrant environments. However, a significant number of critics have expressed disappointment with the game's graphics, labeling them as outdated and lacking in detail. Eurogamer Germany describes the graphics as "cheap and outdated," while Finger Guns criticizes the animation quality, likening NPCs to "wooden carvings." GamingTrend and God is a Geek echo this sentiment, noting a simplistic design that reflects a lower budget and an unappealing ocean environment. Critics like Hobby Consolas and Multiplayer.it further emphasize that the visuals feel more aligned with previous console generations, suggesting a lack of innovation in the graphical department. This chorus of negative feedback points to a broader concern that the game may not meet the expectations set by its predecessors or the capabilities of modern hardware. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests a divide in perception regarding the graphics and visual design of Ys X: Nordics. While some reviewers, such as But Why Tho? and Noisy Pixel, celebrate the game's artistic direction and performance, a substantial number of others, including Eurogamer Germany and Finger Guns, highlight significant shortcomings that detract from the overall experience. The game appears to be caught between commendable artistic choices and a lack of technical advancement, leading to a polarized reception. Critics like RPG Site and Tech-Gaming also note the repetitiveness in the visual design of environments, further complicating the overall impression. As such, Ys X: Nordics presents a visual experience that may charm some players while leaving others wanting more in terms of graphical fidelity and variety.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Ys X: Nordics boasts a high-energy soundtrack that enhances its action-packed gameplay, earning praise for its vibrant rock music and smooth transitions. Critics celebrate its engaging sound design, but some argue it lacks the memorable charm of previous titles and suffers from minimal voice acting, particularly for the character Adol. While many highlight the soundtrack as a strong aspect of the game, mixed reviews point to shortcomings in variety and overall impact, leaving it short of the franchise's lofty standards.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

61%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

39%

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 X: Nordics have garnered a variety of positive remarks from critics, highlighting the energetic and engaging nature of the soundtrack. Many reviewers, such as Hobby Consolas and Shacknews, praise the high-octane soundtrack, noting how it complements the action-packed gameplay and enhances the overall experience. Critics like RPG Fan and Siliconera emphasize the vibrant rock music that elevates combat and exploration, contributing to the series' established auditory identity. Additionally, Nintendo Life and NintendoWorldReport commend the soundtrack for its seamless transitions between quieter pieces and intense guitar tracks, showcasing a well-crafted musical experience that aligns with the franchise's Scandinavian inspiration. Despite these positive notes, there are several criticisms regarding the sound design and music in Ys X: Nordics. Eurogamer Germany describes the music as average and lacking the memorable charm typically associated with the Ys series, while GamingBolt suggests that the soundtrack does not reach the heights of previous titles like Ys 8 and 9. God is a Geek points out a notable lack of voice acting, particularly with the character Adol being mostly silent, which detracts from the overall auditory experience. Furthermore, Noisy Pixel mentions a lack of variety in tones, indicating that while the quality may be above that of Ys IX, it still falls short in terms of diversity. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that Ys X: Nordics features a solid soundtrack that successfully captures the high-energy essence of action JRPGs, though it may not fully live up to the legacy of its predecessors. While many reviewers, such as COGconnected and Tech-Gaming, highlight the soundtrack as a major achievement, others express disappointment with certain aspects, including voice acting and musical memorability. The mixed feedback indicates that while the game has succeeded in delivering an enjoyable auditory experience, it still faces challenges in achieving the same level of excellence that fans have come to expect from the Ys franchise.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Critics praise the voice acting in Ys X: Nordics, especially Karja's performance, which enhances character dynamics. However, limitations like Adol's silence outside combat and sparse voiced dialogue in key scenes detract from immersion. While the quality marks an improvement over past entries, the emotional depth and scope need enhancement to fully engage players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

14%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

71%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

14%

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

The voice acting in Ys X: Nordics has received a generally positive reception from critics, with several reviewers highlighting the quality of performances, particularly from the character Karja. Finger Guns notes that the voice acting is "relatively good," featuring recognizable anime talent that avoids being "abhorrent or annoying." COGconnected and Nintendo Insider both commend Karja's performance, indicating that it enhances character dynamics and interactions. Additionally, RPG Site emphasizes the engaging dynamic between Adol and Karja, suggesting that the writing and delivery of their exchanges contribute positively to the overall experience. This sentiment is echoed by GamingTrend, which praises the well-written characters and their interactions. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the limitations of the voice acting. God is a Geek points out that Adol remains mostly silent outside of combat, which could detract from player immersion and engagement. Critics like RPG Site and Nintendo Insider also express disappointment over the limited voice acting in key scenes, suggesting that more voiced dialogue could have enriched the narrative experience. Tech-Gaming adds a different dimension to the critique, describing the English voice acting as "average" with some performances lacking emotional depth, which detracts from the character interactions and overall engagement. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while the voice acting in Ys X: Nordics has several strong points, particularly with the character Karja, it suffers from limitations in scope and emotional delivery. The positive aspects highlighted by Finger Guns, COGconnected, and others are somewhat overshadowed by the criticisms regarding the limited dialogue and emotional depth, as noted by God is a Geek and Tech-Gaming. This mixed reception suggests that while the game has made strides in voice acting quality compared to previous entries, there remains room for improvement in terms of character engagement and the extent of voiced content.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Ys X: Nordics shines on PS5 with smooth performance and fast load times, despite some control issues. The Nintendo Switch delivers decent gameplay but suffers from inconsistent frame rates and visual compromises. The PC version is solid overall but has minor stutters on portable devices. Critics agree the game is enjoyable, but outdated graphics and varying performance across platforms may disappoint some players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

38%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

50%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

13%

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

The technical performance of Ys X: Nordics varies across platforms, with the PlayStation 5 receiving the most positive feedback. Critics such as But Why Tho? and Noisy Pixel praised the game for its smooth performance, highlighting minimal frame rate drops and fast load times. GamingBolt also noted the absence of performance issues, indicating a stable experience. Even with some criticism regarding pacing and dialogue from Hobby Consolas, the overall sentiment remains favorable for the PS5. On the Nintendo Switch, while COGconnected pointed out technical issues with boat controls and cutscene animations, Nintendo Insider and Nintendo World Report acknowledged the game's commendable performance, citing minimal frame rate dips and good resolution. The PC version, as reviewed by RPG Site and ZTGD, is celebrated for its solid technical performance, with smooth gameplay and support for UltraWide monitors, further enhancing the gaming experience. However, there are notable negatives associated with each platform. For the PS5, while the performance is generally praised, GamingTrend raised concerns about control issues and responsiveness, particularly regarding the revive option for a KO’d partner, suggesting areas for improvement. Multiplayer.it described the technical performance as dated, which could detract from the overall experience. On the Nintendo Switch, the performance issues become more pronounced, with Nintendo Life mentioning inconsistent frame rates and visual compromises compared to other platforms. Pure Nintendo acknowledged occasional performance stumbles, indicating that while gameplay remains stable, there are still hiccups. The PC version, while largely positive, received a note from ZTGD regarding minor stutters on the Steam Deck, suggesting that even the best-performing version has its quirks. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that Ys X: Nordics performs well across all platforms, but with varying degrees of success. The PS5 version stands out for its smooth experience, despite some minor control issues, while the Nintendo Switch version is lauded for its performance relative to the hardware, albeit with some visual compromises and inconsistent frame rates. The PC version is also well-received, showcasing solid performance but with minor stutters on portable devices. Critics like SpazioGames and Nintendo Life highlight the game's outdated graphics as a common concern across platforms, suggesting that while the gameplay experience is enjoyable, the technical aspects may not meet the expectations of all players.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Ys X: Nordics impresses with rich content and engaging mechanics that boost replay value, especially for PS5 players. Critics praise its side quests and progression, but concerns about repetitive enemy designs, slow pacing, and lack of novelty could dampen long-term appeal. It's a solid choice for genre fans, but those seeking innovation may feel let down.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

28%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

67%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Ys X: Nordics is notably positive among many critics, particularly those who played on PS5. Eurogamer Germany highlights the abundance of side quests and a motivating progression path, which significantly enhances long-term engagement. Similarly, Finger Guns appreciates the mid-length campaign, which, combined with optional modes like Recaptures, adds layers to the replay experience. Critics like SpazioGames and RPG Fan also emphasize the game's vast content, including a nautical map filled with secrets and varied difficulty levels, which encourage multiple playthroughs and exploration. The unique upgrade system noted by Noisy Pixel offers players the chance to experiment with different builds, further enhancing replayability. However, there are notable criticisms that temper the overall enthusiasm for replay value. GamingTrend points out that the lack of enemy variety and straightforward level design may limit players' desire to revisit the game. Hobby Consolas mentions that while the game has engaging mechanics, the slow start and excessive dialogue could deter players from replaying. Additionally, Cubed3's critique that the game feels like more of the same from previous Falcom titles suggests that it may not offer enough novelty for players who are not diehard fans of the series. These concerns indicate that while there are elements that promote replayability, there are also significant factors that could hinder it. In summary, critics generally agree that Ys X: Nordics offers a wealth of content and engaging mechanics that enhance its replay value, particularly for players who enjoy exploration and side quests. However, some reviewers express concerns about repetitive elements and pacing issues that could limit long-term engagement. The consensus reflects a balanced view: while the game has strong replayable features, certain design choices may prevent it from reaching its full potential in terms of replayability. Overall, it appears that the game is well-received, especially among fans of the genre, but may not resonate as strongly with those seeking innovation or variety.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

67%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

33%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding Ys X: Nordics is largely positive, with many critics praising its engaging narrative, enjoyable combat mechanics, and character development. Reviewers like But Why Tho? highlight the game as an "incredible entry" that elevates the series, while Noisy Pixel calls it a "top-tier Ys adventure" with captivating elements. Critics such as Hey Poor Player and GamingBolt commend the game for its innovative gameplay mechanics and compelling story, suggesting that it successfully refreshes the Ys formula while remaining true to its roots. The action RPG experience is celebrated for its charm and fun, with many reviewers noting the engaging land-based combat and exploration as standout features. However, Ys X: Nordics is not without its criticisms. Several reviewers point out significant shortcomings, particularly in the graphics and voice acting. Eurogamer Germany mentions "schwache Grafik" (weak graphics), while God is a Geek and Hobby Consolas echo similar sentiments about the visuals and dialogue pacing. Shacknews notes that despite its ambitious nature, the game "falls short in execution," with issues related to pacing and communication detracting from the overall experience. Additionally, some critics express disappointment regarding the naval combat mechanics, which they feel do not meet the same standard as the land-based gameplay. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that while Ys X: Nordics has its flaws, particularly in technical aspects and some gameplay elements, it remains a solid and enjoyable entry in the Ys series. Many reviewers, such as Gaming Age and RPG Fan, view it as a worthy addition that appeals to both longtime fans and newcomers, despite its shortcomings. The game is recognized for its engaging narrative and combat, making it a recommended title for action RPG enthusiasts, even if it may not be the most revolutionary installment in the franchise. Overall, Ys X: Nordics successfully captures the essence of the series while paving the way for future improvements.

TL;DR

Ys X: Nordics receives a largely positive reception for its engaging narrative, fun combat, and character development, hailed as a strong entry in the series. Critics praise its innovative gameplay, but voice acting and graphics face significant criticism, with some noting that naval combat underwhelms compared to its land-based counterpart. Despite technical flaws, it's considered a solid action RPG that appeals to both fans and newcomers, capturing the essence of the franchise while hinting at future improvements.

MONSTER

Reviews

81 reviews found

Noisy Pixel

PlayStation 5

Oct 14, 2024

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

Ys X: Nordics is a top-tier Ys adventure with a captivating narrative, engaging combat mechanics, and expansive exploration, appealing to both longtime fans and newcomers.

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RPG Fan

PlayStation 5

Oct 14, 2024

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

Ys X: Nordics is a sensational adventure with a transcendent combination of strong story, characters, and combat. A worthy starting point and evolution for fans of modern Ys, reinvigorating passion for the series.

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ZTGD

Dec 12, 2024

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

Ys X: Nordics is considered one of the best entries in the series, combining enjoyable combat, strong character chemistry, and an intriguing story, making it highly recommended for ARPG fans.

Hey Poor Player

PlayStation 5

Oct 14, 2024

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

Ys X: Nordics is praised for its compelling story, innovative gameplay mechanics, and ability to refresh the Ys formula while staying true to its identity, making it a highly enjoyable experience for both series fans and newcomers.

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Inverse

PlayStation 5

Oct 14, 2024

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

Ys X: Nordics is a robust seafaring tale full of rebellious spirit, faithful to the franchise yet bold and new. Despite some story and visual issues, it offers a stellar action combat experience and is a standout RPG of the year.

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Gaming Age

Feb 12, 2025

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

Ys X: Nordics is considered a fine return to form for the series, worth playing despite the upcoming expanded version.

NintendoWorldReport

Nintendo Switch

Oct 14, 2024

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

Ys X: Nordics leans more towards the highs of Ys VIII than Ys IX, with a fun world, charming characters, and unique sailing mechanics. Despite some technical design elements feeling dated, it is the most technically accomplished game in the series.

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Tech-Gaming

Oct 30, 2024

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

Ys X: Nordics is praised as a first-class adventure that successfully merges plot and gameplay, maintaining the franchise's strong legacy.

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Nintendo Insider

Nintendo Switch

Oct 28, 2024

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

Ys X: Nordics is a solid entry that successfully reinvents the series' gameplay while maintaining its core appeal. Despite some shortcomings in story and design, it offers a fun experience for both newcomers and fans.

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But Why Tho?

PlayStation 5

Oct 25, 2024

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

Incredible entry in the Ys series with a great narrative and gameplay experience that elevates the series to new heights

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