Ys Origin

About Ys Origin

Ys Origin serves as a prequel to the classic series, set 700 years before the original Ys I and II events. Nihon Falcom created this title while XSEED Games published it on December 21, 2006. You can play it on PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PlayStation Vita. The story follows apprentice knight Yunica Tovah and troubled sorcerer Hugo Fact as they chase runaway Goddesses into the demonic Devil's Tower. This game shifts focus from simple action to a more complex dungeon crawler experience filled with secrets. It acts as an arcade-style platformer RPG that layers heavy exploration mechanics over its fast-paced combat system. Players must navigate a world where demons have risen again after forcing the surface dwellers into the clouds long ago.

Gameplay

You control one of four unique characters, each bringing distinct stats and special abilities to every encounter. The core loop involves sprinting through large rooms while dodging projectiles and attacking enemies with quick slashes or magical spells. Combat feels frantic as you face screen-filling bosses that demand precise timing rather than button mashing. You collect magic stones to unlock new movement options like double jumps or dash attacks, which opens up previously unreachable areas in a Metroidvania style layout. Each character has different weaknesses and strengths so you often need to switch parties to solve specific puzzles or defeat certain monster types. The game offers no multiplayer options since the entire experience focuses on single-player progression through these massive vertical dungeons.

What Players Think

The PlayPile data shows this title sits at a solid Metacritic score of 76 out of 100 among critics. Our own community members have labeled the overall vibe as Strategic based on one vote, though the action-heavy combat suggests otherwise. Average playtime hovers around 25 hours for a standard run but extends significantly if you chase 100% completion. Players frequently cite the complex boss patterns and character variety as key reasons they return to the game repeatedly. Review snippets highlight how the multiple playable paths create genuine replay value that few other RPGs achieve at this price point. Completion rates remain high among dedicated fans who enjoy mastering the intricate movement mechanics and hidden secrets scattered throughout Devil's Tower.

PlayPile's Take

Ys Origin works best for players who want fast action mixed with heavy exploration and character switching mechanics. The single-player campaign runs about 25 hours and includes over 40 achievements to track your progress. At its current price on most platforms, the content delivered justifies the cost for fans of deep dungeon crawling. You will appreciate the distinct playstyles available to Yunica versus Hugo since they change how you approach every room. This game does not hold your hand or offer easy difficulty settings so expect a challenge. Grab it if you want a dense action RPG that respects your time by rewarding thorough exploration over generic grinding.

Storyline

"Following a devastating demonic invasion, the twin Goddesses use their magic to bring the inhabitants of legendary Ys safely into the sky. While the demons work to construct Devil’s Tower and reach the humans’ new abode, the Goddesses disappear. As a mighty warrior or a cunning mage, you must seek the Goddesses in Devil’s Tower. With your swordsmanship and spells, can you banish evil from the land of your ancestors?"