The Ys series has always been defined by its sense of momentum, but with Ys X: Proud Nordics, Nihon Falcom and NIS America take a deliberate step back in the timeline to move the series forward in tech and scope. Serving as the tenth mainline entry, this Proud edition functions as the definitive version of Adol Christin’s northern adventure. Originally released on the previous generation of consoles, this enhanced port finds its true home on the Switch 2. Promising to rectify the performance woes that have plagued the series’ recent portable outings. It is a chronicle of Viking lore, magical chains, and a significant departure from the party-based combat that has defined the franchise for over a decade.
A Bond Forged in Mana
Chronologically positioned just one month after the events of Ys II, we find Adol Christin traveling toward the land of Celceta. However, his journey is diverted to the Obelia Gulf, an archipelago inhabited by the Normans. Adol and the Norman pirate princess, Karja Balta, find themselves magically shackled together by Mana cuffs. This ‘Shield Brother’ bond forces the two into an alliance against the Griegr, immortal beings that threaten the gulf. While it starts as your average Ys plot, the chemistry between Adol and Karja carries the weight. The tone is lighter and more adventurous than the gloomy streets of Balduq, focusing on a journey through ancient Nordic history and the discovery of Adol’s early legendary status.
Sword and Shield Combat
The core loop shifts from a three-person party to a focused ‘Cross Action’ system. Combat is split between ‘Solo Mode’, where the CPU handles your partner, and ‘Duo Mode’, where you hold a trigger to move and attack in unison. This change is quite controversial. While it feels responsive and punchy, the ‘Duo Mode’ essentially grants a shield button that negates most damage, often trivializing the strategic depth found in earlier titles.
Skills feel somewhat sidelined because the game heavily incentivizes waiting for a counterattack rather than using skills and exploiting weaknesses. A notable instance occurred during a mid-game boss fight where I found myself ignoring the skills entirely, simply holding the block button to wait for the perfect parry. It is satisfying, but those seeking the high-intensity of Ys VIII or IX might find the new focus on defensive play a bit too forgiving and boring for its own good.
A Vast Improvement with Room for More
On the Switch 2, Ys X: Proud Nordics is a highlight compared to the disastrous, blurry performance of Ys IX: Monstrum Nox. It runs at a locked frame rate with high resolution, making the vibrant blues of the sea pop. However, the presentation is a mixed bag regarding asset quality. While the art direction is stellar, specific textures remain muddy, and there is a glaring pop-in issue where decorations and even NPCs appear just a few feet in front of the player.
The naval exploration, which reminds me of The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker and Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii, is a pleasant surprise for exploration but lacks bite in combat. Dealing with Griegr ships often devolves into a repetitive cycle of ramming and short-range cannon blasts. Fortunately, the Falcom Sound Team delivers yet another legendary soundtrack. Filled with high-energy tracks that make even the dullest sailing trip feel like an epic odyssey.
Smooth sailing, with some shallow waters
Ys X: Proud Nordics is a confident, if slightly safe, evolution for the long-running series. Its greatest success is the technical stability it brings to the handheld experience. Seeing Adol move with fluid grace on the Switch 2 without the resolution dropping to a mess is a relief. The ‘Cross Action’ combat is a double-edged sword. It is the most accessible the series has ever been. But the ‘Duo’ mechanics come at the cost of the series’ traditional strategic level of difficulty.
It targets fans who crave a sense of adventure and those who were put off by the technical hurdles of the last entry. While the naval combat is a bit shallow and the visual pop-in remains distracting, the heart and soul of Ys are thriving more than ever. It’s a voyage that every JRPG fan should consider embarking upon.
Ys X: Proud Nordics
Summary
Ys X: Proud Nordics is a technically impressive and enjoyable entry that finally brings stable gameplay to a portable platform. While the new combat system simplifies the strategy, the sense of adventure remains top-tier. It is a must-play for fans who value fluidity and exploration.
Played on Nintendo Switch 2.
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