Review by Jon Donnis
Ys X: Proud Nordics arrives on PlayStation 5 as the complete and refined edition of this entry in Nihon Falcom's long running action RPG series, bringing back all of the fast paced combat and character driven storytelling of the original while layering in meaningful new content. Rather than feeling like a simple reissue, it plays like a fuller, more confident version of the same adventure, with extra mechanics, a fresh storyline, and several practical improvements that make it easier and smoother to enjoy from start to finish.
The story still sits between Ys II and Memories of Celceta, following a younger Adol Christin during one of his early voyages. He is pulled into conflict between the seafaring Normans and the monstrous Griegr, with the open sea shaping both the tone and the structure of the journey. Proud Nordics folds in a brand new chapter set on Öland Island, where Adol teams up with the Shield Siblings, Canute and Astrid. Their mystery is woven directly into the main plot rather than tacked on at the side, so it feels like a natural extension of the adventure instead of optional filler.
Combat remains the centrepiece. The game keeps its streamlined approach with two playable characters, Adol and Karja, instead of a larger party. Duo Mode allows you to switch between them or fight in tandem, which keeps battles lively and reactive. Encounters move quickly, with plenty of dodging, countering, and ability use, and the Mana based skills continue to add tactical depth. These powers are not just for fighting. They help with traversal too, letting you move through the environment in creative ways.
This edition introduces the new Mana Hold ability, which lets you manipulate the world around you. It adds extra layers to both exploration and puzzles, encouraging you to think about the environment rather than simply running through it. Alongside that comes Muspelheim, a timed dungeon designed to be far more demanding than the main campaign. It is tough and clearly aimed at players who want a real challenge, providing a tense, high difficulty test of everything you have learned.
Naval exploration across the gulf returns as a major feature. Sailing the Sandras between islands creates a welcome sense of scale and discovery, breaking up the on foot action with travel and ship based encounters. The concept still feels ambitious, even if the ship combat can become repetitive at times. Even so, these sections give the adventure breathing space and reinforce the idea that you are on a long sea journey rather than moving through a string of disconnected levels.
On PlayStation 5, the improvements are immediately noticeable. Performance is smoother, the visuals are cleaner, and the general quality of life updates make menus and progression feel more convenient. It is simply a more comfortable way to play. Environments are broad and inviting, though some islands share similar scenery, while character designs remain colourful and expressive. The soundtrack continues to stand out, with energetic battle themes and sweeping melodies that perfectly match the pace of the action.
Narratively, the game balances light hearted adventure with quieter character moments. Adol's growing connection with Karja, along with his exposure to Norman culture, gives the story an emotional core. The added Öland Island storyline strengthens that focus rather than distracting from it. Some twists are predictable, but the journey itself stays engaging and sincere.
Taken as a whole, Ys X Proud Nordics feels like the definitive version of this chapter in the series. It keeps the strong combat, maritime atmosphere, and engaging characters of the original while adding worthwhile extras and technical polish. A few rough edges remain, particularly in the naval sections and repeated island aesthetics, yet the strengths clearly outweigh the flaws. For newcomers and returning players alike, this PlayStation 5 edition is the best way to set sail with Adol, and it remains a very solid 8.5 out of 10.
Released on February 20th on PS5 - https://amzn.to/4axDt6S
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