Ys Origin

A solid action RPG that properly balances its action and RPG elements, making for a fluid and fast-paced experience free of frustration.

The game essentially consists of multiple 'dungeons' strung together with generous save points at various intervals, each of which you can travel between instantly using an inventory item.

The dungeons are all consistent in layout in that they're conducive to the action RPG format; it's difficult to get lost and a path will usually branch two different ways at most, one leading to progress and one leading to a chest for example. This keeps the emphasis on the action as it allows you to storm through areas with very little fear of missing a key, new item or consumable.

Combat is smooth and enjoyable, and the boss designs are excellent. Replay value is high given the various playable characters--each with their own play style--as well as multiple difficulty settings, bonus modes, unlockables and achievements.

I didn't find the storyline very interesting, nor inspiring enough to make me want to explore the series further, though the dialogue is often funny. This brings me to my main gripe, being that the dialogue scenes can be long at times and are unskippable, halting the action intermittently. In addition, the game can feel grindy at times in a somewhat imbalanced sense, in that you'll suddenly hit a wall in combat and have to trek back and grind for an hour or so before you can more easily proceed. Otherwise, entirely recommended.

4.0 stars / Great