Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Ys: The Oath in Felghana delivers fast-paced, hack-and-slash action that harks back to classic ARPGs while introducing modern refinements. Gone is the side-scrolling engine of the original Ys III, replaced by a fully 3D camera and fluid movement courtesy of the engine first seen in Ys VI: The Ark of Napishtim. Combat feels immediate—Adol can chain attacks into satisfying combos, and striking multiple foes in quick succession triggers a temporary attack-speed boost that rewards aggressive play.

Puzzle-solving and exploration are tied directly to the three magic bracelets Adol acquires: Fire, Wind, and Earth. Lighting torches, boosting jumps, and breaking barriers never feel tacked on, since each bracelet also plays a role in combat and environmental hazards. This multi-purpose gear encourages you to revisit earlier areas, uncover hidden paths, and tackle optional challenges that extend the adventure well beyond the main storyline.

Character progression revolves around collectible crystals and Blacksmith upgrades. Instead of frivolous inventory management, Ys: The Oath in Felghana streamlines healing with enemy-dropped consumables and focuses on real-time action. The inclusion of Easy, Hard, and Nightmare difficulty modes ensures veterans and newcomers alike can find the right level of challenge. For speedrunners, the Time Attack mode provides an exhilarating gauntlet of boss fights designed to test mastery of every bracelet, spell, and sword technique you’ve learned.

Graphics

Visually, this remake feels like a love letter to mid-2000s action RPGs with a crisp, cel-shaded aesthetic that remains surprisingly timeless. Character models are detailed and expressive, capturing Adol’s determined gaze and Dogi’s unshakable loyalty. Textures on stone walls, wooden bridges, and dungeon floors blend realism with fantasy art direction, making every locale—from the cobblestone streets of Redmont to the mossy caverns of the Felghana Range—feel distinct.

Combat animations are smooth, with weapon strikes landing with satisfying impact. Particle effects for spells such as fiery explosions or wind gusts pop off the screen without overwhelming the action. Boss battles become dramatic spectacles, featuring elaborate attack patterns, telegraphed moves, and dynamic camera angles that emphasize each giant swing or elemental onslaught.

Lighting and shadow work together to set mood and tone. Torchlight flickers in dank tunnels, while outdoor sections bathe in warm sunlight or churn under stormy skies. Even on moderate hardware, performance remains stable, ensuring that visual flair never comes at the expense of fluid frame rates. The result is an immersive world that feels alive and ripe for exploration.

Story

The narrative picks up with Adol Christin and his stalwart companion Dogi returning to Dogi’s quaint hometown of Redmont, three years after the events of Ys I and II. Their restful reunion quickly unravels as mysterious forces begin to threaten the townsfolk. What starts as a straightforward rescue mission evolves into a deep dive into ancient conspiracies and elemental magic that underpins the land of Felghana.

Compared to the original Ys III: Wanderers from Ys, this remake expands the storyline with additional cutscenes, richer character interactions, and fleshed-out side characters. Conversations with villagers, each with their own quirks and troubles, turn generic fetch quests into moments of genuine empathy. Adol’s straightforward heroism is balanced by Dogi’s humor and loyalty, making their bond the emotional core of the journey.

Plot pacing strikes a comfortable rhythm: early chapters focus on establishing stakes and introducing the elemental bracelets, mid-game ups the ante with betrayals and tragic reveals, and the finale culminates in a battle against a foe whose motivations reflect themes of loss and redemption. Optional boss fights and hidden story arcs add depth for players who want to see every secret this world has to offer.

Overall Experience

Ys: The Oath in Felghana is a compelling blend of old-school action and modern design sensibilities. Combat is tight, progression feels rewarding, and exploration yields genuine discoveries. Crunchy loot upgrades and crystal farming give satisfactions of a classic RPG without bogging down the pace. Difficulty options and Time Attack mode provide plenty of replay value for completionists and speedrunners.

Whether you’re a longtime fan of the Ys series or new to Adol’s adventures, this title serves as both an accessible entry point and a refreshing reimagining of Ys III’s world. The short loading times and intuitive save system keep you in the thick of action, while the hidden nooks and optional bosses ensure that explorers have plenty of side content to unravel.

With its polished graphics, enriched narrative, and relentless combat loops, Ys: The Oath in Felghana stands out as one of the best remakes in the franchise. It strikes the perfect balance between honoring its roots and pushing the series forward—making it a must-play for any action RPG enthusiast seeking a fast, fun, and fulfilling adventure.

Retro Replay Score

7.5/10