Explore uncharted islands, engage in fast-paced action combat, and experience the high seas adventures of unlikely allies Adol and Karja in Ys X: Nordics!
The game features a "Cross Action System" that allows players to seamlessly swap between controlling the protagonist Adol and his ally, the pirate Karja, both in solo and "Duo" mode. In solo mode, players can execute attacks, parries, and evasive maneuvers independently with each character. Parrying enemy attacks is crucial, as it builds up the "Revenge Gauge" which can then fuel powerful Duo attacks when the characters team up. The Duo mode enables players to control both Adol and Karja simultaneously, combining their unique abilities and skills to extend combos and deal devastating damage. Reviewers praise the satisfying, fast-paced feel of the combat, as well as the sense of fluidity when transitioning between the two protagonists and effectively using parries and skill chains, especially on higher difficulty settings.
The game introduces a "Mana" system that grants players access to various traversal and utility abilities. These Mana-based skills allow characters to grapple, slide, and create new platforms, enabling more dynamic and exploratory environments. Reviewers note that harnessing Mana powers is key for uncovering hidden treasures, critical points, and traversing the game's more complex, multi-layered dungeons and islands, adding a layer of puzzle-solving and environmental traversal to complement the action-focused combat.
Players command a ship called the Sandras, which allows for exploration of the game's expansive ocean areas, including the discovery of uncharted islands. The sailing and naval battle mechanics, while described as relatively simple, are generally praised for providing a satisfying sense of adventure and exploration. Players can engage in ship-to-ship combat and upgrade the Sandras to improve its capabilities. While the initial sailing may feel slow, reviewers note that it becomes more enjoyable as the player progresses and unlocks various enhancements and shortcuts.