The excitement of JRPG Christmas appears poised to extend well beyond the holiday season, with one title in particular stirring up anticipation in my heart: Ys 10: Nordics. This eagerly awaited installment, finally breaking free from its confines in Japan, is scheduled for release worldwide this fall.
Having made its debut in Japan last September, Ys 10 initially defied expectations with no immediate announcement of a global launch—a departure from the norm in today’s interconnected gaming landscape.
However, fans can now rejoice as NIS America has confirmed its imminent arrival on English shores, slated for release across PC, Switch, PS5, and PS3 in the autumn of 2024. While a precise release date remains elusive, the prospect of experiencing this long-awaited title in English is enough to fuel excitement.
Renowned developer Nihon Falcom has carved a niche for itself over the years by staying true to the essence of classic JRPGs—a tradition that seemed to wane after the era of the PS2.
With a focus on immersive world-building, robust combat mechanics, and a cast of characters that leave a lasting impression, Falcom’s creations may lack the flashy veneer of some modern RPGs but more than compensate with their depth and heart.
Ys stands as a testament to Falcom’s enduring commitment to the genre, tracing its roots back to the series’ inception on Japanese computers in 1987—a journey that has now culminated in its eagerly anticipated tenth installment. Renowned for its adventurous narratives and fast-paced combat, Ys 10 promises to uphold the series’ esteemed legacy.
While 2024 has already proven itself to be a banner year for JRPG enthusiasts, with titles like Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth and Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth leading the charge, the prospect of revisiting the familiar comforts of Ys is a welcome one indeed. Amidst a sea of new releases, the allure of returning to the beloved series is undeniable—a sentiment that speaks to the enduring appeal of JRPGs as a whole.
