The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) is a legendary console that has been a staple of many gamers' collections for decades. Among the numerous games available for the NES, one stands out as a hidden gem: Ys I: Ancient Ys Vanished.

Released in Japan in 1989, Ys I was developed by Falcom and published by Nihon Falcom Corporation. The game is an action-adventure title that follows the story of Adol Christin, a young mercenary who sets out on a quest to rescue his friends and uncover the secrets of the ancient world.

In this article, we'll delve into the hot review of Ys I: Ancient Ys Vanished for the NES in Japan, including its age rating, gameplay mechanics, and overall quality.

Age Rating

Ys I: Ancient Ys Vanished is rated 15+ by the Japanese entertainment software rating organization, CERO. This means that the game is suitable only for players aged 15 and above, due to its moderate level of violence, suggestive content, and some scary scenes.

In contrast, the game's ESRB (Entertainment Software Rating Board) equivalent in North America would be "M" for Mature, indicating that the game contains material that may not be suitable for younger audiences.

Gameplay Mechanics

Ys I: Ancient Ys Vanished is an action-adventure game that features a unique blend of exploration, combat, and puzzle-solving. The gameplay revolves around Adol Christin's journey through various regions of ancient lands, fighting enemies, collecting items, and interacting with non-playable characters (NPCs).

The game's combat system is notable for its speed and fluidity, allowing players to chain together a variety of attacks using Adol's sword, shield, and magic abilities. The game also features a variety of monsters, each with their own strengths and weaknesses.

One of the standout features of Ys I is its exploration mechanics. Players can venture into dungeons, ruins, and other areas, searching for hidden treasures, secret items, and new paths to explore. The game's world design is extensive, with many hidden secrets and Easter eggs waiting to be discovered.

Graphics and Sound

Ys I: Ancient Ys Vanished boasts impressive graphics for its time, featuring colorful 16-bit pixel art that still holds up today. The game's music and sound effects are equally memorable, with a catchy and atmospheric soundtrack that complements the game's adventure-filled atmosphere.

The game's visuals are also notable for their detail and texture, with intricate animations and parallax scrolling effects that create a sense of depth and immersion.

Reception

Ys I: Ancient Ys Vanished received widespread critical acclaim in Japan upon its release. Reviewers praised the game's engaging story, addictive gameplay, and impressive graphics. Many critics noted that the game was one of the best action-adventure titles available for the NES at the time.

However, some reviewers criticized the game's limited character development and lack of cutscenes, which may have made the game feel somewhat linear at times.

Legacy

Ys I: Ancient Ys Vanished has developed a cult following over the years, with many fans praising its unique blend of exploration, combat, and puzzle-solving. The game is widely regarded as one of the best action-adventure titles for the NES, alongside other classics like Super Mario Bros. 2 and Metroid.

In 2018, Nihon Falcom released a remake of Ys I, titled Ys I: Ancient Ys Vanished - Complete Edition, which features updated graphics, sound effects, and gameplay mechanics. The remake was well-received by fans and critics alike, offering a fresh take on the classic game.

Conclusion

Ys I: Ancient Ys Vanished is an action-adventure title that has stood the test of time, thanks to its engaging story, addictive gameplay, and impressive graphics. While it may not be as widely known as some other NES classics, Ys I is a must-play for fans of retro gaming and adventure games.

With its moderate level of violence, suggestive content, and scary scenes, Ys I is rated 15+ by CERO in Japan. However, for mature gamers aged 15 and above, the game offers an unforgettable experience that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

If you're a fan of action-adventure games or are looking to explore more retro gaming options, Ys I: Ancient Ys Vanished is definitely worth checking out.