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NEC TG-16/TE/TurboDuo => TG-16/TE/TurboDuo Discussion => Topic started by: cavein2000 on May 03, 2006, 02:52:40 AM

Title: The Ys Thread
Post by: cavein2000 on May 03, 2006, 02:52:40 AM
So I pretty much know very little about the Ys series, having never played a game in the series, but would like to pick up a copy of Ys 1 and 2 (US) for my PCEngine/Turbo CD and have been reading all about this game.  Questions...

Is this the recommended route; Ys 1 and 2 and proceed?

Is checking out the Ys complete for the PC recommended?  

Any other helpful info?
Title: The Ys Thread
Post by: FM-77 on May 03, 2006, 03:00:29 AM
Play Ys I and II first. Definitely.

Everyone here will say "play the Turbo Grafx version" but I will say otherwise.

Play Ys I-II COMPLETE (both available in English) if you want awesome gameplay and pure entertainment. If you want old style RPGs, play the PC-8801 or PC-9801 versions.

As for YsIII -- you can play the new Ys The Oath in Felghana instead. It is a remake of YsIII. Most people will say YsIII is crap, and while it isn't as good as the other Ys games, I definitely recommend the PS2 version.

Don't play Ys IV The Dawn of Ys if you want consistency in the Ys story. It has nothing to do with the Ys timeline. Play Ys IV Mask of the Sun for Super Famicom instead (has been fan translated but the ROM will not load on SNES copiers).

Ys V Lost Kefin, Kingdom of Sand is an excellent game. Only available on SFC. Not available in English.

If you're going to play YsVI The Ark of Napishtim I recommend the PS2 version. The PC version isn't as good as everyone will say it is. And the PSP version is utter crap. Beware of that one.

When you've played all these games (assuming you're after the entire Ys story) you can play The Dawn of Ys. It is an excellent game but the story bothers me greatly.

There are remakes of Ys IV Mask of the Sun and Ys V Lost Kefin, The Kingdom of Sand on PS2 but these games are the single most terrible games I have ever played in my life. Whatever you do, NEVER play these games.
Title: The Ys Thread
Post by: cavein2000 on May 03, 2006, 04:08:28 AM
Quote from: "Seldane"
Play Ys I and II first. Definitely.

Everyone here will say "play the Turbo Grafx version" but I will say otherwise.

Play Ys I-II COMPLETE (both available in English) if you want awesome gameplay and pure entertainment. If you want old style RPGs, play the PC-8801 or PC-9801 versions.

There are remakes of Ys IV Mask of the Sun and Ys V Lost Kefin, The Kingdom of Sand on PS2 but these games are the single most terrible games I have ever played in my life. Whatever you do, NEVER play these games.


Cool.  To be honest, I'm not much of a PC gamer at all.  In fact, I only own and have played Warcraft III on my laptop.  I do have a decent graphics card and all but am not too much a fan of the keyboard.  Is there a PC engine/Turbo controller hook up you recommend or that even exists?  That would probably be the only way I could even deal with an RPG on the PC.  The Turbo version more appealed to me because of this.  However, the animations and graphics on the PC title seemed far superior and was true eye candy from what I had previewed.  

As for the remakes you mention of Ys IV and V, I will make it my business to keep 'em far out of sight.  Thanks for the heads up.
Title: The Ys Thread
Post by: FM-77 on May 03, 2006, 06:03:30 AM
Why do you want a PCE controller for your computer? You think this is the best controller?

You can buy converters which will let you use PS2/GC/Xbox (among many others) controllers on your PC. You can even buy Xbox 360 controllers and hook them up to your PC directly. I've heard these controllers are really good.

I'm no PC gamer either, but if you want to truly enjoy Ys, you've got to play them on your PC since they are highly superior to their console counterparts.

On a PC you can play:

The ULTIMATE versions of Ys 1-3
Ys IV in English (through emulation)
The best version of YsVI (at least as good as the PS2 version)
Title: The Ys Thread
Post by: cavein2000 on May 03, 2006, 06:44:45 AM
i don't think that the PCE is the best controller at all.  I guess the PS2 would probably be my controller of choice.  Where should I pick up the converter?
Title: The Ys Thread
Post by: cavein2000 on May 03, 2006, 07:00:22 AM
Oh yeah, and where can I pick up a Ys complete for the PC?  Is this a japanese game that I have to download a patch for as well?  Seldane, thanks so much for your help and advice so far!!
Title: The Ys Thread
Post by: FM-77 on May 03, 2006, 07:53:39 AM
I have a Joytech PS2 -> PC adapter which works great. Check out their site for retailers: Click! (http://www.joytech.net/partners-usa.php)

The cheapest place to order Ys games and other Ys stuff is from Falcom themselves. Click here for all their Ys stuff (http://www.falcom.co.jp/mailorder/game/ys.html)! (Ys I-II COMPLETE together costs about $40.)

...And here's information on how to order from Falcom: Click! (http://www.falcom.co.jp/mailorder/howto/index.html#international_e)


When you've got YsI-II COMPLETE, you can download the English patches from NightWolve's site (http://nick.serveblog.net/) (he's also working on English patches for Ys The Oath in Felghana and Ys VI The Ark of Napishtim).
Title: The Ys Thread
Post by: cavein2000 on May 03, 2006, 09:34:05 AM
Thanks again, I sent an email to Falcom, but couldn't find the adapter you were talking about through joytech.  Maybe they don't stock it anymore.
Title: The Ys Thread
Post by: Keranu on May 03, 2006, 09:54:19 AM
Sorry, I have to disagree with Seldane here on a lot of parts (a lot of other folks would too, so please listen to all of our opinions).

First off, I believe the TGCD version of Ys Book I & II is the best? Why? First off, it's a console port and from the sounds of it, you prefer playing on consoles anyway.

Secondly, it has the best soundtrack by far. The original versions and the Sega Master System versions might sound too primitive for some and the arrangements in the TGCD version are extremely well done and it often considered the best soundtrack of all time. The Saturn version in the Falcom Classic discs have some decent tunes, but not quite as exciting as the TGCD version. In my opinion, Ys Eternal sounded very weak. It wasn't bad by all means, but it just lacked so much flavor since they were trying to abandon the 80's touch.

Thirdly, the TGCD version offers two extra cinematic scenes: one for when you boot the game that tells the story of Ys (it's actually handy and is very cool to watch after beating the game) and one awesome kicked up cinema for when you first start the game (this cinema was especially well designed by the fact that you will appreciate it so much when you complete the game, and it's just awesome to watch!). Not only that, but the cinema when you first start a game offers a new song that kicks ass and is reused in the other Ys games. Also I didn't like the cinemas in Ys Eternal so much, so it's nice to have the sprite and tile based cinemas in the TGCD and earlier versions.

Fourthly, the gameplay is a lot smoother in the TGCD version compared to the older versions. The older versions might play too slowly for some and the combat feels smoother in the TGCD version, as oppose to the Master System version. This is however where Ys Eternal shines with the combat system allowing you to go in 8 directions and run and makes the bump attack system more modern and smooth. For this reason alone and the nice 2d visuals, I would recommend it to newcomers, but I still insist the TGCD version being the best for all the other aspects.

Fifthly, the TGCD version is one of the few translated versions of the game and it was actually brought to America and to top it off, the translation was well done. Some Ys fans might complain because a lot of names were altered a bit from the original, but lets admit, that was for the better of the American ENGLISH speaking audience :D . What really makes the translation nice though is how well written it is with perfect English grammar use and stunning dialog.

Sixthly (yes we are at six already ;) ), the TGCD version, from what I know, is the only version of Ys I & Ys II to have voice acting, and it's in English! You might be thinking that the voice acting is going to suck since it is dubbed in English, however that is far from the case for the TGCD version of Ys Book I & II. The TGCD version offers outstanding voice acting for the most part. There are a few voice actors who I thought could definitely use room for improvement, but then there are voice actors, specifically the three main villians (and this adds so much more depth to them), is incredible; I've never heard better voice acting for villians in my life. I can't recommend it enough and if you're like me, you'll actually remember the speeches word by word!

And lastly, the TGCD version is a bit of a novelty to have. It was the very first RPG to come out on CD format and it was an amazing game to show off CD hardware at the time. It's also a must have game for your Turbo collection and is one of the titles that really shines on the Turbo. Also it's one of the few Ys games to come to America!

I hope this helps :) .
Title: The Ys Thread
Post by: cavein2000 on May 03, 2006, 10:56:57 AM
Nice... as far as collecting goes, I would much rather have the Turbo CD with Ys 1 and 2.  But the PC graphics that I have seen, seem to blow everything else out of the water? no?  I do realize it is a remake and the turbo version is for the true gamer.  It seems like a toss up to me.  Too hard to call, maybe I'll wait for some more input.  But Keranu, you are right in that I am a console fan, not so much a PC gamer.  

Right now, I really only need assitance with Ys I-II, so I believe it is PC vs. Turbo CD.  Fight!!
Title: The Ys Thread
Post by: Black Tiger on May 03, 2006, 01:16:04 PM
Play Turbo Ys Book I & II, then PCE Ys IV patched to english.

Then go ahead and play the Turbo Ys III gaiden after you've finished Legend Of Xanadu II PCE.

Ys IV fits the timeline perfectly, since its the finale of the PCE branch. The other stuff is just that. I don't care too much about mythology or story and play Ys for the gameplay and fun.

Saying you should skip Ys IV PCE is like saying you should skip the Monster World games because they're not true Wonderboy.

If you like PCE, Hudson and/or Falcom, stick to the PCE games and then try out the alternatives if you feel like it.

If you're hung up on next/current gen, then I guess you're not even reading this.
Title: The Ys Thread
Post by: ParanoiaDragon on May 03, 2006, 04:19:56 PM
The graphics are obviously better in the PC & PS2 versions of the 2 Eternal games.  The music, in both versions of the Eternal's, really don't compare, in any way, shape, or form, to Ryo Yonemitsu's arrangements for the Turbo versions.  Actually, all 4 of the Ys games for Turbo, have incredible soundtracks, & are worth the price of admission for the music alone!  

Just get the Turbo version for now, it will be more memorable.  Then, check out the PC versions, or the PS2 version(if you must) of the Eternals.  I HIGHLY recomend getting Oath in Felghana(the Ys 3 remake), it's gotta be my favorite Ys EVER.  I have a PS1 controller hooked up to my PC, it works just dandy for me.  I actually got my adapter off ebay, so you can check around there.

Oh, & the voice acting in the Turbo version, even by today's standards, is considered excellent.  And most of the voice actors are from Transformers & GI Joe(if that means anything to you, cuz it means alot to me :D ).  Not to mention strangely enough, Thomas Haden Church, from Wings.

Yeah, it'd be best to start with the Turbo version.
Title: The Ys Thread
Post by: esteban on May 03, 2006, 06:00:07 PM
To re-affirm what has already been said: Get the TG-CD Ys I & II version and play it first. You can always check out the other versions of the games (including the PC remakes) at a later time -- but it would be a damn shame for your virgin experience with Ys to be with anything other than the TG-CD version.

We promise you it will be worth it :).
Title: The Ys Thread
Post by: Keranu on May 03, 2006, 07:52:48 PM
People summed it up nicely here: play Ys Book I & II for TGCD first and then if you'd like, play the other versions afterwards. It doesn't matter on which one you'll like the most, it would be best to play the TGCD version first (unless maybe you knew Japanese, then maybe I'd say play the PC88 original first). The other awesome thing about the TGCD version is that it's similar to the original PC88 version in terms of style and stuff, so it's not much of a remake, but more of an update; a much nicer update at that :D .
Title: The Ys Thread
Post by: FM-77 on May 04, 2006, 12:26:24 AM
He he he, PCE fanboys.  :lol:

Why play the TG16 games and THEN the others? I mean ... WHY the TG16 versions? Is there a particular reason to this? Every North American Ys release has gotten severely butchered, but the TG16 versions take the lead here. Everything's wrong. :roll: That's why there's so much Ys misinformation outside of Japan.  :roll:

Having played every Ys game in existance I honestly think Ys I-III on TG16 are some of the worst Ys games of them all (Ys I on DOS being THE worst Ys game ever). Why? Mainly because of the gameplay... it is just so DULL. I also really dislike the music. That's right, I hate Ryo Yonemitsu!  :lol:

I seriously doubt Ys I-II will be more memorable than YsI-II COMPLETE these days. Sure, you guys played it ten years ago, but it is NOT the same thing for someone who has never played Ys before! Most people who start out with an old version these days won't find any interest in it whatsoever and then abandon Ys forever, never touching the newer games. Believe me, I've seen it happen many times.

I'm saying skip Ys IV because it has nothing to do with the Ys series. It wasn't written by Falcom and Hudson obviously didn't have a clue about what was going on in the Ys universe because they got it all wrong. One incredible thing about the Ys series is that everything fits together. There's not a single detail that gets unexplained if you do your research. Ys IV PCE ruins all of this. It messes up everything. It is like including Thumb Wars in the official Star Wars saga.  :roll:

Also, let me explain why YsI-II COMPLETE sounds "weak" -- those games are designed for hardcore Ys fans. All the music from that game has been taken DIRECTLY from the PC-8801 original and has been polished to sound a little better. To the original fans who loved the old chip music in YsI-II (myself included) loves this music!

Have you ever played YsI-II COMPLETE, Keranu? The "cinemas" in these games are incredible. Especially when playing the translated versions (Deuce's Japanese to English translation skills are highly superior to any Japanese amateurs at Hudson).


My point is this: avoid the old versions until you've played the latest ones,  they ARE much better than the TG16/PCE versions whatever anyone here says. If you ask the same question on another board (if you can find a board with Ys fans, that is) nobody will ever mention the PCE versions -- they'll all scream YS COMPLETE and Ys THE OATH IN FELGHANA!
Title: The Ys Thread
Post by: cavein2000 on May 04, 2006, 02:50:55 AM
Wow, good arguements for both platforms, I tried picking off an auction for ys 1-3 TGCD on ebay last night but they went for over 80 bucks.  I think I am going to try to get both the PC and Turbo versions, although the PC does sound a bit more appealing with the use of a playstation controller.  I'm still kind of undecided.  I would like to at least own a copy of ys 1 and 2 Turbo and play it eventually if I can get a copy for about 40 bucks complete.  

One potential issue I have with switching to the PC platform for RPGs is that I may become numb to the older console graphics.  I have recently played through Final Fantasy IV(re-release on PS1) and believe me it was a great game, but a bit of a struggle to complete (which I did) because of the graphics.
Title: The Ys Thread
Post by: FM-77 on May 04, 2006, 04:18:12 AM
Ys Book I & II will cost you about $100 if you want a complete copy (case, manual, map and box).
Title: The Ys Thread
Post by: cavein2000 on May 04, 2006, 04:32:26 AM
right - meant minus the box - in very good to mint.  

Oh yeah, Seldane - I couldn't find the PS2 to PC controller adapter on the Joytech site, or at any of the retailers.  Can you shoot me a link to the product if you get the change?  I found several other 3rd party adapters fairly cheap on ebay, but whatever you recommend I will go for.  Thanks again!!

Jay
Title: The Ys Thread
Post by: FM-77 on May 04, 2006, 04:47:22 AM
Mayflash makes these adapters as well. I have a GC -> adapter that they made and it is decent. Not as good as the Joytech adapter but it works.

Mayflash (http://www.mayflash.com/pc.htm)

I can't find the one I'm using anywhere outside of Europe though. Look around for "Joytech PS2 to USB Controller Convertor", that's what it is called.
Title: The Ys Thread
Post by: Keranu on May 04, 2006, 01:31:17 PM
Seldane, get ready for a e-battle :D .
Quote from: "Seldane"

Why play the TG16 games and THEN the others? I mean ... WHY the TG16 versions? Is there a particular reason to this? Every North American Ys release has gotten severely butchered, but the TG16 versions take the lead here. Everything's wrong. :roll: That's why there's so much Ys misinformation outside of Japan.  :roll:

Okay, well here is certainly a good reason to play the TGCD version first...

IT'S IN ENGLISH!

If you read my original post, I list reasons what makes the TGCD version so nice, so do I really need to repost that? If you are going to play any Ys game first, may as well play one that is in English.

Lets look at our other options:

Master System - This only includes Ys I, so cavein or another other newbie to the series will more than likely want the full story. Also, the Master System version is pretty much inferior to the TGCD version in every way.

Ys Eternal Complete - Wasn't officially released in America, it just has a fan translation. I do recommend playing this game, however I think it would be best to play one of the earlier Ys games before this so you can appreciate Eternal as more of a remake.

Cellular Telephone - Once again, only includes Ys I. Not only that, but you have to have a cell phone to play it and you have all those weird charges and what not; not to mention that you are playing it on a little cell phone :lol: .

Quote from: "Seldane"
Having played every Ys game in existance I honestly think Ys I-III on TG16 are some of the worst Ys games of them all (Ys I on DOS being THE worst Ys game ever). Why? Mainly because of the gameplay... it is just so DULL. I also really dislike the music. That's right, I hate Ryo Yonemitsu!  :lol:

Well okay, that's just your opinion and since cavein is taking opinions from people, he will probably lean toward the vase majority, which clearly prefers the PCE versions. I have given my reasons why I think the TGCD/PCE versions are better and if I do say so myself, they are better versions simply because overall they feature better options, so that means a little more than just taste.

Quote from: "Seldane"
I seriously doubt Ys I-II will be more memorable than YsI-II COMPLETE these days. Sure, you guys played it ten years ago, but it is NOT the same thing for someone who has never played Ys before! Most people who start out with an old version these days won't find any interest in it whatsoever and then abandon Ys forever, never touching the newer games. Believe me, I've seen it happen many times.

Well lets look at the situation again. Cavein seems to be a Turbo Grafx 16 gamer in today's age, so that means he's probably into other classic games as well and because of this, he won't mind an older game as much and if it's for a platform he enjoys, then why not play it for the platform he enjoys? Especially when so many people recommend the TGCD's version.

And just to add to this situation, I didn't play Ys until about 2002 when I was 14 years old (yes I started with the TGCD version) and since I didn't play it ten years ago, that didn't effect my preference.

Also I believe you are contradicting yourself here. From what you've said in this quote, it sounds like you think Eternal is the best way to play Ys, after you were saying on a previous account of how the PC88, MSX, and Master System versions are the best.

Quote from: "Seldane"
I'm saying skip Ys IV because it has nothing to do with the Ys series. It wasn't written by Falcom and Hudson obviously didn't have a clue about what was going on in the Ys universe because they got it all wrong. One incredible thing about the Ys series is that everything fits together. There's not a single detail that gets unexplained if you do your research. Ys IV PCE ruins all of this. It messes up everything. It is like including Thumb Wars in the official Star Wars saga.  :roll:

I don't care if Dawn of Ys didn't connect story wise with the other Ys games because the story it had was awesome enough as it was. To further add to this, I find the Ys games outside of Ys I & II to be so different that they aren't even on the same pace because I & II had what I believe the most epic video game tale of all time. I'm glad Hudson made Dawn of Ys because they made an incredible game using Falcom's original ideas, perhaps improving them in ways.

Quote from: "Seldane"
Also, let me explain why YsI-II COMPLETE sounds "weak" -- those games are designed for hardcore Ys fans. All the music from that game has been taken DIRECTLY from the PC-8801 original and has been polished to sound a little better. To the original fans who loved the old chip music in YsI-II (myself included) loves this music!

How do you know for sure that Falcom's intentions were to design the music from Eternal directly from the original PC88 version? It could be possible of course, but I want proof before you state this. And if that was the case, what does it matter? The point that matters is what the listener WANTS to listen to, and for what it seems like people want something to sound like Ryo Yonemitsu's arrangements!

[QUOTE author="Seldane"}Have you ever played YsI-II COMPLETE, Keranu? The "cinemas" in these games are incredible. Especially when playing the translated versions (Deuce's Japanese to English translation skills are highly superior to any Japanese amateurs at Hudson).[/quote]
Why yes, yes I have played Ys I & II Complete and I stated why I didn't like the cinemas already (which is starting to sound to me like you haven't payed much attention to my original post). To refresh your memory, I personally didn't like the cinemas for Eternal and this was due to MY taste, just like how you have your one preferences. Some others may like Eternal's cinemas, some don't. Here's why I don't like them in case a newbie like cavein has similar tastes to me:

1. ) I'm not a fan of CG cinemas, whether it be in movies or games.
2. ) I'm not much of a fan of modern anime art and Eternal used a rather heavy modern anime art style. I prefer classic anime style if any.
3. ) I LOVE old skool cinemas that you would see in NES, TGCD, Sega CD games etc..., so this was a real treat for me in the original versions of Ys.


Quote from: "Seldane"
My point is this: avoid the old versions until you've played the latest ones,  they ARE much better than the TG16/PCE versions whatever anyone here says. If you ask the same question on another board (if you can find a board with Ys fans, that is) nobody will ever mention the PCE versions -- they'll all scream YS COMPLETE and Ys THE OATH IN FELGHANA!

Let me give you a tip: Don't use your own opinions as facts. You can't say "THIS GAME IS THE BEST" just because you like it more, it's probably better off to state that as your own opinion. I have given my reasons why I prefer the TGCD version and I have stated them with my opinion. And to comment on what you said about people screaming OATH IN FELGHANA, that's not a very fair comparison since it plays completely different from the original Ys III  :roll: ; that's like comparing Super Mario Bros. to Mario 64.

Cavein, it's up to you to decide which one you play first.[/QUOTE]
Title: The Ys Thread
Post by: Keranu on May 04, 2006, 02:03:04 PM
I'm sorry Seldane, I also have to comment on this more:

Quote from: "Seldane"
Having played every Ys game in existance I honestly think Ys I-III on TG16 are some of the worst Ys games of them all (Ys I on DOS being THE worst Ys game ever). Why? Mainly because of the gameplay... it is just so DULL. I also really dislike the music. That's right, I hate Ryo Yonemitsu!

I am interested, why do you think the gameplay is dull in the TGCD version? I find the gameplay to be a great improvement over the original versions since it plays at a nicer pace, has nice hit detection, and has well done dungeon layouts. The gameplay may seem dull compared to Eternal for these days, but it's certainly an improvement over the originals if you ask me and I think most would agree. I don't see how you can say the TGCD version has dull gameplay when you say you recommend Eternal because it has very nice gameplay, yet you think the original versions of Ys has better gameplay than the updated TGCD version? You are confusing me!

Also keep in mind your music preference is your opinion, so that leaves many others out there who love the TGCD version's music. So this gives you two reasons why you don't like the TGCD version: oneis because of the music which is because of an opinion, and the other is because you find the gameplay dull, yet you didn't give your reasons. These aren't very convincing reasons why tell someone not to play the TGCD version.
Title: The Ys Thread
Post by: cavein2000 on May 04, 2006, 03:45:31 PM
THINK HAPPY THOUGHTS

Alright... Looks like I've started a fire.  I guess that's what happens when you take a series that people are very passionate about and ask where to start.  I really didn't want to pit Ys Complete against the Turbo CD Ys 1 and 2.  I agree with many things that both of you had to say and appreciate both of your most valuable opinions.  

I think I am definitely going to play both games and if I like them, which I'm sure I will, that action figure set looks pretty bad ass too (I've got a pretty wicked video game figure collection).  

Where I will start, I'm not really sure yet.  Part of me thinks it would be more of a treat to go with the Turbo version and then reward myself with supersweet graphics and all afterwards.  It does sound a bit more natural to go with the original then the remake.  Sting, then Puff Daddy.  Either way, Ys 1 and 2 is the starting point.  Well see what happens from there.  I still have over 20 rpgs sitting around that I have to play in no particular order.  It may be some time before I get to it, currently rocking Kingdom Hearts II, with a Valkyrie Profile on deck I believe (could easily pop Ys in front though).  

And ummm.. you guys should be cool to each other and stuff.   :wink:
Title: The Ys Thread
Post by: Keranu on May 04, 2006, 06:31:43 PM
I think we are in good shape here, there is no name calling and what not so we can debate like gentleman :D . I would never want to say anything bad about Seldane since we both help out at Frozen Utopia and he's an incredible tile artist that I wouldn't want to see the team loose.
Title: The Ys Thread
Post by: cavein2000 on May 05, 2006, 02:27:58 AM
Right on!
Title: The Ys Thread
Post by: malducci on May 05, 2006, 01:55:41 PM
Kenaru, you arguement for TG versions in this debate are NULL for the fact that Seldane is not a TG or PCE fanboy or even fan for that matter.

 He gotta point about the new Ys I and II for PC being superior, but still I like the TG16-CD versions better for the fact they have more sentimental value for me - not to mention better music :D  :P  

Quote
I also really dislike the music. That's right, I hate Ryo Yonemitsu!  


 :shock:  Hehe :lol:   Guess you're not the Ys fan I thought you were...
Title: The Ys Thread
Post by: cavein2000 on May 05, 2006, 03:47:14 PM
But have you taken the fanboy test?  A special one should be made that accounts for PCE gamers too.
Title: The Ys Thread
Post by: FM-77 on May 06, 2006, 01:04:41 AM
Quote from: "malducci"
:shock:  Hehe :lol:   Guess you're not the Ys fan I thought you were...


What do you mean? Ryo Yonemitsu has nothing to do with Ys itself. He arranged some music in third-party games and music cds but that's it. I'm not a very big fan of video game music in the first place, and I certainly don't like his "work."

I'm too lazy to reply to Keranu's post.  :P
Title: The Ys Thread
Post by: Emerald Rocker on May 06, 2006, 04:30:35 AM
I guess I'll toss my thoughts on the Ys series in here, too.  I'm not trying to leap into the argument -- I'm just giving another voice and another opinion, so any attempts by anyone to argue or debate with me will be USELESS!  Muahahaha.

I'll only cover what I consider to be the major games.  If it's not listed, I either haven't played it, didn't like it, or don't feel like it's important enough to mention.

Ys I&II TG-CD -- If you have any love for old Turbo games, I recommend playing this one first.  The gameplay is much weaker than future versions, and the music (as a whole) is weaker, too, although some tracks are excellent.

The reason I say to play it first, is because (1) the basics (graphics, gameplay, music) are weaker than other versions, so you won't already be "spoiled" if you play this one first, and (2) it does some things presentation-wise that you won't find anywhere else -- moments that will haunt you forever.  It's a legendary experience, and for good reason.  The opening cinematic, Dark Fact's speech, the 80's OVA-style character designs... classic stuff.  The game feels very much like a product of its era, and I like that.  A lot.

Ys I&II Complete (PC) -- A fantastic remake.  I prefer most of the music in this (although again, the TG-CD has a few excellent tracks).  The graphics are of course much better.  The character artwork is modern, but conservative.  I absolutely adore most of the designs, although a few looked better on the Saturn version (which is also great, but only worth playing if you're on a mission to play every version).  Most of all, the gameplay has been drastically improved.

I have not played the English translation, so I can't comment on that.

Ys VI: The Ark of Napishtim (PS2) -- Although I prefer the PC version, the PS2 one gets the nod from me just by virtue of being in English.  And it's easier to perform the dash jump.  This is a great game -- I personally believe the soundtrack is amazing, the depth of play is better than ever, and it's very charming and appealing.  I've actually reviewed all three versions, if you're interested in that kind of thing.

PC version review (http://www.honestgamers.com/systems/content.php?console_id=13&review_id=3367&game_id=15564)
PS2 version review (http://www.honestgamers.com/systems/content.php?console_id=4&review_id=4209&game_id=15279)
PSP version review (http://www.honestgamers.com/systems/content.php?console_id=53&review_id=4656&game_id=15133)

Ys: The Oath in Felghana (PC) -- This is it, the BEST YS GAME EVER.  It's a drastic remake of Ys 3.  I don't know if it's even worth playing Ys 3 (TG-CD) first or not... on the one hand, it's nice to see what's been changed.  On the other hand, that would spoil this fantastic story!

They took the Ys 6 gameplay engine, which was already phenomenal by comparison to any other recent action-RPG, and created a game that makes Ys 6 look primitive and unambitious by comparison.  The boss fights are pattern-based like an old-school game, but unpredictable enough to be difficult no matter how many times you've beaten them before.  The dungeons are elaborate, thought-provoking, and beautiful.  And the music is incredible.  My favorite Ys game and my favorite Ys soundtrack... 2005 was a great year for games.
Title: The Ys Thread
Post by: esteban on May 06, 2006, 08:37:50 AM
haahhaahhaahhahaa. Wow, I missed all this fun stuff. Why is it that all the drama occurrs when I'm gone?

I have limited time, so I'll just make some general points :) :

* The charges of fanboyism leveled at those who recommended the TG-CD version of Ys I & II are laughable. The only fanboyism I've witnessed in this thread is a particular breed of Ys Fanboyism (that's with a capital "F") that fears that the purity of the "One True Ys" will be corrupted by lesser, heretical versions (indeed, these inferior versions should be banished forever and left to rot in their own putrid stew, since they will never ascend to the lofty altar of the Ys Canon).

* We're on a PCE / TG-16 forum. I assume that folks here are interested in and appreciate slightly older games. Has anyone noticed that we enthusiastically talk about and play these "dated" games?

* Given the fact that we are a retro-gaming board, why wouldn't we recommend the still very playable, still totally awesome TG-CD Ys I & II to a native English speaker who isn't proficient in the Japanese language?

* IMO, telling someone that their virgin Ys experience should be a modern update / installment is akin to recommending Metroid Prime as an introduction to the Metroid series. Anyone who is remotely interested in retro-gaming (I hate that term, by the way -- it's just "gaming"), the history of video games, the roots of a classic series, etc. will appreciate TG-CD Ys I & II. It's not a stale, dessicated piece of video game history, it is a very playable game to this day. If you don't like slightly older, 2D games, then no, I would never force you to play the TG-CD version. But then again, you probably wouldn't be at these forums if you felt this way...

* To call an appreciation of slightly older games "fanboyism" is silly. To characterize an appeciation of older games as mere "nostalgia" is insulting and inaccurate (this is a huge issue and deserves a whole topic alone).

* :)
Title: The Ys Thread
Post by: sunteam_paul on May 06, 2006, 08:49:46 AM
Quote from: "cavein2000"
 I still have over 20 rpgs sitting around that I have to play in no particular order.  It may be some time before I get to it, currently rocking Kingdom Hearts II, with a Valkyrie Profile on deck I believe (could easily pop Ys in front though).  


Well with no great amount of time consuming level grind (unlike a lot of turn based RPGs) Ys I&II can be got through fairly quickly. Do yourself a favour and give it the priority it deserves :)

Oh and if I were you.
1. Dabble with a Master System ROM of Ys 1.
2. Play through the PC Engine Ys 1 & 2
3. Play the PC version.
In that order you get to see technical improvements every time you play.
Title: The Ys Thread
Post by: cavein2000 on May 06, 2006, 11:51:57 AM
Dudes, thumbs up to all of you for giving me some propper and considerate thoughts and advice here.  (Applause...)  I have read carefully through this thread and agree with all of you.  Emerald Rocker - I appreciate your no nonsense skinny on the Ys series.  

I have also had a chance to check out some vids on youtube.  Some of the stuff in the two major PC titles is amazing, specifically the boss battles - blew me away.  I agree that Ys I and II for the PCE is probably the best starting point though.  

By the way, Seldane, how long does it take Falcom to respond to your emails?  I put in an order request a few days ago and haven't heard anything.    Also, I'm still looking to pick up that PS2 to USB controller adapter.  Do you recommend the Maywin converter or should I continue looking for the Joytech?  If anyone can hook me up with a direct product link for purchase of a similar product, please hook it up.
Title: The Ys Thread
Post by: TR0N on May 06, 2006, 03:19:47 PM
1st Ys 1&2
2nd Ys IV the dawn of Ys
3rd Ys III
Title: The Ys Thread
Post by: Ninja Spirit on May 06, 2006, 06:18:46 PM
Hey Tron where you've been hiding at?!  8)

500th post!
Title: The Ys Thread
Post by: Keranu on May 06, 2006, 08:29:25 PM
Hell yeah, I haven't seen you in months, Tron!
Title: The Ys Thread
Post by: sunteam_paul on May 06, 2006, 08:56:35 PM
Quote from: "cavein2000"
 If anyone can hook me up with a direct product link for purchase of a similar product, please hook it up.


http://www.lik-sang.com/info.php?category=23&products_id=93&
Title: The Ys Thread
Post by: TR0N on May 06, 2006, 10:03:49 PM
Quote from: "Ninja Spirit"
Hey Tron where you've been hiding at?!  8)

Money problems had to give up the internet for a while there :oops:
Title: The Ys Thread
Post by: Keranu on May 07, 2006, 08:40:36 AM
Sorry to hear that, nice to see you back though. A new GIF in your signature too, I see!
Title: The Ys Thread
Post by: Emerald Rocker on May 07, 2006, 01:37:28 PM
Cavein:

When I send an international order request to Falcom, it usually takes them about a week to respond with a price total.

Fortunately, after that, they're very prompt.  After they send a total, you just email them back your credit card and shipping info, they let you know when it's going to be mailed, and then the games arrive within a few days by EMS shipping.  Their prices for individual items are lower than other online retailers, but the shipping cost is higher.
Title: The Ys Thread
Post by: cavein2000 on May 09, 2006, 06:44:01 AM
New Question - Falcom sent me an email for an order Ys 1/2 complete.  They made note that the game may not play on my computer if I do not have Japanese Windows.  

I am assuming that it will play just fine, but I just wanted to double check to see if there are any precautions to take before making the purchase.  

And that is #100!!  No longer a Jerry Jelly(I think)!!!
Title: The Ys Thread
Post by: FM-77 on May 09, 2006, 10:24:57 AM
Yeah it'll run BETTER on any non-Japanese OS... or ... at least as good. :wink:
Title: The Ys Thread
Post by: cavein2000 on May 10, 2006, 11:47:35 AM
Well I picked up a Super Dual Box Pro adapter by Mayflash for the PS2 controller.  Also ordered Ys I-II complete from Falcom finally.  

Still, no sign of a Ys I-II w/map for the Turbo anywhere.  I'll keep looking for it.  There is a copy in an ebay store (disc, case, instructions) at 58 bucks buy it now.

Is there a pack-in version of Ys I-II for TGCD or a re-release of some kind?  I'm not really sure what I should be looking to pay.
Title: The Ys Thread
Post by: esteban on May 10, 2006, 09:08:20 PM
Quote from: "cavein2000"
Well I picked up a Super Dual Box Pro adapter by Mayflash for the PS2 controller.  Also ordered Ys I-II complete from Falcom finally.  

Still, no sign of a Ys I-II w/map for the Turbo anywhere.  I'll keep looking for it.  There is a copy in an ebay store (disc, case, instructions) at 58 bucks buy it now.

Is there a pack-in version of Ys I-II for TGCD or a re-release of some kind?  I'm not really sure what I should be looking to pay.
When the TurboDuo came out, Ys I & II was re-pressed as a pack-in (the re-pressed CD looks different, but the original manual was used again, and no CD tray insert was included... )

I wouldn' t worry about the map (it's not crucial... just a nice bonus items).

:)
Title: The Ys Thread
Post by: cavein2000 on May 11, 2006, 02:35:31 AM
Quote from: "stevek666"
I wouldn' t worry about the map (it's not crucial... just a nice bonus items).
:)


Awesome, I think I would just prefer to have the original with the map.  I realize its not necessary at all to gameplay, just for the collection and all.  Its gonna come down to how much I can get it for.  I would pick up the pack-in version or game without map if it were significantly cheaper.
Title: The Ys Thread
Post by: Black Tiger on May 11, 2006, 02:15:31 PM
Quote
When the TurboDuo came out, Ys I & II was re-pressed as a pack-in (the re-pressed CD looks different, but the original manual was used again, and no CD tray insert was included... )

I wouldn' t worry about the map (it's not crucial... just a nice bonus items).


I original boxed (Canadian)Ys never came with a map and I've never lost any sleep over it.