A while back, I stumbled upon Ys: Oath in Felghana on the PSP and let me tell you, it was a game-changer for me. Although I can’t claim to be a die-hard fan of the Ys series, that experience left a lasting impression, enough for me to keep tabs on the franchise over the years. So, when I caught wind of Ys Memoire: The Oath in Felghana hitting the Switch in 2025, it lit a spark of excitement. Diving into it again, I was reminded of just how much the series has evolved and refined itself since this remake of the third Ys game initially launched in Japan two decades ago.
In terms of gameplay, this action RPG delivers a punchy combat system. You step into the shoes of the lead character, Adol Christin, navigating through Felghana as you slice through waves of enemies using both sword skills and magical abilities. While it might not stretch the complexity meter too far, it hits that sweet spot of satisfaction. There’s a steady stream of level-ups, weapon enhancements, and other nifty boosts to keep things fresh. Sure, the challenge can spike at times, but this version introduces difficulty settings and an energy-boosting “Turbo” mode to keep things moving at a thrilling pace.
The latest iteration also brings along some nice upgrades like voice acting for Adol, enhanced visuals, and various character designs and musical choices. The original rock-heavy soundtrack still packs a punch, and it’s a treat to enjoy some tunes from the old Ys III game. It’s definitely clear this is an enhanced take on an older classic, yet it doesn’t feel like it’s aged at all.
A significant part of what makes it feel timeless is how engaging the combat remains. Every swing and spell in Oath in Felghana hits its mark, particularly during boss battles that push your combat skills just the right amount without crossing into frustration territory. While I recall being quite taken by the storyline during my initial playthrough, this time around, the adventure of Adol and his friend Dogi felt a bit less gripping. However, the real charm lies in the action-packed fun, making this 10-15 hour trek a delightful journey that never really drags.
Although my enthusiasm might be a tad tempered in 2025, I’m genuinely thrilled to see Oath in Felghana available on a modern platform in the West. For its time, it’s one of the standout action RPGs of its genre, and even today, it’s thoroughly enjoyable. I’d likely nudge newer Ys titles if you’re after a true 3D escapade, but for anyone seeking the definitive peaks of the Ys series, Oath in Felghana is absolutely worth your attention.
