A decade ago, I first experienced the exhilarating world of Ys: Oath in Felghana on the PSP, and it left a lasting impression. While I wouldn’t consider myself a die-hard Ys enthusiast, this game piqued my interest in the series, prompting me to explore other titles over the years. Though all had their charm, Oath in Felghana was the one I spoke of with genuine fondness. When I heard Ys Memoire: The Oath in Felghana was set to debut on the Switch in 2025, I was overjoyed. Playing it again, I realized how much the series has evolved and fine-tuned itself since this remake of the third installment first appeared in Japan 20 years back.
In this action RPG, you step into the boots of Adol Christin, a familiar face in the series, darting through the land of Felghana in combat against hordes of foes. With sword combos and magical feats, the combat system is far from overly complex, yet it delivers a satisfying punch. A steady progression of level upgrades, weapon enhancements, and various boosts injects a fresh twist to the gameplay. Although difficulty spikes rear their head, Ys Memoire introduces new difficulty settings and an energetic “Turbo” mode to accelerate certain game segments.
This updated rendition also enriches the experience with voiceovers for Adol, visual tweaks, and a choice of character illustrations and music. The rock-inspired soundtrack from the original still resonates fantastically, and there’s a unique joy in hearing some classic tracks from Ys III. Despite being a spruced-up version of an old game, it manages to feel surprisingly contemporary.
The enduring appeal lies in the combat, which is consistently satisfying. The thrill intensifies during boss battles, challenging your combat skills without crossing into the realm of frustration. Initially, the story captivated me during my first playthrough, but this time, the journey of Adol and his companion Dogi felt slightly less engaging. Nevertheless, it’s the action that fuels the excitement, rendering this 10-15 hour adventure a delightful experience that doesn’t outstay its welcome.
While my enthusiasm for the game in 2025 might not reach previous heights, I’m genuinely thrilled that Oath in Felghana is accessible on a modern console in the West. It stands out as one of the finest action RPGs from its era, and even now, it remains thoroughly enjoyable. While I might suggest newer Ys titles for a more immersive 3D experience, for those wanting to savor the peaks of the Ys series saga, Oath in Felghana is an essential play.
