Ys games are all about hardcore action with maybe some RPG elements sprinkled in. This game takes place entirely within the Darm Tower, and there is a lot of fighting. This uses the same engine as Ark of Napishtim and Oath in Felghana, and it works great here. Boss battles range from very tough to laughably easy, but they're all engaging and fun to figure out. There are multiple playable characters to switch things up, as well. The "money" that you earn can be spent on different perks that make your life easier. The game has a lull or two, and at least one frustrating boss, but overall, it's a very fun time...
...when you're running around and hitting things, that is. My biggest problem with this game, especially given its length and its strongly action-oriented nature, is that there is just SO MUCH TALKING. Keep it short and simple and let me go back to hitting things. To add insult to injury, each of the characters has about one personality trait, so not only are they yammering on endlessly, I really don't have the slightest interest in what they have to say.
Another issue is that this game likes to crash. I don't know if it's just this version, or this is something that happens in all of the different ports, but you'll be running along, and BAM! Dialogue box, and you're staring at the desktop. To its credit, the game has excellent crash recovery, so even when it does, it only sets you back as far as the beginning of the last room, most of the time. There is also a way to fix this, and you will likely have to, because for me (and for many others), it always crashes right before the final boss reveals itself. The fix is at least pretty easy, and it works consistently.
Overall, though, it's a great experience, if you're into this sort of thing; if you liked Ark of Napishtim and Oath in Felghana, you'll probably like this, too.
