Ys: The Ark of Napishtim

 PlayStation 2
Ys: The Ark of Napishtim Image
Metascore
72

Mixed or average reviews - based on 35 Critic Reviews What's this?

User Score
8.8

Generally favorable reviews- based on 35 Ratings

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  • Summary: Washed ashore on an uncharted island, Adol Christin begins a new journey in Ys: The Ark of Napishtim. Lush environments, beautifully rendered characters and animated 3D backdrops combine to create the setting for Adol's newest adventure. In the world of Canaan, our red-headed hero must fightWashed ashore on an uncharted island, Adol Christin begins a new journey in Ys: The Ark of Napishtim. Lush environments, beautifully rendered characters and animated 3D backdrops combine to create the setting for Adol's newest adventure. In the world of Canaan, our red-headed hero must fight deadly monsters and menacing bosses with a variety of sword combinations, special attacks and magical spells creating a uniquely deep and compelling gameplay experience. Power-up three magical swords to gain special abilities and attacks. Combines real-time, fast-paced action and strategic boss battles. Original music composed specifically for the PS2 version of the game. Hidden, unlockable secrets that showcase the timeless legacy of Ys. [Konami]… Expand
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Critic Reviews

Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 23 out of 35
  2. Mixed: 11 out of 35
  3. Negative: 1 out of 35
  1. Armchair Empire
    88
    A gift to those who spent their school years up late at night with "Illusion of Gaia" and "Secret of Mana."
  2. GameBrink
    81
    The story is also rather mundane and redundent in today's times. But with an action-rpg heart, it is to be expected and is natural for a player to just ignore any story and to focus on the objectives and the fighting.
  3. NTSC-uk
    80
    The animation of the sprites is wonderful. There are minute details on sword and cape movement, something which changes when equipping different things. [JPN Import]
  4. GameSpot
    75
    Despite feeling somewhat formulaic, this installment of Ys still provides a bunch of challenging, old-school hack-and-slash action for devoted thumb-warriors.
  5. Gaming Age
    75
    The only thing that really puts a damper on the game is that for an RPG, it isn’t very long.
  6. Official U.S. Playstation Magazine
    70
    Fun and even a little addictive - it's still an interesting walk down memory lane for us twenty-something geezers. [March 2005, p.101]
  7. games(TM)
    30
    This is clichéd, tedious, frustrating nonsense, as archaic in its gameplay as it is banal in its story. [Sept 2005, p.120]
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See all 35 Critic Reviews

User Reviews

Write a Review
Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 2 out of 5
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 5
  3. Negative: 0 out of 5
  1. CurtisB.
    Mar 11, 2005
    10
    Excellent, overlooked, and very nostalgic - this is the game I've been waiting the last ten years for. I think it's high time we Excellent, overlooked, and very nostalgic - this is the game I've been waiting the last ten years for. I think it's high time we get away from "cutting edge" 3D stuff, and just have some fun again. This game provides that chance.… Expand
  2. MichielvanL.
    Oct 31, 2004
    8
    Ys VI is one of the easier Ys games, much like Ys III. The graphics are o.k., the gameplay is simple, and the soundtrack is above average. Ys Ys VI is one of the easier Ys games, much like Ys III. The graphics are o.k., the gameplay is simple, and the soundtrack is above average. Ys II is still the ultimate Ys game of all time, in my opinion, and Ys VI: The Ark Of Napishtim doesn't come close, but is still a very pleasant way to pass your time. You're constantly tempted to level up 'just a few more times' in order to kick the boss' ass, and that's good! It's best to see the game as an Ys spin-off instead of a whole new Ys game. That way you won't be too disappointed. I finished the game in about 20 hours (if I remember correctly), but I could've done it much faster. The 8 that I gave this game is because the game looks nice (not great, just nice), has no learning curve whatsoever, and is addictive. Oh, and it's got Ys in the title. Ys fans: buy this. New to Ys? Better rent it first, then buy as much Ys titles as you can afford. If you remotely liked Ys VI, you'll just *love* Ys II (and much of the rest of the series).… Expand
  4. frederik1478
    Jan 10, 2023
    7
    It's really nice to play a rpg were all characters voice actors and the intro cutscene is hilarious to watch because of the voice acting.

    the    It's really nice to play a rpg were all characters voice actors and the intro cutscene is hilarious to watch because of the voice acting.

    the gameplay is fast paced you can hit them for a lot Damage but they can also hit you for lot so it feels like a real intens fight.

    This game has some insane level scaling. It feels like three levels can be the difference between getting an good boss ,and completely destroying by the boos.

    The game has a good story with a lot of interesting characters and awesome twist in the plot that I didn't see coming. I would recommend this game if you can find it.    … Expand
  5. MarcD.
    Mar 26, 2005
    6
    We've seen it all before, and its been done much much better. Way too generic to warrant a purchase.
  6. YordanD
    Oct 31, 2022
    6
    gameplay is simple but satisfying, but i wouldn't have been able to finish the game without help from online walktrough guides. it is notgameplay is simple but satisfying, but i wouldn't have been able to finish the game without help from online walktrough guides. it is not clear where to go and what to do next at any point in the game. I mean, you have to talk to a merchant to get a vital item in order to move forward in the quest. Not a sage, not a king. A merchant. And no other NPC will give you hints to talk to him, Another issue. At a point in the game you get an item that lets you see in the dark. BUT no explanation at all that this is also another key item in order to progress furhter in the story. No hints as to where to use it etc. The player had to have discovered the cave beforehand, and consequently know that this is the place to use it. No hints no NPCs giving directions. Bad, bad, bad, BAD quest and story progression design.… Expand

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Awards & Rankings

92
#92 Best PS2 Game of 2005