Info about Ys: The Oath in Felghana:

Official game description:
When redheaded thrill-seeker Adol Christin and his eternal blue-haired companion Dogi make an unannounced visit to Dogi's homeland of Felghana after an eight-year absence, it quickly becomes apparent that things have changed dramatically. Hordes of violent monsters roam the outskirts of town, a long-dormant volcano has suddenly sprung back to life and the new lord of the land has begun mercilessly and inexplicably extorting money from its long-suffering citizens. While Dogi seeks out his former combat master for answers, Adol tends to the townsfolk -- and finds himself embroiled in a world of political conspiracies, ancient legacies and unthinkable taboos.  
A complete 3D reimagining of the 16-bit console classic "Ys III: Wanderers From Ys," Ys: The Oath in Felghana is a fast-paced action role-playing game with tight controls, Metroidvania-style exploration elements, intense combat with epic screen-filling boss battles, and a thrashing, percussive arranged soundtrack that's been heralded by many as one of the best of all time. Based on the original 2005 PC release, this classic is finally officially available in English with added Steamworks features such as achievements and cloud saving.  
Come see why Falcom fans the world over regard this game as "Ys, Perfected"!
Key Features:
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*   Six difficulty levels ranging from "Very Easy" for casual players to "Inferno" for true old-school gaming masters.  
*   Unlockable "Time Attack" and "Boss Rush" modes for anyone looking to show off his/her boss-taming abilities.  
*   Over 30 unique Steam Achievements as well as Steam Cloud support.  
*   Adjustable high-resolution PC graphics with original blood effects intact.  
*   Gamepad support in addition to standard keyboard and mouse controls.

Release date: Mar 19, 2012

Categories: Action RPG, Metroidvania, Single-player, Boss Rush, Multiple Difficulty Levels, Platformer

Feature scans:
- Proton/Linux: score 10; verdict: Works Well on Proton; summary: The user reviews indicate excellent Linux/Proton compatibility. One review suggests using the latest GE-Proton to ensure the ending video plays, but confirms no issues until the end after that. Another review states the game works great out of the box on Steam Deck, including the previously problematic movie. No major Linux-specific problems are reported.
- Steam Deck: score 40; verdict: Playable with Proton Tweak; summary: Ys: The Oath in Felghana generally runs well on Steam Deck, but a significant number of users report that default Proton fails to play cutscene videos, requiring the installation of GE-Proton to fix this. Overall performance is good, but the need for a custom Proton version edges the experience into the 'tinkering required' category.

- Hardware Profile: No data
Feature extractions:
- Community Price:
  - Community fair range: $12.00 - $15.00
  - Reasoning: Two reviews directly state acceptable prices: $15 full price is worth it (review 1) and 12 euros (≈$13) is a fair price (review 3). A third review endorses full price as worthwhile. These indicate that the community considers the fair base-game price to be in the $12–$15 range. While many reviews suggest waiting for a sale, that does not contradict the baseline fair price—sale recommendations imply the full price is acceptable but not a steal.
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: 14.0h
  - Story completion: 5.0h
  - Session length: N/A
  - Endgame: N/A
  - Reasoning: The first evidence explicitly states game completion under 15 hours and story completion around 5 hours. The second evidence confirms a 14-hour playthrough for completing the game. The third evidence gives 12 hours on Normal difficulty, which aligns with the typical game completion range. These three quotes consistently point to a game completion time of about 14-15 hours and a separate story-only time of 5 hours. No reliable evidence exists for session length or endgame duration, so those are null.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: The game provides an enjoyable experience in its first few hours with satisfying combat and progression, but later becomes frustrating due to difficulty spikes and tedious level grinding, causing a drop in enjoyment.
  - Stance: Fun then drops
  - Anchor: N/A
  - Time to anchor: N/A
  - Friction: Difficulty spike in final dungeon; Level system becomes tedious; Unclear required level; Grinding required to progress; Scarce save points in late game
  - Unlock drivers: N/A
  - Conditions: First few hours are engaging and fun; Before reaching the final maze; Progression feels purposeful early on; Combat and magic system are initially rewarding; Boss fights may require skill to become enjoyable; Leveling system causes tedium in later stages; Difficulty spike after early game; Player must grind to keep up with level requirements
- Player Archetypes:
  - Ys Series Veteran (buy)
    - Motivation: Continue experiencing the Ys series with refined gameplay and challenging bosses.
    - Playstyle: Methodical, willing to grind for levels, adjusts difficulty to match previous series experience, and enjoys boss-heavy gameplay.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: Ys fan
    - Reference games: Ys VI: The Ark of Napishtim; Ys Origin; Ys I & II
  - Challenge Seeker (buy)
    - Motivation: To overcome brutal boss fights and experience rewarding difficulty.
    - Playstyle: Aggressive, pattern-learning, embraces grind as part of improving, often starts at higher difficulties.
    - Experience: familiar
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: people from Souls series
    - Reference games: Souls series
  - Time-Constrained Casual (buy)
    - Motivation: To enjoy a short, tightly-paced action RPG without filler content.
    - Playstyle: Plays on lower difficulties, minimizes grind, focuses on story and exploration, values efficiency.
    - Experience: newcomer
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: busy adult
    - Reference games: N/A


Below are summaries of things people say about the game per category.
Each point is assigned a weight that represents how often it is mentioned across all reviews.
What players like:
- Challenging fair boss design (weight 0.71): Many reviews describe boss fights as well-designed with varied mechanics and patterns, being both challenging and fair. This high-frequency feedback highlights bosses as a key strength of the game.
- Comparable to Ys series (weight 0.39): Many players favorably compare this game to other Ys titles, especially Ys Origin and Ys VI, considering it among the best in the series. This establishes strong brand identity.
- Excellent music and soundtrack (weight 0.39): The soundtrack and music receive consistent high praise, often called phenomenal, stunning, and memorable. This is a standout aspect of the game for many players.
- Interesting story and characters (weight 0.39): The story and characters are generally considered good, with some noting simplicity but effectiveness. Characters have personality and depth.
- Engaging fast-paced combat (weight 0.3): Combat is described as fast, fluid, hack-and-slash, with tight controls and satisfying feedback. The pace and responsiveness are major positives.
- Improved gameplay from predecessors (weight 0.18): Players note that jank from earlier Ys titles is removed, and systems like battle and magic have been refined. This shows positive evolution.
- Great voice acting (weight 0.16): Voice acting is frequently complimented as awesome, phenomenal, and immersive, adding to the overall experience. This feedback appears across multiple clusters.

Common complaints:
- High difficulty frustrates players (weight 0.49): The game is widely reported as very hard, with many players finding normal difficulty excessively challenging, often comparing it to very hard modes. This extends to both general gameplay and specific bosses.
- Story is weaker than later Ys games (weight 0.41): Players consistently compare the story unfavorably to titles like Ys I+II, Origin, and later entries, describing it as shallow, predictable, and cliched. Many consider it the weakest narrative in the series.
- Save points are too sparse (weight 0.17): Save points are often placed far apart, causing significant progress loss upon death, especially during boss fights. This is a major frustration point, as players must replay large sections.
- Limited combat mechanics (weight 0.16): The absence of dodge, block, or guard mechanics, along with no usable healing potions, makes combat feel restrictive and unfair. Players find this contributes heavily to the difficulty.
- Lack of side content and exploration (weight 0.09): The game offers very few side quests and a limited world to explore, which reduces replay value and depth. Players feel the world is too linear and sparse.
- No Japanese voice acting option (weight 0.09): The game lacks a Japanese dub due to licensing issues, disappointing fans who prefer the original voice acting. This is a notable omission for many players.
- Difficulty cannot be changed mid-game (weight 0.07): Players criticise the inability to adjust difficulty after starting, which is especially problematic given the game's steep challenge. This forces players to restart if they find it too hard.
- Clock Tower dungeon is tedious (weight 0.06): The Clock Tower is singled out as extremely hard and patience-testing, causing frustration. Its design is considered a low point in the game.
- Steep difficulty for newcomers (weight 0.06): The game is particularly hard for players with poor skills or those new to the series, making it inaccessible. Even the first boss can be a major hurdle.
- No Chinese language support (weight 0.06): The absence of Chinese language options is a deal-breaker for some players, limiting the game's appeal. This is frequently noted as a significant oversight.
- Excessive playthroughs for achievements (weight 0.05): Unlocking all achievements requires at least six playthroughs, which feels excessive and grindy to players. This is considered artificial longevity.
- Frustrating platforming sections (weight 0.05): Overly precise platforming sections cause frustration, often feeling unfair in a game already known for high difficulty. These sections test patience more than skill.

Gameplay feedback:
- Action RPG core (weight 0.43): The game is primarily an action RPG with fast-paced hack-and-slash combat and platforming elements. This is the most frequently described aspect.
- Boss pattern learning (weight 0.32): Boss fights require pattern recognition and learning attack phases. Multiple reviews mention distinct gimmicks and strategic approaches to defeat bosses.
- Similar to Ys Origin (weight 0.32): The combat and top-down gameplay are frequently compared to Ys Origin and Ys VI: The Ark of Napishtim. It uses a similar engine and combat system.
- Multiple difficulty levels (weight 0.27): The game offers a wide range of difficulty levels from Very Easy to Inferno, accommodating different player skill levels and providing replay value.
- Remake of Ys III (weight 0.19): This is a remake of Ys III: Wanderers From Ys, updated with improved systems and remixed tracks. It is a significant entry in the Ys series.
- Metroidvania exploration (weight 0.19): The game blends metroidvania-style exploration with action RPG mechanics. Abilities like double jump and dash unlock new areas.
- No healing items (weight 0.18): The game lacks consumable healing items, which adds challenge, especially during boss fights on harder difficulties where no healing is available.
- Platforming sections (weight 0.17): The game includes platforming elements and jump puzzles, with some sections requiring precise jumping and vertical navigation.
- Magic system (weight 0.14): The game has a magic system with multiple spell types and abilities that can be used for combat, movement, and exploration.
- Grinding required (weight 0.1): Some grinding is necessary, especially on Normal difficulty, due to difficult bosses. This can be a negative point for some players.
- Short playtime (weight 0.09): A single playthrough lasts approximately 8-15 hours, making it a relatively short but focused action RPG experience.
- Retry for bosses (weight 0.06): A retry button is available for boss fights, allowing quick restarts. Boss fights often require multiple attempts due to difficulty.
- Bullet-hell patterns (weight 0.06): Some boss patterns incorporate bullet-hell elements, adding complexity and requiring precise movement to avoid projectiles.
- Side quests available (weight 0.06): Optional side quests are present, providing extra content and rewards beyond the main story.
- Escort missions present (weight 0.06): The game includes escort missions, which may be frustrating for some players due to AI or difficulty.
- Single-player only (weight 0.06): The game is a single-player experience, focusing on a single character with no multiplayer or co-op modes.
- Ys series sequel (weight 0.06): This game is a sequel in the Ys series, continuing the adventures of Adol in the timeline after Ys I and II.
- Dungeon crawling speed (weight 0.06): The game features fast-paced dungeon crawling with breakneck speed, emphasizing quick combat and exploration.

Performance notes:
- Excellent performance across hardware (weight 0.26): Many players report no performance issues, achieving high framerates like 240 FPS at 4K and smooth 90 FPS on Steam Deck. It runs well on both modern and very old hardware like Nvidia Geforce 710GT.
- Great Steam Deck support (weight 0.14): The game runs fantastically on Steam Deck with correct resolution settings, achieving 90 FPS at full options using only 3W power. Linux support is also good, and using GE-Proton is recommended for video playback.
- Unlocked framerate with caveats (weight 0.07): The PC port has an unlocked framerate, but some players note a V-Sync optimization issue, suggesting the game is designed for lower FPS. Despite this, high refresh rates like 240 FPS are achievable.
- DX9 mode not working (weight 0.04): Some players find that DX9 mode does not work, requiring the use of DX8 mode instead. This is a compatibility issue for certain setups.
- Easy configuration tool (weight 0.03): The configuration tool is straightforward to use, making it easy to change controller bindings and set up the game quickly.
- Resolution support after update (weight 0.03): An update added support for FHD and higher resolutions, improving the visual experience on various displays.

Recommendations:
- Strong series recommendation (weight 0.44): Many reviews specifically recommend this game to Ys fans and those interested in the series. It's seen as a classic Ys experience that both newcomers and veterans can enjoy.
- Starting point debate (weight 0.32): Opinions differ on whether this is a good starting point for the series. Some recommend it as an introduction, while others suggest playing Ys 1+2 or Ys Origin first for better context.
- Action RPG appeal (weight 0.3): Reviewers consistently recommend the game to fans of action RPGs and challenging combat. It's described as one of the best action JRPGs with great music and gameplay.
- Buy on sale (weight 0.24): Several reviewers advise waiting for a sale before purchasing. The game is considered good value at a discount, with mentions of specific price points like 3.6 Euros or $15 being reasonable but better on sale.
- Difficulty advice (weight 0.24): Many reviews discuss the game's difficulty and recommend appropriate settings. Common advice includes playing on easy or normal for first-timers, especially those unfamiliar with bullet hell or grinding.
- Not for everyone (weight 0.24): Some reviews note the game is not recommended for casual players or those who dislike high difficulty, grinding, or old graphics. It's considered niche but excellent for its target audience.
- Great for challenge seekers (weight 0.23): The game is highly recommended for players who enjoy high-difficulty action RPGs. Reviewers mention hardcore appeal, inferno mode, and challenging boss battles as key attractions.
- Comparisons to other Ys games (weight 0.18): Some reviewers compare Felghana to Ys VI and Ys Origin, noting it's not as good as some entries but still a solid game. Opinions vary on where it fits in the series.
- Gameplay-focused experience (weight 0.14): The game is recommended for players seeking a challenging, gameplay-focused experience with high-octane action. Approach it as pure action enjoyment rather than story.
- Broad recommendation (weight 0.14): Some reviews give an unreserved recommendation, calling it a must-play for action RPG fans and even for anyone passionate about video games. It's considered a classic masterpiece.
- Value for money (weight 0.13): The game is praised for being great value, especially considering its length of 10-16 hours. Some reviewers would pay full price, calling it a hidden gem.
- Good for busy players (weight 0.1): A few reviews highlight the game's appeal to players with limited daily playtime, as it is relatively short (10-16 hours) and can be completed quickly.
- Technical and QoL issues (weight 0.1): Individual reviews mention issues like the lack of quality-of-life fixes in the Steam version, the need for a Japanese dub mod, and potential soft-locks without V-Sync enabled.
- Story and lore value (weight 0.1): A few reviews recommend the game for its story and lore, especially for understanding Ys design principles and wider franchise lore. Some suggest playing in release order for appreciation.
- Achievement hunter caution (weight 0.08): Achievement hunters should expect significant time investment due to multiple playthrough requirements and grueling achievements. The main game is great but achievements are demanding.
- Short but worthwhile (weight 0.08): The game's short length (10-16 hours) is seen as a positive, offering good value and being suitable for busy players.
- Grinding expectations (weight 0.06): Reviewers note that grinding and equipment gates are part of the experience, and players should keep this in mind to enjoy the game more. Lowering difficulty can reduce grinding.
- Zelda-like comparison (weight 0.06): The game is recommended for fans of the Zelda-like genre, specifically those who enjoyed Zelda 1 and 3, suggesting similar gameplay appeal.
- Controller recommended (weight 0.03): One reviewer notes the game is highly recommended with a controller, suggesting better playability.

Other player notes:
- Nostalgia skewed rating (weight 0.03): A reviewer noted that their rating was heavily influenced by nostalgia for the game. This suggests the game may not objectively meet modern standards but appeals to sentimental players.
- Chinese translation patch at Keylol (weight 0.03): A Chinese translation patch is available on the Keylol platform. This is useful for non-Japanese players who want to experience the game in Chinese.
- Request for Memoire PC upgrade (weight 0.03): A user requested that the Memoire feature be upgraded or made available to PC players. This indicates a desire for improved or additional content on the platform.
- Japanese voice patch compatibility issue (weight 0.03): A Japanese voice patch exists but cannot be used simultaneously with another patch, likely the Chinese translation. This creates a limitation for players wanting both voice and text localization.

Emotions:
- Frustration (weight 0.4): Players are frustrated by extreme difficulty spikes, particularly with brutal boss fights that require repeated attempts and heavy grinding for levels and equipment. The lack of healing potions, block or dash mechanics, and sparse save points that cause significant progress loss upon death further amplify the frustration. Tedious platforming sections, unfair enemy designs with tracking projectiles, and unbalanced difficulty even on Normal mode also contribute to this negative sentiment.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.26): Satisfaction is derived from overcoming the game's extreme difficulty, especially defeating tough bosses through skill, precise timing, and learning attack patterns. The rewarding feeling of improvement, completing challenging modes like Nightmare or Inferno, and the fast, fluid combat system that makes victory feel earned are key causes. Quality-of-life updates, excellent music, and the game's faithful but refined remake also contribute to a deeply satisfying experience.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.23): Players enjoy the fast, challenging, and fun gameplay, well-constructed boss fights, and the fluid combat system that feels modern despite the game's age. The soundtrack, decent story, and well-designed dungeons also provide a positive experience. Many find the game addictive and engaging, with memorable characters and fun action sequences.
- Excitement (weight 0.22): Excitement is driven by the hot music tracks, epic boss fights, and fast-paced, addictive combat that creates a thrilling and engaging experience. Players are excited by the improved gameplay from previous titles, the captivating world, and the bullet-hell inspired patterns in boss battles. The quality of the game encourages players to continue the Ys series.
- Admiration (weight 0.13): Players admire the game for being one of the best in the series, praising the amazing soundtrack, excellent boss designs, and refined gameplay that surpasses the original. The emotional story, art style, and the pure Ys experience of fast action with a phenomenal OST are highly regarded. The game is considered a masterpiece and a peak of the 2.5D era.
- Disappointment (weight 0.1): Disappointment stems from a weak, predictable story with forgettable characters and poor English voice acting, sometimes without a Japanese audio option. The reliance on grinding, long sections without saves causing progress loss, and dated graphics or level design also disappoint players. Some are let down by the lack of QoL features or the need to start over for different difficulty modes.
- Nostalgia (weight 0.07): Nostalgia is triggered by the soundtrack and art direction that evoke classic Falcom style, as well as fond memories of playing the original Ys III or earlier entries in the series. Players recall childhood gaming experiences, such as playing a pirated disc from a father or reliving the original on SNES. The cozy vibes of the 2.5D era and improvements over the original also evoke a strong sense of nostalgia.
- Appreciation (weight 0.03): Players appreciate the excellent visual style, music, and improved gameplay over previous titles like Ark of Napishtim. The combat system and soundtrack are highlights, and the game is seen as a culmination of everything Falcom learned making Ys games. Hardcore enthusiasts value the challenging content, improved boss fights, and fast gameplay.
- Love (weight 0.03): Players express love for the Ys series as a whole, with some citing this entry as a favorite classic. The game's beautiful music, art style, and perfect controls create a deep affection from the moment they start playing. For some it is their first Ys game, leaving them in love and eager to play more titles.
- Surprise (weight 0.02): Players are surprised by voiced dialogue after previous games, which deviates from the earlier silent format. The story contains a surprising plot twist that catches players off guard. Additionally, the combat quality exceeds expectations for an older game, feeling much more refined than anticipated.
- Relief (weight 0.02): Relief comes from quality-of-life improvements such as custom controls on PC, no fall damage, and a quicksave feature that alleviate the frustration of punishing gameplay. Players are glad that modern games are not as unforgiving as this title and feel relieved that jank from previous entries like Ys VI is gone. The option to finish on Easy difficulty also provides relief.
- Joy (weight 0.02): Joy is experienced through the superb soundtrack and excellent controls, which evoke nostalgia when played on the Steam Deck. The satisfying gameplay of destroying enemies that once caused trouble and discovering new combat styles, such as the second boss's unique approach, brings delight. The tension-rising Barstein Castle theme also contributes to joyful moments.
- Anger (weight 0.01): Anger is directed at unfair boss designs like Chester, which have unclear openings and frustrating mechanics. Players are angered by forced grinding that artificially inflates playtime and misleading achievements that waste hours of work. The removal of Japanese language support by a Japanese company also triggers significant anger.
- Regret (weight 0.01): Players regret starting their first playthrough on Nightmare difficulty, which becomes overly punishing. Some regret the time wasted on the series if the experience did not meet expectations. There is also regret over accidentally selling a key item like the emerald ring, which prevents full item collection.
- Sadness (weight 0.01): Sadness is evoked by the game's tragic and emotional story, particularly the melancholic ending. The narrative is described as sadder than other entries, leaving a lingering feeling of melancholy. The story themes of human weakness and farewell in the ending deepen the emotional impact.
- Amusement (weight 0.01): Players find amusement in character dialogue, such as Cynthia's flirtatious interactions, and self-deprecating humor about losing sanity while playing. Joking about the final boss's extreme difficulty on Nightmare adds to the amusement. The game's punishing nature is described humorously by players.
- Enthusiasm (weight 0.01): Enthusiasm is fueled by the game's engaging nature, which makes time fly by as players become deeply immersed. The overall fantastic and challenging experience is highly motivating. Players enthusiastically recommend the game as a rewarding, demanding title.
- Awe (weight 0.01): Awe is inspired by the piano title track music and the soundtrack overall, which is upgraded to new levels of awesome. The musical quality is so high that it leaves a powerful impression on the player. The dramatic soundscape creates moments of genuine awe.
- Curiosity (weight 0.01): Curiosity arises from memorable characters whose fates in sequels are intriguing. Players are curious about secrets in the game that are difficult to find even with guides. Seeing many dedicated fans discussing the game also sparks curiosity about its deeper appeal.
- Gratitude (weight 0.01): Gratitude is expressed for finally being able to play and enjoy the game, especially with features that respect the player's time and have no filler content. The removal of padding and the ability to progress efficiently are appreciated. Players are grateful for the rewarding experience the game provides.}