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Ys Origin

Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation Vita, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4 • 2012

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Quick resume

The perfect mix of action, exploration and story with screen-filling bosses, unique platforming elements, and innovative puzzles.

Global score

93/100

Genres

Action, Adventure, Role-playing (RPG), Platform

Pros

  • Challenging and rewarding combat
  • Multiple playable characters with distinct styles
  • Engaging boss fights
  • Excellent soundtrack
  • High replay value with additional modes

Cons

  • Repetitive gameplay due to multiple playthroughs of same tower
  • Lack of controller remapping in-game
  • No cooperative or multiplayer features
  • Some grinding required at higher difficulties
  • No ability to skip cutscenes

Motivations

  • Autonomy
    4

    "Players can choose among three characters with distinct playstyles and storylines, and select difficulty levels, allowing personal control over gameplay experience."

  • Competence
    4

    "The game features challenging boss fights requiring skill and pattern recognition, with a steep learning curve and rewarding mastery."

  • Competition
    2

    "Includes time attack and boss rush modes with leaderboards, encouraging comparison with others, though main gameplay is single player."

  • Continuation
    3

    "High replay value due to multiple characters and modes; players often engage in multiple playthroughs and extended sessions."

  • Cooperation
    -5

    "Entirely single player experience with no cooperative or multiplayer elements."

  • Creativity
    2

    "Players explore and uncover secrets in the tower, with some puzzle elements and character skill customization, but within a linear structure."

  • Domination
    -5

    "No evidence of exerting control or superiority over others; gameplay is individual and respectful."

  • Escapism
    4

    "Players immerse themselves in a fantasy world with engaging combat and story, providing distraction and stress relief."

  • Expectation
    -4

    "Players engage voluntarily for enjoyment and challenge without external pressure or obligation."

  • Experimenting
    3

    "Multiple characters with different playstyles and skills encourage trying new approaches and tactics."

  • Exploration
    3

    "Players explore varied themed floors of the tower, uncovering items and secrets, though within a mostly linear environment."

  • Expression
    -2

    "Limited character customization; players mostly use predefined characters and equipment with minor upgrades."

  • Fantasy
    5

    "Strong fantasy setting with gods, demons, magic, and anime-style storytelling."

  • Fellowship
    -5

    "No social or community features; focus is on solo play."

  • Growth
    4

    "Players develop skills through learning boss patterns and character progression via leveling and upgrades."

  • Health
    -4

    "Primarily sedentary gameplay with no physical activity elements."

  • Idle
    -4

    "Requires continuous attention and focus during combat and exploration."

  • Intimacy
    -5

    "No evidence of forming close relationships or emotional social interactions."

  • Leadership
    -5

    "No leadership or group management roles; gameplay is individual."

  • Progression
    4

    "Players accumulate levels, skills, and equipment upgrades to progress through the game."

  • Relaxation
    3

    "Balanced challenge and flow with satisfying combat and music provide a relaxing yet engaging experience."

  • Sensation
    3

    "Fast-paced combat, vibrant music, and visual effects provide stimulating sensory feedback."

  • Status
    -3

    "Achievements and leaderboards exist but social recognition is limited; focus is on personal accomplishment."

  • Story
    3

    "Narrative is integrated with gameplay, featuring multiple character perspectives and a connected lore."

  • Strategy
    3

    "Boss fights and enemy encounters require learning patterns and planning attacks, demanding mental challenge."

  • Thrill
    3

    "Boss battles and higher difficulties provide suspense and excitement through challenging encounters."

  • Value
    4

    "Offers many hours of gameplay, replayability, and additional modes, providing good value for money."

  • Violence
    4

    "Combat-focused gameplay with frequent fighting and defeating monsters and bosses."

  • Survival
    3

    "Players must avoid death and manage resources like health and SP to survive challenging encounters."

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    Last update: 06/03/2026