Ys X: Proud Nordics similar games & best alternatives

Why it matches

• Both are about exploring Game encourages discovering new islands, secrets, and upgrading ship for better traversal.
• Both lean into fantasy Set in a fictional fantasy world with mythical creatures, magic, and heroic adventure.
• Both are carried by their story Strong narrative immersion with character development, plot progression, and cinematic cutscenes.

Why it matches

• Both are about exploring Exploration of a large island with new areas unlocking over time is a core gameplay element highly praised by players.
• Both pull you into another world Strong immersion in a fantasy island adventure with engaging story and music, providing a clear escape from real life.
• Both are carried by their story Highly praised narrative with engaging characters and plot development; story is a major motivation.

Why it matches

• Both are about exploring Strong emphasis on discovering new areas, secrets, collectibles, and exploring the large prison city and dungeons with vertical movement.
• Both lean into fantasy Game features supernatural powers, mythical creatures, and a fictional narrative world blending French history and occultism.
• Both pay no attention to wellbeing Game involves sedentary play with no physical activity or health-related features.

Why it matches

• Both are carried by their story Narrative immersion is a core feature, with extensive plot, character development, and lore.
• Both lean into fantasy Strong fantasy setting with imaginative fiction, mythical elements, and JRPG storytelling.
• Both are driven by steady progression Strong emphasis on accumulating items, upgrades, and character development throughout the game.

Why it matches

• Both are better with other people Strong emphasis on multiplayer co-op missions and teamwork mechanics like Link Attacks and Chain Bursts; cooperation is a core feature.
• Both lean into fantasy Strong fantasy setting with anime-style characters, mythical creatures, and imaginative story elements.
• Both are driven by steady progression Heavy focus on accumulating mastery points, upgrading weapons, unlocking characters, and improving stats.

Why it matches

• Both lean into fantasy Strong anime fantasy setting with imaginative monsters, supernatural powers, and dramatic storylines.
• Both are about getting better Players develop skills, learn combat mechanics, and improve gear progressively throughout the game.
• Both reward mastery Combat is fast-paced and skillful with a high learning curve; players feel rewarded mastering combos, perfect guarding, and weapon mechanics.

Why it matches

• Both lean into fantasy Strong fantasy setting with imaginative characters, magic, and narrative themes typical of JRPGs.
• Both are carried by their story Narrative immersion with character-driven plot and dual protagonist perspectives.
• Both are driven by steady progression Character leveling, skill upgrades, and equipment collection drive progression.

Why it matches

• Both lean into fantasy Strong fantasy setting with anime-style characters, magic, and imaginative storytelling.
• Both are driven by steady progression Strong emphasis on collecting titles, upgrading gear, and unlocking abilities.
• Both are about getting better Character progression, skill acquisition, and mastering combat mechanics provide learning and growth.

Why it matches

• Both pull you into another world Strong narrative immersion and emotional engagement provide escape from real life; players report deep involvement
• Both are carried by their story Highly praised narrative with deep character development, emotional engagement, and immersive plot
• Both lean into fantasy Strong fantasy setting with demons, magic, and imaginative fiction; story and characters embody JRPG fantasy tropes