Post by FM-77AV on May 17, 2004 6:43:02 GMT -5
May 12, 2004 - Falcom's 2003 Japanese PC role-player Ys VI: The Ark of Napishtim has built a strong following overseas as well as with importers because of its old-school feel and easy to pick up accessibility. Completely 16-bit in terms of presentation, gameplay mechanics, and length, the game is a total throwback to the days of the Turbo Grafx 16 and its hardcore followers wouldn't likely have it any other way. Konami apparently wouldn't do so either, as the massive videogame publishing giant will be bringing a PlayStation 2 version of Napishtim to North America later this year.
We had the opportunity to give the short E3 demo disc a test earlier today when we visited Konami's elaborate exposition booth in the south hall, and were struck with how well the game translates to the PlayStation 2. Similar to older titles like Beyond Oasis and to a lesser extent, Zelda, the Ys VI is as simple as they come; with a single attack and item button that allows players to steamroll over enemies with only a couple of slashes. The setup is a total hack 'n slasher too, with the only thing distinguishing it as an RPG being its traditional experience point system and familiar quest-based storyline.
Of course, a real time hack 'n slash approach doesn't necessarily make the game fast; as it's pretty deliberate in contrast. Even so, Napishtim's simplistic manner really helps give it some life and the feeling that just about anyone could pick up the controls and run with it. Plus, with only three different weapons to choose from and a limited amount of upgrades to be acquired through the defeat of your enemies, hardcore RPG fanatics should take note that this isn't the next big thing. It's just a charming little diversion that'll only last you 10-15 hours or so.
But at least Konami has seen fit to add a couple of PlayStation 2 specific features to help spice up the package a bit. All-new orchestral music, for instance, is just one of these new features with a couple of other unnamed goodies set to round out the final version when it's released later this year. Don't expect much more in terms of information until then
