PC Engine / TurboGrafx-16 · Action-RPG

Ys III: Wanderers from Ys

イースIII ワンダラーズ フロム イース

PC Engine CD-ROM² version (1991). Original PC-88/PC-98 release: 1989.

Japan: March 22, 1991 · Dev: Nihon Falcom · Music: Hiroyuki Nanba , Atsushi Yokozeki

About this game

Originally released for PC-8801 in 1989, Ys III: Wanderers from Ys received its definitive home version on PC Engine CD-ROM² in 1991. A side-scrolling action-RPG — a departure from the overhead bump-combat of Ys I and II — it follows Adol Christin and his companion Dogi to Dogi's homeland of Felghana, delivering one of the Ys series' most emotionally resonant stories alongside Falcom's characteristically powerful hard rock and orchestral soundtrack.

Key Features

Side-scrolling action-RPG format — different from the overhead perspective of Ys I and II; sword combat with attack and jump; companion story involving Dogi's homeland Felghana; CD-quality arranged soundtrack from Hudson/Falcom; multiple boss encounters with large sprites; experience and levelling system with equipment upgrades.

The Story Behind

The PC Engine CD-ROM² became the home for the finest early Ys ports, building on the success of Ys Book I & II (1989). Hudson's investment in bringing Falcom's series to the platform helped cement the PC Engine CD as a RPG destination — an unusual distinction for a platform associated primarily with arcade ports and shooters. Ys III's side-scrolling format was divisive among fans but is now appreciated as a transitional chapter in the series' design evolution.

Tricks & Tales

The PC Engine CD-ROM² version of Ys III featured fully arranged CD-quality audio tracks that significantly enhanced the emotional impact of Falcom's original compositions. The game's story — centring on Dogi's hometown under threat — was considered more personal and affecting than the earlier Ys titles. Ys III's story and characters were later remade as Ys: The Oath in Felghana (2005, PSP/PC), which modernised the gameplay while preserving the narrative.

Collector's Guide

Rarity common
Japan Release March 22, 1991

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