Ys II for Nintendo Switch: Classic Nihon Falcom RPG Arrives March 14 on eShop

Nihon Falcom’s beloved action RPG Ys II is making its highly anticipated debut on the Nintendo Switch via the Japanese eShop on March 14, 2024, through the EGGCONSOLE publishing label.

Following the well-received launch of the first title in the series just last month, this release marks another milestone in preserving classic Japanese RPGs for a new generation of gamers on modern hardware. Ys II originally launched on the PC-8801mkIISR in 1988, solidifying its status as a cornerstone in Nihon Falcom’s influential RPG lineage.

Over the years, the game has seen numerous ports and remakes—including notable releases on the PC-9801, X1, FM-7, MSX2, Nintendo Famicom, and later, an enhanced version in the Ys I & II collection for the PC Engine CD-ROM².

Western audiences may remember the TurboGrafx-CD edition, which arrived in North America in 1990.

In subsequent years, Ys II has seen adaptations for Windows, PlayStation 2, Nintendo DS, PlayStation Portable, as well as mobile platforms like Android and iOS. Staying true to the EGGCONSOLE tradition, the Nintendo Switch version of Ys II is expected to closely resemble the original PC-8801mkIISR release.

While full localization is not part of the release plan, the game will offer English-language options for the main menu and guidance in the "How to Play" sections, making it accessible for a broader international audience.

According to publisher D4 Enterprise, distribution will commence on March 14, with other regions slated for later availability via respective Nintendo eShop storefronts. For those new to the series, Ys II continues the adventures of Adol Christin immediately after the events of Ys I.

Awakening in the floating land of Ys, Adol is greeted by the young Lilia and quickly finds himself tasked with unraveling ancient mysteries and combating evil forces.

Among the defining features that set Ys II apart are its iconic opening animation—a favorite among Japanese fans—and an innovative magic system that deepens the gameplay, building on the foundation of its predecessor with dynamic combat and exploration. The arrival of Ys II on Nintendo Switch is part of an ongoing effort to preserve and celebrate classic Japanese RPGs, bringing time-honored titles to the eShop and expanding their reach to new players.

As nostalgia-driven releases continue to gain traction, fans and newcomers alike can look forward to experiencing the legacy of Nihon Falcom on contemporary platforms.

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