Ys Seven

Speed. If you had to describe Ys Seven in a single word, that would be it. Falcom's action RPG saga charges forward here to the rhythm of a screaming electric guitar and won't let you catch your breath.

Ys Seven moves the series about the legendary red-haired adventurer Adol Christin toward a modern party system. For the first time in the main line, you control a trio of characters at once and switch between the individual heroes on the fly to exploit their different weapons and attack types against the right enemies. Combat is purely action-driven — you dodge, slash, unleash powerful skills and furious ultimate attacks in real time.

Each weapon falls into one of three types that are effective against different kinds of enemies, so constantly switching characters isn't cosmetic but a tactical necessity. Added to this is a dodge-and-block system with a reward for perfect timing, which makes the fighting brisk, fluid, and immensely satisfying.

An inseparable part of the experience is the music. Falcom is renowned for its soundtracks and Ys is no exception — energetic rock and metal compositions drive the action forward and can turn even an ordinary fight into an adrenaline ride. It's music you'll remember for years afterward.

The Ys series offers several gems on the PSP. Alongside Seven, which introduced the modern party approach, The Oath in Felghana — an excellent remake of an older entry — also shines here. Together they show why Falcom has earned such a firm and respected place among lovers of action RPGs.

Why play: A lightning-fast action RPG with brisk three-character combat and a superb rock soundtrack — adrenaline in your pocket.