An Expert version of Ys V more demanding, Japan only. Technically refined Falcom action RPG, for absolute saga fans.
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Category
Action RPG1 player12+
Description
Expert version of Ys V with increased difficulty and additional modes. Published by Falcom, released in Japan in 1996. Same content as Ys V with increased difficulty. Expert edition of Ys V on Super Famicom.
Ys V - Expert review
4/5
Art direction
★★★★★
"Striking"
MAX
Music
★★★★★
"Legendary"
4/5
Story
★★★★★
"Captivating"
Still faithful to Falcom's sonic genius, the entry deploys a warm, rousing melodic rock, cut for the exploration of the lost city of sand. Each theme carries Adol's adventure with a striking energy and melody. This musical richness, a signature of the series, delights fans of inspired soundtracks.
Complete: box, manual and disc/cart very clean. Lightly handled.
Q1 damagedQ6 completeQ10 new
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Collector interest
The Expert re-release of Ys V, this Super Famicom exclusive with a tiny print run is a highly sought piece: a harder-difficulty variant issued late in 1996, with few copies made and preserved. Collector interest rests on its nature as a rare alternate edition, the SFC cardboard box with spine card that is hard to assemble intact, and Falcom's prestige among devoted fans. A high-end Japanese target where a tidy complete copy is essential.
Is Ys V - Expert still worth playing in 2026?
An action RPG from Nihon Falcom, Ys V evolves the formula with a more measured sword combat system, elemental spells and an updated top down view for the adventurer Adol. The colourful art direction and the energetic soundtrack stay an asset, even if the entry is seen as more accessible and less demanding than its predecessors. The Expert version adjusts the difficulty. The Japanese text limits access. A good action RPG for fans of the Ys saga and lovers of polished 16 bit adventure.
