Aside from its horrific loading times, Ys is a solid RPG, deserving far more credit than it has received.
Here's how I'll break it down:
GAMEPLAY 8/10 (if load times were average I would give it a 9/10)
-I applaud Ys The Ark of Napishtim for not being another Final Fantasy type RPG. For the PSP, it is very rare to find an RPG that doesn't use a turn-based battle system or include hours of random battles. Ys still has the level up system; it still has all the items and different equipment you would find in those other RPGs, but to RPG fans who hate chess-style games, Ys has that zelda like gameplay where you aren't specifically told where you have to venture to next. There are several accessories to equip, just as in many RPGs. Also, there are 3 swords you will obtain in this game wielding specific elemental powers. The dungeons are very well designed, and there are several interesting characters you will meet throughout this game. The only negative thing I will say, though, is that at times you will have to repetitively hack and slash through the same enemies, but if you can get through random battles in other RPGs, this is fine.
SOUND 9.5/10
-Sound Effects are clear and appropriate, but what really adds to this already impressive game is the brilliant background music. I could honestly listen to it all day without getting sick of hearing it. A++ on that aspect.
GRAPHICS 8.5/10
-Environments are well constructed and well rendered. The characters themselves could be a little clearer, however, considering the date the game was made, the graphics are very impressive. Watching the cutscenes is like watching a Japanese cartoon. The level of detail is so impressive.
STORY 10/10
-If you have never heard of Ys, that's okay. The storyline is unexpectedly incredible. I was not anticipating this game to have such a great story, but I look forward to future installments. Ys Ark of Napishtim is one of those games that lets you feel like you're actually the main character, Adol. The way people applaud him in the game will feel as if you, yeah you on the couch with those pringles, had actually saved a world. Also, something I was very impressed with was that this game actually delivers a solid ending. I have played too many RPGs that end abruptly and leave me wanting more.....closure, for lack of a better word, but not Ys. This game has a very solid ending.
EXTRAS 7.5/10
Extras include a character database, a mediaplayer which lets you play all the songs and all the cutscenes you've unlocked in the game. The media is all good so this is a great extra. There is a 'Time Attack' feature which lets you replay all of the bosses (who are all very cool and beastly) in the game and record your times. You can also select a difficulty for the monsters which ranges from 'normal' to 'nightmare'. There is also a 'Trial' feature which is a series of mini quests. There are several of these and they can get pretty difficult.
ENDING NOTES:
Call me an idiot, but before the Ark of Napishtim, I had never heard of 'Y's'. After requesting recommendations for RPGs with 'zelda esque' gameplay, a user mentioned this game. I gave it a shot and wow was I impressed. The gameplay is immersing, the graphics are sharp, the sound is amazing, the loading times are horrific. All in all, I highly recommend this game to PSP gamers.