Ancient Books of Ys & Ys II – Ys: Tenkuu no Shinden – Adol Christine’s Adventure

Alright, let’s dive into this classic OVA series that’s been a hidden gem for retro anime fans. Ancient Books of Ys & Ys II – Ys: Tenkuu no Shinden – Adol Christine’s Adventure (or Ys II: Castle in the Heavens as it’s more commonly known) is a 4-episode OVA that originally aired from December 1992 to July 1993. Produced by Starchild Records, this adaptation of the beloved Ys video game series brings Adol Christin’s adventures to life in a way that feels both nostalgic and timeless.

First off, let’s talk about the story. Picking up where the first Ys anime left off, Adol has just saved Esteria from the evil Dark Fact. Now, he’s off to the floating island of Ys itself, accompanied by priestesses Feena and Reah. Along the way, they meet Lilia, a red-haired girl from Rance Village who becomes a key companion. The stakes are higher this time—Dalles, a villain bent on resurrecting the demon god Darm, is hot on their trail. The plot revolves around the six mystical Books of Ys, which hold the secrets of the ancient kingdom’s rise and fall. Each book, written by one of the six priests of Ys, adds layers to the lore, making the world feel rich and interconnected.

What stands out most about this OVA is its commitment to the source material. Fans of the Ys games will recognize iconic elements like the floating island, the Books of Ys, and Adol’s unwavering spirit. The animation, while dated by today’s standards, has a charm that’s hard to resist. The character designs are true to the game’s art style, and the action sequences, though not as flashy as modern anime, are dynamic and engaging. Adol’s sword fights feel weighty, and the magical elements—like the goddesses’ powers and the demon hordes—are visually striking.

The voice acting is another highlight. Takeshi Kusao (known for roles like Trunks in Dragon Ball Z) brings Adol to life with a perfect balance of determination and warmth. Kotono Mitsuishi (Sailor Moon herself) voices Feena, adding a touch of grace and strength to the priestess. The chemistry between the characters is palpable, especially between Adol and Lilia, whose friendship grows throughout the series. It’s these character moments that make the OVA more than just a retelling of the game’s plot—they give it heart.

Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: the pacing. At only four episodes, the story feels rushed at times. Important plot points are glossed over, and some characters don’t get the development they deserve. For example, Dalles, the main antagonist, is menacing but lacks depth. We don’t learn much about his motivations beyond wanting to resurrect Darm, which makes his threat feel less personal. That said, the OVA does a commendable job of condensing the game’s story into a short runtime, and for fans of the series, it’s a treat to see their favorite moments animated.

The music deserves a special mention. The Ys series is known for its incredible soundtracks, and the OVA doesn’t disappoint. The opening theme, with its upbeat tempo and epic orchestration, sets the tone perfectly. The background music, which includes rearrangements of classic game tracks, adds emotional weight to key scenes. Whether it’s a tense battle or a quiet moment between characters, the music enhances the viewing experience.

Looking at fan reactions, it’s clear that this OVA has a dedicated following. On MyAnimeList, it holds a rating of 6.94, which is solid for a retro anime. Comments from fans highlight their love for the series’ nostalgia factor and its faithfulness to the games. One user mentioned, “I love Ancient Book of Ys I and Ys II. Probably I can’t be called the no.1 fan of the Ys universe because I didn’t play a lot of Falcom’s games with Adol Christin, but I feel a strong bond with this series and the entire story anyway.” Another fan expressed a desire for more Ys anime, saying, “Late to the party but I’d love to see a Ys III OVA. I doubt it’ll happen though, but I’d love to be proven wrong.”

Critics, however, point out the OVA’s flaws. The animation, while charming, is dated, and the story feels compressed. Some viewers might find the pacing jarring, especially if they’re not familiar with the games. But for those who grew up with Ys or have a soft spot for 90s anime, these issues are easy to overlook. The OVA captures the essence of Adol’s adventures—the sense of wonder, the thrill of discovery, and the fight against evil—and that’s what matters most.

In conclusion, Ancient Books of Ys & Ys II – Ys: Tenkuu no Shinden – Adol Christine’s Adventure is a must-watch for fans of the Ys series and retro anime enthusiasts. It’s not perfect, but its heart, charm, and faithfulness to the source material make it a delightful experience. Whether you’re revisiting it for nostalgia or discovering it for the first time, this OVA is sure to leave you with a sense of adventure and a desire to dive deeper into the world of Ys. So grab your sword, join Adol on his journey, and prepare to uncover the ancient secrets of the floating island. You won’t be disappointed.