Any recommendations on where to start with this series? Should I start with the TG16CD version of I+II, the PSP version of I+II, or one of the later entries?
Steam version is good
>>3929385
thanks mate
Maybe try both the PCE and the Eternal/Complete/Chronicle version and decide which style you prefer.
>>3929338
Play the PC Engine version, it has better music.
>>3929338
Check out Ys I & II Chronicles+ on GOG/Steam. It's arguable the best release of Ys I & II to date, combining elements from both 2001's Complete (such as the classic frame with greater viewing area) and Chronicles PSP. There's also different artwork/soundtrack options too, so you can play around with these and stick with the one you prefer.
After that, play the rest of the games in release order.
>>3929385
Man, this picture is outdated as hell (e.g. Ys V is already fan-translated). Why you guys don't bother to investigate before posting this is beyond me.
>>3929460
It's interesting, but lacks tracks like Protectors and all the unused PC-88 music that got used in Eternal/Complete/Chronicles. Funny story: Koshiro thought that Yonemitsu's PC Engine CD renditions of his tracks ruined his original intention.
I've only ever played the Ark engine trilogy and Seven, and loved every second of them. Absolutely fantastic games, for what it's worthpractically nothing considering this is the retro board.
>>3929385
YS 1 & 2 on Steam is so amazing.
I haven't played the TG-16 version of it though so I can't be entirely qualified.
It's hard to pick because I played them when they first came out, so my retro feels keep me from giving great advice, but gameplay on the first 3 games is pretty basic so I'm sure it doesn't suffer much in modern versions. TG 16 music is pretty rad + cutscenes compared to famicom. But since the gameplay is so basic you should probably just start with whatever you can get your hands on easiest.