Ys X: Nordics is a game that starts off at a leisurely pace but gradually picks up as you dive deeper into the main story. Initially, players will find themselves wading through a fair amount of dialogue with limited combat, until they reach Balta Island. Here, you must complete a trial to unite Adol and Karja as shield brethren.
To get started, you’ll venture to Lecto Island, which is the first significant island you’ll need to explore in its entirety. Along the way, be on the lookout for hidden treasures and crystal clusters as you traverse the landscape.
As you approach Lecto Island, you’ll need to dock your ship at the back, since a Griegr ship occupies the front. After stepping off, move inland a little until you discover a spot to use a mana string to cross to the other side.
Continue deeper into the island until you reach a fork in the path. Take the right route (left on the minimap) which leads to a higher platform. Here, you’ll find another mana string opportunity that allows you to enter a cave and advance the story.
Tip: You’ll encounter several giant boars in this area. It’s wise to focus on dodging their attacks before attempting to strike back.
As you explore the main area of Lecto Island, you’ll uncover various treasures. Here’s a breakdown of what and where to find them:
| Number | Type | Reward | How To Get |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Crystal Cluster | Crystal Shards | After using the mana string for the first time, look for it on a cliff to your right. |
| 2 | Chest | 10x Basic Ingredients | This chest is visible on the minimap near the crystal cluster above. |
| 3 | Chest | 2x Stimulant | Found on the northern edge before diverging into one of the paths. |
| 4 | Chest | Arion Charm | After the second mana string, this chest is to your left and guarded by a boar. |
| 5 | Crystal Cluster | Crystal Shards | Jump down to the small river in the lower area to find this cluster. |
| 6 | Buried Treasure | Gold | Located in a small ditch at the area. |
| 7 | Buried Treasure | 3x Rainbow Drop | Found after the path divides at the right edge. |
Note: You won’t find buried treasure right when you arrive; continue the story until you unlock the mana sense ability.
Upon entering the Cavern of the Rite, you’ll navigate through a series of rooms filled with traps and enemies. The initial rooms will feature pressure plates. You can sprint through these areas to avoid projectile traps.
In the first room, timing your movements is essential to dodge boulders, while the next will challenge you with four enemies that you need to evade. After dodging, get close for a powerful attack.
Eventually, you’ll need to use Karja’s mana burst to reach higher platforms. Clear all enemies in the following rooms and use Adol’s burst to break through thorn walls to proceed. You’ll eventually face a miniboss named Ziomander.
Tip: Ziomander has substantial health, so focus on using your strongest skills to defeat it swiftly.
As you progress, defeat a few Griegr in a larger room. Use the path on the right to climb higher and find a lever that opens the door ahead. Move past a room filled with more traps and enemies, using mana string to reach and defeat the Griegr.
This will lead you to the final room where you can initiate the boss fight against Ioi, concluding your adventure on Lecto Island.
While exploring the Cavern of the Rite, you’ll find several treasures. Here’s a list of what to look for:
| Number | Type | Reward | How To Get |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chest | Armor Seal | This chest is visible as you make your way through the cavern. |
| 2 | Crystal Cluster | Crystal Shards | Found in the open upon entering the second room after the chest mentioned above. |
| 3 | Crystal Cluster | Crystal Shards | Located in the center after you enter the large room in the cavern. |
| 4 | Chest | Breath Formula | Use Karja’s burst near the broken platforms left as you enter the big room, then Adol’s burst to clear the blockage. |
| 5 | Chest | Warrior Bandana | Found along the path while attempting to activate the lever in the big room. |
| 6 | Buried Treasure | Shield Star | Located on the left path at the rear of the big room in the cavern. |
| 7 | Crystal Cluster | Crystal Shards | Another cluster found in the center of the rooms as you explore. |
| 8 | Chest | 3x Cureleaf | These two chests can be found on either side of the platform in the room following the big one. |
| 9 | Chest | Axe Seal | |
| 10 | Buried Treasure | Black Strong-Arm | Located towards the end of the cavern, accessible with mana sense. |
By following these tips and treasure maps, you’ll enhance your adventure in Ys X: Nordics while mastering the challenges throughout Lecto Island and the Cavern of the Rite. Enjoy your journey!
