Classic buttonless "bump" combat receives a full analog-enabled upgrade for gamepad users, and is augmented in Ys II by a robust magic system. Soundtrack selectable from among the original '80s FM-synth, an early 2000s MIDI-style remix, or a modern studio performance by Falcom's in-house rock band. Character art selectable from '90s-style portraits or more modern anime designs. Four selectable difficulty levels and optional "Boss Rush" mode grant players a true old-school challenge (if desired). Ys II Feature: Transform into a demon to speak with any and every standard enemy in the game, creating unparalleled depth that still impresses even to this day. Support for both widescreen and fullscreen resolutions, utilizing the classic Ys I & II Complete HUD when playing in fullscreen mode. Crisper, higher-resolution graphics, including more detailed character art. Much greater viewing area when playing in fullscreen mode: the inside of a house takes up only one screen in the PC version, but two screens with scrolling in the PSP version. Improved framerate with no slowdown. Complete omission of load times. Customizable controls. Steam Cloud support. A wide assortment of puzzle-like achievements. Leaderboards for "Boss Rush" mode.

Although Adol learns magic in Ys II, the majority of combat in these two games is fought using the "Bump System." Adol attacks enemies by running into them. The success of his attack is determined by his trajectory and/or angle of impact. A head-on strike will likely cause damage to Adol, but if the enemy is struck off-center or from the sides or back, attacks against it will prove successful. Sound simple? Think again! Monsters will become increasingly intelligent. You don't want to be caught in a swarm of beasts, or pinned in a tight hallway with low health. For years, Ys fans have praised this unique and addictive style of battle, taking merely seconds to learn. Turn up your speakers and run your enemies through. Literally.

In Ys II, Adol is granted the use of six magic staves, each adding new gameplay mechanics to defeat enemies, solve puzzles, and interact with the world: Fire magic allows Adol to shoot fireballs at enemies. As an added bonus, Fire can be cast on NPCs as well, resulting in amusing dialogue from innocent townsfolk. Light magic can be used to see in dark areas and to reveal hidden exits, allowing Adol to unearth a wide variety of secret items. Return magic teleports Adol instantly to any town or friendly rest area he's recorded in his journal thus far. Alter magic transforms Adol into a cute, kangaroo-like creature known as a "Roo." While in this form, Adol can converse with ANY monster in the game, providing a deeper insight on why they're after him, who they serve, and what secrets they guard. Time magic freezes time, prompting an all-out buffet of death for anyone who stands in Adol's way. Impact animations are also frozen in place, only triggering after time resumes, resulting in one very satisfying (and gory) display of final judgement. Shield magic temporarily protects Adol from harm and turns his body into a "bug zapper"-like death field. Watch as malevolent creatures bounce off and explode into bits.

In true Ys tradition, both games include various items that grant uniquely beneficial effects. The following are but an insignificant sampling of the special items that await you in both journals. While wearing The Mask of Eyes, Adol will be able to see false walls and hidden doors, but this secret knowledge comes at a cost: enemies will be completely invisible! The Idol will make Adol completely invisible to his enemies, allowing him to sneak by unseen, or take them by surprise! Touching the Rod to any mirror will allow Adol to pass through, emerging in the world beyond its glossy depths. The Stone Shoes allow Adol to walk on even the slipperiest of surfaces with ease. Wearing the Whisper Earrings can help to hear even the faintest of sounds. Wear these in Roo form and Adol may be able to do some very stealthy reconnaissance work! The Lila Shell grants Adol a communication lifeline back to his companions in town, even from the deepest caverns of the deadliest dungeons.