Ys V: Ushinawareta Suna no Miyako Kefin is an action-RPG and the fifth mainline entry in the Ys series. The player controls Adol as he explores a desert and investigates the disappearance of an ancient city. Combat involves timed sword attacks, shield defense, and jumping. Magic is cast through a charging system that consumes elemental stones. The game features overhead exploration and dungeon progression as the player uncovers the mystery of Kefin.