His Own Judge and Jury (Analysing Tales of Vesperia's Yuri Lowell)

[@DiranJiru]

To me, Yuri is a realistic mindset in a fantasy world. Sometimes, you've gotta fight fire with fire. You've gotta make choices you don't wanna make to see the change you want. He wants everyone to smile. And to do that, you've gotta find the problem and pull it from the roots before it spreads.

[@pixelgoat7317]

As an American, I couldn't agree more! (Given current issues relevant here)

[@hyperturbofox17]

Yuri is a breath of fresh air from every JRPG Protagonist.

[@thehevandragon]

More like every cookie cutter one.

[@lordofhostsappreciator3075]

@@thehevandragon L

[@thehevandragon]

egit.

[@kap1618]

​@@thehevandragonHow exactly is he cookie cutter? I wish more protagonist had the resolve to kill when necessary instead of trying to "talk no jutsu," there way out of everything.

[@librarian8869]

I just learned recently that a lot of people couldn't stand Yuri because he carried himself as a "tough guy who can do anything" type of character. But I personally like Yuri because when he saw how corrupt those in power were, and a blind eye was turned to their crimes, Yuri took matters into his own hand and acted. His quote about telling people "sorry you have to die today, I promise we'll change things soon." struck hard to me.

[@chilomine839]

His character kinda broke the mold in Japan considering every jrpg protagonist in the past was always a wide eyed idealist overly heroic type. Yuri is the first jrpg character who is just an everydude who has to get sh*t done. His personality was renegade by Japanese standards.

[@24hr-Gaming]

I wonder if those people actually paid attention to the game. Yuri puts on a tough act, but he's actually pretty sensitive to what's going on around him. He couldn't stand being in the knights because it involves turning a blind eye to injustice. When Estelle is kidnapped, there is a skit where all the party members are talking about how they need to support Yuri because he's in full panic mode.

[@ericclements6418]

I've never heard anyone say that. I mean come on, Yuri is so popular he's banned from all popularity poles just to make it fair for others 😂

[@cemetery895]

I think there is more to Yuri's character than just being a vigilante, he also takes the path of a loner at the start of the game and eventually, after making friends, he comes to an understanding that he doesn't need to do everything by himself like when he snuck off to kill Cumore, and that other time his guild caught him sneaking off (this was his major flaw that he overcame). He is a good character, my fav characters in the series were Leon Magnus and Yuri Lowell.

[@elixirvitaegames]

I absolutely agree! I decided to focus on his vigilantism in this video, but there are so many more facets of him, like the ones you mentioned, that make him even more compelling as a character.

[@cemetery895]

@@elixirvitaegames I agree, it really sets him apart from the other MCs of the other games, I relate with him more than most characters since he is misrepresented as a bad person. Flynn was also a good character, but his flaw was being stubborn with the ideology that politics can fix everything. The Guild Union wasn't nearly as corrupt.

[@mickmellir7107]

In Yuri's Defense he tried to let the Law handle Ragou And Cumorre. However, the Law just let them Walk instead, and after seeing them feeding people (Kids included) to monsters. They were just monsters to be hunted and deltwith.

[@MrMegaSuperDuperMe]

Not just that. The game tries to tell us how what Yuri is doing is wrong, but SHOWS us that he's right. There are no consequences at all for his actions. After Yuri unalives Ragou and Cumore, the world becomes a much better place. It would have been interesting if even worse villains had replaced Ragou and Cumore as a consequence of Yuri's actions. THEN I would see Flynn's side of things. So if the threat of a little jail time is the only thing holding Yuri back from breaking the law even more, then this shouldn't even be a debate. Yuri was completely right and Flynn was completely wrong.

[@ninototo1]

​@@MrMegaSuperDuperMeYup. A missed opportunity in my opinion.

[@LOREWITHBLAZER]

Fun fact: Yuri Lowenthal wanted to voice Yuri Lowell but due to the fact he already did Tales of Anyss protagonist Luke and Asch the bloody he was turn down from the roll

[@jackripple5179]

Really?

[@MrGamer1992]

From what I've heard, Namco was the one that called Yuri Lowenthall ahead of time and apologized that he couldn't do the voice of the next game protagonist because, like you said, he has already done Luke/Asch. He said it was fine and Namco said "You don't understand, the next protagonist's name is Yuri Lowell". That's when he was shocked but glad to see his friend, Troy Baker, do the role instead and I do gotta say, his voice does fit the role

[@mohammadbashammakh]

I think the dynamic between Estelle and Yuri is that while Yuri sees the ugly and evil part of the world around him , Estelle is a reflection of the innocence and purity in that world , that drives Yuri to protect her and help her , he is protected the bright light of hope ( that is Estelle) in this bleak and dark world

[@apukami3643]

Something like Yuri is the dark of the night and Estelle the light of the stars. Althought Yuri is more Gray than Black in that area.

[@mohammadbashammakh]

Alberto Rodríguez that’s a bit harsh friend, you make it sound like Yuri is evil when you say he is the darkness to her light , while Yuri Does have his dark moments, he is not evil, he is reacting to the evil of others in a way that he sees as necessary and unavoidable, Estelle is so innocent and kind she hasn’t been exposed to the dark reality of the outside world like he did , he sees that innocence as something precious and rare in this world that he needs to protect , at least that’s my POV

[@apukami3643]

@@mohammadbashammakh I know Yuri is not Evil. Thats why I said he is more in the Gray territory. Almost in the end of the game he realized he cant keep doing his vigilante stuff so he confronts Duke about it. Because Duke was doing almost the same thing as Yuri but with mankind as a whole.

[@mohammadbashammakh]

Alberto Rodríguez dude , no spoilers

[@apukami3643]

@@mohammadbashammakh Sorry I just got excited in defending my favorite character.

[@silentspirit8923]

I love this man! He does not give a darn about what people think of him. He's not afraid to take matters into his own hands, and he has his own morals and code while still maintaining one of the best personalities I've seen in a protagonist! Again, I love Yuri Lowell!

[@thechickenskeptic]

Just the "Intend to? I already have" in his conversation with Flynn about crime is so cold and well done, I love it

[@jhorn64]

I agree entirely with Yuris approach, with people like Ragou and Cumore who are essentially untouchable by the law as it is, just how many other innocent people would they send to their deaths in the time it took to change how things were to bring them to justice? The taking of one evil life to save countless innocents is the best course of action to take in a situation like that.

[@knox7945]

Yuri is the definition of chaotic neutral or chaotic lawful.

[@chilomine839]

Funny you call him chaotic lawful because neutral lawful was his job before before he said f*ck it and left the knights.

[@ninototo1]

You mean chaotic good. Lawful makes no sense

[@danielgeronimo5538]

Yuri's actions and judgement is among the reasons why I love the second act so much. If only it centered on that alone all the way to the third act of the game.

[@Mnemoniforma9.00]

Yuri and Flynn's dynamic is on full display in their Link Mystic Arte, Twin Wave; they rend the same enemy, with the same artes, and then each release a beam representative of their perspectives, Yuri dark and Flynn light, the two beams spiral off one another in a double helix to produce an even more devastating shot that pierces straight through. Their perspectives may clash, but that is pivotal for them to progress and fulfill the grand mission before them.

[@rebelblade7159]

Nice analysis as always. Just finished Vesperia today along with First strike. To me, Yuri did not feel like a true anti-hero despite his vigilante actions. He felt more like a borderline anti-hero since he only kills when there is no other options left, as with Ragou and Cumore who's actions and beliefs he sees first hand. Still I love how Vesperia tackled this matter. Instead of the plot glorifying Yuri for "having the convictions to do the right thing" we see Yuri not only acknowledge that he was still committing murder, but we see how that decision affects him, especially how he decided to hide his actions from other members of Brave Vesperia. This also works as a way to show his flaw of having a lone wolf mentality, which in turn fits the theme of friendship and cooperation in the story. One thing that made Yuri compelling for me was his free spirited nature. It seems to be an integral part of his character as we get to see it early on as his first appearance in the First Strike movie where Yuri did not follow orders to a letter when setting that trap for the monsters. In game, its more visible with his interactions with the other characters, especially Estelle who had trouble finding purpose for herself. Whenever he gives others advice, Yuri never tells them exactly what to do. Instead he gives more of a guideline like telling Estelle to choose what she feels like.

[@MetalGearRaxis]

I would describe Yuri as "Baby's First Anti-Hero" since his anti-heroics are limited to just committing crime in a world where you can't fix things by legal means.

[@DigitalStarry]

Ahh yes, I love talking about Yuri. While I’ve only been able to experience Vesperia recently this year with the Definitive Edition, I have a lot to say and Yuri is one of my all time favorites, even if the narrative could have been more critical on his views. Great video and I’d like to add my opinions to the mix to expand on what makes him great. His personality is as you mentioned, is a wonderful mix of sarcasm, blunt, but also caring. He messes with others or makes a dig at the situation, such as when he and Karol are discussing their “punishment” in Heliord after getting caught in a skit. Yet deep down he does care behind the jokes. He frequently pokes fun at Karol or call him Captain, but he also does it to help boost his confidence and lets him decide on what to do to make him take charge. Some may not care for his wisecracks and all, but its refreshing from the normal Japanese humor, which often isn’t funny for me. He’s also coolheaded, doesn’t break down at the sight of seeing a girl half naked (seriously the skit where him and Judith talk for the first time is hilarious), and a guy you’d want to have a drink with. It’s nice. His voicework is great, at least in Japanese (I played with JP audio due to the numerous issues with the DE added voicework) and from what little I’ve listened to of the dub, a great performance from Baker, which helps add to the memorability. But another aspect of Yuri that I enjoyed a lot was his mold breaker status for JRPG protagonists. His everyman status. Normally most JRPG protagonists fall under the same tropes of being special in some way or form. They might be apart of some unique race, they might have special powers or the ability to wield a unique weapon or form, or just simply the chosen one conscripted into saving the world. But Yuri doesn’t have any of these things, he’s just a normal person. If anything he’s at a disadvantage, since he specifically lacks any desire to learn magic and he grew up poor and orphaned. The things he has is his strong will, desires, intuition, and personality to go off of. Likewise, JRPGs usually go for the transparent power fantasy for their audience, usually by making the protagonist a teenager who has to go on a grand journey to discover himself. Instead Yuri is an adult and while he does change, he’s very much set and confident in most of his ways from beginning to end. Yuris less like what you’d expect the protagonist to be and more like the cool rival or mentor you wish was the protagonist. Another aspect that breaks the mold (usually) is that there’s no romance subplot between him and someone else. Instead Vesperia focuses more on the guild being a family, many of which lacked. Nobody ends up strangled into romance, many at times I find to be uninteresting, forced, or underdeveloped. Its refreshing. He’s not perfect and I wish that the narrative could have criticized his outlook more or punished him for his vigilantism (or at least made the people he murdered less one dimensional) but what’s there is great.

[@elixirvitaegames]

Thanks for the comment and the support! I absolutely agree with your points here. It's really refreshing for Yuri to be so different from typical JRPG protagonists, especially with him being both an adult and not some chosen hero, as you mentioned. The Tales series tends to be good to their characters anyway, but Yuri really shines in this game. I do agree that the people he killed did tend to be one-dimensional, in hindsight. Only a couple of the enemies in the game really have their motives fleshed out, and even then it can be difficult to see where the grey areas are with them, despite Yuri's whole conflict being about having grey morality and murdering in the name of justice. I think Berseria does a little better in that aspect, since its antagonists weren't quite so one-dimensional and the main antihero is constantly criticised both by others and herself for her actions.

[@loewessb]

I agree in everything, but in the romance part I think there actually is in some way, Rita and Estelle, besides almost all of it is from Rita's side imo. I saw a plenty of people ship Yuri and Judith, but I think they would end more as fvckfriends xD

[@silentspirit8923]

Yuri and Estelle is saw as a brother and sister relationship. If Estelle is represented as a Child of the Full Moon, then that would make Yuri Brave Vesperia.

[@TheZombiesAreComing]

"even if the narrative could have been more critical on his views" He's not wrong though. The idea that "taking a life is wrong, no matter the reason", is cliche and over used. While the "hero" works his way through the ranks to maintain his "moral high ground", innocent people are suffering. An anti-hero on the other hand, they actually do something about the situation, even if it means getting their hands dirty and becoming the target of hatred to naive idealists who think the world is all sunshine and rainbows and that anything and everything can be solved peacefully.

[@fjsyfs3951]

Sir your likes are 69 and counting........ fuNnY nUmbeR

[@Solgilou]

Finally, a channel that makes Tales of analyses

[@Yorkshiriann]

is that the next game in the series?

[@jenniferg2706]

Even though Yuri killed a lot of people he still saved the lives of many other people. Even though murder is a crime he did save a lot of people it's better to save people then to let them suffer

[@davidtimmer596]

Legally, Yuri may be wrong, but morally, he's right. The perfect definition of Chaotic Good.

[@triforceofcourage100]

My favorite aspect of his character is the fact that what he does is never outright called out as wrong. His actions are extremely justified as there are a great many terrible people who have too much influence and are thus above the law.

[@JapanFreak2595]

Finally, a meaty Yuri Yowell analysis I can sink my teeth into.

[@chilomine839]

HE’S JUST SO COOL! -Vegeta probably

[@Neuviletteiudexofmemes]

Hmmm. “Crime” has nothing to do with morality. Committing a violation of the law goes against “order” but it is not tied to “Morality”. The law is a system designed to maintain society, and thus must be rigid and clear in its intent, it must work on absolutes, how morality cannot be defined so. Right and wrong can only be truly decided on an individual level, in that sense, and every human born is above the law. It is simply that whether someone is right or not does not, can not, matter if a society is to be maintained. However we as humans can ignore that. The law is our creation and it is beneath us. So long as we are willing to face the consequences, then we have the right to do what we believe is right. As for Yuri facing punishment for his actions, Yuri rejects the laws of the Empire, and rightfully so. A system so corrupt that violates its own laws and betrays its contract with its own citizens has already broken the core tenets of a ruling body. Their laws are null and void and thusly any punishment he would face for his actions is likewise null. And if instead you’re implying that the act of taking life in general is somehow inherently wrong, then I must ardently disagree. That robs life itself of what gives it true value. It is not that we are born, but what we do with the gift of life that determines our value. Taking the life of someone who victimizes innocent people for no higher reason then their own selfish greed or distain, especially to prevent them from committing further evil, is nothing more then common sense.

[@Neuviletteiudexofmemes]

@@nobody.of.importance Exactly so.

[@Miketendo26]

Yuri is one of my favourite characters of all time, he's written so well. I've only played a handful of Tales games but Vesperia was one I sunk the most into and was so happy when it came to Switch! Characters like this, I wish there was more, something about Yuri is just so compelling. This video was so accurate to how I feel about this side of him too, very well made! There's so much I could say but that'd be just a paragraph I don't wanna bore people with xD

[@arurueruru9177]

Still in the middle of playing Vesperia(very late to the party, I know. Got my reasons. Financial reasons, mainly), but I guess one thing that made me really like Yuri's characters is he is snarky and got a sharp-tongue, but not to the point of being confrontational or edgy. He isn't being snarky all the time either, and will converse normally most of the time too. Obviously caring and heroic in his own way, but not to the point of being super messianic that he came off as corny or unrelatable. Just a chill dude overall, which is why I feel that he is a pleasant character.

[@dsr50dvj]

I never got to truly realize what flaws Yuri had during the game until I watched this video, despite playing twice. Brilliantly done. Thank you.

[@omiorahman6283]

the only flaw yuri has is his game ends. XD

[@chilomine839]

He’s a renegade type, he pretty much did what we wish we could do to tear down a system that firmly refuses to relent.

[@haileyharmon5298]

You know, Yuri's character gets more relevant and relatable when you know, the mess that happened last year and in January this year.

[@chilomine839]

Yup

[@medalgearsalad1419]

Wait wut?

[@DkKobaADV]

Yuri would not identify with the January 6 insurrection lmao

[@dragonturtleab.3036]

He definitely is someone who got into my hall of fame for Maincharacters and he is one of the most interesting Main characters I have come across. Also I finished resently my first playthrough of tales of Vesperia and got interested into the tales of games as a whole. Hopefully there are some other analysis videos you made.

[@Hikaru0kamiki]

Yuri was so damn popular his ass got banned out of the popularity, like real shit it happened 👌🏾

[@ArmoredarmadilloX]

Real shit?

[@Hikaru0kamiki]

@@ArmoredarmadilloX yes it, cause he I'd favored alot

[@ArmoredarmadilloX]

@@Hikaru0kamiki I mean, I can see why. He's not only a badass, but is also a badass while being a badass ON TOP of being a badass

[@Hikaru0kamiki]

@@ArmoredarmadilloX I remember when they had a poll for other tales of characters and yuri wasn't in it and people kept sayin yuri XD Tbh my favorite tales of protagonist Is Emil (only for ratatosk mode lmao) Yuri. Asbel. Lloyd. Senel.

[@ArmoredarmadilloX]

@@Hikaru0kamiki If we're allowed to say any character... Repede.

[@darknessdevours5827]

"Alexei play A Tragic Decision" That's AMAZING. I give you complete, full, and entire props for that. You win the Award for Earning an Award Award in my book.

[@Petrisha]

What a fantastic analysis - notably for a JRPG protagonist that I always felt never got as much credit as he deserves! I love how Yuri's entire character arc basically centers around compromise and balancing himself out too, in spite of his convictions and resolve; to become de-radicalized toward the final third of the story while still maintaining his beliefs. This happens when he starts to realize that neither the empire nor guilds on their own can solve all of the world's problems - which clearly he thought escaping society as he knew it to start a guild life was the answer. But also learning that neither fully circle his philosophies alone. There's a balance he has to strike in embracing both sides, and then acting as the bridge between them. He learns about how to compromise and embrace this balance with his friends and the people he meets, and applies what he's learned to essentially become a neutral diplomat to save the world. Awesome insights, you really put into words what's going on in the narrative when I watch a cutscene and go "man Yuri's so cool, he always knows what to say". Looking forward to viewing more!

[@robinohitsugaya4762]

Wow! Omgg finallyyy! someone understanding and appreciating yuri for who and what he is couldn't agree with you more on all of those points ! 👌🖤 His unique choices and actions and ways of doing and handling things and his diffrent from most ideology and vigilante type of character (wich Is a type personally love much) is what makes him soo interesting and fresh and unique and interesting, he does what he believes is right and is mature enough to understand and take responsibility for his actions even if others disagree he follows his own truth, the fact that he is soo realistic and logical and mature and makes mistakes and isn't the perfect hero is what makes him so relatable and lovable I personally relate to much to his character and see alot of his personality relatable to my own and other people's. ^^ That's my reason for loving him I guess sorry that was long xD 😅

[@BronzeLincolns81]

There is no right or wrong. There is only power. Vesperia is another installment in the Tales series whose games tend to deal with the subject of morals and ethics in getting us to further examine them.

[@majorke600]

Very good analysis! I always fine main characters that aren’t always morally correct like Yuri and Dezel from Zesteria. Look forward to seeing more

[@DiogoJ1]

Actually, killing evil people is still morally correct.

[@ObsidianFaux]

This is why I love Yuri, absolutely in love with him and lelouch ❤️

[@averageplayers5288]

I love Vesparia. It was my first Tales game and one of my favorite games of all time. Yuri is my Favorite Tales main character while Xillia is my favorite game

[@princefishyfingers7498]

Yeah xillia and berseria are the best on my opinion

[@lucassworldofletsplays9270]

Divisive? This guy? He was one of the few Tales characters who were actually BANNED from Tales series popularity polls because he JUST KEPT WINNING.

[@TadpoleSuperhero]

Yay, another analysis video! There's so much to say about Yuri Lowell, I love how you were able to distill things down and focus in on his most core, defining traits. This was great! Really enjoying the Vesperia LP, too. Keep up the great videos :)

[@moonkid3132]

Just another video making me ask "So why didn't we get an anime for Vesperia?" I know it wouldn't be the same but I still want it. I don't even care if it's as shitty as the Persona 5 anime I just want one so bad

[@deathbykonami5487]

There was the animated movie First Strike that takes place before the game.

[@gothxm]

One of the big reasons is his Character Design im sure. Dude with a sword lol. Its way more than that but that's always a great starting point.

[@mohammadbashammakh]

Yuri have some resemblance to Dante from the devil may cry video game series, they both charming and humorous heroes with a devil may care attitude, both free spirited, both know about the evil in their respective world and determine to do something about it , both have major influences on the people ( and allies ) around them , both are excellent swordsmen ( I don’t know how good yuri would be with guns ) and both fight to defend the goodness in their world even at the expense of their own happiness

[@JapanFreak2595]

If you go by the Tales of Rays (Chibi) Theater shorts, then Yuri would be a SSS Gunslinger.

[@mysteryace2129]

Except Dante in 3 never cared for the world just filling up on what was interesting or fun to him. It was only after his multiple experiences in that game towards the climax that he finally becomes responsible and is motivated to stop his brother on what path he is about to go on as their mom and dad wouldn't have wanted that for him. He literally could've diffused that whole situation if he brought up what happened to their mother in the first confrontation but Dante isn't bothered by bringing up the family although Vergil did which Dante didn't want to take part of.

[@Mechassault_Man]

Just five minutes in and you got my subscription. I love Vesperia but despite me playing it through the Definitive Edition last year, I have amazingly strong Nostalgic feelings for it that didn't click with me like Berseria and Xillia did. Vesperia means a lot to me, and I've already put in two playthroughs, and are staring a third. I knew Yuri was a strong protagonist, but didn't know exactly what made him such a likeable character and protagonist. You helped me realize it. Thank you. I hope you continue your work on the Tales series in the future, and I seriously hope that I can perhaps one day get in contact with you and talk about the Tales series and other topics.

[@lanisolfire5692]

Yuri is probably my favorite tales character. Thanks for this video

[@Digidragon55]

Your not going to make a comparison toward Yuri and Alexei? The quote: The world's biggest fool! Is remarked to both of them!

[@Digidragon55]

Also, The First Strike prequel film. It adds more context ,why Yuri gave up as a knight.

[@swordsmanwil]

Still the best Yuri Lowell analysis video after all these years 👍

[@PointVeteran]

Even though this was made a year ago, I do hope more Vesperia analysis videos will be made.

[@bazla123]

I love Yuri - it's nice to have a protagonist that isn't a goody goody hero and has flaws. personally, i do see Yuri as a good person (mosly) , yes he has commited very questionnable acts, but a lot of these were against twisted and evil people. Yuri deals with the root cause and that's what I love about him.

[@zhaoyun255]

That best part was that Yuri at first LET THE LAW deal with them first. However, those laws let scums like Ragou and Culmore walked free despite their unholy crime against humanity. This is the same council that led his captain to his death. That was the last straw.

[@littlehollow7196]

Yuri, the Batman to Flynns Superman

[@ArtsyFoxo]

Yuri is such a good protag because he gets shit done. Like, it makes sense to take a greedy politician out who is CLEARLY the issue with why a certain town is suffering. And if they law/systems at be let them walk? Then take 'em out! Especially since the actions of those various politicians and villains are the direct reason for the deaths of many! I remember when I was streaming the game and it literally felt amazing to have a character that resonated with me so much in terms of his practicality.

[@0p3Ace]

I’m replaying the game rn and came across this video, honestly wanted to say that want to put the idea that he doesn’t ever allow himself to use this strong opinions in a negative way to his party! He accepts and allows people to find themselves has a lot of patience that makes him a great friend! So much abt the idea of “justice” in the game and how we wish to “fix the world” the way things are set feel like Yuri can be seen villain in his actions but also have the care and protection for those in his party and life that really pushes his ideas ambitions to be more than just where he was in the lower quarters!! He’s def that more anti hero with healthy relationships, he has to be very certain abt what he wants or I’m pretty sure he understands (having that maturity) that is he wasn’t 100% that it can possibly affect the people around him from his actions so when he decides he’s set on it without regrets because “hesitations leads to missing opportunities and regret” plus overthinking. I feel like yuri had so much from him in the beginning but wasn’t in the “where” until he started his journey and meet everyone really pushes him to adjust, never saying it was easy often times admitted his faults was aware but was willing to do adjustments in his actions less with words

[@ZenBearV13]

Tales of Vesperia is the only single player JRPG I have ever completed, and Yuri's charisma played no small part in keeping me invested from start to finish.

[@zgamer200]

Just played Tales of Vesperia(thank you DE)) for the first time and loved it. The music is great, the characters are great, and the story is solid. Yuri was a great protagonist in my opinion. I loved his personality, his jokes, quick wit, and how strong he was in his beliefs, and it probably helps that Yuri's personal morals very much reflect my own. That said, I agree that it's kind of a bummer that we don't really see any real consequence for Yuri killing people, even if in my opinion his vigilante justice on Cumore and Ragou was more than justified. Just seems like such a missed opportunity to really dive into that, but I can also understand why they would want to shy away from such a moral gray area. Speaking of missed opportunity though, why do we not get to fight Flynn, Sodia and Witcher? I kept on waiting and waiting for Yuri and Flynn's clash of ideals to lead to an actual physical clash, and nothing. Honestly disappointing for me.

[@2007excalibur2007]

8 months late to this, but you do get to fight Flynn tho? Twice, in fact. The first time is partially scripted, and the second time is for reals. Granted it's not due to their clash of ideals, but they dueled nonetheless. :p

[@zgamer200]

@@2007excalibur2007 I meant Flynn, Sodia and Witcher as a group. Not just one of them.

[@allsparkwarrier]

I have played Vesperia and I absolutely loved it I think it is 1 of the best games that have ever been made since the industry began 😁

[@theikachi]

this, this is gold, why de fack YT just recomend me this right now?! i need this chanel like 10 years ago! amazing, you just got a new follower!

[@Doglover745]

The description though. Lol.

[@felipearc8277]

I just beat the game and this videos really good. You should make another one.

[@yukiutaware1064]

His morals are uncompromising and it's what I love about him. I don't see his actions as unjust, especially when he goes to great lengths to correct a problem but realizes the world doesn't need someone like him in the long run, propping up Flynn as the actual hero from his position in the shadows. He's so committed to his sense of justice and self he only needs to follow through and let the results be attributed to more virtuous people. Yuri is a masterclass into how to write an anti hero..

[@derekb2314]

Yuri lives his life on his own terms. He is someone who views rules as obstacles and evaluates if they are worthy of respect or not. But at the same time, he's not just some heartless and bitter person. He has a strong sense of honor, walks his own path and is set in his ways. I also think he just gets a lot of respect for ending Ragou and Cumore. I loved it, finally a game where the protagonist isn't too much of a pacifist to do what needs to be done but isn't a uchiha level edgelord obsessed with revenge. He just has that calm energy. Like he is ready for anything. It's very cool.

[@fernandoalvarez9613]

Yuri is the best RPG protagonist ever!!

[@princefishyfingers7498]

I personally like adol from ys. And velvet from berseria better but yuri is cool

[@plusgtr1st124]

I do not think. For me Alphen and Velvet are Better than Yuri.

[@LuisChavez-ms5ln]

You are damn good at analyzing this game, you explain what I didn’t understand and now I like the game even more

[@princefishyfingers7498]

Yuri never killed cumore it was kinda his fault for running towards the sand :/

[@DiogoJ1]

Yeah, sort off. Doesn't matter much, since he still deserved it, so Yuri would be doing no wrong either way.

[@LightDragon777]

Yuri and Flynn's dynamic always reminds me of Lelouch and Suzaku if there are any Code Geass fans out there.

[@Stella_the_Cosmix_Overlord78]

Super late, but that was one of the first things I thought when I saw them together. The moral debate here was actually more understandable here than Code Geass though mainly because Suzaku was stupid a lot of the time.

[@Barbarianhoof]

Underrated video for an underrated character! Nice video

[@Poet482]

Great analysis, but you're definitely wrong in saying that Yuri is not a good guy. He is, he's just not a lawful good guy. Neutral good is true good, but of course the conflict arises about far is necessary to say a person has gone "too far." Hence the theme song. He summed it up perfectly with his speech about how the law is often just a weapon to be used by those who hold all the chips. The reality is, both in the game and in real life, that people like Yuri and Flynn are *both* necessary for mankind to flourish, as there will always be elites that cannot be touched by the law due to ample corruption. How those opposing forces with the same goal go about keeping tabs on one another is inherently fascinating, as it would only take one bad day for either of them to become exactly what they hate, whether they realise it or not. The characters in this game are great. It's been close to a decade since I played it, and perhaps I should pick up the definitive edition soon. The cast of every Tales game I've played (Vesperia and Berseria) have always been fantastic, so I wonder if the same can be said of all the other games in this series. Recommendations, anyone?

[@elixirvitaegames]

I was more referring to the black/white morality idea of "good guys" and "bad guys", but you do have a point in that his alignment is a lot more complicated than that. That's part of what makes his character - and this game's conflicts - so fascinating. The definitive edition is definitely worth picking up if you're interested! The cast of Abyss were pretty interesting imo, and a lot of people seem to like Symphonia and Xillia's casts. I've also heard very good things about Graces recently. Failing that, Arise comes out in less than a month!

[@bronzeoliniisnotfunny7885]

Yuri is definitely my favorite Tales of protag in all the games I've played. :D

[@RedTheWeeb]

Stefieroth streaming this game is making it in my algorithm how odd. Either way I love yuri but ima watch this later since her playthrough isnt over

[@theprocrastinator16]

i would love to see analysis vids like those for other tales games specifically van(abyss) and mithos(Symphonia)

[@ZodiacMeteor]

The most appealing characteristic about Yuri is he feels the weight of his actions. When he does commit murder, it's not glorified, there is no epic battle. These corrupt government officials beg for their lives, beg for mercy, in their end, they don't even die regretting their horrible actions. It's... just empty in feeling. The Don died honorably, but their deaths was pathetic. It's shows that Yuri feels that burden, after he murders, his behavior is detached for a bit, lonesome, he's clearly not thrilled when cutting down a truly terrible person that ruined countless lives; It's the opposite of what you'd expect of someone achieving their goal, Yuri feels angry. It speaks volumes on his ethics as a personality. It's why Yuri doesn't challenge Flynns resolve as being wrongful, he even likes Flynns resolve. The only argument Yuri can make against Flynns resolve is that it's not fast enough. I enjoy the fact it was no celebration or glory. In modern blockbuster movies (*cough* like Star Wars *cough*) killing the bad guys is a woo and cheer moment, like a video game you kill the other player and start doing a Fortnite dance for the funnies. This makes story writers fail to understand the woo and cheer story writers witness from audiences, the audience isn't expressing their morals, they're expressing the entertainment. When I saw a moment like that in theaters it came off as distasteful, awkward. These faceless and disposable "bad guys" in the stories are sometimes victims themselves, doing what they can to survive or naively view the world wrongly. Can you imagine watching your friend in battle get blown up to pieces, and your enemy just start cheering with excitement. How is the audience suppose to relate to the cheering heroes? Yeah, it's clear who is the crazy bad guys are. It's the guys that are killing people and gets happy about. The irony in a fantasy magic world, a person is more realistic than some realistic portraying modern entertainment.

[@ryanbyrd9167]

I just don't really subscribe to channels. But this was genuinely neat to watch! You got a sub. =]

[@JustAnAverageJoe]

yuri was my favorite protagonist in the series.

[@OneCoolCatKC]

Watching this makes me wonder if an analysis on Flynn and how will be done on different he is from Yuri. I think it would be pretty interesting.

[@mohammadbashammakh]

In a side note , is it just me or does raven blastia reminds you of tony stark heart ?

[@robinohitsugaya4762]

Btw sorry if you are busy or have other video plans but I'd love some more analysis or "can we talk about" videos if possible your thoughts and explorations are so good I'd love to see more! :)

[@Joshua.670]

I like yuri, he takes no shit from no one, he kills 2 villainous men who victimized the innocent, noting that it's illegal, he killed them knowing the judicial system of the knights were to soft and took the role of judge and jury, on side note, he never struck down the second, he clumsily fell into quicksand, you could say his evil plans went sinking in. Bitch had it coming 👌🤣 I have to agree with yuri's decision, it definitely saved lives

[@ayunyan8087]

Excellent analysis. really good job, thank you!

[@resid3nt3v1l]

This is a great video hope you get plenty of views and subs take care

[@Kyuubi424]

I always appreciated how ToV didn't necessarily paint Yuri's views as "correct". The game never really implies that he does the right thing, and Yuri is under no delusions in that regard either. He's a realist who decided that following the law won't always make a difference, and the game lets you decide to agree with him or not.

[@gianlucavallebarzola7765]

ily Yuri

[@moseslalmuanpuia8988]

I miss these kinds of jrpg.

[@edwardsarat9188]

I loved this video due to the lack videos on this game

[@deathbykonami5487]

Yuri has to be his own judge, jury, and executioner. Magistrate Ragoh was taxing his people to poverty and then locking the children of those who can't pay in a monster infested dungeon and forcing the parents to hunt a powerful monster to get them back. Cumore was a spoiled nobleman who spat on the common folk, going so far as to force civilians to go into the desert to track down the Entelexeia, Phaeroh. And the Imperial Council pardoned them both and was going to let them both walk free.

[@darkkingrikux]

Know this is a old video I haven't finished arise yet so idk if the main will be a fav but Yuri is definitely number 1 on my list for now at least

[@kakashi2801]

Subbed Great analysis. I'm going to buy the definitive edition next time it's on sale!

[@navi2710]

I disagree. When compared to Flynn who's supposed to be a hero yet Flynn stands by and let's anyone who is part of the nobility to get away with crimes. Flynn never puts justice before his duty. If a crime incurred in front of Flynn and he was ordered to stand down he would. Yes Flynn is portrayed as the hero figure by Yuri was not able to sit by and witness the injustice occure around him and turn a blind. That is what Flynn did. All of the change came about because of what Yuri did. Ragou and that other guy did as they pleased, no one did anything to stop them, the authority dragged it's feet and allowed criminals to go free while punishing the innocent. The scene where Flynn lectures Yuri just boils down to Flynn blaming Yuri for being a criminal but not the ones who Flynn has turned a blind eye to. Sorry but Yuri is not a criminal in a world where there is no justice.

[@aisakataiga5200]

Wow I'm glad I stumbled upon your content!

[@Alex-mb2cy]

Wow I kind of regret playing the game with japanese VO. Will someday replay it in english, definitely Oh yeah great video too!

[@davidenren6496]

MAN, I Love Yuri

[@masatoindou1759]

Sorry but Flynn’s rebuttal is just “BUT STILL” with no real good argument behind it, I’m sure deep down Flynn knew Yuri was right

[@elixirvitaegames]

Oh 100%! He's just hardheaded and needed to somehow justify to himself that he was doing the right thing, even when deep down he knew he wasn't.

[@christopherharbauer8374]

Now he can pair up and Combo with Flynn or Repede to be even More Bad ass

[@davidsabillon5182]

I haven't played this game in years. like commented and subscribed 👍

[@robinohitsugaya4762]

Btw also just noticed that u literally explained his relationship with everyone execpt Judith and Rita xD

[@elixirvitaegames]

I missed out Patty and Repede too from the main party! This video would have gone on forever if I spoke about his relationships with everyone ^^"

[@robinohitsugaya4762]

@@elixirvitaegames ohh okay fair enough that's true I guess I was kinda too deep into the video that enjoying it that I kinda forgot about the time 😅😆

[@mysteryace2129]

To put things shortly, They both go through the same arc. Both clearly lost trust in people and looked at as the odd balls/Outcast/Eccentrics in their groups(Rita and Judith) cause they don't play within society's norms. Yuri is there to break the ice for the 2 ice queens and show that working within a group comes with its advantages. Kinda Ironic since he's got his own lone wolf tendencies which they properly check him on. Also how he makes sure both understand that Estelle is a naive person so don't take advantage of her for your own purposes.

[@robinohitsugaya4762]

@@mysteryace2129 yeah nice that's a good view or way to put it tbh, so basically they all compliment each other and are there to balance each other and keep each other in check 👌 👍

[@skywraith6454]

Its kinda sad you never mentioned yuris loyal companion the best boi repede, he is such big part of the game and is definition of best boy

[@fernandozavaletabustos205]

Great video!

[@LeafDreams]

I really liked Yuri, he's pretty unique compared to other protags, ToV DE is a pretty great game, I only would like to see more scenes and more screentime about Duke, making him a better and more memorable final antagonist. Duke fits well as final boss, but I feel Tales of the Abyss' final boss fits better for the "there's not right or wrong, just people fighting for different ideals, even if both are good in some way" I think if Duke had more screentime and scenes ToV would be the best Tales in everything.(almost, the EX Dungeon needs a fix in the rng, fake gald farming is pretty meh, specially with the overlevel after finishing it)

[@jethiliusavalar6449]

I got trapped at the last dungeon. That room with the crystals and the walls that fall after u shoot them. I even followed a walkthrough

[@jethiliusavalar6449]

@Super Sayan Darmanitan nothing. My autistic ass just likes thinking in KZbin comments sometimes :)

[@Sasuke1948]

Insta sub great character analysis keep up the great work

[@LeizXD]

chad yuri les go bois

[@deadtown5094]

Ty for this x

[@dragonkight64dragonslayer62]

He's not a hero he's a chad

[@TheTrueBighead]

Great video analysis. Would love to hear your thoughts on Tales of Symphonia, or other games.

[@elixirvitaegames]

Thank you! I've not played Tales of Symphonia yet, but once I do I'm sure I'll make at least one analysis of it ^^

[@wayneitaru]

Good content , cheers 👋

[@aldairlara5582]

Yuri Lowell Is a giga chad

[@mohammadbashammakh]

I gave you all my thoughts about Yuri and Flynn relationship in the last analysis video, if you haven’t seen that , please go back and read it , I AM NOT REPEATING MYSELF