Yup you nailed it, think classic top down Zelda but with more fast paced bump combat/hack n slash combat depending on which game you're playing, and less puzzles. Don't be ashamed to use a walkthrough for Ys 1 and 2 as they are originally made in the late 80s/early 90s and have some obscure elements to them (find a boss before getting x item and you will get one shotted/ won't be able to damage him, etc)