In the realm of role-playing games, few titles have captured the hearts of players quite like The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel. Initially released on PC in 2017, this game unexpectedly drew in a player who had previously not considered themselves a fan of Japanese RPGs, aside from the acclaimed Persona series. A serendipitous encounter led to a remarkable 50-hour journey through a world filled with engaging characters, intricate combat systems, and a unique academic structure that resonated deeply.
Over the years, the allure of the Trails of Cold Steel series grew, leading to the realization that perhaps everyone has a hidden affinity for JRPGs, waiting to be uncovered through the right game at the right moment. However, the desire to revisit the origins of this captivating series posed a challenge. The earlier installments, particularly Trails in the Sky, were over two decades old, presenting a nostalgic yet daunting prospect. Players faced the dilemma of experiencing a classic game while sacrificing modern enhancements in gameplay and quality of life improvements, not to mention the transition from the contemporary 3D graphics to the charming chibi-sprite aesthetics of earlier titles.
Reviving a Classic
Fortunately, the gaming landscape has shifted with the recent remake of Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter. After dedicating a week to exploring this revitalized version, it’s evident that the remake successfully captures the essence of the original while introducing significant upgrades. A side-by-side comparison of the original and the remake highlights the transformative changes, yet the spirit of the series remains intact.
The narrative unfolds around the dynamic relationship between the protagonists, Joshua and Estelle, whose interactions oscillate between humor and heartfelt moments. Estelle, in particular, quickly emerged as a standout character, notably for her unexpected dropkick within the first five minutes of gameplay, which set a lively tone for the adventure ahead.
The game boasts a well-structured chapter format and introduces a diverse cast of characters who join the party along the way. Despite the expansive world and numerous side quests, the game is designed to be approachable, allowing players to complete the main story within a reasonable timeframe. Engaging in side quests and exploring the environment can enhance the experience, with one player noting that they completed the game in approximately 40 hours, having fully immersed themselves in every aspect of the adventure. However, a more streamlined playthrough could be achieved in about 25 to 30 hours.
Excitingly, the developers at Falcom have confirmed plans for a remake of the second chapter, hinting at the possibility of adapting all story arcs leading up to Cold Steel. This opens the door for fans to anticipate even more content in the future.
For those intrigued by this revitalized classic, a demo of Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter is available on Steam, offering a glimpse into the enchanting world that awaits. The full game is also accessible for those ready to embark on this nostalgic journey.
