The Trails / Kiseki series has become a juggernaut in the world of RPGs, particularly notable for its grand scale and rich interconnected narrative. Set on the continent of Zemuria, this JRPG series prides itself on an intertwining universe of characters and storylines, where events in one game often have ripple effects in another. As of now, the series boasts of 12 mainline games, with a 13th installment slated for a release later in Japan.
Nintendo Switch players have witnessed the series' arrival since 2020, and with "The Legend of Heroes: Trails through Daybreak" set to release in summer, we turn to fans to determine the best of the series available on the platform. Your ratings out of 10 could potentially rearrange the standings, giving everyone the power to influence the list's hierarchy.
Starting from the lower end of the ranked list, "The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel IV" stands as the adulated conclusion to a saga years in the making. This RPG, however, is not advised for newcomers due to it being the culmination of a long journey. "Trails of Cold Steel III" acts as another remarkable piece, though it's ideal for players to experience the preceding games for complete immersion and understanding.
Surprisingly, "The Legend of Nayuta: Boundless Trails" branches out with its action RPG mechanics, providing a unique, albeit simpler narrative compared to its mainline peers. It's accessible for newcomers due to its minimal ties with the overarching series.
"The Legend of Heroes: Trails to Azure" gets high marks for pacing, character depth, and setting, encapsulating everything that defines the Trails series. Likewise, "Trails from Zero" garners praise for its story's focus on a single state and a more intimate cast, offering both a self-contained tale and a gateway to the series.
At the pinnacle, "Trails into Reverie", though not without its flaws, is celebrated for bringing together elements from both the Crossbell and Cold Steel arcs, proving to be a treasure trove for dedicated fans of the series.
For those new to the Trails / Kiseki wonderland, embarking on this RPG journey may seem daunting. The best starting point would ideally be the very first game, "The Legend of Heroes: Trails in the Sky," which isn't on Switch. However, starting at the onset of an arc is still a viable option, making "Trails from Zero" a fitting beginning for Switch users. It’s generally advised against starting midway through any arc, as the intricate narrative might become confusing and less impactful.
The series is notorious for its intricately linked story, so while it's possible to bounce around, doing so might lead to a disjointed experience. Ideally, you'd want to complete an arc before venturing into the next. Here's a bundled guide according to their Japanese release dates:
- Liberl Arc: Trails in the Sky trilogy
- Crossbell Arc: Trails from Zero and Trails to Azure
- Erebonia Arc: Trails of Cold Steel series and Trails into Reverie
- Calvard Arc: Trails through Daybreak and its forthcoming sequel
As for "Trails in the Sky" making its way to the Switch, nothing is set in stone. Toshihiro Kondo, Nihon Falcom's president, has mentioned interests in porting more of the Trails legacy to other platforms, which does provide a glimmer of hope for potential ports.
It's noteworthy that the older "The Legend of Heroes" titles before the Trails series began are not a prerequisite to understand and enjoy the Trails / Kiseki games, as the storylines are largely independent from each other.
We hope this peek into the Trails / Kiseki rankings on Switch helps you find your jumping-off point to one of the most immersive RPG experiences. Whether you're new to the adventure or looking for the next chapter to explore, the series beckons with rich storytelling and complex character arcs. Each game is more than just a chapter; it's a passage into a detailed and bustling universe awaiting your footsteps. Happy adventuring!
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