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The Legend of Heroes: Trails Through Daybreak review

July 19, 2024

Embarking on a new narrative arc, here is my review of the role-playing game The Legend of Heroes: Trails Through Daybreak. Available on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and PC, the story takes us to the region of Calvard. While seasoned players will be pleased to discover unique characters, this edition is an excellent gateway into the “Trails” franchise for new players as well.

The Legend of Heroes: Trails Through Daybreak details

Platform(s): Nintendo Switch / PlayStation 4 / PlayStation 5 / PC
Reviewed on: PlayStation 5
Developer: Nihon Falcom
Publisher: NIS America
Genre: Role-playing game
Mode: Single-player
ESRB Rating: T (Teens, 13 and older)
Languages : Available in English and Japanese

A dark threat looms over Calvard

Agnes, the young student hires the Arkride Solutions agency to help her find an old family artifact. Initially reluctant, Van Arkride finally accepts the contract. We quickly realize that the artifact has a magical aura directly linked to events posing a threat to the peace. In fact, there are several scattered throughout the region. To foil the criminal group Almata’s plans and prevent demons from taking over the land, Van, Agnes, and their friends will fight together. The stakes are too high. Despite typically working alone, a group of allies will join Van and Agnes on a perilous quest that will take them through all the nooks of the areas.

Revisiting familiar themes

In line with the series’ games, The Legend of Heroes: Trails Through Daybreak is a turn-based combat role-playing game. The chapters are divided into missions where our team completes quests for the citizens. We will then have time allotted to build relationships: going to the theater, shopping, having tea, etc. Of course, during the main portion, the focus is on discovering where the missing artifacts are and how enemies are using them. This saga boasts a rich story. The game has many cinematic scenes. The dialogues are plentiful and enrich the plot. Besides the group formed by Van, Agnes, and their friends, we will also guild members and policemen. The three groups will work together despite their mutual mistrust.

I would say that the storylines can be predictable. We encounter many characters and some good twists in the story. However, everything related to side missions, citizen requests, and monster hunting is nothing new. It’s enjoyable and adds to the gameplay. On the other hand, it doesn’t bring anything new compared to previous versions.

Dynamic battles

One of the new features that we instantly notice in The Legend of Heroes: Trails Through Daybreak is the combat system. First, we can choose real-time or turn-based combats. The latter is better, but a good sword strike in direct action can quickly eliminate lower-level monsters.

In the combat phase, our heroes can come closer to attack together. This bond strengthens over time, resulting in more advanced actions. On top of the screen, we see the fighters’ turns, but I find this new interface harder for planning my moves ahead. We still have the choice between direct attacks or Arts and each character has abilities they can develop and customize. Preparing our heroes with the right tools, care, and meals takes time. Once you can master this, this becomes an essential part of the steps to take to succeed in major battles.

Playing at the normal level, I found the guardians less tough than in previous games. Usually, their level is way too strong if our characters haven’t progressed enough, especially towards the end of the game. Since this game could be finished in around sixty hours (based on previous games in the series), I haven’t reached the final level yet. I expect that one to be very difficult, let’s see.

The Legend of Heroes: Trails Through Daybreak introduces a new era in the “Trails” series

The “Trails” series may seem intimidating due to the number of games. Regular players would be pleased to find familiar elements that enhance the overall experience. For instance, real-time battles allow for quickly eliminating weaker monsters without triggering the turn-based sequence each time.

Regarding the story and chapter progression, the game’s overall mechanics remain similar to other titles. Seeing characters from previous games was a pleasant surprise for me. The universe is cohesive, and that’s what makes it endearing. However, here we are at the beginning of a new era with characters we are just getting to know. This will allow all those interested to join this series I adore.

If you’re interested in the game, the Deluxe Edition includes the digital soundtrack via a download code and a small illustrated book. For fans, it’s a must-have!