Welcome to the Republic of Calvard, a nation known for its cultural diversity, technological advancements, and political reform. Two years after the events of the Great Twilight, there is some semblance of normal life returning to the World. However, in Calvard, events are unfolding behind the scenes that are questionable. As Van Arkride, it is your bread and butter to figure these things out as you take on the jobs that Bracers and Police do not take. Will the player discover the mystery taking place, or will the shadows rise? Find out in our new journey in The Legend of Heroes: Trails Through Daybreak.
The Legend of Heroes: Trails through Daybreak
Release Date: 07/05/2024
Platforms: PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch, PC
Genre: RPG
Text Language: English
Voice Languages: English, Japanese
Developer: Nihon Falcom Corporation
Publisher NIS America
Intro/Story:
From the official website:
Spriggan—a back-alley job born from the melting pot that is the Republic of Calvard. They can accept requests from anyone and everyone, serving as detectives one day, negotiators the next, and bounty hunters the day after. A spriggan may be called to handle jobs the police can’t, to consult with people about topics they don’t want getting out, and sometimes even to do above-board jobs for criminals and underground groups. They do all this because it is the spriggan way.
The year is 1208 of the Septian calendar.
In the Old Town district of the Republic’s capital city, a girl wearing the prim-and-proper uniform of a well-respected school approaches a door in the hallway of a run-down building. “Arkride Solutions,” she reads the words on the door. Gathering her nerve, she fixes her gaze ahead, clears her throat, and knocks three times.
…
She’s answered by a long, lazy yawn. “First thing in the morning…?” a voice can be heard grumbling from the other side of the door. Its owner is a bit slovenly and laid-back, but with a grizzled air about him that belies his youth. Languidly, he turns the doorknob.
…And it’s with this that a new trail begins.
Players assume the role of Van Arkride, who is a Spriggan. Spriggians are a type of underground agent who takes on jobs that blur the line between law enforcement, private investigation, and mercenary work. One day Van’s life takes a turn when he encounters a mysterious artifact tied to ancient Zemurian technology, setting off a chain of events that intertwine with the political unrest in Calvard, the rise of new criminal organizations, and the lingering effects of past wars. Van’s journey introduces a cast of allies, each with unique backstories and motivations, reflecting the series’ hallmark ensemble storytelling. Themes of identity, justice, and the clash of ideals are central as the characters face personal and collective challenges.
The Legend of Heroes: Trails Through Daybreak is a game from Nihon Falcom’s long-running Legend of Heroes series, which includes interconnected stories set in the rich world of Zemuria. This installment continues the narrative tradition of deep character development, intricate political intrigue, and dynamic combat systems. The story of Trails through Daybreak follows the journey of its protagonist as they navigate a world teetering on the edge of political and social upheaval. The narrative explores themes of friendship, betrayal, and the resilience of the human spirit, delivering impactful character arcs that feel earned and emotionally resonant.
The game world brims with life, from bustling cities to tranquil villages, each filled with NPCs who have distinct personalities and evolving stories. These details immerse players in a world that feels alive and ever-changing. It’s world-building, narrative delivery, and story is one of the best worlds that Falcom has built up and delivered to date. With this new evolution in terms of story, how does the gameplay hold up? Let’s take a look.
Gameplay:
Building on the turn-based combat system the series is known for, Trails through Daybreak introduces dynamic action elements, allowing players to seamlessly switch between strategic planning and real-time decision-making. The synergy between party members is emphasized through a revamped bond system, encouraging exploration of each character’s unique abilities. Exploration evolves and is now much more expensive with urban and rural areas to explore, emphasizing world-building through NPC interactions, side quests, and environmental storytelling. This also leads to sidequests discovered during gameplay. Side quests are a standout feature, offering meaningful content that ties directly into the world’s lore and character development. Whether uncovering hidden truths in forgotten ruins or helping a local merchant rebuild their trade, every task feels purposeful.
Customization also is refined a bit further in Trails through Daybreak. Gameplay allows for extensive options for character growth, equipment, and Orbment setups, enabling players to tailor strategies. The combat is refined to fit the story and narrative in the game. It feels as if Falcom took care with building up the world of Trails through Daybreak, each element, which includes the gameplay. With each new gameplay mechanic explained, the game explains it, and it also shows the evolution of the world. It is fascinating how much of an evolution takes place in the game.
There is much more to tackle in terms of the gameplay, but it is up to the player to experience at this point as well.
Audio and Visual:
The game’s visuals are nothing short of breathtaking. Its vibrant art style captures both the grandeur of expansive vistas and the intimate details of quiet moments. From golden sunrises over distant peaks to lantern-lit streets on a rainy evening, the attention to the atmosphere is unparalleled. This is inside the Republic of Calvard, as well as all other environments that the player visits. Everything is brought to life and so much care is brought into this.
Accompanying these visuals is a soundtrack that masterfully sets the tone for every scene. Sweeping orchestral pieces underscore moments of triumph, while softer melodies tug at the heartstrings during reflective interludes. Include this with masterclass voice work (I played only with the English voicework so I can only speak on that) and Trails through Daybreak is truly a work of art.
Fun Factor:
Trails through Daybreak is fun and fantastic in every sense of an RPG. Returning to this world was truly a fun experience, along with a catchy story, and character development that is rare in games these games. Everything has been fun from start to finish and has been a true pleasure.
Wrap-up/Conclusion:
Trails through Daybreak is more than a game, it’s an experience. Its compelling story, engaging mechanics, and stunning presentation make it a standout in its genre. I can argue that Van Arkride is one of the best protagonists ever written in a video game. His story alone is worth it. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the series or a newcomer, this game offers a journey that lingers long after the final credits roll.
I look forward to the future entries in the Trails through Daybreak arc. This game has set the bar of high expectations and I hope the next games continue to deliver.
– until next time, Mgs2master2 out!
Score: 9/10 – The Legend of Heroes: Trails Through Daybreak was one of the biggest RPGs, in my opinion, of 2024. It did not get the credit it deserved. As someone late to the game on this, I recommend the game to any RPG fan of the franchise or if you are looking for an RPG to play.