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MONSTER

The Legend of Heroes: Trails into Reverie

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of The Legend of Heroes: Trails into Reverie
Item: The Legend of Heroes: Trails into Reverie
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Third Person Perspective, RPG, Anime and JRPG, Strategy, Single Player

AvailableJul 7, 2023

PlatformPlayStation 5, PC, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch

DeveloperFalcom

Overview

Three different legends are about to unfold! Determine the fates of Rean Schwarzer, Lloyd Bannings, and the mysterious "C" in this climactic chapter of The Legend of Heroes series.

Elsewhere

8.1

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

The Legend of Heroes: Trails into Reverie earns praise for its intricate narrative and character development, offering a satisfying conclusion to long-running series arcs. Critics laud its engaging political themes and emotional depth, resonating well with long-time fans. However, it faces criticism for pacing, coherence, and heavy reliance on prior knowledge, potentially alienating newcomers. While it's a grand farewell for dedicated followers, its execution may leave some unsatisfied. Overall, it's a complex narrative that shines for fans but stumbles in accessibility.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

69%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

31%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The overall sentiment regarding the story of The Legend of Heroes: Trails into Reverie is largely positive among critics, with many praising its intricate narrative and character development. Several reviewers, such as Eurogamer and GameGrin, highlight the story's engaging political themes and its role as a satisfying conclusion to the ongoing arcs of the Cold Steel and Crossbell series. Critics like Digitally Downloaded and Pure Nintendo commend the depth of the narrative, emphasizing the exploration of complex socio-political issues and the effective intertwining of multiple character storylines. The game is noted for its emotional payoff and the nostalgic reunion of beloved characters, which resonates well with long-time fans of the series, as pointed out by Worth Playing and The Mako Reactor. However, the game is not without its criticisms. Many reviewers, including Game Informer and PlayStation Universe, express concerns about the narrative's pacing and coherence, with some describing parts of the story as filler or lacking substance. Critics like DualShockers and RPG Site mention that certain plot elements feel rehashed or introduced too late, potentially confusing newcomers who may not have the necessary background knowledge of the series. The reliance on previous titles is a recurring theme, with several critics noting that the game assumes familiarity with earlier entries, which could alienate new players, as highlighted by KeenGamer and Nintendo Life. In conclusion, while Trails into Reverie is celebrated for its ambitious storytelling and character development, it also faces significant challenges related to pacing and accessibility for newcomers. The consensus among critics suggests that the game is best appreciated by those well-versed in the series' lore, as it ties up numerous plot threads and character arcs. Critics like GamingTrend and TheSixthAxis emphasize that the game serves as a grand farewell to the characters and storylines fans have grown to love, though it may leave some feeling unsatisfied with its execution. Overall, Trails into Reverie is regarded as a complex and engaging narrative that successfully caters to its dedicated fanbase while struggling to balance accessibility for new players.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

The Legend of Heroes: Trails into Reverie impresses with its engaging turn-based combat and the strategic United Front mechanic that enhances team attacks, earning praise from critics for its depth and complexity. However, some note issues with repetition and character overload, which could alienate newcomers. Overall, while it lacks significant innovation, the game remains a solid choice for fans, offering a rewarding experience rich in strategic options and engaging gameplay.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

73%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

27%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of The Legend of Heroes: Trails into Reverie has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, particularly praising its engaging turn-based combat system. Reviewers like God is a Geek and KeenGamer highlight the strategic depth and complexity of the combat, noting the variety of special attacks and character abilities that enhance the overall experience. The introduction of the United Front mechanic, which allows for powerful team attacks, has been particularly well-received, with critics like Eurogamer and GameGrin emphasizing how it adds a new layer of strategy to battles. Additionally, the inclusion of mini-games and exploration elements, as noted by Nintendo Life and Siliconera, contributes to a well-rounded gameplay experience that keeps players engaged. However, not all feedback is wholly positive, as several critics point out certain drawbacks. Some reviewers, such as RPG Site and PlayStation Universe, mention that the gameplay feels somewhat repetitive or lacks significant innovation compared to previous titles in the series. The issue of character bloat has also been raised, with critics like RPG Fan noting that it can make it challenging to effectively utilize the entire cast. Furthermore, while the complexity of the systems is appreciated, PLAY! Zine cautions that it may be overwhelming for inexperienced players, suggesting a potential barrier to entry for newcomers to the franchise. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Trails into Reverie delivers a solid and enjoyable gameplay experience, particularly for fans of the series. While there are criticisms regarding the lack of innovation and some gameplay mechanics, the depth and strategic options provided by the turn-based combat system, alongside the engaging dungeon-crawling elements of the Reverie Corridor, create a compelling package. Critics like Push Square and Game Informer affirm that despite its similarities to previous entries, the game remains a worthwhile experience, especially for those who appreciate the intricate systems and character dynamics that the Trails series is known for.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

The Legend of Heroes: Trails into Reverie impresses with improved character models and 3D environments, earning praise from critics like IGN for its visual evolution. However, it suffers from significant performance issues and outdated graphics, particularly on the Nintendo Switch, with many reviewers noting frequent frame rate drops and loading problems. While it marks progress for the series, it ultimately doesn't match modern standards, leaving a divided consensus among critics.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

14%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

82%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of The Legend of Heroes: Trails into Reverie have garnered a mix of praise from critics, particularly regarding the character models and environments. Critics such as IGN and Worth Playing noted improvements in character models and animations, suggesting that the game is visually appealing, especially compared to earlier titles in the series. Pure Nintendo expressed a positive sentiment, stating that the game looks great and plays wonderfully on the Nintendo Switch. Additionally, Game Informer highlighted the full 3D perspective of Crossbell as a significant enhancement over previous isometric presentations, showcasing the developers' efforts to evolve the visual experience. However, the game has faced considerable criticism for its overall visual fidelity and performance issues across different platforms. Many reviewers, including NintendoWorldReport and Siliconera, pointed out frequent frame rate drops and loading screens, particularly on the Nintendo Switch. Critics like The Games Machine and PlayStation Universe remarked that the visuals appear dated, resembling older console graphics, and lack significant updates since prior entries in the series. This sentiment was echoed by Everyeye.it, which noted the reliance on models from earlier games, failing to meet current graphical standards. Overall, the consensus among critics reflects a divided opinion on the graphics and visual design of Trails into Reverie. While some acknowledge the improvements in character models and the ambitious 3D environments, many agree that the game struggles with performance issues and outdated visuals, particularly on the Switch. The game is seen as a step forward for the series, yet it does not fully capitalize on the capabilities of modern consoles, leaving it feeling behind its competitors. Critics like SpazioGames and GamingTrend encapsulate this sentiment, noting that while the game shows some technical improvements, it ultimately falls short of the expectations set by other contemporary titles.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Critics rave about the music in The Legend of Heroes: Trails into Reverie, with the soundtrack being called "extraordinary" and a highlight of the game. However, the voice acting faces mixed reviews, with some finding it inconsistent and lacking compared to previous entries. Overall, while voice acting has its flaws, the exceptional sound design and music elevate the game's emotional depth and narrative.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

86%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

10%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The overall sentiment regarding the sound design and music of The Legend of Heroes: Trails into Reverie is overwhelmingly positive among critics. Many reviewers praised the soundtrack, highlighting its quality and diversity. For instance, Nintenderos described the soundtrack as "extraordinary," produced by the renowned Falcom Sound Team jdk, which has consistently delivered excellent music throughout the series. Critics like GameGrin and RPGamer echoed this sentiment, noting the music's ability to blend intense orchestral pieces with more tranquil melodies, enhancing the emotional weight of the game. Additionally, IGN and SpazioGames emphasized that the soundtrack fits the characters well and effectively elevates the game's narrative moments. However, the voice acting received mixed reviews, with some critics pointing out inconsistencies and shortcomings. KeenGamer and PLAY! Zine noted that while the music was excellent, the voice acting was occasionally unconvincing and sporadic. PlayStation Universe took a more critical stance, stating that the audio quality was inferior to previous entries, with frustrating inconsistencies in voice acting that detracted from the overall experience. Other critics, such as Tech-Gaming, mentioned that the partially performed dialogue felt inconsistent, indicating a lack of full implementation in the voice acting department. Despite the criticisms regarding voice acting, the overall consensus among critics is that the sound design and music in Trails into Reverie are commendable, with the majority praising the soundtrack as one of the game's strongest aspects. The positive remarks from critics like God is a Geek and GamingTrend highlight the game's ability to deliver an engaging auditory experience that complements its gameplay. While there are notable concerns about the voice acting, the high-quality music and sound design have left a lasting impression, solidifying the game's place within the beloved Trails series.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in The Legend of Heroes: Trails into Reverie is praised for its high quality and effective performances across a large cast, enhancing the gaming experience. However, critics highlight issues with inconsistent voice line usage, leading to a jarring experience, and some wooden performances that detract from immersion. Overall, while the voice work adds value, the sporadic implementation needs improvement for a more cohesive experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

35%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

65%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in The Legend of Heroes: Trails into Reverie has garnered a generally positive reception among critics, particularly for its English voice work. Reviewers such as God is a Geek and NintendoWorldReport commend the addition of English voice acting, highlighting its quality and the effective performance of a large cast, which includes over 50 playable characters. RPGamer also praises the high standards maintained throughout the series, noting that both new and returning characters perform their roles competently. Critics like SpazioGames emphasize the substantial amount of dialogue covered in both English and Japanese, enhancing the overall gaming experience. The excitement added by the English dub during significant story moments, as noted by TheSixthAxis, further underscores the positive aspects of the voice acting. However, several critics have pointed out notable inconsistencies and issues with the voice acting. KeenGamer mentions that while the voice acting is generally high quality, some performances come off as wooden, which can detract from character immersion. Inverse and PlayStation Universe highlight the jarring experience created by the game’s sporadic use of voice lines, where some conversations are fully voiced while others require players to read text, leading to a perplexing experience. COGconnected and RPG Site echo this sentiment, noting that the voice acting is sporadic, with some lines emphasized while others remain unvoiced, which can disrupt the flow of the narrative. Additionally, Everyeye.it criticizes the English voice acting for suffering from poor vocal choices compared to the Japanese version. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while the voice acting in Trails into Reverie is largely well-executed and adds value to the game, its inconsistent implementation detracts from the overall experience. The positive feedback from critics like Worth Playing and RPGamer regarding the quality of performances contrasts with the concerns raised about the sporadic nature of the voice lines, as noted by Tech-Gaming and RPG Fan. This blend of commendation and critique suggests that while the voice acting contributes positively to the game, the execution leaves room for improvement, particularly in ensuring a more cohesive and immersive experience for players.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

The Legend of Heroes: Trails into Reverie shines on PS5 and PC with flawless performance and smooth graphics, while the Nintendo Switch version suffers from severe framerate issues, long loading times, and bugs. Critics unanimously praise the former for their polished experience, contrasting sharply with the Switch's technical shortcomings, which detract significantly from gameplay enjoyment.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

22%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

61%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

17%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of The Legend of Heroes: Trails into Reverie varies significantly across different gaming platforms, with notable strengths particularly on the PlayStation 5 and PC. Critics who played on the PS5, such as GameGrin and GamingTrend, praised the game for its flawless performance, highlighting stable frame rates and speedy load times. SpazioGames echoed this sentiment, noting that the game runs smoothly at 60 fps, showcasing solid technical performance. Similarly, the PC version received commendations for its stability and higher frame rate cap compared to consoles, as reported by The Mako Reactor and ZTGD, with Tech-Gaming also mentioning that it performs well even on older hardware like the GTX 1060. Conversely, the Nintendo Switch version has garnered a largely negative reception regarding its technical performance. Critics like God is a Geek and Siliconera reported significant framerate issues and slowdowns, particularly in busier areas. Other reviewers, such as NintendoWorldReport and Nintenderos, noted frequent loading screens and occasional frame rate drops, further emphasizing the game's struggles on this platform. Additionally, PLAY! Zine pointed out long loading times and a lack of clarity in instructions, while Pure Nintendo highlighted a game crash triggered by a specific action, indicating serious technical shortcomings. These issues were compounded by The Mako Reactor's comments on the presence of bugs and visual problems, even after a day one patch. Overall, the consensus among critics paints a stark contrast between the performance on the Nintendo Switch and that of the PS5 and PC. While the latter platforms offer a polished experience, with minimal issues and stable performance, the Switch version suffers from various technical flaws that hinder gameplay. The mixed opinions on the PS4 version, as noted by Everyeye.it and RPG Fan, suggest it is stable but lacks the advancements seen in newer titles, further emphasizing the disparity in performance across platforms. This disparity highlights the challenges of porting games to less powerful hardware, ultimately impacting player experience and enjoyment.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

The Legend of Heroes: Trails into Reverie boasts impressive replay value, fueled by its rich content, engaging mechanics, and features like the Reverie Corridor that promise infinite play opportunities. Critics praise its intricate character arcs and diverse gameplay elements, including mini-games and party customization. However, accessibility issues for new players and concerns over narrative complexity may hinder the experience for those unfamiliar with the series. Overall, it’s a treasure trove for longtime fans, offering over 100 hours of immersive gameplay, but newcomers might find it challenging to dive in.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

46%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

54%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of The Legend of Heroes: Trails into Reverie is largely positive, with many critics praising the game for its extensive content and engaging mechanics. Multiple reviewers, such as Digitally Downloaded, highlight the intricate character arcs and the ability to swap between them, which enriches the narrative experience. The presence of the Reverie Corridor, as noted by DualShockers and Eurogamer, is frequently mentioned as a key feature that provides infinite replayability through its side content, challenges, and various activities like fishing and combat trials. Furthermore, the game includes a wide range of mini-games and side quests that add depth and enjoyment to the gameplay, as pointed out by Game Informer and God is a Geek. The character customization options and the ability to form unique party compositions also contribute to a satisfying gameplay loop, making the game appealing to both newcomers and long-time fans of the series. Despite the numerous positive aspects, some critics express concerns regarding the accessibility and narrative structure of the game. For instance, PLAY! Zine and Worth Playing caution that the game may not be suitable for first-time players due to its reliance on knowledge from previous titles in the Trails series. Additionally, RPG Site notes that while the game has replay value, it is somewhat limited due to character bloat and narrative constraints. Some reviewers, like Nintendo Life, mention that certain features, such as the Memories, feel inconsequential, which could detract from the overall experience. Moreover, PlayStation Universe points out that while the Reverie Garden offers replayability, its random character unlocking and bland level design may diminish its appeal. The overall consensus among critics indicates that Trails into Reverie provides a wealth of replay value, particularly for fans of the series, with features such as the Reverie Corridor and a variety of side content. Critics like SpazioGames and Hardcore Gamer emphasize the potential for extended playtime, with some estimating gameplay exceeding 100 hours. However, the mixed opinions regarding accessibility for newcomers and the narrative's reliance on previous entries suggest that while the game excels in replayability for dedicated fans, it may pose challenges for those unfamiliar with the series. Ultimately, Trails into Reverie is recognized as a rich and engaging title that offers substantial replay value, albeit with caveats regarding its accessibility and narrative complexity.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

72%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

28%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment regarding The Legend of Heroes: Trails into Reverie is largely positive, particularly among dedicated fans of the series. Critics such as Digitally Downloaded and NintendoWorldReport highlight the game as an epic culmination of a long-running narrative, celebrating its rich character development and engaging gameplay. Eurogamer praises the strong character writing and refined combat mechanics, while GameGrin and Noisy Pixel commend it as a superb RPG that provides a satisfying conclusion to the overarching story arcs. Many reviewers, including IGN and SpazioGames, emphasize its status as a must-play for fans, noting the emotional depth and complexity that resonate with long-time followers of the franchise. However, several critiques point to significant drawbacks, particularly regarding accessibility for newcomers and technical performance. God is a Geek and Nintenderos mention that the game may not be suitable for those unfamiliar with the series, suggesting that new players should start with earlier entries. Performance issues on the Nintendo Switch are noted by numerous critics, including Nintendo Life and The Mako Reactor, who recommend seeking the game on more powerful platforms. Critics like Worth Playing and RPG Site also express concerns about pacing and narrative coherence, indicating that while the game is rewarding for fans, it may leave others feeling disconnected. The overall consensus among critics is that Trails into Reverie is an essential experience for dedicated fans but presents challenges for newcomers. While it successfully ties together various story arcs and showcases the series' trademark character depth, its technical shortcomings and reliance on prior knowledge may hinder its appeal to a broader audience. Critics such as TouchArcade and Hardcore Gamer encapsulate this sentiment, recognizing the game's merits while cautioning potential players about its accessibility issues. Ultimately, the game is celebrated as a fitting tribute to the series, but with the caveat that it is best enjoyed by those well-versed in the Trails universe.

TL;DR

The Legend of Heroes: Trails into Reverie is a hit among series fans, praised for its rich character development and engaging gameplay, but it comes with significant caveats. Critics commend its emotional depth and satisfying conclusion to ongoing narratives, making it a must-play for dedicated followers. However, newcomers may struggle with accessibility and technical issues, especially on the Nintendo Switch. While it ties up story arcs beautifully, its reliance on prior knowledge and pacing concerns may alienate those unfamiliar with the franchise. In short, a fantastic ride for veterans, but potentially frustrating for newbies.

MONSTER

Reviews

70 reviews found

100

Digitally Downloaded

Nintendo Switch

Jul 18, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The Legend of Heroes series is praised as a truly remarkable and creatively brave project. While this particular game may not be suitable for newcomers, it is an unparalleled epic experience for dedicated fans.

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100

Noisy Pixel

PlayStation 5

Jun 30, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

"Trails into Reverie" is an amazing JRPG that concludes the arc with respect for the long history of the series and offers a special experience for fans. However, it is not recommended for those who haven't played the previous titles.

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The Mako Reactor

Jun 30, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Trails into Reverie is a worthy finale for specific character arcs and a turning point for Trails and Falcom. It is highly recommended.

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ZTGD

Jul 20, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Trails into Reverie is a rewarding conclusion to the series with impeccable world building, compelling characters, and enjoyable combat.

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Inverse

PlayStation 5

Jun 30, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Trails into Reverie is a refinement in every sense, with a grand cast of characters and a sense of culmination. It brings true catharsis and poignancy to nearly nineteen years of connected storytelling.

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GameGrin

PlayStation 5

Jun 30, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The Legend of Heroes: Trails into Reverie is a superb RPG and a fantastic send-off for the series, with a refined battle system and engaging story.

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Hardcore Gamer

PlayStation 5

Jun 30, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The Legend of Heroes: Trails into Reverie is a feature-rich RPG with a dense story, engaging gameplay, and a celebration of the series' accomplishments. Despite some technical issues, it remains a quality experience.

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TheSixthAxis

PlayStation 5

Jun 30, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game is a satisfying conclusion to the Crossbell arc and the Cold Steel arc. It has a deep story, improved gameplay, and offers replay value with the Reverie Corridor. The improved presentation and English dub enhance the experience.

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Game Informer

PlayStation 5

Jul 11, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game is described as a culmination of near decades of world-building, character arcs, and detailed lore. While the narrative may fall short compared to past entries, it is still considered above most other games in the genre. The game is praised for its unique world-building and well-written characters.

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RPG Fan

PlayStation 4

Jun 30, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Despite pacing flaws and character bloat, The Legend of Heroes: Trails into Reverie is an excellent addition to the series. It sparks fondness for the series and leaves fans hopeful about the future.

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