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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 4, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, PC

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 complex, high-stakes narrative that wraps up the Cold Steel and Crossbell arcs, providing an emotional payoff for long-time fans. Critics commend its rich lore and multiple perspectives, though many note pacing issues and potential alienation of newcomers due to heavy reliance on prior knowledge. Overall, it’s a rewarding experience for dedicated players, but may leave others feeling lost or unfulfilled.

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, with many critics praising its depth and complexity. Reviewers like Eurogamer and GameGrin commend the narrative for its high-stakes plot and emotional payoff, highlighting how it serves as a grand conclusion to the Cold Steel and Crossbell arcs. Critics such as Digitally Downloaded and PLAY! Zine appreciate the rich lore and political intrigue that permeate the storyline, indicating that it effectively ties together various character arcs and plot threads from previous titles. The integration of multiple perspectives through the three distinct routes is noted as a significant strength, allowing for a multifaceted exploration of the narrative, as mentioned by critics like Pure Nintendo and Siliconera. However, the story is not without its criticisms. Several reviewers, including DualShockers and Nintendo Life, express concerns about pacing issues and the feeling of certain arcs being filler content. Critics like Game Informer and PlayStation Universe point out that the narrative sometimes feels rehashed or lacks substance, particularly for those unfamiliar with the series. Additionally, some reviewers, such as RPG Site and TouchArcade, mention that the reliance on prior knowledge may alienate newcomers, making it challenging for them to fully appreciate the intricacies of the plot. This sentiment is echoed by critics like WellPlayed and Everyeye.it, who emphasize the necessity of familiarity with the series to grasp the narrative's depth. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Trails into Reverie offers a satisfying and intricate conclusion for long-time fans of the series, it poses challenges for newcomers due to its heavy reliance on prior knowledge and complex storytelling. Many reviewers, including The Games Machine and GamingTrend, highlight that the game acts as a celebratory farewell to beloved characters and story arcs, making it a rewarding experience for dedicated players. However, the mixed feelings about pacing and narrative coherence suggest that while the game succeeds in delivering a rich narrative, it may not resonate equally with all players.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

The Legend of Heroes: Trails into Reverie delivers an exhilarating turn-based combat experience that has garnered high praise for its strategic depth and engaging mechanics. The new United Front team attack feature and the multi-floor Reverie Corridor dungeon enhance the gameplay, offering both challenge and replayability. However, some critics warn that the complex battle system may overwhelm newcomers, and concerns about a lack of innovation and character management persist. Overall, it’s a solid addition for fans, boasting refined mechanics and a rich RPG experience despite a few drawbacks.

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 been met with overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics, particularly highlighting its engaging turn-based combat system. Reviewers such as God is a Geek and KeenGamer praised the depth and strategic elements of the combat, noting the variety of special attacks and unique character abilities that contribute to a sophisticated gameplay 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 its strategic importance during challenging encounters. The inclusion of the Reverie Corridor as a multi-floor dungeon adds an extra layer of exploration and replayability, further enhancing the overall experience, as noted by Nintendo Life and DualShockers. Despite the praise, some critics pointed out certain drawbacks in the gameplay. A recurring theme is the complexity of the battle system, which may be overwhelming for new players, as highlighted by PLAY! Zine. Additionally, while the combat retains familiar mechanics from previous titles, some reviewers, such as SpazioGames and RPG Site, expressed concerns that the gameplay lacks significant innovation compared to earlier entries, leading to a sense of familiarity that could detract from the experience. The issue of character bloat was also mentioned, making it challenging to utilize the extensive roster of over 50 playable characters effectively, as noted by GamingTrend and RPG Fan. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Trails into Reverie offers a robust and enjoyable gameplay experience, especially for fans of the series. The strategic depth and engaging combat mechanics have been widely praised, with many reviewers recommending it for its replayability and depth of content. While there are some critiques regarding complexity and a lack of innovation, the majority sentiment remains positive, affirming that the game successfully builds upon its predecessors and provides an engaging RPG experience. Critics like Game Informer and Push Square encapsulate this sentiment by highlighting the refined mechanics and enjoyable dungeon design, making Trails into Reverie a worthy addition to the franchise.

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 design and rich environments on the Nintendo Switch, but suffers from significant performance issues, outdated visuals, and frequent frame rate drops. Critics appreciate its charm and nostalgia but agree it fails to meet modern gaming standards, making it a mixed bag overall.

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 opinions regarding the graphics and visual design of The Legend of Heroes: Trails into Reverie reveal a mix of appreciation for certain aspects while acknowledging some strengths in character design and environmental detail. Critics like KeenGamer praised the game for its well-crafted maps and character models that push the Nintendo Switch's capabilities, highlighting the rich environments and detailed character designs. Similarly, Worth Playing noted that it stands out as the best-looking title in the franchise to date, with improved character models and animations, suggesting a positive evolution in the series' visual presentation. Additionally, IGN pointed out the improvements in character models compared to previous entries, indicating a step forward in the overall aesthetic. However, several reviewers also pointed out significant drawbacks in the game's graphics and performance. Many critics, including NintendoWorldReport and Siliconera, reported performance issues on the Nintendo Switch, such as frequent frame rate drops and loading screens, which detracted from the overall experience. The visuals were often described as outdated, with critics like The Games Machine and PlayStation Universe noting that the game resembled titles from previous generations, such as the PS Vita or PS3. This sentiment was echoed by Everyeye.it, which emphasized the reliance on models from earlier games and a failure to meet current graphical standards. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Trails into Reverie showcases some notable improvements in character design and environments, it ultimately falls short in delivering a visually impressive experience, especially on the Nintendo Switch. The game is seen as a high-effort title that retains charm and nostalgia for long-time fans but struggles with performance and graphical fidelity compared to contemporary titles. Critics like Game Informer and GamingTrend acknowledged the game's visual presentation as a mixed bag, with some appreciating the nostalgic elements while others lamented its inability to keep pace with modern gaming standards. Thus, Trails into Reverie is viewed as a commendable entry in the series, albeit hindered by its technical limitations.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

The Legend of Heroes: Trails into Reverie boasts a highly praised soundtrack that enhances the game's emotional depth, with critics lauding the exceptional work of Falcom Sound Team jdk. However, the voice acting received mixed reviews, with some performances deemed unconvincing and inconsistent. Overall, while the music shines, the voice acting leaves room for improvement, but the sound design significantly boosts the game’s appeal.

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 sound design and music of The Legend of Heroes: Trails into Reverie have garnered widespread acclaim from critics, with many highlighting the exceptional quality of the soundtrack. Reviewers such as Nintenderos and RPGamer praised the music as one of the game's standout features, with Nintenderos specifically noting the extraordinary contributions of Falcom Sound Team jdk. Critics like IGN and Noisy Pixel echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the soundtrack's ability to fit the characters and create distinct compositions for different battle themes. The music was described as a perfect blend of intense orchestral pieces and tranquil melodies by GameGrin, while GamingTrend highlighted catchy battle tunes that enhance the overall gaming experience. Overall, the positive reception of the soundtrack indicates that it significantly contributes to the game's emotional depth and narrative engagement. However, the voice acting received a more mixed response, with several critics pointing out inconsistencies and shortcomings. For instance, KeenGamer noted that some voice performances felt unconvincing, while PLAY! Zine mentioned the sporadic and inconsistent nature of the voice acting. PlayStation Universe went further, suggesting that the audio experience was inferior to previous entries, highlighting a lack of memorable themes and frustrating voice performances. Critics like Everyeye.it also criticized certain vocal pairings in the English voice acting, indicating that while the music excels, the voice work does not always meet the same high standards. Despite the criticisms surrounding the voice acting, the overall consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the sound design and music of Trails into Reverie. The majority of reviewers, including those from God is a Geek and Worth Playing, celebrated the quality of the soundtrack and its ability to enhance the gaming experience. While some voiced concerns about the voice acting, the general sentiment is that the music, characterized as diverse and high-quality, significantly elevates the game's emotional and narrative aspects. This suggests that while there are areas for improvement, particularly in voice performance, the sound design and music remain a strong point of the game, contributing to its success and enjoyment among players.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Voice acting in The Legend of Heroes: Trails into Reverie shines with strong performances and a valuable English dub, earning praise for its extensive dialogue and character depth. However, critics lament inconsistent execution, with some wooden performances and jarring transitions between voiced and unvoiced lines. Overall, while the quality is commendable, the sporadic voiceover implementation hinders immersion, leaving room for improvement.

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 received a generally positive reception from critics, particularly regarding the quality of performances. Many reviewers, such as God is a Geek and RPGamer, noted that the English voice acting is a welcome addition and retains the high standards established by previous titles in the series. NintendoWorldReport highlighted the well-executed voicework across the game's sizable cast of over 50 characters, while SpazioGames praised the substantial amount of dialogue covered in both English and Japanese, contributing positively to the overall experience. Critics like Worth Playing and TheSixthAxis also emphasized the excitement added by the full English dub during significant story scenes. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the inconsistency and sporadic nature of the voice acting. KeenGamer pointed out that while the majority of performances are high quality, some felt wooden, which could detract from the overall immersion. Inverse and PlayStation Universe echoed similar sentiments, mentioning the jarring transitions between voiced and unvoiced lines that can disrupt the flow of the narrative. Critics like RPG Site and Tech-Gaming expressed disappointment over the sporadic implementation of voice acting, suggesting that the localization does not fully capitalize on the potential of the dialogue, leaving some lines unvoiced and creating an inconsistent experience. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while the voice acting in Trails into Reverie is generally well-received, it is marred by inconsistencies in its implementation. Many reviewers appreciate the quality of the performances, particularly for returning characters, but they also express frustration with the sporadic nature of voiceovers and the abrupt transitions between voiced and unvoiced dialogue. This duality in reception indicates that while the voice acting contributes positively to the game, there are areas that could benefit from more thorough execution, as noted by critics like RPGamer and PlayStation Universe.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

The Legend of Heroes: Trails into Reverie delivers stellar performance on PS5 and PC, with smooth gameplay and quick load times, earning praise from critics. However, the Nintendo Switch version is plagued by severe framerate issues, lag, and crashes, leading to a frustrating experience. Players seeking a flawless adventure should stick to PS5 or PC; Switch users should brace for performance hiccups.

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 each platform showcasing its own strengths. On the PlayStation 5, critics like GameGrin and GamingTrend praised the game for its flawless performance, highlighting consistent smoothness and speedy load times. SpazioGames echoed this sentiment, noting that the game runs at 60 fps with minimal loading times, which contributes to a solid technical experience. The PC version also received favorable reviews, with Tech-Gaming and The Mako Reactor noting that it performs well even on lower-end hardware like the Steam Deck, with a higher frame rate cap compared to consoles. The PS4 version, while showing its age, still manages to maintain stability according to Everyeye.it, with only minor loading time issues mentioned by RPG Fan. However, the technical performance on the Nintendo Switch has drawn considerable criticism. Critics such as God is a Geek and Siliconera reported significant framerate issues and slowdowns, particularly in busier areas, which detracted from the overall experience. Other reviewers, including NintendoWorldReport and Nintenderos, echoed similar concerns about performance issues, with frequent loading screens and lag affecting gameplay. The Switch version appears to be plagued by various technical problems, including crashes, as noted by Pure Nintendo, which further compounds the negative sentiment surrounding its performance. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a stark divide in technical performance across platforms. The PS5 and PC versions are generally praised for their smooth and stable performance, with minimal issues reported, while the Nintendo Switch version suffers from a multitude of technical shortcomings. Critics like The Mako Reactor highlighted that despite some improvements with patches, the Switch version still struggles with significant performance problems. This disparity suggests that players seeking a more polished experience may want to opt for either the PS5 or PC versions, while those on the Switch may need to manage expectations regarding technical performance.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

The Legend of Heroes: Trails into Reverie is praised for its rich content and engaging mechanics, offering high replay value through multiple character arcs and the expansive Reverie Corridor. Critics highlight the depth of gameplay and diverse strategies, making it a must-play for series fans. However, newcomers may struggle with accessibility and narrative coherence, as some side content feels disconnected. Overall, it's a solid recommendation for dedicated players, though it may alienate those unfamiliar with the Trails universe.

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 predominantly positive, with many critics praising the game for its extensive content and engaging mechanics. Several reviewers, including Digitally Downloaded and Game Informer, highlight the multiple character arcs and the ability to swap between them, which enhances the narrative experience and provides a rich tapestry of interconnected stories. The true Reverie Corridor is frequently mentioned as a significant draw, offering a plethora of activities such as mini-games, combat trials, and procedurally generated dungeons, which critics like DualShockers and Eurogamer believe contribute to the game's high replayability. Additionally, the inclusion of a large cast of characters, as noted by GameGrin and SpazioGames, allows for varied team compositions and strategies, further encouraging players to revisit the game. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the accessibility and coherence of the game's replay value. Some critics, such as RPG Site and PlayStation Universe, point out that the reliance on prior knowledge of the Trails series may alienate newcomers, making the game less inviting for those unfamiliar with the narrative context. While the Reverie Corridor offers a wealth of side content, some reviewers, including Nintendo Life and The Games Machine, express concerns that certain elements, like the Memories feature, feel inconsequential or disconnected from the main narrative. This can lead to a sense of repetitiveness or a lack of meaningful progression for players who may not be as invested in the overarching story. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Trails into Reverie provides substantial replay value, particularly for dedicated fans of the series. The combination of a rich narrative structure, diverse gameplay options, and the extensive content found in the Reverie Corridor creates an experience that many reviewers, such as Hardcore Gamer and COGconnected, deem worthy of multiple playthroughs. While some critics highlight issues with accessibility and narrative cohesion, the game's strengths in character development and varied gameplay mechanics largely overshadow these concerns, making it a recommended title for both long-time fans and those willing to invest the time to explore its depth.

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 long-time fans of the series. Critics such as Digitally Downloaded and NintendoWorldReport highlight the game as a remarkable culmination of the Trails saga, emphasizing its engaging gameplay and rich storytelling. Eurogamer praises the strong character writing and refined combat, while GameGrin and IGN laud it as one of the best RPGs of 2023. Many reviewers, including Pure Nintendo and TouchArcade, recommend the game as a must-play for fans, acknowledging its depth and the emotional payoff it provides for those familiar with the franchise's extensive lore and character arcs. However, the game is not without its drawbacks, particularly regarding accessibility for newcomers. Several critics, including God is a Geek and Nintenderos, point out that Trails into Reverie may not be the best entry point for players unfamiliar with the series, suggesting that they start with earlier titles. Additionally, performance issues on the Nintendo Switch version are frequently mentioned, with critics like Nintendo Life and The Mako Reactor noting that these technical shortcomings detract from the overall experience. Some reviews, such as those from PlayStation Universe and RPG Site, express disappointment in the narrative's pacing and depth, indicating that it may not meet the high expectations set by previous entries in the series. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Trails into Reverie serves as a fitting and enjoyable conclusion for dedicated fans, with many praising its storytelling and character development. However, the game's accessibility issues for newcomers and technical performance concerns on certain platforms are significant points of contention. Critics like SpazioGames and Hardcore Gamer emphasize the need for prior knowledge of the series to fully appreciate the game, while others recommend waiting for patches to improve the experience. Overall, while the game is celebrated for its achievements, it is primarily recommended for those who have invested time in the Trails franchise.

TL;DR

The Legend of Heroes: Trails into Reverie has garnered positive reviews, especially from long-time fans, who praise its engaging gameplay, rich storytelling, and strong character writing. However, it may not be the best starting point for newcomers, with critics citing accessibility issues and performance problems on the Nintendo Switch. While it's hailed as a top RPG of 2023, some find its narrative pacing lacking. Overall, it’s a must-play for dedicated fans, but potential players should consider prior knowledge of the series and wait for technical improvements.

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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