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MONSTER

The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel III

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel III
Item: The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel III
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2019

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

AvailableOct 22, 2019

PlatformNintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, PC

DeveloperFalcom

Overview

The game is a direct sequel to the prior two Trails of Cold Steel games, picking up one and a half years after the events of Trails of Cold Steel II. The story will be centered around main character Rean Schwarzer, now a military professor, as well as his students, and the rest of his military school friends from the prior two entries, notably exploring subjects such as the mysterious origin's of Rean's birth, and what others have been up to since the events of the prior games. The game will also feature appearances from Tita and Agate, characters from Trails in the Sky, a separate meta series within The Legend of Heroes series, as well as Tio and Randy, characters from Trails to Zero.

Elsewhere

8.3

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Trails of Cold Steel III shines with intricate world-building and emotional depth, but its slow pacing, dense lore, and accessibility hurdles for new players temper its impact—still a bold, rewarding saga for dedicated fans.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

71%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

29%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel III is widely praised for its depth, complexity, and emotional resonance, with many critics highlighting its rich world-building and character development. GameGrin and Metro GameCentral commend the narrative’s intricate political tensions and layered character arcs, noting that the game “rewards long-time fans with callbacks” while maintaining a “dense, well-crafted” storyline. RPG Fan and Video Chums emphasize the emotional depth, describing the story as “engaging,” “memorable,” and filled with “incredible twists” and “emotional turns.” The game’s focus on Rean Schwarzer’s evolution from student to teacher, alongside the introduction of new characters like Class VII, is frequently lauded for its maturity and nuance. Critics like Cubed3 and RPG Site also praise the narrative’s cohesion, calling it a “cohesive tale” that builds effectively toward an impactful finale, even as it weaves together multiple plot threads across the Erebonia arc. However, several critics point to significant drawbacks, particularly in pacing and accessibility. GameGrin and Eurogamer Italy criticize the “slow pacing,” “verbose” dialogue, and “repetitive structure,” arguing that excessive side quests and lengthy setup detract from the main narrative. Noisy Pixel and Switch Player note that the story’s reliance on prior knowledge from earlier entries in the series can alienate newcomers, with some calling it a “Visual Novel-like” experience due to its heavy dialogue and deliberate rhythm. Additionally, while the game’s darker tone and complex lore are praised, critics like Hobby Consolas and Wccftech mention that the dense references and lack of context for new players create barriers to full enjoyment. The “middle child syndrome” mentioned by CGMagazine and the “problematic cliffhanger” noted by RPG Fan further underscore concerns about narrative execution and unresolved arcs. Despite these criticisms, the majority of critics agree that Trails of Cold Steel III is a strong entry in the series, with its story being a standout feature. GameGrin acknowledges that while the pacing and structure may frustrate some, the “strong moments” in later chapters and “deep character development” justify the investment. Similarly, RPG Site and Nintendo Life highlight the game’s ability to balance “novel-like scale” with emotional engagement, even as they concede its challenges for newcomers. The consensus leans heavily toward appreciation for the narrative’s ambition, with many critics—such as Game Informer and IGN Italia—emphasizing that the story’s complexity and richness make it a rewarding experience for dedicated fans. While the game’s flaws are acknowledged, the overall sentiment reflects admiration for its storytelling, character work, and commitment to expanding the series’ lore.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Trails of Cold Steel III delivers deep tactical combat with innovations like Brave Order and Arcus II, balanced by diverse side activities and customization. While repetitive dungeons and pacing issues hinder flow, its strategic depth and immersive systems make it a standout JRPG for fans seeking complexity over originality.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

77%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

23%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel III is widely praised for its depth, strategic complexity, and refined mechanics, with many critics highlighting its evolution from previous entries in the series. The turn-based combat system remains a cornerstone, featuring innovations like the Brave Order (RPG Site, IGN Italia), Break System (Eurogamer Italy, Nintendo Life), and Arcus II device (MGG, DarkStation), which add layers of customization and tactical decision-making. Critics such as RPG Site and IGN Italia commend the game’s balance of accessibility and challenge, with features like Turbo Mode (RPG Site) and High-Speed Mode (Digitally Downloaded) catering to varied player preferences. Side activities—ranging from cooking and fishing to Gwent-style card games (Universo Nintendo, RPG Fan)—are noted for enriching the experience, while the school-life structure (class interactions, free days) provides a unique blend of narrative and gameplay (RPG Site, Universo Nintendo). The Master Quartz system and Vantage Masters card game (RPG Site, GameGrin) further diversify customization options, ensuring players feel empowered to tailor their strategies. Despite these strengths, several critics point to repetitive elements and pacing issues that detract from the experience. The repetitive dungeons and formulaic puzzle design (Video Chums, Game Informer) are frequently criticized, with some noting that exploration feels tedious despite the game’s expansive world. Switch Player and RPG Fan highlight pacing problems, where the emphasis on school life and side quests can slow progression, potentially frustrating players seeking faster action. Additionally, the steep learning curve for mechanics like Brave Orders (Starbit, Noisy Pixel) and the complexity of systems such as Arcus II (MGG) may overwhelm newcomers. While Eurogamer Italy acknowledges the lack of innovation in core mechanics, others like DarkStation and Wccftech note that the game’s reliance on familiar structures feels stagnant. Some critics also mention UI issues (RPGamer) and overpowered mechanics (CGMagazine), which can disrupt balance and immersion. Overall, the majority of critics agree that Trails of Cold Steel III delivers a strong gameplay experience, with its tactical combat and rich systems outweighing its flaws. While not without shortcomings, the game’s strategic depth (Nintendo Life, Cubed3) and variety of side activities (GameGrin, RPG Site) create a compelling package that appeals to both series veterans and newcomers. IGN Italia, RPG Site, and Cubed3 emphasize how the refined mechanics and customization options elevate the gameplay loop, even as some critics like Video Chums and Game Informer note lingering issues with repetition. The consensus is clear: despite its flaws, Trails of Cold Steel III stands out as a meticulously crafted JRPG that prioritizes depth and player agency, making it a standout entry in the series.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Charming, anime-inspired visuals and smooth 60fps on PS4 contrast with Switch's janky 720p/30fps and outdated "a generation behind" aesthetics, as Trails of Cold Steel III prioritizes narrative over modern polish.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

92%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The reviews of The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel III highlight several positive aspects of its graphics and visual design, particularly its consistent art style and functional presentation. Critics like RPG Site and Nintendo Life praise the game’s distinct towns and environments, noting that the art style is "detailed and charming" despite its limitations. On the PS4, RPG Fan commends the improved character designs and smooth 60fps performance, while PlayStation LifeStyle acknowledges brighter colors and more detailed models compared to earlier entries. The Switch version, though technically constrained, benefits from portability that enhances character design visibility, as noted by IGN Italia, and its handheld mode offers "smooth performance" according to Hobby Consolas. Additionally, RPG Site and Twinfinite highlight the game’s "crisp and clear" anime-inspired aesthetic, with some reviewers appreciating the attention to detail in cities and environments. However, the negatives are equally prominent, particularly regarding technical limitations and outdated visuals. On the Switch, Eurogamer Italy and Hobby Consolas criticize the 720p/30fps performance, frame rate drops during combat, and lack of anti-aliasing, which make distant textures and text "harder to appreciate." Player 2 and Starbit compare the visuals to early PS3 or late GameCube-era games, citing jagged edges, repetitive environments, and a "stagnant" artistic direction. On the PS4, DarkStation and Wccftech describe the graphics as "average" or "generic," resembling PS3-era quality, with stiff animations and recycled textures. GameGrin and MGG note functional but unimpressive environments, while RPG Fan on Switch points to UI issues and graphical glitches like "items popping in/out." These critiques underscore a broader sentiment that the game’s visuals, while serviceable, lack modern polish and innovation. Overall, critics agree that Trails of Cold Steel III prioritizes narrative and gameplay over cutting-edge graphics, resulting in a visually consistent but technically modest experience. While RPG Site and PlayStation LifeStyle acknowledge improvements on higher platforms, the consensus is that the game’s art style—though charming—feels "a generation behind" modern standards, as noted by Cubed3 and Push Square. The Switch version’s portability offers some benefits, but its technical compromises, such as resolution drops and anti-aliasing issues, are frequently cited. Meanwhile, the PS4/PS5 upgrades, while welcome, are seen as incremental rather than transformative. Ultimately, reviewers like Nintendo WorldReport and Universo Nintendo emphasize that the game’s visual design, though not groundbreaking, effectively supports its immersive storytelling and character-driven focus, making it a solid but unremarkable entry in the JRPG genre.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Most critics praised Trails of Cold Steel III's soundtrack for its immersive atmosphere and emotional depth, highlighting standout battle themes and atmospheric cohesion, though some found it uneven, with forgettable tracks and inconsistent voice acting; a strong but flawed contribution to the series.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

65%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

35%

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 of Cold Steel III received generally positive reception across multiple critics, with many highlighting its effectiveness in enhancing immersion and emotional engagement. NintendoWorldReport praised the soundtrack as "understated but effective," noting how it complements the game’s school-life and adventure themes without overpowering dialogue or action. RPGamer emphasized the “variety and quality” of the music, calling it consistent with previous entries in the series, while CGMagazine lauded standout battle themes like “Lift-Off!” and “Spiral of Erebos,” which they felt “effectively set moods and left a lasting impression.” PlayStation Country and Vandal also highlighted the music as a “fantastic” and “strong suit,” respectively, with the latter noting intense combat tracks that elevate the game’s atmosphere. Additionally, Video Chums (PS4) praised the “top-notch” audio quality, including satisfying sound effects and a talented voice cast, while SpazioGames described the score as “di grande respiro” (of great scope), underscoring its narrative integration. However, some critics found the soundtrack to be uneven or less impactful than expected. RPG Fan (Switch) noted that while the music was “serviceable,” it lacked standout moments and featured “forgettable tracks,” with emotional climaxes being the only exceptions. GameGrin criticized the soundtrack as “mostly unimpressive” despite a few highlights, citing inconsistent voice acting as a drawback. Similarly, RPG Fan (PS4) pointed to “uneven quality,” noting that some pieces felt average compared to previous games in the series. While RPG Site (PS4) praised the overall musical direction, they acknowledged that specific tracks weren’t named, suggesting a lack of detailed focus on individual compositions. Additionally, GameGrin and Video Chums (PS4) mentioned issues with voice acting consistency, such as some characters being voiced while others were not, which detracted from the audio experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the soundtrack for Trails of Cold Steel III is a strong, if occasionally uneven, component of the game. While many praised its atmospheric contributions and emotional resonance—particularly in battle sequences and narrative moments—others felt it fell short of Falcom’s usual standards, with some tracks feeling unremarkable or repetitive. The mixed reactions suggest that while the music effectively supports the game’s themes and setting, it lacks the groundbreaking innovation seen in earlier entries. Nonetheless, the majority of reviewers agreed that the soundtrack remains a notable strength, contributing significantly to the game’s immersive quality and reinforcing its status as a solid entry in the series.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Praises for standout performances in Trails of Cold Steel III—Sean Chiplock’s Rean, Ash Carbide’s charm, and emotional depth from skilled voices—contrast with jarring gaps, reused voicework, and limited localization (no Spanish, inconsistent English), undermining immersion despite technical polish.

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 of Cold Steel III receives generally positive feedback, with many critics highlighting its strengths despite some inconsistencies. RPG Site (PS4) praises the English dub for new characters like Ash Carbide and returning voices such as Rean’s performance by Sean Chiplock, noting it as "top-notch" and consistent with series standards. CGMagazine commends the voice actors for skillfully bringing well-written characters to life, enhancing emotional resonance, while Universo Nintendo appreciates how dubbed conversations add depth through tone and personality. Additionally, SpazioGames acknowledges the quality of English voices, even if not all dialogues are fully dubbed due to budget constraints, and Vandal highlights that main characters’ dual audio tracks (English and Japanese) enhance immersion. These reviews underscore a strong foundation in voice acting, particularly for key roles and narrative moments. However, several critics point out notable flaws, including inconsistency and limited localization options. Hobby Consolas criticizes the lack of Spanish voice options and the absence of full English localization, which could alienate non-Japanese speakers. NintendoWorldReport notes that Rean’s silence while other characters are voiced creates a jarring effect, and RPG Fan (Switch) points out that some characters share the same voice actors, making key moments feel unconvincing. RPG Site (Switch) and GameGrin both mention gaps in coverage, where many scenes rely on text instead of voice acting, calling it a "missed opportunity." Additionally, Everyeye.it criticizes the English localization for mismatched voices and lost comedic elements, while DarkStation’s incomplete review still hints at issues with voice work. These critiques reveal recurring concerns about uneven execution and accessibility limitations. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed but leans toward appreciation for the game’s voice acting, despite its flaws. While many praise the quality of performances for main characters and the emotional depth they bring (as noted by RPG Site [PS4] and CGMagazine), others highlight inconsistencies in coverage, such as intermittent English voice work (PlayStation LifeStyle) or budget-driven omissions (SpazioGames). The lack of full localization options, particularly the absence of Spanish voices (Hobby Consolas), is a recurring criticism. However, most reviewers agree that the voice acting contributes meaningfully to the game’s narrative and character development, even if it falls short of perfection. The balance between strong performances and technical limitations reflects a nuanced reception, with many acknowledging its strengths while recognizing room for improvement.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Switch port stumbles with glitches and inconsistent performance, while PS4/PS5 shine with smoother frames and fewer hiccups—though all platforms face some tech issues, with PS5 leading in polish despite minor frame drops.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

32%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

68%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel III varies across platforms, with notable positives for each system. On the Nintendo Switch, critics like Nintendo Life praised its stable 30fps/720p performance in both docked and handheld modes, while Player 2 highlighted the "High Speed" function as a useful tool to mitigate technical hiccups during exploration. Video Chums commended the port’s undocked performance, noting it runs smoothly despite the lack of trophies. For PS4, several reviewers, including PlayStation LifeStyle and Twinfinite, emphasized its smooth 60fps performance on PS4 Pro at 4K resolution, with Vandal praising its stability and short load times. The PS5 version saw improvements in load times and frame rates, as noted by GamersRD and Multiplayer.it, who highlighted better resolution and fluidity compared to earlier hardware. These positives underscore the game’s adaptability across platforms, though with varying degrees of optimization. However, technical issues plagued the Switch port more significantly than other systems. Eurogamer Italy and Hobby Consolas cited frame rate inconsistencies, crashes, and loading problems, while IGN Italia and RPG Fan pointed to lower resolution, aliasing, and glitches like soft locks and graphical buffering. Nintendo World Report noted minor slowdowns in crowded areas, and RPG Site criticized specific performance dips during Chapter 4. On PS4, while stability was generally praised, critics like SpazioGames and Vandal highlighted stiff animations and repetitive textures, with RPG Site criticizing frame drops in crowded scenes. The PS5 version faced fewer technical complaints, though Noisy Pixel mentioned occasional framerate drops that were likely patched, and ZTGD noted frame drops in later areas due to high character model counts. These issues reflect the challenges of balancing performance with content density across different hardware. Overall, critics generally agreed that the Switch port, while functional, suffered from more visible technical flaws compared to its PS4 and PS5 counterparts. Nintendo Life’s positive take on stability contrasted sharply with RPG Fan’s concerns about glitches, illustrating a split in perceptions of its polish. The PS4 version was seen as reliable but visually limited, with Vandal and SpazioGames acknowledging its technical shortcomings despite smooth performance. Meanwhile, the PS5 received the most favorable reviews for its improvements, though even it faced minor issues like frame drops or animation stiffness. While no platform was flawless, the consensus leaned toward the PS4 and PS5 offering more refined experiences, with the Switch’s port being a trade-off between accessibility and technical polish. Critics like RPG Site and IGN Italia encapsulated this divide, noting that while the game’s content justifies its flaws, optimization remains a key area for future improvements.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Lauded for its vast content, layered systems, and addictive side activities, Trails of Cold Steel III offers robust replayability through branching choices, minigames, and New Game Plus—ideal for series fans. Yet critics note linear storytelling, accessibility hurdles, and reliance on prior knowledge may limit appeal, making its depth a niche draw despite ambitious world-building.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

44%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

56%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The majority of critics highlight strong replayability for The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel III, emphasizing its extensive content and layered systems. Eurogamer Italy notes the game’s multiple difficulty levels, side quests, and minigames like Vantage Master, while Hobby Consolas praises over 100 hours of gameplay, branching choices, and High-Speed Mode. NintendoWorldReport and RPG Fan also commend the dense narrative, customization options, and side activities that encourage revisiting story elements or exploring alternate paths. Multiplayer.it and Cubed3 stress the game’s depth through optional tasks, complex dialogue, and mechanics like the card game, while SpazioGames and Vandal highlight the addictive Vantage Masters and New Game Plus features. These elements collectively create a sense of longevity, particularly for fans of the series who appreciate its intricate world-building and narrative complexity. However, some critics point to limitations in replayability due to structural and accessibility issues. Gameblog.fr and Vandal note that the game’s linear structure and long narrative sections may deter repeated playthroughs, while Noisy Pixel argues that the PS5 version’s minor improvements lack enough incentive for returning players. Additionally, several reviews (e.g., Hobby Consolas and RPGamer) mention that the game’s reliance on prior knowledge from earlier entries in the series could alienate newcomers, reducing its appeal beyond dedicated fans. The deliberate pacing and lengthy runtime, while praised by some, are seen as potential barriers for players seeking shorter experiences. Critics like Everyeye.it and PlayStation LifeStyle also suggest that while the narrative depth is compelling, the lack of explicit repeatable content (e.g., randomized events or multiplayer modes) limits its re-playability compared to other titles. Overall, the consensus among critics leans toward moderate to strong replay value, with most agreeing that the game’s vast content and systems justify multiple playthroughs for fans. While some critiques about linear storytelling and accessibility persist, the majority of reviews (e.g., Cubed3, SpazioGames, and RPG Fan) emphasize its depth, customization options, and the allure of future installments as key motivators. The inclusion of side quests, minigames, and New Game Plus features creates a compelling case for revisiting the world, even if the experience is not universally appealing. Critics like Hobby Consolas and Everyeye.it acknowledge that while the game’s replayability may be niche, its ambition and richness make it a standout entry in the series for those willing to invest time.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

86%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

14%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overwhelming consensus among critics highlights The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel III as a standout entry in the series, praised for its narrative depth, refined gameplay, and commitment to JRPG traditions. Reviewers like USgamer and Vandal lauded its faithful adherence to the franchise’s roots, noting its strong storytelling and combat systems that resonate with long-time fans. RPG Site and Push Square emphasized its scale and balance of story and gameplay, calling it a “massive, engaging entry” and “the best in the series,” respectively. The game’s character development, world-building, and musical score were frequently highlighted as strengths, with IGN Italia hailing it as one of the most significant JRPGs of the past decade. Even critics who acknowledged its flaws, such as RPG Fan, praised its “excellent character writing” and “layered storytelling,” reinforcing its appeal to series devotees. However, several critiques centered on accessibility issues and technical shortcomings. Many reviewers, including GameGrin and Metro GameCentral, criticized the game’s slow pacing, excessive length, and reliance on prior knowledge of the series, which they argued alienates newcomers. Hobby Consolas pointed to the Switch port’s technical compromises, while Eurogamer Italy and RPG Fan noted issues like a steep learning curve and incomplete narrative arcs. Some, like CGMagazine, lamented “narrative pacing issues” and “questionable writing choices,” while Starbit and Universo Nintendo highlighted the game’s dense lore as a barrier for those unfamiliar with the franchise. Additionally, GameGrin and RPG Site mentioned minor technical flaws, though these were often framed as secondary to the game’s broader strengths. Despite these criticisms, the majority of critics viewed Trails of Cold Steel III as a highly rewarding experience for fans, with its positives far outweighing its drawbacks. We Got This Covered and SpazioGames emphasized that its “stellar” storytelling and “rich story” make it a must-play, even if newcomers are advised to start from the beginning. While some, like Twinfinite and Video Chums, noted its lack of innovation compared to earlier entries, they still celebrated its consistency and depth. The game’s portability on Switch, despite technical limitations, was seen as a boon for fans seeking flexibility, as highlighted by Hobby Consolas and NintendoWorldReport. Ultimately, the review landscape paints Trails of Cold Steel III as an essential installment for series enthusiasts, with its narrative ambition, gameplay refinement, and emotional resonance securing its place as one of the genre’s defining titles.

TL;DR

A masterclass in JRPG storytelling and gameplay, Trails of Cold Steel III dazzles with emotional depth, intricate world-building, and a gripping narrative that cements its legacy. Critics praise its faithful homage to series roots, lush character arcs, and immersive score, calling it one of the genre’s defining works. Yet its punishing length, labyrinthine lore, and technical hiccups on Switch alienate newcomers, proving too dense for casual players. For fans, though, it’s an indispensable triumph—bold, flawed, and unforgettable.

MONSTER

Reviews

97 reviews found

100

RPGamer

PlayStation 4

Oct 15, 2019

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

The review calls the game a superb entry in the series, praising its storytelling, combat, and world-building while expressing anticipation for the final installment. It acknowledges minor flaws but overall recommends the game highly.

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NintendoWorldReport

Nintendo Switch

Jun 26, 2020

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

A standout RPG that combines a rich story, deep gameplay, and immersive world-building. While not flawless, it's a must-play for fans, offering a rewarding experience despite minor technical issues and the need for prior knowledge of the series.

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RPG Fan

PlayStation 4

Oct 22, 2019

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

A strong addition to the series, praised for its refined systems, character development, and storytelling. Fans will find much to appreciate, though the cliffhanger and technical issues slightly temper the experience.

RPG Fan

Nintendo Switch

Jul 7, 2020

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

Despite technical issues and accessibility challenges, the Switch port is deemed a solid and enjoyable RPG experience. The review emphasizes its value as an entry point for new players and a must-play for series fans, with high praise for its narrative and gameplay.

Push Square

PlayStation 4

Oct 21, 2019

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

Considered the best in the series, offering a near-perfect balance of story and gameplay, with an engaging RPG experience that rewards prior investment.

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Cubed3

PlayStation 4

Oct 15, 2019

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

The review concludes that Trails of Cold Steel III is a strong entry in the series

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ZTGD

PlayStation 4

Oct 15, 2019

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

The review concludes that the game delivers on all fronts with improved visuals, performance, and mechanics. It praises the story, characters, and gameplay while acknowledging minor flaws, ultimately stating the long wait was worth it for fans of the series.

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PlayStation LifeStyle

PlayStation 4

Nov 4, 2019

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

The review is overwhelmingly positive, celebrating the game's storytelling, scale, and consistency within the series. It positions Cold Steel III as a strong entry in the franchise with enduring appeal.

We Got This Covered

PlayStation 4

Oct 31, 2019

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

The review is overwhelmingly positive, calling the game a stellar entry in the series. It emphasizes that while newcomers should start from the beginning, fans will love the experience. The conclusion highlights the game's strengths and its anticipation for the final installment.

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Video Chums

Nintendo Switch

Jul 17, 2020

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

The review calls the game one of the best JRPGs ever made and praises the Thors Academy Edition as a wonderful treat for fans, emphasizing its nostalgic and collectible appeal.

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