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Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter
Item: Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2025

GenresThird Person Perspective, RPG, Anime and JRPG, Strategy, Single Player

AvailableSep 19, 2025

PlatformPlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch

DeveloperFalcom

Overview

A remake of the first installment in the main Trails series, serving as the beginning to the Liberl arc and the series as a whole. The game follows protagonists Estelle Bright and her adopted brother Joshua, who journey through the country of Liberl to train to become senior Bracers, members of a non-government multinational organization that acts to keep the peace and protect civilians.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter is a critically acclaimed JRPG celebrated for its rich narrative and deep character development, particularly the bond between siblings Estelle and Joshua on their quest. Critics praise its genre-blending and immersive world-building, filled with themes of personal growth and connection. However, some highlight pacing issues, noting that the narrative can drag, especially in mid-game dialogues. Despite these criticisms, the game is regarded as a strong entry in the genre, offering a cozy, character-centric experience that sets up future adventures. Overall, the positives outweigh the negatives, making it a must-play for both newcomers and series fans.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

89%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

11%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the story of Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter is overwhelmingly positive among critics, who praise its intricate narrative and character development. Reviewers like Gaming Nexus and Nintenderos highlight the deep and engaging relationship between siblings Estelle and Joshua as they embark on a quest to find their missing father. Many critics, including Retcon and Siliconera, commend the game's ability to blend various genres while maintaining a compelling storyline that evolves through meaningful character interactions. The slow-paced worldbuilding is noted as a strength, allowing players to immerse themselves in the richly crafted environment and lore, as emphasized by CGMagazine and Checkpoint Gaming. The story's focus on themes of personal growth, connection, and the hero's journey resonates well with the audience, making it an engaging experience. Despite the accolades, several critics point out pacing issues that may detract from the overall experience. Many reviews, such as those from GameCritics and Jeuxvideo.com, mention that the narrative can feel slow at times, particularly in the middle chapters where the plot may lag due to lengthy dialogues and exposition. Critics like Final Weapon and Saudi Gamer acknowledge that while the character-driven narrative is enjoyable, the pacing might not suit all players, potentially leading to moments of tedium. This sentiment is echoed by Game8 and RPGamer, who note that the slow burn approach, while rewarding in character development, can also create a sense of sluggishness in the narrative's progression. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter offers a rich and engaging story that successfully captures the essence of its characters and the world they inhabit. Reviewers like IGN France and Impulsegamer appreciate the mature themes and complex narrative that unfolds throughout the game, despite some criticisms regarding pacing and length. Overall, the game is seen as a strong entry in the JRPG genre, providing a cozy, character-focused experience that sets the stage for future adventures, as noted by critics like Gamer Escape and PlayStation Universe. The majority of reviewers agree that the positives far outweigh the negatives, making it a worthwhile journey for both newcomers and longtime fans of the series.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter impresses with its innovative hybrid combat system, blending real-time action and turn-based mechanics, earning praise for strategic depth and customization via the Tactical Orbments. While the gameplay is engaging and accessible for all skill levels, some critics note moments of repetition and a learning curve in transitioning between combat styles. Overall, it stands out as a must-play RPG, balancing thoughtful design and accessibility, appealing to both newcomers and veterans alike.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

100%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter has garnered widespread acclaim from critics, particularly for its innovative hybrid combat system that seamlessly blends real-time action with turn-based mechanics. Reviewers from Gaming Nexus and Nintenderos praised the combat system for being both approachable and strategic, allowing players to engage in thoughtful team organization and character-specific strategies. The Tactical Orbments system, highlighted by Siliconera and CGMagazine, adds depth and personalization to character builds, enhancing the overall gameplay experience. Critics also noted the variety of difficulty levels, which cater to different play styles, making the game accessible to both newcomers and seasoned veterans. The engaging side quests and meaningful exploration elements, as mentioned by Checkpoint Gaming and Gamer Escape, further contribute to a rich and rewarding gameplay experience. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, some critics pointed out a few drawbacks. For instance, Game8 and GamingBolt mentioned that players might encounter moments of repetition within the gameplay, which could detract from the overall enjoyment over time. Additionally, while the hybrid combat system is praised for its depth, some reviewers like IGN France and GameGrin noted that the transition between real-time and turn-based mechanics might not be seamless for all players, potentially leading to a learning curve. Furthermore, while the customization options through the orbment system are generally well-received, some critics felt that the simplification of certain mechanics, as noted by PlayStation Universe, could limit the strategic complexity for advanced players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter delivers a compelling and enjoyable gameplay experience, with the majority highlighting its strategic depth and engaging combat system. Reviewers such as Retcon and Cultured Vultures emphasized the game's ability to keep players engaged through its dynamic combat and character customization options. The combination of thoughtful design and accessibility has led to a strong recommendation from critics, with many considering the gameplay to be one of the standout features of the title. As a result, Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter is positioned as a noteworthy entry in the RPG genre, appealing to a broad audience while offering layers of strategic depth for those seeking a more nuanced experience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter shines with its stunning 3D visuals and vibrant cel-shaded graphics, making it feel like a playable anime. Critics laud the modernized design on the Nintendo Switch 2, praising its colorful environments and detailed animations. However, some note repetitiveness in character designs and environments, suggesting it lacks variety compared to AAA titles. Overall, the remake is celebrated for its impressive graphical overhaul, marking it as one of Falcom's best visual efforts despite minor design critiques.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual 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 graphics and visual design.

The overall sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter is predominantly positive, with many critics praising the significant visual upgrades brought by the remake. Reviewers like Siliconera and Final Weapon highlighted the stunning 3D visuals and vibrant cel-shaded graphics that enhance character models and animations, making the game feel like a playable anime. Critics from Gaming Nexus and Nintenderos noted the impressive art style and cleaner visual presentation on the Nintendo Switch 2, emphasizing the enhanced colors and definition that contribute to a more appealing environment. The game’s ability to maintain the ambiance of the original while feeling fresh and modern is a recurring theme, with CGMagazine and Checkpoint Gaming commending the colorful art and detailed environments that enhance the sense of place in the world of Zemuria. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, some critics pointed out certain shortcomings in the visual design. For instance, Gamer Escape and Gamer.no expressed concerns about the repetitiveness in character designs and environmental layouts, suggesting that while the graphics are vibrant, they may lack the variety seen in modern AAA titles. Additionally, Impulsegamer noted that while the cel-shaded graphics are gorgeous, some environments felt merely serviceable. Critics like GameCritics echoed this sentiment, stating that while the art style is captivating, the environments could benefit from more diversity to create a richer visual experience. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter showcases a remarkable graphical overhaul that successfully modernizes the original game while retaining its charm. Reviewers such as IGN France and RPGamer emphasized the detailed animations and vibrant world that enhance exploration and immersion. Overall, while there are minor critiques regarding repetitiveness in design, the majority of critics agree that the visual presentation is a standout aspect of the remake, marking it as one of Falcom's best efforts in terms of graphics to date.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

"Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter" shines with immersive sound design and a rich orchestrated soundtrack, praised for its solid voice acting and emotional depth. While critics commend the dual-language voice options and standout performances, some flag issues with inconsistency and repetitiveness in the music and voice work. Overall, the audio is a significant highlight, enhancing the game's experience despite a few mixed reviews.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

79%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

17%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of "Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter" have garnered predominantly positive feedback from critics, emphasizing the game's immersive audio experience. Reviewers such as Gaming Nexus and Nintenderos highlighted the solid voice acting and top-tier writing, which significantly contribute to the overall enjoyment of the game. The inclusion of both English and Japanese voice acting was praised for enhancing the presentation, with Retcon specifically noting the excellent voice performance of the character Estelle. Critics like CGMagazine and COGconnected lauded the re-recorded and orchestrated soundtrack, which not only retains the whimsical charm of the original but also enhances emotional engagement, making the music a standout feature of the game. However, there were some criticisms regarding the sound design and music that cannot be overlooked. While many praised the soundtrack, some critics, such as Gamer.no and Saudi Gamer, found the music to be inconsistent and at times repetitive, detracting from the overall experience. Game8 pointed out the inconsistency in English voice acting, which affected certain scenes, while Jeuxvideo.com described parts of the music as flat and lacking memorability. Additionally, Gamer Escape criticized Estelle's voice acting as grating, indicating that not all performances resonated positively with players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the sound design and music in "Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter" are generally very good, with many reviewers expressing their appreciation for the high-quality voice acting and the rich, orchestrated soundtrack. Critics like PlayStation Universe and RPGamer emphasized the soundtrack's ability to enhance emotional moments and gameplay, while TechRadar Gaming noted the beauty of the music and its complementary nature to the game. Despite some mixed opinions regarding specific tracks and voice performances, the majority of reviewers agree that the audio elements significantly enrich the gaming experience, making it a noteworthy aspect of the title.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter delivers strong voice acting that enriches its narrative, praised for character depth by critics like Gaming Nexus and Nintenderos. Estelle's portrayal stands out, with both Japanese and English performances receiving acclaim. However, issues like inconsistent quality, annoying English voiceovers, and unvoiced cutscenes mar the experience. While the overall reception is positive, critics highlight significant flaws that hinder immersion, suggesting room for improvement in future installments.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

48%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

44%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, highlighting its ability to enhance the narrative experience significantly. Reviewers such as Gaming Nexus and Nintenderos emphasized how the solid execution of voice performances adds depth to the characters and their interactions. Retcon praised the portrayal of Estelle, noting her genuine and relatable nature, while Siliconera commended the fantastic performances in the Japanese version and strong English voice acting. Many critics, including CGMagazine and Checkpoint Gaming, remarked on the stellar voice performances that add personality and depth to the characters, indicating a well-cast and executed voice acting experience overall. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the voice acting that detract from the overall experience. Some reviewers, such as Gamer Escape and Gamer.no, pointed out inconsistencies in quality, with particular mention of Estelle's English voice acting being perceived as annoying. Critics like Game8 and Cultured Vultures noted uneven performances among the English cast and highlighted issues like mismatched dialogue and semi-voiced cutscenes that disrupt immersion. Furthermore, TechRadar Gaming and Final Weapon mentioned that some scenes lack full voiceovers, which could be particularly jarring for newcomers to the series, suggesting that while there are strong performances, the overall execution is not without its flaws. The overall consensus among critics suggests that while the voice acting in Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter is generally well-received, with many praising the depth and character portrayal, there are significant inconsistencies that impact the experience. Critics like RPGamer and Worth Playing noted the emotional range and chemistry among the leads, reinforcing the positive aspects of the voice acting. However, the criticisms regarding uneven performances, particularly in the English version, and the presence of unvoiced segments indicate that the voice acting, while a notable improvement over previous iterations, still has room for enhancement. This mixed reception underscores the potential for the voice acting to elevate the narrative further, should the inconsistencies be addressed in future updates or sequels.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter shines on Nintendo Switch 2 and PS5, delivering smooth 60fps gameplay, stunning visuals, and minimal loading times. Critics laud its performance, with the Switch 2 excelling in handheld mode and the PS5 showcasing modern enhancements. While minor technical hiccups exist—like occasional slowdowns in busy scenes—these issues are overshadowed by the overall positive reception. It’s a strong remake that enhances gameplay and visual fidelity, earning high marks from the gaming community.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

81%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

19%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter has garnered a largely positive reception across both the Nintendo Switch 2 and PS5 platforms. Critics playing on the Nintendo Switch 2, such as Gaming Nexus and Siliconera, noted that the game runs smoothly, achieving a stable 60fps with impressive rendering capabilities. Nintenderos highlighted the game's performance in handheld mode, which remains stable, while also mentioning that it performs slightly better when docked. Overall, the Switch 2 version is praised for minimal loading times and an enjoyable experience, making it a commendable port for the platform. On the PS5, the consensus is similarly favorable, with critics like Final Weapon and IGN France emphasizing the game's excellent performance, 4K visuals, and minimal loading times. The improvements in technical performance compared to the original were also noted, with CGMagazine and PlayStation Universe pointing out the modern gameplay enhancements and quality-of-life features that contribute to a smooth experience. Despite the overall positive reception, there were some minor criticisms regarding technical performance on both platforms. On the Nintendo Switch 2, Nintenderos mentioned occasional minor issues in docked mode during busy scenes, indicating that while the game performs well, it is not entirely free from hiccups. Similarly, on the PS5, while most critics praised the performance, GamingBolt noted some noticeable hiccups that could affect the experience. Cultured Vultures pointed out lingering loading issues when entering buildings, suggesting that while the game is generally smooth, there are still areas needing improvement. These criticisms, however, are relatively minor compared to the overall positive feedback. In summary, the overall consensus among critics is that Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter delivers a commendable technical performance across both the Nintendo Switch 2 and PS5 platforms, with the majority of reviewers expressing satisfaction. The game showcases significant improvements over its predecessor, with features that enhance gameplay and visual fidelity. While there are some minor technical issues noted, they do not overshadow the overall quality of the experience. Critics such as TechRadar Gaming and Worth Playing reinforced this sentiment by highlighting the game's smooth frame rates and quality-of-life improvements, solidifying the game's reputation as a well-executed remake in the eyes of the gaming community.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter is praised for its vast world, rich narrative, and engaging gameplay, making it highly replayable for dedicated fans. Critics highlight its character development and a New Game+ mode as major strengths. However, limitations like unavailable side quests, minimal new content in the remake, and a hefty time commitment may deter some players. Overall, it's a solid choice for genre enthusiasts, but challenges exist for broader appeal.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

52%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

48%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter are largely positive, highlighting several key aspects that contribute to its appeal. Many critics, including Gaming Nexus and Nintenderos, emphasize the vast world and the abundance of side missions that encourage exploration, making the game engaging for both newcomers and returning players. The character development and rich narrative are frequently cited as significant factors that enhance replayability, with IGN France noting the engaging gameplay mechanics that invite players to delve deeper into the game. Additionally, the inclusion of a New Game+ mode and multiple difficulty settings, as mentioned by PlayStation Country and Impulsegamer, further supports the idea that players can enjoy the game multiple times with varied experiences. However, there are some criticisms regarding the replay value of the game. Several reviewers, such as Gamer Escape and GamingBolt, point out limitations that may affect players' willingness to replay. For instance, some side quests become unavailable after certain story checkpoints, which may frustrate completionists. Additionally, while the game offers a nostalgic experience for returning players, the lack of significant new content in the remake, as noted by GamingBolt, could deter some players from replaying. Critics like TechRadar Gaming also mention that the substantial time investment required to complete the game might limit its appeal for those looking for shorter gaming experiences. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter possesses a solid foundation for replay value, particularly for fans of the genre. The game's rich narrative, character development, and various side quests create an engaging environment that encourages exploration and replay, as highlighted by Cultured Vultures and Final Weapon. However, the potential limitations regarding quest availability and the perceived lack of new content in the remake may temper enthusiasm for some players, as noted by Gamer Escape and Noisy Pixel. Ultimately, the game appears to cater well to those invested in its world and characters, while also presenting challenges that may affect its replayability for a broader audience.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

99%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter is overwhelmingly positive, with many critics praising its combination of engaging gameplay, rich narrative, and enhanced visuals. Reviewers like Gaming Nexus and Nintenderos highlighted the game as an excellent entry point for newcomers, emphasizing its well-crafted port that retains the charm of the original while improving performance. Critics such as CGMagazine and Checkpoint Gaming echoed this sentiment, describing it as a masterful remake that modernizes key elements while capturing the essence of the original. The game's captivating combat, authentic characters, and well-structured world were frequently mentioned, with TechRadar Gaming calling it a "top-class remake" that stands out in the JRPG genre. Despite the largely favorable reviews, some critics pointed out minor flaws that detracted from the overall experience. For instance, Gamer.no noted localization issues and anime clichés that could potentially hinder immersion, while GameCritics mentioned pacing issues and character transitions that were less than seamless. Additionally, while the complexity of systems and menus was acknowledged by COGconnected, it was seen as a slight barrier for some players. These critiques suggest that while the game excels in many areas, it is not without its imperfections. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter is a significant achievement in the realm of JRPGs, successfully introducing the series to a new audience while retaining the charm that long-time fans appreciate. Reviewers like Final Weapon and RPGamer emphasized its role as a definitive starting point for newcomers, making it a must-play title. With the majority of critics agreeing on its strengths and only minor criticisms noted, it is clear that Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter is regarded as a remarkable remake that enhances the original while appealing to both new and returning players.

TL;DR

Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter is a standout JRPG remake, celebrated for its engaging gameplay, rich story, and improved visuals, making it perfect for newcomers and fans alike. Critics hail it as a top-class remake that preserves the original's charm while modernizing key elements. However, some minor flaws, like localization issues and pacing problems, slightly mar the experience. Overall, it’s a must-play title that successfully draws in a new audience while satisfying long-time fans.

MONSTER

Reviews

72 reviews found

CGMagazine

PlayStation 5

Sep 19, 2025