Classic JRPG Returns 21 Years Later Remastered for Switch 2 & PS5

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As originally revealed in August 2024, a modern remake called Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter will release on September 19th for PC via Steam, Nintendo Switch 2, and PS5. This remaster features enhanced HD visuals, updated voiceovers, and modernized gameplay mechanics. It will give a new generation of players the opportunity to experience the original story on modern consoles. Whether you’ve played the classic game or not, this remaster marks an exciting opportunity to experience one of the best JRPGs out there.

Why the Original Trails in the Sky Is a JRPG Classic

Image courtesy of Nihon Falcom, XSEED Games, and Marvelous USA

Trails in the Sky was initially released as the 6th installment in the The Legend of Heroes series. However, it featured a separate storyline that started a unique franchise with an overarching and beloved narrative. Since this first installment arrived 21 years ago, the Trails series has become a massive and overarching phenomenon for dedicated JRPG fans. However, it has enjoyed more of a cult classic status compared to other big-name franchises, particularly as the OG title has become harder to revisit. The game that started this series might not be as well-known as Final Fantasy, but it is quite possibly an entry equally deserving of high praise.

The original Trails in the Sky manages to balance solid turn-based combat mechanics with an in-depth RPG system. Not only that, but the storyline and characters captured players’ attention from the first game onwards, with many saying subsequent entries in the series get even better. The gameplay itself is similar to what you might get in something like Final Fantasy 6 or Chrono Trigger, which makes sense given the timing of the first entry.

Though some admit the story is a bit slow to start in the first game, the characters and narrative nevertheless continue to capture players to this day. Trails in the Sky introduces players to the franchise world of Zemuria, as they follow the story of two siblings training to become peacekeepers known as Bracers. Like any solid party JRPG, players will meet a cast of characters who form a memorable adventuring party. With a solid balance between combat and story, the game performed well with critics and players alike upon its release.

For many, the original Trails in the Sky holds up to this day. But due to its initial release for the PSP and PC, with the most recent console port on PS3, it’s not easy to revisit on modern consoles. That has prevented the series from being quite as widespread as other JRPGs like Final Fantasy, which offers more modern renditions to keep fans engaged. That’s why the game’s soon-to-be-released remaster is an incredibly exciting moment for JRPG fans and potentially the Trails franchise as a whole.

What’s New in the Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter Remaster

Image courtesy of Nihon Falcom and GungHo Online Entertainment America

In 2024, developer Nihon Falcom announced a modern remaster that will bring Trails in the Sky to modern audiences. The new title, slated to release on September 19th, will update the classic JRPG and bring it to current-gen platforms. It will release for PC Via Steam, Nintendo Switch, Switch 2, and PS5, bringing the original story that sparked the series up to date. But like with any remaster, fans are no doubt curious how this update differs from the 2014 PC port still available on Steam.

Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter is a full remaster, meaning it makes some pretty key updates to the game. This remaster features updated visuals, bringing the game’s graphics into stunning HD. It’s a pretty striking difference from the original game’s chibi character models to the sleek, 3D look of the remaster. But that’s not the only difference players will find here.

The Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter remaster also introduces streamlined gameplay mechanics. This includes the option to choose between the traditional turn-based combat from the original or pivot to real-time action combat. For those who immediately nope out on turn-based combat, this has the potential to bring the JRPG to an expansive new audience.

The game’s voiceovers for both English and Japanese have also been fully redone, offering a new and improved story experience. With all those changes, however, the game promises to stay true to the original storyline that started the Trails series 21 years ago. And if all goes to plan, players will eventually get treated to full 3D remakes of the entire series, bringing these classics back to a modern audience.

Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter releases on September 19th for PC via Steam, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, and PS5. The digital standard edition costs $59.99, with a $10 upgrade cost for the Switch 2 edition.

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