
The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel is a beloved RPG that has captured the hearts of gamers worldwide. Released in 2013, this game is part of the larger Trails series, known for its intricate storytelling and deep character development. Players follow the journey of Rean Schwarzer and his classmates at Thors Military Academy as they navigate political intrigue, personal growth, and epic battles. What sets this game apart? Its turn-based combat system, detailed world-building, and rich lore. Whether you're a seasoned fan or new to the series, these 34 facts will give you a deeper appreciation for this iconic game. Ready to dive in? Let's get started!
The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel – An Overview
The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel is a beloved RPG series known for its intricate storytelling, deep character development, and strategic combat. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about this game.
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First Release: The game first launched in Japan on September 26, 2013, for the PlayStation 3 and PlayStation Vita.
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Developer: Nihon Falcom, a renowned Japanese video game developer, created the game. They are also known for the Ys series.
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Setting: The story unfolds in the Erebonian Empire, a powerful nation within the game's universe.
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Main Protagonist: Rean Schwarzer, a student at Thors Military Academy, is the central character.
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Class VII: Rean belongs to Class VII, a special class that includes both nobles and commoners, breaking traditional social barriers.
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Combat System: The game features a turn-based combat system with a unique "Tactical Link System" that allows characters to support each other in battle.
Characters and Storyline
The characters and storyline are the heart of Trails of Cold Steel. Each character has a rich backstory and unique abilities.
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Character Bonds: Players can strengthen bonds with other characters through various activities, affecting combat performance and story outcomes.
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Voice Acting: The game features extensive voice acting, with over 50 hours of voiced dialogue in the English version.
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Multiple Endings: Choices made throughout the game can lead to different endings, adding replay value.
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Political Intrigue: The storyline is filled with political intrigue, exploring themes of class struggle, loyalty, and rebellion.
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Field Studies: Students of Class VII participate in "Field Studies," which are practical assignments that take them across the empire.
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Hidden Quests: There are numerous hidden quests and side stories that provide deeper insights into the world and characters.
Game Mechanics and Features
The game mechanics and features set Trails of Cold Steel apart from other RPGs, offering a unique and engaging experience.
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Orbment System: Players can customize characters' abilities using the "Orbment" system, which involves equipping magical quartz.
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Fast Travel: The game includes a fast travel system, making it easier to navigate the expansive world.
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Fishing Mini-Game: A fishing mini-game allows players to catch various fish, which can be exchanged for items.
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Cooking: Characters can cook meals that provide various buffs and benefits during combat.
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New Game Plus: After completing the game, players can start a New Game Plus, carrying over certain progress and items.
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Difficulty Levels: Multiple difficulty levels cater to both casual players and hardcore RPG fans.
Reception and Impact
Trails of Cold Steel has received critical acclaim and has had a significant impact on the RPG genre.
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Critical Acclaim: The game received high praise for its story, characters, and combat system.
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Sales: It has sold over one million copies worldwide, a testament to its popularity.
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Awards: The game has won several awards, including "Best RPG" from various gaming publications.
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Fanbase: It has a dedicated fanbase that eagerly anticipates each new installment in the series.
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Localization: XSEED Games handled the English localization, ensuring the game's rich narrative was preserved.
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Sequels: Trails of Cold Steel has spawned multiple sequels, continuing the story of Rean and Class VII.
Fun and Lesser-Known Facts
Here are some fun and lesser-known facts that even die-hard fans might not know.
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Easter Eggs: The game is filled with Easter eggs and references to other Nihon Falcom games.
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Anime Adaptation: An anime adaptation of the game was announced, expanding its reach to a broader audience.
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Merchandise: Various merchandise, including figures and art books, have been released, celebrating the game's characters and world.
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Soundtrack: The game's soundtrack, composed by Falcom Sound Team jdk, is highly regarded and has been released separately.
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Cross-Save: Players can transfer save data between the PlayStation 3 and PlayStation Vita versions.
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PC Port: A PC port of the game was released in 2017, featuring enhanced graphics and additional features.
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Voice Actors: Some voice actors in the game are well-known in the anime industry, adding to the game's appeal.
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In-Game Books: Players can collect and read in-game books that provide lore and background information.
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Art Style: The game features a distinctive art style, blending traditional anime aesthetics with modern graphics.
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Community Events: The fan community often hosts events and discussions, keeping the game's spirit alive.
The Final Word on Trails of Cold Steel
The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel is a game that has captured the hearts of many with its rich storytelling, deep characters, and intricate world-building. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or new to the series, there's something here for everyone. From its strategic combat system to the detailed lore, every aspect of the game is crafted with care. The relationships you build with characters and the choices you make have lasting impacts, making each playthrough unique. If you haven't yet experienced this gem, now's the perfect time to dive in. You'll find yourself immersed in a world where every detail matters, and every character has a story to tell. So, grab your controller, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the world of Erebonia. Happy gaming!
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