PGC NEWS

The Trails series, a cornerstone of the JRPG genre, has captivated players with its intricate narratives, sprawling world, and deep combat system. Trails of Cold Steel IV, released in 2018 for PS4 and later for Switch and PC, marks the culmination of an epic saga spanning over eight years. But does it live up to the legacy of its predecessors and deliver a satisfying conclusion to the Zemurian saga? This review delves into the strengths and weaknesses of Trails of Cold Steel IV, exploring its gameplay, story, and overall presentation.

Deep and Engaging Combat Returns

Trails of Cold Steel IV retains the refined gameplay mechanics of its predecessor, offering a blend of turn-based combat and strategic positioning. Players aren’t simply selecting commands; they’re actively maneuvering their characters on the battlefield to optimize attacks and evade enemy assaults. This tactical layer, combined with the series’ signature “Orbment” system for customizing character abilities, ensures battles remain engaging throughout the lengthy campaign. The familiar blend of Arts (magic), Crafts (special skills), and S-Crafts (ultimate moves) provides a diverse range of tactical options. Timing attacks, exploiting enemy weaknesses, and managing character turn order are crucial for success, preventing combat from becoming monotonous.

alt text describing image of combat

The vast world of Zemuria is teeming with NPCs, side quests, and interwoven storylines that keep players immersed in the game’s rich lore. From bustling cities to sprawling dungeons, there’s always something to discover and explore. The sheer volume of content ensures that players will rarely find themselves bored. The game encourages exploration and interaction, rewarding players with deeper insights into the world and its inhabitants.

A Narrative Barrier for Newcomers

While the interconnected narrative is a hallmark of the Trails series, it presents a significant hurdle for newcomers. Trails of Cold Steel IV plunges players directly into the aftermath of its predecessor, assuming familiarity with the complex plot and extensive cast of characters. New players are bombarded with information from the outset, making it challenging to grasp the narrative’s nuances without prior experience with the series.

alt text describing image of characters

This steep learning curve can be alienating, especially for those unfamiliar with the previous installments. The game assumes a level of investment that may not be present for new players, effectively creating a barrier to entry. While the story ultimately delivers a compelling conclusion for longtime fans, it’s difficult to recommend this game as a starting point for newcomers to the Trails universe.

Recycled Assets and Narrative Shortcomings

One of the most glaring criticisms of Trails of Cold Steel IV is its heavy reliance on recycled assets from its predecessor. Environments, character models, and even NPCs are reused extensively, giving the impression of a rushed development cycle. This lack of visual distinction undermines the sense of progression and can make the game feel like an extended DLC rather than a full-fledged sequel.

alt text describing image of a town

Furthermore, the narrative, while delivering a satisfying conclusion, suffers from pacing issues and underdeveloped plot threads. The game attempts to tie up numerous loose ends, resulting in a somewhat rushed and uneven narrative experience. While the overarching story resonates, certain character arcs and plot points feel underdeveloped, leaving some questions unanswered. The morally gray areas explored in previous games are somewhat simplified, with antagonists lacking the depth and complexity seen earlier in the series.

alt text describing image of characters

Conclusion: A Bittersweet Farewell

Trails of Cold Steel IV ultimately delivers a satisfying, albeit flawed, conclusion to the Cold Steel saga. Its engaging gameplay and epic storyline will resonate with longtime fans. However, the game’s reliance on recycled assets, narrative shortcomings, and inaccessibility to newcomers prevent it from reaching its full potential. While it serves as a fitting farewell for veterans of the series, it’s a less-than-ideal entry point for those unfamiliar with the Trails universe. Despite its flaws, Trails of Cold Steel IV provides closure to a beloved saga, leaving players with a bittersweet sense of finality.