The Trails series, which has been captivating gamers for the past 20 years, may be nearing its completion. In a recent interview with GameSpot, Nihon Falcom president Toshihiro Kondo hinted that the main story of the series is now “about 80-90% complete.” While there may be another arc in the future, Kondo made it clear that the series won’t continue on for much longer. In fact, he ruled out the possibility of seeing a “30th or 40th anniversary” for the Trails games.
Despite the impending conclusion of the Trails series, fans of Nihon Falcom have something to look forward to. Kondo revealed that the team is actively working on several new IPs. The developers are eager to explore fresh ideas and allow younger team members to grow and develop through working on these new projects. Kondo believes that this will lead to stronger developers with even better ideas that will enhance future games from the studio.
Kondo acknowledged that while the Trails series has been a monumental success, it has also led to some stagnation within the development team. Working on the same series for such a long period of time can be limiting for the creativity and growth of the developers. By introducing new projects and allowing team members to work on different IPs, Nihon Falcom hopes to foster innovation and diversity within the studio.
The interview coincided with the release of The Legend of Heroes: Trails through Daybreak on the Nintendo Switch, a turn-based RPG that has been well-received by fans. Additionally, a demo of the game is available on the Switch eShop for players to try out. Looking ahead, it was announced that The Legend of Heroes: Trails through Daybreak II will be localized for the Switch in early 2025, further expanding the reach of the series.
Final Thoughts
As the Trails series approaches its conclusion, it’s evident that Nihon Falcom is committed to evolving and exploring new creative avenues. While fans may be sad to see the series winding down, the promise of fresh ideas and projects from the developers offers an exciting glimpse into the future of the studio. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the Trails games or a newcomer to the series, there’s no denying that the legacy of these games will continue to inspire and entertain for years to come.
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