Falcom plans more Trails in the Sky remakes

The legacy of the Trails series is built on a foundation of deep lore and sprawling adventure, and now, as the franchise continues to evolve, the focus is squarely on charting the next exciting course. One year after the release of the remake of the first chapter, Trails in the Sky, the developers at Falcom are carefully considering how to keep this beloved saga thriving for years to come.

At the heart of this strategic direction is the philosophy of accessibility. As President Toshihiro Kondo, the company’s leader, explained in a recent interview, the goal behind the initial release of The Legend of Heroes. He emphasized that by making the first chapter accessible to beginners, they aimed to serve as an introduction to the world of RPGs and JRPGs in general.

This strategy has proven highly encouraging, as new players have embraced the series, demonstrating the franchise’s potential to draw in a fresh audience. Understanding that a successful ongoing franchise needs to create points of entry is key, and the Trails series, while perhaps less globally known than titans like Final Fantasy or Dragon Quest, possesses the depth required to sustain a long-term narrative.

With that groundwork established, the team now faces an intriguing fork in the road: how to manage the flow of sequels and remakes? The development of the second chapter is nearing completion, and the question now turns to the future chapters, specifically the much-anticipated third installment and the options for reimagining past titles.

The focus is clearly on providing continuity for both new and veteran fans. For newer players, jumping from the second chapter to the latest titles, such as Trails Beyond the Horizon, might still present a steep learning curve. Therefore, the current plan leans toward continuing the tradition of remakes to ensure that the franchise remains enjoyable for everyone.

There is a compelling consideration between developing a direct third chapter and delving into prequel material like Trails from Zero, which would enrich the lore for newcomers. Regardless of the path chosen, the underlying message remains the same: the Trails universe is poised to continue its journey, promising more adventures for those who are truly invested in its world.