Welcome to EXPlay, (Explain & Play) the review series where we care not for scores, but tell it how it is when it comes to every game we get our hands on, all whilst including some lengthy gameplay, to give you, the reader, the chance to form your own impressions and views while reading and watching.
In this explanatory review, we’re covering The Legend of Heroes: Trails beyond the Horizon by developer, Nihon Falcom:
The Legend of Heroes: Trails beyond the Horizon (Nintendo Switch 2)
Developed by Nihon Falcom, The Legend of Heroes: Trails beyond the Horizon is the latest entry in a long-running series that needs no introduction. It was first released in Japan on September 26, 2024, but as of January 15, 2026, it is now available worldwide on a variety of platforms, including both the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2.
Many arcs have unfolded across decades, but there’s still time for one last story to be told—and what a story it wields. Instead of being a Trails through Daybreak III, Trails beyond the Horizon brings back many of the heroes and characters we know and love, but takes them on an even grander adventure that greatly improves upon the game that came before it.
As a narrative-heavy RPG, this time around Trails beyond the Horizon, while continuing the Calvard arc, follows humanity’s first foray into space—going beyond the horizon. So, while the likes of Van Arkride and the gang are still front and center, Trails beyond the Horizon brings back Kevin Graham and Rean Schwarzer as playable characters with their own story routes to play through.
Having the likes of Rean and Kevin come back is something of a breath of fresh air, but at the same time, it’s a double-edged sword. It’s nice to revisit old protagonists and see how much they have grown since Trails moved on and other arcs came to fruition, but there are times their presence can take away from the likes of Van, watering down the Calvard arc. Nevertheless, it is great to see familiar faces return, and with so many being playable, it allows players to make their ultimate Trails dream team a reality.
As far as combat goes, Trails beyond the Horizon further refines the hybrid combat system introduced in the Daybreak games. The field action phase is still present, as are turn-based battles that can be activated at any time, but now there are a couple more features to make the most out of. But we’ll cover those momentarily. The field action phase is still our favourite way of dispatching weaker enemies and advancing the game’s story progression, but for the damage to be dealt, turn-based battles are still a must for S-Craft moves and more. But, being a Trails game, maximising a character’s orbments is just as essential as it has always been, as is inflicting status effects.
During turn-based combat, players can rely on a variety of attacks, crafts and arts, and steal stat bonuses, but watch where you stand, as stronger, more powerful enemies can unleash devastating damage to your entire party if you have them stand too closely together. Where Trails beyond the Horizon further expands upon its previous battle system is thanks to additions such as ZOC, as well as utilising Awakening, Dual Arts, and the BLTZ System. During field battles, characters such as Van have a boost gauge which, when filled and activated, allows them to enter an Awakened state. Not only does this prompt visual changes, but for a brief period of time, it allows them to have boosted attacks, dealing more substantial damage.
With Dual Arts, however, by combining two elemental attacks, this can create harder hitting attacks and with the BLTZ System, this can activate the turn-based Command Battles. With it activated, it can cause BLTZ Chain for an additional follow-up from a character in Supporter role, following an SCLM Chain. As for ZOC, this mechanic is highly effective in both forms of combat. During Field Battles it can cause enemies to slow right down when activated, whereas with Command Battles, by pairing it with S-Boost attacks, it allows for continuous actions.
But just in case an RPG with revised battle mechanics and 24 playable characters are not enough to draw you in just yet, Trails beyond the Horizon comes packed with plenty of side quests to play through. The game also brings back the Märchen Garten, now called the Grim Garten, the virtual space from Daybreak II that has now been taken over by Ouroboros, resulting in a much darker version. Players are free to explore this new worthwhile addition, but upon entering it, the avatars of characters are placed on a gameboard-like layout. They move turn by turn across it and rely on players to beat the guardian to be able to move onto the next area.
Lastly, in terms of graphics and performance, Trails beyond the Horizon uses the same engine as the Daybreak games, hence its crisp graphics and mostly solid 60fps frame rate. It’s one of the most visually appealing entries yet, with the Nintendo Switch 2 version being superior to the Nintendo Switch version. Trails combat has never looked this good.
Trails beyond the Horizon is another compelling new entry in the long-running series, thanks to a diverse cast spanning decades of games, an improved dynamic combat system, and character customisation. Together, it comes in the form of a worthwhile JRPG that you’d be a fool to pass up on. Yes, FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE releases a week later, but that’s no reason not to settle on getting both.
Game Specifications:
Developer: Nihon Falcom
Publisher: NIS America
Platform: Nintendo Switch 2 (Digital)
Genre: Action, Role-playing
No. of Players:Â 1Â (Single System)
Release Date:Â January 15, 2025
Price:Â $69.99
File Size: 25.6 GB
Nintendo.com Listing
