Trails Series
軌跡シリーズ
Within the sprawling landscape of RPGs, few series have achieved the intricate narrative depth and world-building prowess of the Trails (Kiseki) series. Renowned for its sprawling narratives, multi-faceted characters, and meticulous attention to detail, the Trails series has captivated players and set a new standard for storytelling in the gaming world.
Pioneering the Path
The Trails series embarked on its ambitious journey with the Trails in the Sky sub-series. Set in the enchanting continent of Zemuria, players followed the adventures of Estelle Bright and Joshua Bright as they unveiled a tapestry of political intrigue, personal growth, and mysteries that spanned generations. The first few titles laid the groundwork for what would become a narrative epic of immense proportions.
Adaptations and Beyond
The Trails series' foray into anime began with adaptations of its beloved narratives. Titles like Trails in the Sky and Trails of Cold Steel received manga and anime treatments, enabling fans to witness their favorite characters and events in a visually stunning format. These adaptations strive to capture the essence of the games' storytelling while presenting them in a manner that complements the strengths of animation.
Navigating the Vast World of Zemuria
In the expansive world of the Trails series, the continent of Zemuria takes center stage. A land filled with diverse landscapes, cultures, and political intrigues, Zemuria serves as the backdrop for the epic tales woven throughout the series.
Liberl Kingdom
Liberl is often the starting point for new players, and it's a kingdom characterized by lush forests, picturesque landscapes, and advanced orbal technology. The Liberl Arc introduces players to the world of bracers and their role in maintaining peace and order.
Crossbell State
Crossbell is a bustling metropolis at the heart of Zemuria, known for its technological advancements and complex political landscape. This arc delves into themes of corruption, espionage, and the impact of power struggles on the lives of ordinary citizens.
Erebonian Empire
The Erebonian Empire is a powerful nation with a rich history, towering cities, and a strict class system. The Erebonia Arc explores themes of social disparity, imperialism, and the consequences of wielding great power.
Republic of Calvard
Calvard, a former monarchy, is a nation of diverse cultures and traditions. The Calvard Arc explores the impact of war on the lives of ordinary citizens, while giving players a new real-time combat system to master.
Zemuria is not limited to these main regions, and there are various smaller regions and unknown territories yet to be told with their own unique characteristics and stories. These regions often play a significant role in the overarching narrative, contributing to the richness of the world.
Where do I start?
The series is divided into multiple interconnected story arcs, each contributing to an epic, overarching narrative. It is recommended to play the games in release order (Liberl > Crossbell > Erebonia > Calvard) to fully appreciate the story and world-building. Your journey begins with Trails in the Sky!