The world of gaming is vast and interconnected, much like the universe crafted by Nihon Falcom in their renowned Trails series. If you’re a gamer eager to jump into the Trails of Cold Steel without having played Trails in the Sky, you’re not alone in this dilemma. With so many interconnected storylines, knowing where to start can be a challenge.
Understanding the Trails Series
The Legend of Heroes franchise, a brainchild of Falcom, is beloved for its rich storytelling and intricate world-building. Within this franchise lies the Trails series, known for its deeply interconnected narrative arcs. The series unfolds across multiple games, each contributing to a larger, cohesive storyline that spans continents and generations.
What is Trails in the Sky?
Trails in the Sky marks the beginning of the Trails saga. This series sets the stage with detailed character development and intricate political landscapes. It introduces players to Liberl, a kingdom rife with conflict and intrigue. Key plot points revolve around characters Estelle and Joshua, whose journeys form the backbone for much of what unfolds in later installments.
What is Trails of Cold Steel?
Trails of Cold Steel, on the other hand, takes players to the militaristic Erebonian Empire. It offers a fresh perspective with a new cast of characters, primarily focusing on Rean Schwarzer and his classmates at Thors Military Academy. While it stands on its own as a significant entry, its narrative threads tie back to events and characters introduced in earlier arcs.
Can You Play Cold Steel Without Trails in the Sky?
Absolutely, you can start with Cold Steel. The game is designed to be accessible to newcomers, offering a self-contained story that doesn’t necessitate prior knowledge of Trails in the Sky. However, understanding the deeper narrative connections enriches the experience. Cold Steel 1 and 2 are more forgiving in this regard, but by Cold Steel 3 and 4, familiarity with earlier games becomes increasingly beneficial.
Benefits of Playing Trails in the Sky First
Playing Trails in the Sky first provides insights into character arcs and background stories that are threaded throughout the Cold Steel series. It lays a foundation of themes and settings that reappear, enhancing your appreciation of the overarching narrative. Additionally, it offers a more profound emotional impact when encountering recurring characters and plot developments.
How to Enjoy Cold Steel as a Standalone
For those venturing directly into Cold Steel, there are ways to enhance your understanding. Focus on the core storylines within Cold Steel to grasp the primary narrative. Engage with community resources such as summaries and character guides to fill in knowledge gaps. These tools can provide necessary context without requiring you to play previous entries.
Key Considerations When Skipping Trails in the Sky
Opting to skip Trails in the Sky means potentially missing out on spoilers and references that would otherwise enhance your understanding. Video summaries and online discussions can be invaluable in catching up on missed content. They offer condensed insights into key events and character developments, ensuring you’re not entirely in the dark.
Conclusion
While it’s possible to enjoy Trails of Cold Steel without playing Trails in the Sky, engaging with both series offers a richer, more rewarding experience. Each installment builds upon the last, creating a tapestry of stories that is as intricate as it is captivating. For the ultimate gaming experience, consider exploring both series and immersing yourself in the expansive world of Trails.
FAQs
Do you have to play Trails in the Sky before Cold Steel?
No, it’s not mandatory. Cold Steel is designed to be accessible to newcomers, though prior knowledge enriches the experience.
Can I skip the Trails in the Sky games?
Yes, but you may miss out on deeper narrative connections and character backgrounds. Supplementing with summaries can help.
Is Trails in the Sky connected to Cold Steel?
Yes, both series are intertwined, with overlapping characters and themes that span the Trails universe.
Do I need to grind in Trails in the Sky?
Not necessarily. The gameplay is balanced, but understanding the mechanics enhances your experience. Cold Steel offers a more streamlined approach.
