User Score
8.6

Generally favorable reviews- based on 174 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Negative: 20 out of 174
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  1. Oct 28, 2020
    10
    This game is a compilation of the series. If you have cleared all the series, you will be impressed by seeing numerous characters. Additionally, There are numerous boss fights and fan service. I spent a lot of time watching the story.
    The new music is definitely better than CS3. You can enjoy about 70 new soundtracks.
    Although there are some technical shortcomings, they are showing
    This game is a compilation of the series. If you have cleared all the series, you will be impressed by seeing numerous characters. Additionally, There are numerous boss fights and fan service. I spent a lot of time watching the story.
    The new music is definitely better than CS3. You can enjoy about 70 new soundtracks.
    Although there are some technical shortcomings, they are showing progress gradually. I hope that the latest series hajimari no kiseki will be translated as soon as possible.
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  2. Oct 29, 2020
    10
    An emotional end to this wretched fairy tale! Filled with fanservice for returning fans.
  3. Oct 29, 2020
    10
    Cold steel 4 is my favourite entry among the cold steel series. Plotwise it might be second to Cold Steel 3 however in terms of freedom this game stands above the other cold steel games as it gives you the opportunity to use class 7 members to your liking similar to cold steel 2 but from a way bigger cast to choose from and a far better game. For those who do not like class 7 the game mayCold steel 4 is my favourite entry among the cold steel series. Plotwise it might be second to Cold Steel 3 however in terms of freedom this game stands above the other cold steel games as it gives you the opportunity to use class 7 members to your liking similar to cold steel 2 but from a way bigger cast to choose from and a far better game. For those who do not like class 7 the game may be pain because of the massive amount of filler content and fan service the game provides, but for a cold steel series and class 7 fan it is a wonderful final chapter of an epic tetralogy Expand
  4. Oct 29, 2020
    10
    The moment I saw the ending scene a year ago, I felt quite proud. It is happy to enjoy this again in native language. For this I will dedicate 120 hours!
  5. Oct 31, 2020
    10
    A big experiment is being conducted in Zemuria. I think this experiment is related to the history of mankind. What is the intention of the enemies? Perhaps the end point of this series is the realm of a noble god. What choices will the gods make for the existence of mankind?
  6. Oct 29, 2020
    10
    I always do not miss all npc conversations when playing this game. I found out that NPCs also have stories. So, as a result of having all NPC conversations from CS1 to CS3, the play time exceeded 350 hours. The NPC story is more interesting than I thought and there are quite a lot of secrets. The Legend of Heroes is a great game that pays attention to the details.
  7. Oct 31, 2020
    10
    The best thing about the Trails series is its meticulous world-building. The high points of the story are great and make for a compelling tale. However, It's not a good place for new players to start. This is because it requires prior knowledge of the series.
    Cold Steel IV is a game of enormous volume. There's a good number of great moments in CS4. With a setting that large and bringing
    The best thing about the Trails series is its meticulous world-building. The high points of the story are great and make for a compelling tale. However, It's not a good place for new players to start. This is because it requires prior knowledge of the series.
    Cold Steel IV is a game of enormous volume. There's a good number of great moments in CS4. With a setting that large and bringing together main characters from all over the Trails series, not only united Class VII, but also Trails in the Sky and Zero to Azure, the game may have felt highly majestic.
    CS4 make for some of the best rpg experiences.
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  8. Oct 31, 2020
    10
    If there is a game similar to the Avengers Endgame, I would say CS4. It's a great game where you can see dozens of characters fighting.
    The characters become heroes who save the country through life. Experiencing their own triumphs and disasters awakened my emotions.
    It’s a series that’s well worth the hype and is quite frankly, one of the best new JRPG series to come out in the last 15
    If there is a game similar to the Avengers Endgame, I would say CS4. It's a great game where you can see dozens of characters fighting.
    The characters become heroes who save the country through life. Experiencing their own triumphs and disasters awakened my emotions.
    It’s a series that’s well worth the hype and is quite frankly, one of the best new JRPG series to come out in the last 15 years with this game being a fantastic introduction.
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  9. Oct 30, 2020
    10
    CS4 has a section where 39 characters can be used. The game considered fans who completed all series. Numerous character scenes are prepared. Also, the after story is waiting in hajimari no kiseki.
    Let's enjoy the story of the heroes who overcome crisis situations.
  10. Oct 29, 2020
    10
    I am happy as a fan because it is difficult to find such a feature series game.
    It was amazing to finally be able to play this game in English.
    This game draws an appropriate conclusion to the saga. The story is as attractive as a typical jrpg. Quests were good for filling out lore for the Kiseki universe and overall story. Really upped the character interactions and cameos. If
    I am happy as a fan because it is difficult to find such a feature series game.
    It was amazing to finally be able to play this game in English.
    This game draws an appropriate conclusion to the saga.
    The story is as attractive as a typical jrpg.
    Quests were good for filling out lore for the Kiseki universe and overall story.
    Really upped the character interactions and cameos.
    If you're a jrpg fan, it's a game I definitely want to recommend.
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  11. Oct 29, 2020
    10
    Get closer to the truth of the world of Zemuria. The surprising truth is revealed and leads to the next story. Rean has the right to know the truth.
  12. Oct 29, 2020
    10
    it was long journey...CS4's True Ending has been the best gift to users who have played all the series so far. Hajimaru no kiseki is being evaluated as having a more attractive future story, so I'm looking forward to it.
  13. Oct 28, 2020
    10
    Cold Steel IV is a great sendoff for the Cold Steel series, and is filled with fan service for fans who have been sticking with the Trails series since the beginning as well.
    Many returning characters from previous games, some unexpected. Several characters do join the party for limited times during part of the game. However, the story is centered around the Class VII.
    Concludes the
    Cold Steel IV is a great sendoff for the Cold Steel series, and is filled with fan service for fans who have been sticking with the Trails series since the beginning as well.
    Many returning characters from previous games, some unexpected. Several characters do join the party for limited times during part of the game. However, the story is centered around the Class VII.
    Concludes the series in a satisfying manner, weaving together plot threads that have been dangling for as long as 8 games ago.
    Meanwhile, The minigame has been further improved and is incredibly addictive.
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  14. Oct 29, 2020
    10
    Declare struggle for the best ending. Arriving in English over two years after it was released in Japan, the wait for this massive JRPG has been well worth it.
    The enhancements to combat, visuals, and the great pacing make this one of my favourite JRPG in a long time.
  15. Oct 30, 2020
    10
    People's ties are strong. The Legend of Heroes is a series that focuses on humanity. There is no perfect hero. A hero is a person who relies on someone even though he knows his shortcomings. It is a game that gives a message appropriate to jrpg. Many characters have their own message. Have fun discovering this.
  16. Oct 29, 2020
    10
    I truly love the trails of cold steel saga! The world is massive and the story is simply amazing ! You have to play all four to fully understand and appreciate the scope this amazing world! The characters are amazing. Their unique abilities , personalities and traits makes each character feel unique and full of depth! One of my favorite jrpgs around ! What an amazing close to an amazingI truly love the trails of cold steel saga! The world is massive and the story is simply amazing ! You have to play all four to fully understand and appreciate the scope this amazing world! The characters are amazing. Their unique abilities , personalities and traits makes each character feel unique and full of depth! One of my favorite jrpgs around ! What an amazing close to an amazing series! I can’t wait for the next project ! Thanks guys ! Expand
  17. Oct 31, 2020
    10
    The true ending is fine, it definitely elicited some emotions out of me. I'm still definitely satisfied with the overall package, and looking forward to where they take the series next.
  18. Oct 31, 2020
    10
    The Legend of Heroes is a great series. There are many JRPGs, but it's rare that the story is long like this game. It feels like watching a drama. Fans are empathized with numerous characters and stories.
    In my opinion, it can be a very good game if only better graphics and technology are supported. However, as an RPG fan, there was no problem in enjoying this enough.
  19. Oct 30, 2020
    10
    Rean fate, Class7 course of actions, Can't wait to see the end of this saga with the story of the kiseki series truly a it's peak! It was a long wait. And the moment I saw them after Chapter 1, I was fascinated.
  20. Oct 28, 2020
    10
    The story ends well. Great music gives me a sense of immersion. The process of gathering heroes is very interesting.
  21. Oct 31, 2020
    10
    CS4 hasn't bothered me and have enough story to hold my interest. I actually like that it takes a while to get going to build up the world/cast and not infodump everything on you in a single cutscene like some games do and that it has a really great menu/interface that lets you keep track of everything and even a quick travel feature.
  22. Oct 28, 2020
    8
    CS IV's story focuses on the curse of the Erebonia empire, but another curse about 4th time unlucky is more prominent.

    The game is what you expect from CS 1-3....however, the story pace issue is more obvious than before. Besides, the main problem of CS IV is "Third Time's the Charm" No longer works with CS IV. The underlying problem is "who is the suitable marketing target for CSIV"
    CS IV's story focuses on the curse of the Erebonia empire, but another curse about 4th time unlucky is more prominent.

    The game is what you expect from CS 1-3....however, the story pace issue is more obvious than before. Besides, the main problem of CS IV is "Third Time's the Charm" No longer works with CS IV.

    The underlying problem is "who is the suitable marketing target for CSIV" ???

    For a new player to the series to start with IV, it is hard to connect with the large cast from old and new classes VII and from the other series.

    For the hardcore players of CS, they got through the same things thrice, 4th time is overkill.
    Same pattern, same mini fishing, school grade blah blah, tutorials, similar ordeals to introduction new char. Big-shot villains came out of nowhere just to tease fighting you then leave without conclusion, even though they can wipe your @ss clean. Your old class VII outfits look the same with III, only new VII gets the new outfits. However, they still recycle the animation, crafts, arts and blah blah. It looks like cheap work that can irritate players depending on your tolerance for its recycling. It is not on the same level as compile hearts, but it should not be expected from Falcom. Three times is still ok, fourth is testing the player's endurance.

    If CS is done in 3 parts then it has less problem with fillers/dragging down the story. This kind of repetitive and animation recycling problem also occurs with the Super Robot Wars series recently and similar to CS.

    I feel like most of the problems mentioned in this review is coming from not sufficient story materials to make CSIV, as they did not really plan for 4 parts, but too many to fit in III. Bloat load of chars seems like their solution to cover up this issue and distinct IV from I, II, III since IV is essentially the reiteration of CSII....

    By far, besides pacing issue, bloat load of chars that lead to shallow characterization, and the curse of 4th time, the game itself is very great JRPG. It is that I expected more from Falcom's standard and my suffering from cliffhanger from CSIII ending. Come on you can do better with Carvard, the next arc.

    PS. Don't get me wrong. I still love IV and playing it to reach the closure of Erebonia Saga, but can understand the underlying issues that cause controversy among the fans. That is why I rate it lower than 1,2 or 3.
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  23. Oct 31, 2020
    10
    Cold Steel 4 story is very engaging and full of charming characters, both in your party and NPCs. It even has some surprisingly interesting things to say about themes that not a lot of games touch so directly, like how class systems affect society and its people.
    Turbo modes are always useful for RPGs but in Trails especially so, since they help the already fast-paced combat feel like
    Cold Steel 4 story is very engaging and full of charming characters, both in your party and NPCs. It even has some surprisingly interesting things to say about themes that not a lot of games touch so directly, like how class systems affect society and its people.
    Turbo modes are always useful for RPGs but in Trails especially so, since they help the already fast-paced combat feel like it’s going at the speed of light.
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  24. Oct 31, 2020
    10
    The Cold Steel series aren't the classics that the Sky series are, but they're still very good. NPC stories, combat, dungeons/exploration, etc. are all much better.
  25. Nov 1, 2020
    10
    It is a turn-based RPG series and each game in the series has over 60~100 hours of playtime. What keeps you going in spite of that is the growing relationships between all of the main characters and how you continue to learn more and more about their pasts and struggles. It feels more akin to an interactive anime than a traditional RPG but the format makes it more engrossing than theIt is a turn-based RPG series and each game in the series has over 60~100 hours of playtime. What keeps you going in spite of that is the growing relationships between all of the main characters and how you continue to learn more and more about their pasts and struggles. It feels more akin to an interactive anime than a traditional RPG but the format makes it more engrossing than the visual novels that are usually more synonymous with that description. Expand
  26. Nov 1, 2020
    10
    CS4 is def my favourite arc in many ways, and it always feels like they improve each game while also taking the story and gameplay in new directions.
  27. 9TV
    Nov 1, 2020
    10
    The story is engaging. It had me enthralled the whole time then at the end. it left me wanting more.
    The characters are amazing. As time moves forward, they start to grow, and you see it through every single step of the way. You're growing with them and I love that.
    The story will bring up times and places where other characters can show off their unique talents/assets/knowledge/etc. And
    The story is engaging. It had me enthralled the whole time then at the end. it left me wanting more.
    The characters are amazing. As time moves forward, they start to grow, and you see it through every single step of the way. You're growing with them and I love that.
    The story will bring up times and places where other characters can show off their unique talents/assets/knowledge/etc. And you get to know that when you interact with them more and more.
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  28. Nov 1, 2020
    10
    This game is fantastic. A great story, good combat, and tech-wise a fantastically smooth port that really shouldn't be a pleasant surprise that it works so well. after playing through CS3 and 4 the characters really do grow on you, story was awesome and the characters will suck you into their lives from start to finish, was also nice to see how everyone grew up. Fantastic world building asThis game is fantastic. A great story, good combat, and tech-wise a fantastically smooth port that really shouldn't be a pleasant surprise that it works so well. after playing through CS3 and 4 the characters really do grow on you, story was awesome and the characters will suck you into their lives from start to finish, was also nice to see how everyone grew up. Fantastic world building as well with lovable NPC's to talk to. Expand
  29. Oct 31, 2020
    10
    It's a great port and a great RPG. Trails of Coldsteel iv still does a great job of world building.
    The characters are hit and miss as far as I'm concerned, some are interesting while others are pretty one-dimensional.
    Story, characters and setting all turned out to be much better then I expected. And theres a lot of character development in the game as well, including sidecharacter
    It's a great port and a great RPG. Trails of Coldsteel iv still does a great job of world building.
    The characters are hit and miss as far as I'm concerned, some are interesting while others are pretty one-dimensional.
    Story, characters and setting all turned out to be much better then I expected. And theres a lot of character development in the game as well, including sidecharacter NPCs.
    Dungeon complexity is on average a bit lower than CS2. Therefore, finding directions can be made easier.
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  30. Nov 1, 2020
    10
    Get ready to be reunited with old faces and also meet some new ones in the process. I love RPG.
  31. Nov 2, 2020
    10
    Cold Steel 4 is honestly amazing. The story is so captivating and just keeps making you wanting to know whats gonna happen next. Character development is very well done, making you like the characters more and more as the story goes. The combat and JRPG aspects of the game are so well done, with the backup of amazing music. The game is heavily anime based, so if you like anime, you'll like this.
  32. Nov 2, 2020
    10
    One of the few JRPG series with an engaging, novel-like storytelling out there, especially if you are an anime fan.
    Trails of Cold Steel 4 tend to be heavy-story-focused JRPG games, so for us who are looking for something really worthwhile that will stay with you long after you've beaten the main storyline, this series is a heaven-sent.
  33. Nov 2, 2020
    10
    There's always more to love with the Trails games.
    This one is appropriately difficult and brings in enough new features to entertain the veterans of the series, especially at high difficulties.
    I enjoyed probably about 1200 hours together from all the games and I still have to go back and play ao and zero. If you want a great JRPG, Trails is the best by far.
  34. Nov 2, 2020
    10
    If you are a fan of the legend of heroes or basically looking for a jrpg, this is a good game, recommending on getting CS1-3 first before CS4, and this is separate from any of the other trails series other than tip bits, cameos and lore, so you don't exactly have to get the others, although i recommend getting the others as well.
    Battles are the tradition turn base but buffing, debuffing
    If you are a fan of the legend of heroes or basically looking for a jrpg, this is a good game, recommending on getting CS1-3 first before CS4, and this is separate from any of the other trails series other than tip bits, cameos and lore, so you don't exactly have to get the others, although i recommend getting the others as well.
    Battles are the tradition turn base but buffing, debuffing and null ailment does matter, compare to some rpg where you just power house through the battles.
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  35. Nov 3, 2020
    10
    Before reading any further, I HIGHLY recommend not playing this game before playing CS3. This game is a direct sequel and will spoil many events that occurr in the first game of this arc.
    If you like a fun, easy-to-learn turn-based RPG style battle with an incredibly deep story, this game is definitely for you. I greatly enjoy how the combat system is not like modern action-style RPGs,
    Before reading any further, I HIGHLY recommend not playing this game before playing CS3. This game is a direct sequel and will spoil many events that occurr in the first game of this arc.
    If you like a fun, easy-to-learn turn-based RPG style battle with an incredibly deep story, this game is definitely for you. I greatly enjoy how the combat system is not like modern action-style RPGs, but rather like Persona 5, Final Fantasy X, Shadow Hearts, and the Xenosaga series (turn-based)
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  36. Nov 3, 2020
    10
    It has been quite a journey, after many hours of Trails.
    I obviously loved the cast from the original game, (almost) all of the the characters were really nice, they had a certain air surrounding them which made me really love them.
    The events of war were intense but also great, especially a certain event showed how crazy this war was and how far certain people could go. However, the
    It has been quite a journey, after many hours of Trails.
    I obviously loved the cast from the original game, (almost) all of the the characters were really nice, they had a certain air surrounding them which made me really love them.

    The events of war were intense but also great, especially a certain event showed how crazy this war was and how far certain people could go. However, the appearance of the heroes trying to enjoy without losing their leisure at all during the war also showed strength.

    The music was lovely, I was however kind of sad to have one of my favourite area themes being replaced by the standard area theme, but beside that it was a joy to listen to the music.
    The locations were obviously very familiar but it honestly felt great to revisit them.
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  37. Nov 4, 2020
    10
    This game is amazing. Obviously you should play the franchise's game that came before it. I would suggest playing Trails from Zero and Trails of Azure before this, as well, simply how the storys overlap.
  38. Nov 4, 2020
    10
    CS4 made me feel attached to the characters in a way I haven't been since the early Final Fantasies. If you JRPGs, it'd be hard to find a series that lets you get deeper into the lives and backstories of the world. I would recommend this game to anyone who enjoyed the first one and or trails in the sky since the games are similar in many ways. i had a lot of fun playing the game andCS4 made me feel attached to the characters in a way I haven't been since the early Final Fantasies. If you JRPGs, it'd be hard to find a series that lets you get deeper into the lives and backstories of the world. I would recommend this game to anyone who enjoyed the first one and or trails in the sky since the games are similar in many ways. i had a lot of fun playing the game and exploring the free time events with the class, the story was ok. Expand
  39. Nov 4, 2020
    10
    One of the best series of JRPG, everyone should play it, but be aware that others games are needed to understand the whole story, given that they are interconnected.

    It has an amazing soundtrack, the combat system received some welcomed changes, but it's still simple and good, the story's depth has knocked it up a notch and some really intriguing aspect were introduced into the series,
    One of the best series of JRPG, everyone should play it, but be aware that others games are needed to understand the whole story, given that they are interconnected.

    It has an amazing soundtrack, the combat system received some welcomed changes, but it's still simple and good, the story's depth has knocked it up a notch and some really intriguing aspect were introduced into the series, I really recommend every fan of jrpg to play the trail series.
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  40. Nov 5, 2020
    10
    If you played cold steel 3 on hard and struggled a bit towards the end of the game, I recommend you consider downgrading to normal (not to easy, that is definitely overkill). This game`s bosses are harder than cs3.

    And if you're the type that likes to do everything possible, take it slow and do it in short bursts. Trying to do as much as possible in a single session WILL burn you out
    If you played cold steel 3 on hard and struggled a bit towards the end of the game, I recommend you consider downgrading to normal (not to easy, that is definitely overkill). This game`s bosses are harder than cs3.

    And if you're the type that likes to do everything possible, take it slow and do it in short bursts. Trying to do as much as possible in a single session WILL burn you out very easily, since there is a lot more to do in this game, including a LOT of reading, compared to the last one.

    And on the off-chance you didn`t play cold steel 3, go back-- you`d be missing out
    That aside, this is a great entry to a great series. I`m glad I started.
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  41. Nov 5, 2020
    10
    The story was pretty good, they added a few mini games compared to the 3rd game, but more importantly the combat system is even more addicting & fun, I really enjoyed the little orbnament tweak & the overdrive battle mechanic addition. One of the few games which can make me sit for hours & enjoy without getting bored. absolutely recommended for those who enjoys a classic j-rpg turn based combat !
  42. Nov 3, 2020
    10
    The game still maintains all its strong points from characters, story, graphics, music and fun/challenging gameplay (with some new mini game elements added in this game as well, which make the game even more fun/strategic than the third game).

    Moreover, I was very pleased with how things ended-off in this sequel compared to what happened at the end of the third game as well. Still I had
    The game still maintains all its strong points from characters, story, graphics, music and fun/challenging gameplay (with some new mini game elements added in this game as well, which make the game even more fun/strategic than the third game).

    Moreover, I was very pleased with how things ended-off in this sequel compared to what happened at the end of the third game as well. Still I had A LOT OF FUN playing this game and can't wait for the next game to get localized for the west as well! :D
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  43. Nov 6, 2020
    10
    Improved some aspects of the third game.
    The story keeps getting better and better by the minute.
    You are already familiar with all the cast wich makes you more attached. Can import the save from CS3. When you become a couple with Alisa in CS3, there is a special event. Gives a bit more freedom than the third one. Turbo Function. Hours of fun for completionist / a compelling game for
    Improved some aspects of the third game.
    The story keeps getting better and better by the minute.
    You are already familiar with all the cast wich makes you more attached.
    Can import the save from CS3. When you become a couple with Alisa in CS3, there is a special event.
    Gives a bit more freedom than the third one.
    Turbo Function.
    Hours of fun for completionist / a compelling game for the ones who only wants story.
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  44. Nov 7, 2020
    10
    Trails of Cold Steel is one of the first Turnbased RPGs I've enjoyed in quite awhile. I love the combat system, and I love the characters, and how deep the customization can go for your party. The music is fantastic. All in all, if you like JRPGs in any capacity, you should look into this series.
  45. Dec 3, 2020
    1
    What an awful experience. A bloated cast, abysmal pacing, inane dialogue, harem of a dozen girls who only orbit around the self-insert protagonist, ridiculous plot developments that retcon the earlier entries, lame antagonists, all the bad guys get forgiven, death has no consequences as people get easily resurrected, cheesy gameplay, mediocre graphics, even the soundtrack has fallen inWhat an awful experience. A bloated cast, abysmal pacing, inane dialogue, harem of a dozen girls who only orbit around the self-insert protagonist, ridiculous plot developments that retcon the earlier entries, lame antagonists, all the bad guys get forgiven, death has no consequences as people get easily resurrected, cheesy gameplay, mediocre graphics, even the soundtrack has fallen in quality. This is the entry that made me drop this series for good. Trails will never reach its earlier heights again, this much is clear. Expand
  46. Nov 7, 2020
    10
    This is without a doubt one of the best game series I've played in a very long time. Each character has been clear crafted with love, even the Npc have a personality of their own. Im approaching the final battle and I must say I can't wait for the next game to launch.
    I think 4 is is well constructed in terms of pacing and packing both setups and payoffs. There is a long section in the
    This is without a doubt one of the best game series I've played in a very long time. Each character has been clear crafted with love, even the Npc have a personality of their own. Im approaching the final battle and I must say I can't wait for the next game to launch.
    I think 4 is is well constructed in terms of pacing and packing both setups and payoffs. There is a long section in the middle due to the fan service, but this is fun for those who have fully enjoyed the series. In the true ending, It proceeds in a flow that completely ends the story so far.
    There is a reinterpretation of the ending in hajimari, so I look forward to seeing how it will unfold.
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  47. Nov 6, 2020
    10
    I know that HAJIMARI NO KISEKI's story is more tighter and the motion has improved visually.
    CS4 is fun enough, but there are certain deficiencies compared to HAJIMARI NO KISEKI.
    I'll play again someday when HAJIMARI NO KISEKI is translated, but I need to clear CS4 completely before that. This is because the CS4 story serves as a turning point that is the foundation of the future story.
    I know that HAJIMARI NO KISEKI's story is more tighter and the motion has improved visually.
    CS4 is fun enough, but there are certain deficiencies compared to HAJIMARI NO KISEKI.
    I'll play again someday when HAJIMARI NO KISEKI is translated, but I need to clear CS4 completely before that.
    This is because the CS4 story serves as a turning point that is the foundation of the future story.

    Story and characters still have their cliches, but not as blatant as many others of its genre, and it was easy to get immersed into both while playing.
    Definitely play Cold Steel III if you want to play this one, as the story picks up immediately after CS3 and assumes you know everything that happened in it.
    Legitimately one of the few JRPG series that can keep me engaged to complete a full playthrough.
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  48. Nov 6, 2020
    10
    I'm an avid RPGer and have been for over 20 years. Trails of Cold Steel has turned into one of my favorite series. There is a little too much grinding in the first game, but they fix that in the sequel. The story is fantastic, and I love the characters. It feels like you're in an authentic world and community when you play Trails.
  49. May 23, 2021
    0
    Unfortunately the Cold Steel series is just an empty shell of the Sky and Zero/Azure games. They decided to split it into 4 games instead of 2, filling it to the brim with filler content and cheesy repetitive dialogue. All 4 Cold Steel games have identical gameplay, and cheesy, often filler dialogue together with lots of bland fetch quests. The series has not evolved at all sinceUnfortunately the Cold Steel series is just an empty shell of the Sky and Zero/Azure games. They decided to split it into 4 games instead of 2, filling it to the brim with filler content and cheesy repetitive dialogue. All 4 Cold Steel games have identical gameplay, and cheesy, often filler dialogue together with lots of bland fetch quests. The series has not evolved at all since Zero/Azure, but rather taken several steps back in order to make as much money as possible with as little effort as possible.

    I was hoping that the 4th game would step things up, but unfortunately 80% of it is just bland filler that doesn't add any value to the main story. It's just there in order to extend the gameplay and justify splitting it across 4 games. It has really overstayed its welcome at this point and I only finished it to get the story conclusion, more often than not using the "high speed mode" and even skipping the occasional repetitive dialogue.

    Sure, there is some nostalgia with characters from all the previous games coming together, but for people who didn't play Sky and Zero/Azure this means that they wont understand who most of these characters are which would completely ruin the experience. Couple this with the fact that there isn't even an official english release of Zero/Azure.

    They didn't even bother fixing stuff between the 4 games. For example enemies still doesn't path find and still try to walk through walls.

    If this low quality bar is what Falcom is going for from now on, this will be the last LoH game I play.
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  50. Nov 7, 2020
    10
    I still had a good time playing this game. Yes, it was too long but I had a sense of freedom at the end of the trip.

    I loved exploring more of the Empire and the side quests were mostly meaningful. Additionally. I'm really interested to see what happened to Ouroboros considering the negative effect Sen IV has had on the Society. We had the reveal of the Grandmaster, which was huge.
    I still had a good time playing this game. Yes, it was too long but I had a sense of freedom at the end of the trip.

    I loved exploring more of the Empire and the side quests were mostly meaningful.
    Additionally. I'm really interested to see what happened to Ouroboros considering the negative effect Sen IV has had on the Society. We had the reveal of the Grandmaster, which was huge.

    I still love Sen cast so much, not more than the SSS or Sora casts, but I'm a massive fan of the cast of the Erebonia arc. Seeing old characters pop up was so nostalgic.
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  51. Nov 7, 2020
    10
    This is my 9th The Legend of Heroes game, this review is business as usual. I am blown away by the quality translations NIS does, the work that Durante put into this really shows as well. And congrats to Falcom for making such an amazing game. Fantastic story telling, Amazing music, Awesome turn-based combat.

    I'm incredibly sad that the journey is over for now, cannot wait for HAJIMARI
    This is my 9th The Legend of Heroes game, this review is business as usual. I am blown away by the quality translations NIS does, the work that Durante put into this really shows as well. And congrats to Falcom for making such an amazing game. Fantastic story telling, Amazing music, Awesome turn-based combat.

    I'm incredibly sad that the journey is over for now, cannot wait for HAJIMARI NO KISEKI!
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  52. Nov 15, 2020
    8
    I've been with this series for a few years now and, to finally see what was their main storyline come to a close with this title, was something that I had no hopes for originally when I played CS 1 on the Vita all those years ago. I still enjoyed myself here, even if I didnt agree with the path that was taken for some of the characters. The game is bogged down extremely by just the sheerI've been with this series for a few years now and, to finally see what was their main storyline come to a close with this title, was something that I had no hopes for originally when I played CS 1 on the Vita all those years ago. I still enjoyed myself here, even if I didnt agree with the path that was taken for some of the characters. The game is bogged down extremely by just the sheer amount of characters that show up at all times. One scene about half way through the game easily had over 60(!) characters on screen at once and they each had to have at least one line or two to react to what was going on. I get that there are a ton of things to wrap up here but there's just no way to make that work smoothly. Other then the sheer amount of characters here, everything else is pretty par for the course for this series. Of course you shouldn't play this unless you've played at least the first 3 Cold Steel games before this. But I'd seriously recommend the entire series for anyone looking for a very good JRPG series that you'll be able to count on. While it may have too many bad anime tropes here, and the "FRIENDSHIP IS MAGIC!" trope that I absolutely hate is pushed a little too hard here for my liking, its still a decent story with a great battle system and some of the the best music in the genre to date. I'd even say that this game had the best music out of the whole series and that's very high praise. While my personal favorite of the series is CS 2, this game finally brought an end to a series that goes all the way back to being on the PSP in the early '00 days. Falcom has said that there will be more games set in this universe, with an epilogue of sorts having already released in Japan this year. So its good to see the main story get concluded and it sounds like this is only the beginning for this world so far, especially with some of the bits of information that were thrown in there at the end to expand the scope of the game even further. Expand
  53. Nov 13, 2020
    10
    Perfect ending for the saga. Perfected gameplay , great story , Better balanced
  54. Nov 15, 2020
    9
    I'd say Cold Steel IV ends the Erabonian arc in a satisfying way. Though I would've preferred less padding to shorten the time of the game it still was a blast to play. Hands down the Cold Steel series has some of the best turn-based combat in jrpg history. The story was all in all very good I don't want to spoil anything but it is worth it. Another gripe I have with the game besides theI'd say Cold Steel IV ends the Erabonian arc in a satisfying way. Though I would've preferred less padding to shorten the time of the game it still was a blast to play. Hands down the Cold Steel series has some of the best turn-based combat in jrpg history. The story was all in all very good I don't want to spoil anything but it is worth it. Another gripe I have with the game besides the story padding is the over bloated cast. I still like the entirety of the cast but sometimes it felt like they tried to fit everybody into one scene too many times. Expand
  55. Nov 24, 2020
    8
    Cast: 10/10
    Story: 5/10
    Fun: 8/10
    Gameplay: 9/10

    MUST PLAY
    ---------------------- ~100 Hours Played
  56. Nov 9, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Absolutely fitting its title "End of Saga". Playing through all eight beforehand games of the Trails Saga, this is definitely what I as a big fan have been looking forward to in seeing as the grand saga's finale. Obviosly the game has its ups and downs, and objectively speaking one should not rate the game as a 10, but if you are just as much a fan of the series as I am, then I promise you, this experience will be some 10 points worth. Expand
  57. Nov 10, 2020
    10
    Okay, this is definitely better than previous part. Holy crap, what a game....
    It was a great journey once again together with Class VII. I love this game in so many ways, great characters and a lots of character developments which I love to see, great and challenging boss fights and a really well written story.
  58. Nov 10, 2020
    10
    My favorite characters all come together in a series that is criminally underrated. You must play these games.
  59. Nov 28, 2020
    9
    What to say. This last opus of Sen No Kiseki is as good as the previous jones, if not better. Of course, since it's hard to play this game if you did not play the previous ones, it's hard to rate it objectively.
    This opus has some balance problems, but honestly, as you're supposed to have played the previous ones, those are minor drawbacks. The game has an incredible story, a nice combat
    What to say. This last opus of Sen No Kiseki is as good as the previous jones, if not better. Of course, since it's hard to play this game if you did not play the previous ones, it's hard to rate it objectively.
    This opus has some balance problems, but honestly, as you're supposed to have played the previous ones, those are minor drawbacks. The game has an incredible story, a nice combat system, a very good play time and replayability.
    I want to underline the very good translation job of NIS America, as they dis with the previous one... To finish, if tou did not play any of the Kiseki series of Falcom, then you're clearly missing something as thise are some of the best RPGs I have played. Start now !
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  60. Nov 10, 2020
    10
    Trails of the Cold Steel IV is a final installment for the Erabonian Saga. You can think as the Avenger: Endgame of The Legend of Heroes series since from Trails in the sky from PSP. You will see all the first hero till the current protagonist fights side by side which gave me a goosebump.
    10/10 Must play if you a fan of this 'Legend'
  61. Oct 28, 2020
    1
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I seriously have no idea how Falcom has not been able to solve the problems from previous entries, i'm still amazed by that fact. The pacing of this game is insufferable and we still have all those nonsensical fights and and stupid plot. We also have another problem, the extensive cast, which is next to impossible to keep track. If you want to play a game for 1000 hours of filler and 5 hours of actual plot, then this what you need. Expand
  62. Nov 28, 2020
    9
    This game is the best entry in the series so far. The story is great, the characters are cool and a lot of the characters from previous games have cameos in this game, there are less tedious side-quests than in previous games, overall the pacing feels a lot better than in previous entries and the battle system is great as always. Also vantag master is a very cool mini-game.

    The only
    This game is the best entry in the series so far. The story is great, the characters are cool and a lot of the characters from previous games have cameos in this game, there are less tedious side-quests than in previous games, overall the pacing feels a lot better than in previous entries and the battle system is great as always. Also vantag master is a very cool mini-game.

    The only downside of this game is the most infurating mini-game i've ever played in any game, ever. Pom Pom Party is just unfair, luck based and absolutely no fun at all. You can completly ignore this game, because you are not forced to play it. But as a completionist i can't just ignore it. I just hope this game will never ever return in any Trails game, ever. Without Pom Pom Party this game would have deserved a perfect score.
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  63. Nov 12, 2020
    5
    The game was unavailable for download for 38 hours after release for all pre -orderers. The developer team laid on their backs and said they wont do anything and put it all on Sony.This was done by a few tweets/facebook posts during office hours the day AFTER release. People were also said their collector editions would be delivered mid November. That announcement was given AFTER the gameThe game was unavailable for download for 38 hours after release for all pre -orderers. The developer team laid on their backs and said they wont do anything and put it all on Sony.This was done by a few tweets/facebook posts during office hours the day AFTER release. People were also said their collector editions would be delivered mid November. That announcement was given AFTER the game was released while leading them to believe everything would be ok until that very moment.

    The game is good ( thus the score) and nicely wraps up the story and Falcom deserves praise for their writting.
    NISA on the other hand has shown unacceptable and non proffesional behaviour regarding the games release. It felt like they did it just because they had to. There are also translation errors in the game ( especially on item/quartz/recipe descriptions) and various typos. Makes you wonder if they even checked their work after they finished it.

    Lets hope that Hajimari and the upcoming 2021 Trails game will be localised by a company that actually cares about both their product's quality and proper communication with their customers
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  64. Apr 1, 2022
    3
    - Story in this game is like a kid's cartoon. The story treat every battle like sparing practise.
    - Bad guys joining you after you beat them and it happens over and over. So repetitive.
    - Like the past games this game feels like it's way longer than it deserves to be. - Horrible pacing. The story is watered down juice and the juice wasn't good to begin with. - Do you love it when you
    - Story in this game is like a kid's cartoon. The story treat every battle like sparing practise.
    - Bad guys joining you after you beat them and it happens over and over. So repetitive.
    - Like the past games this game feels like it's way longer than it deserves to be.
    - Horrible pacing. The story is watered down juice and the juice wasn't good to begin with.
    - Do you love it when you finish a game then don't get the full ending?
    - Battle system was great but hasn't changed in the 4 games much.
    - Not enough new locations to see.
    = The story is some how even worse in this game and the pacing is some how just as slow despite this been the game the story has built up to. I am done with doing dull tasks after the credits to get the right ending. This is the worst of the 4 Cold Steel games and should have been the best.
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  65. Oct 29, 2020
    10
    I can't say much about how wonderful this game is without spoiling it. It's fantastic. I love this series so much.
  66. Dec 4, 2022
    10
    I love this series.
    I hope falcom release kuro no kiseki English version this year ..
    And i hope there's Xbox version..
  67. Dec 31, 2020
    10
    If you've already played the first 3 games then you already know why this one's good and why you probably need to play it. But if I can offer some advice; try to savor it.
  68. Feb 18, 2021
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I finally finished this great Trails arc, this second duology really resembles Avengers Infinity War and End Game (they released almost at the same time but I don't think they were inspired in each other); nevertheless, it is something entirely different. . But I thought that the protagonists of the other games would have more relevance in the main story, I even liked that they didn't have so much but I went with the wrong expectation and that frustrated me a little (it may have been the prologue, I don't know). In addition, a significant number of Ao / Azure protagonists are not directly present.

    The game even had some deaths, I know it seems sadistic but dear to Millium and Crow they had to be KILLED, I liked the scenes of Jusis and Millium and Crow's too but now in this series when a character dies we will to be doubting and it will NEVER be something more remarkable. Crow having revived in the end I even swallowed since the Sept-Terrion 'died' for that, but the truth is that in the second game he was supposed to be dead and ****

    The pace of the game has some problems, especially in arc 1 and 2, world building was one of the main factors unfortunately in fact (as well as in CS 2) but from there (from intermission / fragments onwards) the pace improves significantly already that sidequests decrease in number and improve in general.

    Regarding the curse, I have mixed feelings, I didn't like it very much because it makes it seem like there are no bad people, but at the same time it was an incredible twist and made the story develop in a really cool way. But at least with Osborne they didn't use that 'excuse' and it was said several times that the curse took advantage of people's weakness and they were still to blame. How they dealt with Alan is also a very good example.

    The structure of the story and the gameplay are very reminiscent of Cold Steel 2, just as Cold Steel 3 was reminiscent of Cold Steel 1.

    Despite being two games that I consider quite different, I think Cold Steel 3 is a more solid game but I liked Cold Steel 4 more.

    Being able to choose party members greatly affects a story, especially one as full of dialogue as Trails. Fortunately they had a very significant number of 'exceptional' party members in each segment of the story, so it was not a problem.

    The lore of Erebonia is the most complex, original and interesting in the franchise.
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  69. Dec 7, 2020
    6
    Sadly this is the weakest entry of the ToCS series. I'm a very big fan of this series so you may take that however you want. The game is the easiest one in the franchise giving you a way to raise your characters stats infinitely within either the second or third chapter, and there is actually nothing new to this game other than a puyo puyo rip off, in a game with already too many sideSadly this is the weakest entry of the ToCS series. I'm a very big fan of this series so you may take that however you want. The game is the easiest one in the franchise giving you a way to raise your characters stats infinitely within either the second or third chapter, and there is actually nothing new to this game other than a puyo puyo rip off, in a game with already too many side activities. Literally no one in this series can die. It's just a thing that if someone dies you will see them later on or in the next game, this is one of the most infuriating things, and I found myself literally staring there with "seriously" face any time they tried to be dramatic only to fall over later whenever they tried to make it a dramatic reveal that they were just fine. they spend a good 60 hours explaining the entirety of the story you've already played through like you're the idiot no lie, It was hard for me to even keep playing because of this. Whenever I played through the series I always felt number 2 was the weak link, because most of the game was devoted to just finding the characters you had from the start of the first one, and this game starts you out repeating that formula except now there's much more meaningless characters. The most exciting promise of this game was everyone being a part of it, I mean the previous two protagonists are all over the advertisements for the game, however you only get to play with the characters from the other games a total of three times for about 10 minutes each, and you can't change anything on them. The ending was very lack luster, almost acting as if the entire story was about your Speechless (90% of the time) robot instead of the actual characters you spent so much time pretending were worth a damn. It was very sad to end the story this way and I truly hope the next game will fix these issues of being the same game with an hour of new story. It's not all incredibly bad though. Whenever the story finally picks up (literally after the halfway) It's actually quite interesting and if you enjoyed playing through the first few you're going to of course love playing with the characters still. My main hang ups with this game are there's just too much everything. They never pay enough attention to the story about the characters and even at times when they do they really slop on it. The ToCs series could be squashed down into two games with a focus on the story and they would be excellent. As a closing remark I really was dissapointed with this entry which hurts all that much more knowing that the first game is one of my favorite RPGs. It's a shame they decided to end things like this, but it doesn't defer me from playing the next ones. If you're a fan of the series you owe it to yourself to see it through to the end, but if you've had trouble getting through any of the previous games maybe just go watch a YouTube video that sizes up the story. Expand
  70. Feb 6, 2021
    9
    Great game with a lot of Trails fan service. Some issues aside it still concludes the Cold Steel arc in a satisfyingly way.
  71. Jan 3, 2022
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I think that this was a great ending to the Erabonia arc. Like the last game, the game was full of action and an exciting storyline. Although for a big portion of the game you spend your time looking for Rean, it was actually fun to play without Rean and see how his students behave when he is not around. This game brought closure to both Rean's father's story and Rean's swordsman journey and I thought it was amazing.
    However, similar to the 3rd game, I hated the fake death thing, where a character "dies" but they return back. I was not surprised this time because I was already used to this from the previous games.
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  72. Oct 28, 2022
    10
    Just the sheer scope of nine games and a core series of four that hold water and evolve is incredible, but to do it well? That's why this game deserves a 10 out of 10.
  73. Apr 10, 2023
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The game is incredible, I thought it was very good, one of the best RPG games I've ever played, it makes me feel nostalgic. Do you remember the old jrpg games in the PS1 S2 area? that both Cold Steel 1 2 3 and 4 I liked all four of the series and I'm dying to play the new ones now that Kuro no kiseki is out It's going to be very good too, I hope an English version comes out soon because the game is excellent very good, right Unfortunately, we don't have such good games, right? And then Japanese RPG, example of Chrono Cross, right, the only thing that doesn't come out is the continuation of Parasite Eve, right, which stopped at 2 and Valkyrie Profile 1 and 2, which are very good, but which had a terrible continuation and the Star Ocean 2, which is an excellent game for me is deserving of a remake or remaster. I would really like it to have a continuation, I hope that kuro no kiseki is up to it. Congratulations to everyone at Falcom, this game I highly recommend it, it's too good!!! Expand
  74. Mar 21, 2023
    10
    Pros
    - a perfect send off to one of the most exciting arcs in this series
    - biggest playable cast in the series (39 playable characters with their own skills) - most complex main villain with my personal favorite right hand man - threat you can feel slowly encroaching on the world - stakes on an apocalyptic scale - beautiful OST - the end credits had me in tears as this series
    Pros
    - a perfect send off to one of the most exciting arcs in this series
    - biggest playable cast in the series (39 playable characters with their own skills)
    - most complex main villain with my personal favorite right hand man
    - threat you can feel slowly encroaching on the world
    - stakes on an apocalyptic scale
    - beautiful OST
    - the end credits had me in tears as this series proved just how special it is

    Cons
    - the worst iteration of the female social events in the entire series

    The ninth game in the series and the finale of the Cold Steel arc, Trails of Cold Steel IV is one of the most epic culminations I have ever experienced. A culmination of not just the Cold Steel arc, but also the Sky and Crosbell arcs.

    Let me start with the one annoying thing I have against this game before gushing. The female social events are utter garbage and suffer the worst effects of Cold Steel's focus on fan service. For any of the homies: Ayo I got three social events dealing with me leading one quarter of the entire country. Oh yeah, I got three dealing with my music career. Sick, mine deals with me joining the IRS. Damn, mine is about how I became a black ops for the church.

    For the women? Each and every single one of them got three as well: Yo, I joined the Bracers but exactly half of each of my three events deals with me wanting to bang you. Accompany me to visit my dads grave but half of our time there let's spend talking about how much I want to bang you. I am leading the family company but hey how about we bang?
    I am stuck leading my house and teaching our sword techniques but heyyyy, bang? Like clockwork, all of them. Each of their three events is half and half. It is stupid and ridiculous.

    Luckily, the social events were never my favorite anyway. How about the story and characters? Oh. My. God. This game went far beyond anything I could imagine.

    The amount of characters would seem overwhelming to anybody who has only played the Cold Steel arc, but with the greater context, their inclusion is hype beyond hype. My god. The fact is, the returning cast doesn't do much growing here. They did it back in their games. They are here to give you themselves and their contributions to the story. I absolutely adore it.

    The main story starts slow, coming off of the cliffhanger in CSIII, but immediately kicks back in. The new Class VII is left to shine on their own, allowing them to show just how great they are by themselves. Rean is pushed to his absolute limits and finally gets an ending, where he is not suffering.

    The main villain is multifaceted and proven to be much greyer than what the series ever attempted. His right hand man, a walking ad for L'Oréal, is one of my favorite characters the Cold Steel arc produced. And overall, the gallery of villains in this game prove that not everyone fighting against the protagonist is an evil maniac. Some of them are indeed heroic from the right point of view.

    Combat was once again rebalanced. The Brave Orders are still kinda OP but breaking enemies was nerfed to be actually balanced in this game. As to the good old Arts vs Crafts, Arts started as laughably bad at the beginning of this arc. In Cold Steel IV, Arts are the hardest hitting abilities in the game. Not just viable, they make the game easier.

    I think the moment this game proved to be the most epic story I ever played was right before the final bossfight. You have to make three separate teams, each featuring four active and four support characters. Three teams of eight make 24 characters in total. And the pool you are picking from features 39 of them. 39 separate characters featured across the three arcs and I know and care for all 39 of them.

    Cold Steel IV is one of the greatest games and strongest finishes to an arc I have ever experienced. God damn does it make me hype for Reverie and Kuro. If you have ever wondered if it is worth it to take the plunge, yes. Head first. No looking back. You'll thank yourself.
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Metascore
81

Generally favorable reviews - based on 33 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 26 out of 33
  2. Negative: 0 out of 33
  1. Mar 10, 2021
    100
    The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel IV is the dramatic conclusion to a grand epic that’s been almost a decade in the making. It’s another chance to spend time with a bunch of characters that have become like family across three prior games, and the culmination of a nuanced exploration of the many faces of war. Most of all, it’s the sort of payoff that only hundreds of hours of meticulous, thoughtful worldbuilding can lead up to.
  2. Feb 14, 2021
    70
    If you already invested more than 500 hours to the previous instalments of Trails of Cold Steel series, you would definitely enjoy seeing familiar faces and you would love the overall experience. But as a newcomer you should probably try earlier games first, just to see if you want to get invested in the whole franchise.
  3. Dec 9, 2020
    50
    Does The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel IV have a great story that's a worthy capstone to a ten-year JRPG saga? No, it doesn't. As a standalone experience, it's an impenetrable mess of fizzled out character arcs and bloated cutscenes. Despite all that, Trails of Cold Steel IV has addictive gameplay, dope music, and gorgeous character designs. If you want a fun and grind-heavy JRPG with a wild amount of options and battles, but don't mind turning your brain off to ignore the story and glaze over poorly-written cutscenes, then this is one's for you.