For fans of theLegend of Heroesseries, the release ofTrails from Zerois a dream come true. The long-awaited title bridges the gap between theTrails in the Skytrilogy and theTrails of Cold Steelquadrilogy. First launched as a Japanese-only title on the PlayStation 4, PSP, and Vita,Trails from Zerowas only accessible to players via fan translations
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The best of these translations was by a team called Geofront. The translation was so well-done that its publisher NIS America used it as the basis for the official western release. Depending on which system players opt to play the game on though, they may find that there are some pretty big differences.
Platform Versions Explained
There are significant differences between ports ofTrails from Zero. However, it’s worth noting that the most important factors, like the story, remain unchanged. With this in mind, whichever version players decide to get, they will still get the fullTrails from Zeroexperience. That said, it’s worth explaining the differences and reasons behind the differences between the ports.
The PS4 Version
The PS4 version is effectively a port of the remasteredZero no Kiseki: Evolution. This version launched two years after the PSP version and included upscaled visuals and voice acting. As a result, PS4 owners will get a direct port of the PS Vita version. It’s a straight port, but the character designs look clean, and the animations duringTrails from Zero’s battlesstill look more than serviceable on a large screen. In the options menu, the PS4 version allows players to select thehigh-speed modeandassign it to the L2 or R2 button.
The PC And Switch Versions
Tomos Durante’s PH3 studio handled the PC and Switch ports ofTrails from Zero.These versions include several quality-of-life improvements and superior graphics that are beyond an HD upscale. The image comparisons are below for a better understanding of the differences.
The textures are better in everything from the cobblestones to hanging signs outside shops. There’s a noticeable difference in the shadows and lighting too. Both react more naturally on the PC/Switch than on the PS4. Another excellent feature allows players to repeat conversations by pressing theRZ on Switch or the R2 button on the Steam Deck and compatible controllers.
The Switch’sHigh-Speed mode is activated by pressing the LZ/L2.In theSystem options, players can even fine-tune the speed of the battle and on the field. Under theGraphics menu,one can turn on FXAA Anti-Aliasing on or off, Character Glow can be adjusted, and Dynamic Shadows can be switched on or off.
Unfortunately, it doesn’t look like the upgrades for the PC and Switch versions will make it to the PS4 via a patch. However, PS4 owners still get anoutstanding JRPGwith the same content. While it’s true that the visuals look cleaner, there’s an argument that they’re too clean. The cobblestones have a more natural look on PS4, and some colors have lost their depth in the upgrade. Either way,Trails from Zerois the same from both a narrative and gameplay aspect.
Trails from Zerois available now for the PC, PS4, and Switch.
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