The Legend of Heroes: Trails Through Daybreak II Reviews
Trails Through Daybreak II expands on the previous game with better mechanics, more in-depth character customization, and a larger story. On the other hand, the tempo is disrupted by the forced narrative framework and the recurrent boss fights. Although the Mare Garden and Time Leap mechanics introduce new features, they also bring with them the potential for some boredom.
I’ve no doubt The Legend of Heroes: Trails Through Daybreak II may be a somewhat contentious entry depending on what peoples’ expectations are and what they play these games for. Still, even though I found it generally easier than its predecessor, I had fun the whole time playing it. The core gameplay mechanics are fun to play around with, and the cast of delightful characters and their dialogue and relationships make for a sweet treat. This series has had trouble reckoning with the consequences of its escalating stake, and alas Daybreak II is something of an odd entry that does little to fix any of this while also having its share of problems of its own. Nonetheless, taken as its own game, it has enough marginal improvements in certain areas and some interesting concepts brought forth that I still probably liked it a sliver more than the first Daybreak overall, which was already its own pretty fun (if uneven) experience.
The Legend of Heroes: Trails through Daybreak II is a good RPG with a fun combat system, great visuals, and a strong soundtrack. Unfortunately, this game is a prime example of one step forward and two steps back. It definitely improved upon the battle system and overall gameplay, but it’s hampered by a flawed story with a plot hole that’s too big for me to ignore, which is a shame because it had the foundations and the potential to be one of the best in the series. If you liked Trails through Daybreak or are a Trails series veteran, you’ll most likely find something to enjoy in this game, and I do recommend it. If you’re a newcomer to the series, at least play Trails through Daybreak before jumping into this one.
Longtime fans of the Legend of Heroes games will love this latest entry in the series, while newcomers will find the perfect place to jump on and start experiencing this rich world.
The Legend of Heroes: Trails Through Daybreak II refines its unique combat while telling an engrossing story that can’t help but stumble due to odd writing choices and poorly utilized plot elements.
Trails through Daybreak II is a good continuation and a consistent step up in Calvard's saga. Despite some slip ups and how it feels like the events are more limited when taking into account the general series setting, this is yet another quality work and an easy recommendation for RPG fans.
Review in Portuguese | Read full review
I walk away from Trails Through Daybreak II feeling very little beyond “well, that all worked distressingly well.” In some ways, that is kind of a bad thing. This is a game that does nothing badly in a large sense. There is nothing I can point to and say “holy crap, that is a huge misfire on a fundamental level,” and in some ways that makes the game a bit boring. It accomplishes all of its goals in a very reliable fashion and doesn’t shoot beyond those goals and, as someone who generally gets invested in characters and story, the fact that those didn’t totally connect renders the experience a bit lukewarm for me. Sorry.
The Legend of Heroes: Trails through Daybreak II is an ambitious sequel that builds on its predecessor with deeper worldbuilding, refined combat mechanics, and engaging character dynamics. However, inconsistent writing, a rushed third act, and underwhelming new features prevent it from reaching its full potential. While longtime fans will appreciate the expanded lore and combat improvements, the uneven storytelling may leave some players frustrated.
I still loved it, and I can’t wait for the next entry in the series, but Daybreak II doesn’t take the series to new heights like its predecessor did.
The Legend of Heroes: Trails Through Daybreak II attempts an ambitious multiverse narrative with refined character arcs and a seamless combat system. However, its complex storytelling and reliance on prior knowledge may alienate newcomers and overwhelm fans. While time-hopping mechanics add depth for lore enthusiasts, they slow pacing, leading to uneven payoffs. Despite narrative challenges, character development shines, making it a solid entry for dedicated fans, albeit not the series' pinnacle.
The Legend of Heroes: Trails Through Daybreak II has plenty for players to enjoy even if you decide to deviate from completing the main story. Everything looks and sounds incredible, and while the story is a bit meandering, the combat is sensational.
Despite not being a great fundamental piece for the series' overall narrative, Trails Through Daybreak II is another good game for the Trails franchise. Refining mechanics introduced in the previous game and offering additional development for your characters, the title will please anyone who enjoyed what Calvard had to offer and would like an additional adventure with its cast.
Review in Portuguese | Read full review
While the narrative has its share of tedious moments and some repetitive missions, The Legend of Heroes: Trails through Daybreak II is still a great sequel. It delivers a compelling, immersive story and exhilarating combat, improving upon its predecessor in many ways while upholding the series’ JRPG excellence.
The Legend of Heroes: Trails Through Daybreak 2 is ambitious, but doesn't hit the same heights as its predecessor. The combat and characters are the highlight, let down by a time travel trope that lacks impact.
Daybreak II isn’t a bad game, but its narrative choices—multiple timelines and split chapters—disrupt the momentum established in the first Daybreak. Fans who disliked Trails into Reverie will likely have similar issues with Daybreak II.
Trails through Daybreak II is certainly my least favorite Legend of Heroes game, but given that I adore them all, that isn’t saying anything too negative. It’s certainly hard to follow up the stunning saga that came before, even with a cast that is as likable as what is here. While the more mundane elements of this game certainly stand out more than they have before, the core story that is told here is worth the trek, even if the narrative hook I’ve mentioned previously can zap some of the emotional impact we are meant to have. Regardless, Trails through Daybreak II is quite enjoyable and provides you with a solid adventure with a fun cast and some engaging moments.
The Legend of Heroes: Trails through Daybreak II seemed like a good way to show how old franchises can still improve over time. The title managed to capitalize on all the strengths of its predecessor, improving them, while working to correct the weaknesses.
Review in Portuguese | Read full review
The Legend of Heroes: Trails through Daybreak II is a near-perfect sequel that follows up the previous game with an intriguing story and premise. While shaking up the story formula, the game retains many of the redeeming qualities of its predecessor and makes improvements in the right areas, including the seamless action-to-turn-based combat system. This is a cant-miss RPG that brings everything Trails fans enjoy about the series.
The Legend of Heroes: Trails Through Daybreak II builds upon its predecessor while continuing Van Arkride’s story.
Returning to Calvard and spending more time with Arkride Solutions is always welcome, but a mediocre storyline harms what is otherwise another excellent entry.