The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel IV (2018)
Game Description:
The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel IV, released in 2018, is the climactic conclusion to the Erebonia arc. Following the events of Trails of Cold Steel III, the Erebonian Empire stands on the brink of war, threatening to engulf the continent of Zemuria. The heroes of Class VII, both old and new, must rally together to thwart the impending catastrophe. As alliances are tested and ancient powers awaken, Rean Schwarzer and his allies face their greatest challenge yet. With the fate of the world hanging in the balance, they must confront their pasts and unite against a common enemy to restore peace before darkness consumes all.
Game Details
Platforms:
PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch
Genres:
Role-playing (RPG), Turn-based strategy (TBS)
Game Mode(s):
Player Perspective(s):
Developer:
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Publisher:
ESRB Age Rating Summary:
The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel IV is rated T for Teen by the ESRB with Blood, Fantasy Violence, Language, Simulated Gambling, Suggestive Themes, and Use of Alcohol and Tobacco. This is a role-playing game in which players follow a group of heroes as they attempt to stop a war. Players explore various environments (e.g., fields, dungeons) and engage in battles against human soldiers and fantasy creatures (e.g., dragons, giants mechs, demons). Players use swords, axes, firearms, and magic to defeat enemies. Slashing sounds, light effects, and explosions highlight the turn-based combat. One character's special attack depicts large blood-splatter effects, as several scythes spin to attack enemies. The game contains some suggestive material: dialogue such as “...[Y]ou've got quite the promising pair…though they pale in comparison to Emma's"; a prolonged sequence in which a woman gropes another character's chest (e.g., “Ahh, smooth and squishy to the touch…I could just do this forever.”). As players progress, they can visit a casino to play and bet on games of Poker and Blackjack. A handful of sequences depict a character drinking alcohol and smoking cigars, and one sequence involves a drinking contest. The words "sh*t" and “a*shole” are heard in the game.
Content Warnings:
Blood, Fantasy Violence, Language, Simulated Gambling, Suggestive Themes, Use of Alcohol and Tobacco
Interactive Elements:
In-Game Purchases:
Parental Notes
While many parents praise the gameplay experience, they caution that The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel IV contains elements that may not be suitable for younger kids. The game features mild to moderate profanity, including words like "sh*t" and “a*shole.” The violence is fantasy-based, with battles against creatures and soldiers using weapons and magic, highlighted by slashing sounds and light effects. Some scenes include blood-splatter effects. Suggestive themes are present, with dialogue and scenes involving groping. The game also includes simulated gambling and sequences with alcohol and tobacco use. Many parents recommend it for teens 13 and older due to these mature themes.
Why Your Kid Might Like The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel IV
Teens enjoy The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel IV for its intricate storytelling and character development. The game offers a rich narrative that keeps players engaged as they navigate the complex political landscape of the Erebonian Empire. The turn-based combat system is both strategic and rewarding, allowing players to experiment with different tactics and party combinations. The game also features a large cast of characters, each with their own unique abilities and backstories, which adds depth and variety to the gameplay experience.
Exploration and world-building are other aspects that teens find appealing. The game provides a vast world filled with diverse locations to explore, from bustling cities to serene countryside. The detailed environments and immersive soundtrack enhance the overall experience, making players feel like they are part of the story. Social bonding elements, such as building relationships with other characters, add an emotional layer that resonates with teens, making them feel more connected to the game's universe. Overall, Trails of Cold Steel IV offers a blend of engaging gameplay and storytelling that keeps teens coming back for more.