Trinity Trigger Review

Developer: FuRyu

Initial release date: September 15, 2022

Platforms: PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Microsoft Windows

Mode: Multiplayer video game

Composer: Hiroki Kikuta

Genres: Action role-playing game, Adventure game, Fighting game, Shooter game

Publishers: FuRyu, XSEED Games

"Review Copy Provided By XSEED Games"

Attention all '90s JRPG aficionados! If you've ever daydreamed about a game that weaves together the genius behind beloved titles such as Xenoblade Chronicles, Octopath Traveler, and the iconic Secret of Mana, your wish has been granted. Enter, Trinity Trigger - a game that largely dazzles, with a few smudges on its glossy coat.

Dive into the vibrant world of Trinitia. It's a land where gods gamble with the threads of fate. Our main man, Cyan, the Warrior of Chaos, breaks the mold. Chaos here stands for freedom, while order? Perhaps a smidgen too controlling. Cyan's posse includes Elise and Zantis. Together, they battle with the aid of "Triggers" - these shape-shifting entities that make every combat encounter an exhilarating dance.

At its heart, your objective is clear-cut: traverse the land collecting godly weapons or Arma, shield Cyan from his ominous fate, and unlock formidable weapon forms. It's a straightforward journey with the occasional thrill. However, for all its vibrancy, Trinitia can sometimes feel a tad too guided, depriving you of the delicious feeling of getting truly lost in a sprawling world. Yet, it's not all straight roads and clear skies. While the side quests could use a bit more seasoning, there's a commendable depth in how the game delicately handles themes of good and evil, offering more than just superficial ponderings.

The real magic, though? The combat. It’s like slipping into a familiar, comfortable pair of shoes. Fans of Mana, prepare for a rush of nostalgia! With the freedom to toggle between heroes, an added bonus of local co-op, and some delectable battle mechanics, it's a hearty experience. But a word to the wise: AI companions have an uncanny affinity for spike traps. Approach boss battles with patience; some can feel like a trek with no rest stops. If you're wary of the notorious grinding endemic to many '90s JRPGs, fear not. Trinity Trigger modernizes the grind, offering a gentle, efficient system that suits its relatively concise narrative arc. Speaking of visuals, a standing ovation is in order for those divine hand-painted anime cutscenes. They breathe life into the game, offering moments of visual respite.

To wrap up, Trinity Trigger strikes a harmonious chord between past and present. It's a feast for both eyes and ears, exuding a familiar charm with a zest of modernity. It might not rewrite the JRPG playbook, but it pens a delightful chapter of its own. Trinity Trigger is 2023’s heartfelt nod to JRPGs of yore. With a few blemishes, it remains a memorable journey, particularly for those with a soft spot for the Mana series. A journey well worth embarking on!