The adaptability of the plot is the most compelling part of the story, as your chosen main character and party will change who the story’s primary antagonist is. This is especially apparent when compared to the villains that make up most of the story. I found the final bosses to be a bit of a disappointment, as they’re only briefly mentioned by other villains for the most part. Though each character starts the quest with their own goals, they eventually put their personal interests aside in order to save the Goddess of Mana and the mythical Mana Tree. The story is at its best when it explores these backstories, as they’re often the most emotionally heavy and intriguing part of the story. Each character has their own backstory, goal, and antagonist that comes in and out of the story in a natural way.
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Upon starting Trials, you’re told to choose three out of the six main characters to make a party out of. The story of Trials of Mana is serviceable, though it’s primarily the character backstories and implementation of the plotlines that are interesting, rather than the overall narrative itself. Trials of Mana is no exception, and though Trials may not have gotten its due in the West originally, the remake makes up for it and then some. It’s a shame, as the titles all have a uniquely whimsical charm to them that is hard to find elsewhere.
Trials of mana review code#
MonsterVine was provided with a PS4 code for reviewĪmong their very many RPG franchises, Square Enix’s Mana series has never had the Western popularity that sister series Final Fantasy and Dragon Quest have found over time. Platforms: PS4 (reviewed,) Nintendo Switch, and PC
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Though the story isn’t especially memorable, the gameplay, visuals, music, and world of Trials of Mana make it a more than worthwhile trial. Trials of Mana is a stellar remake that manages to bring one of the most elusive Square Enix RPGs to the West in an impressive and colorful way.