Games Like The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel III

The long awaited finale to the epic engulfing a continent comes to a head in the final chapter of the Trails of Cold Steel saga!

Why similar: RPG 31.3%, JRPG 23.4%, Turn-Based 17.4%, Great Soundtrack 9.9%, Anime 7.8%

Why You'll Like It: This is the direct sequel to the seed game, concluding the massive Erebonian arc with even higher stakes and character payoffs.

Three different legends are about to unfold! Determine the fates of Rean Schwarzer, Lloyd Bannings, and the mysterious “C” in this climactic chapter of The Legend of Heroes series.

Why similar: RPG 34.6%, JRPG 33.6%, Anime 11.1%, Story Rich 8.1%, Great Soundtrack 6%

Why You'll Like It: Acting as an epilogue to the Crossbell and Cold Steel arcs, this title offers a massive crossover experience that is essential for fans of the series.

Civil war has broken out across Erebonia. After his narrow escape from Trista, Rean will take up his sword again on a journey with his Divine Knight, Valimar, in search of his friends from Class VII and a way to end the conflict before its price becomes far too dear...

Why similar: JRPG 30.7%, Turn-Based 18.8%, RPG 18.5%, Great Soundtrack 12.6%, Anime 8.8%

Why You'll Like It: This title provides the necessary context for the political landscape and character motivations found in the third entry.

At Thors Military Academy, Erebonia’s best learn everything from the art of war to liberal arts. First year Rean Schwarzer learns he’s been selected to join the controversial Class VII, and they’ll need to deal with more than just class warfare--they’ll need to safeguard their country from chaos.

Why similar: JRPG 31.9%, RPG 17.7%, Turn-Based 15.9%, Great Soundtrack 11.6%, Anime 9.8%

Why You'll Like It: Starting at the beginning of the Erebonian arc is the best way to appreciate the character growth and world-building of the later games.

The Special Support Section is back with more members and more cases to solve! How will this rag-tag group deal with the oncoming threats to Crossbell’s political stability while maintaining their team’s foundation?

Why similar: JRPG 35.5%, RPG 30.3%, Anime 10.3%, Story Rich 8.6%, Great Soundtrack 8.1%

Why You'll Like It: This game features incredible political intrigue and narrative depth that directly influences the events of the Cold Steel series.

Hailed as one of the largest, longest and most meticulously detailed turn-based JRPG series of all time, this first chapter in the ongoing Trails saga sets the stage for what's quickly become Ys developer Nihon Falcom's most popular and best-selling franchise in their entire 30+ year history.

Why similar: JRPG 36.8%, RPG 16.3%, Turn-Based 15.8%, Great Soundtrack 12.7%, Anime 8.3%

Why You'll Like It: The foundation of the entire Trails universe, offering a charming and character-driven story that sets the standard for the series.

When Lloyd Bannings is assigned to Crossbell's Special Support Section, he and his new teammates must prove themselves as they fight to overcome the injustice of a city gripped by corruption.

Why similar: JRPG 33.4%, RPG 27.1%, Great Soundtrack 12.8%, Anime 10.6%, Story Rich 8.9%

Why You'll Like It: It introduces the Crossbell arc, which is vital for understanding the complex geopolitical situation in the later Trails games.

Picking up shortly after The Legend of Heroes: Trails in the Sky, Estelle travels across Liberl in search of Joshua. The journey involves more than seeking loved ones, however, as the Bracer Guild also tasks her with unraveling the mysteries behind the newly unveiled Society of Ouroboros.

Why similar: JRPG 33.6%, RPG 18%, Great Soundtrack 14.2%, Turn-Based 12.3%, Anime 7.8%

Why You'll Like It: The second chapter of the Sky trilogy delivers one of the most emotional and well-paced narratives in the entire JRPG genre.

The spriggan known as Van Arkride, an underground professional, accepts any job, acting as detective, negotiator, or bounty hunter. Dive into the Trails series' latest chapter with intense combat, beautiful visuals, and a new alignment system in Calvard!

Why similar: JRPG 42%, RPG 36%, Anime 13.5%, Fantasy 2.7%, Adventure 2.5%

Why You'll Like It: The newest entry in the series features a more mature tone and a refined combat system while maintaining the series' signature world-building.

Half a year after Trails in the Sky SC, Father Kevin Graham takes on a routine mission on behalf of the Septian Church. He and his partner are then plunged into a realm that follows an unnaturally strict set of rules and is as intent to open old wounds as it is to keep them behind closed doors.

Why similar: JRPG 28.7%, RPG 20.6%, Turn-Based 17.6%, Great Soundtrack 15.6%, Anime 7.6%

Why You'll Like It: This entry provides deep lore and character backstories that enrich the experience of playing the later games in the series.

A coming of age story that sets the protagonist and his friends on a journey kickstarted by a chain of serial murders.

Why similar: JRPG 36.1%, Great Soundtrack 19.1%, RPG 16.1%, Anime 10.4%, Story Rich 7.7%

Why You'll Like It: It offers a fantastic balance of character-driven storytelling and tactical combat, set in a compelling, mystery-filled world.

Don the mask and join the Phantom Thieves of Hearts as they stage grand heists, infiltrate the minds of the corrupt, and make them change their ways!

Why similar: JRPG 37%, Great Soundtrack 19.3%, RPG 16.4%, Anime 10.8%, Story Rich 8.3%

Why You'll Like It: Like the Trails series, it masterfully blends social simulation with deep turn-based combat and a long, story-rich campaign.

This game is a brand-new entry in the OCTOPATH TRAVELER series, the first installment of which was initially released in 2018 and sold over 3 million copies worldwide.

Why similar: Turn-Based 29.5%, JRPG 28.2%, RPG 22.7%, Story Rich 5.4%, Anime 4.8%

Why You'll Like It: It offers a beautiful art style and a unique, multi-perspective narrative structure that rewards players who enjoy deep world-building.

The Definitive Edition includes the critically acclaimed DRAGON QUEST XI, plus additional scenarios, orchestral soundtrack, 2D mode and more! Whether you are a longtime fan or a new adventurer, this is the ultimate DQXI experience.

Why similar: JRPG 45.5%, RPG 27.9%, Story Rich 8.8%, Turn-Based Combat 8.8%, Anime 4.6%

Why You'll Like It: This is the gold standard for modern turn-based JRPGs, featuring a massive world, a classic hero's journey, and highly polished mechanics.

Tokyo Xanadu eX+; a massive action RPG from the masters of the genre, Nihon Falcom! When high school student Kou Tokisaka encounters the nightmare realm known as the Eclipse, his world is forever changed.

Why similar: JRPG 47.1%, RPG 22.6%, Great Soundtrack 13.6%, Anime 11.8%, Story Rich 3.9%

Why You'll Like It: Developed by the same studio as the Trails series, it shares a similar anime aesthetic and focus on character relationships.

Become Ichiban Kasuga, a low-ranking yakuza grunt left on the brink of death by the man he trusted most. Take up your legendary bat and get ready to crack some underworld skulls in dynamic RPG combat set against the backdrop of modern-day Japan.

Why similar: RPG 30.9%, JRPG 26.6%, Turn-Based 19.1%, Great Soundtrack 7.5%, Turn-Based Combat 6.1%

Why You'll Like It: This game successfully transitions the series into a turn-based RPG with a deep, dramatic story and a memorable cast of characters.

FIRST TIME ON STEAM – Based on the PlayStation®3 port of the original GameCube game, this RPG classic is finally available for PC.

Why similar: JRPG 41.4%, RPG 24.1%, Great Soundtrack 12.3%, Anime 11.2%, Story Rich 7%

Why You'll Like It: A classic JRPG that excels in its character interactions and long-form storytelling, much like the Trails series.

300 years of tyranny. A mysterious mask. Lost pain and memories. Wield the Blazing Sword and join a mysterious, untouchable girl to fight your oppressors. Experience a tale of liberation, featuring characters with next-gen graphical expressiveness!

Why similar: JRPG 39.1%, RPG 27.4%, Anime 17.3%, Story Rich 7.4%, Romance 3.5%

Why You'll Like It: While action-oriented, it features the same high-budget anime presentation and focus on party dynamics found in the Trails series.

Inspired by the timeless classic Chrono Trigger, I am Setsuna is a great homage to the JRPG masterpieces of yesteryear. Journey with Setsuna as she prepares to make the ultimate sacrifice and save the people of her land.

Why similar: JRPG 39.9%, RPG 26%, Great Soundtrack 14%, Anime 7.5%, Turn-Based Combat 5.4%

Why You'll Like It: A melancholic and focused JRPG that pays homage to the golden age of turn-based combat with a strong emotional core.

"The promise is entrusted to two alchemists..." The "Dusk" series, a trilogy of RPG titles from Gust's popular Atelier series, tells the story of a world on the verge ruin, told from the perspective of its unique characters.

Why similar: RPG 52.4%, JRPG 17.8%, Turn-Based 9%, Anime 7.4%, Great Soundtrack 6.7%

Why You'll Like It: It offers a more relaxed pace but maintains the strong character-driven narrative and world-building that JRPG fans appreciate.

Trials of Mana is a modern revival of the 3rd game in the seminal Mana series. The game, originally released in Japan as Seiken Densetsu 3, has been fully rebuilt from the ground up in 3D.

Why similar: RPG 57.5%, JRPG 24.5%, Anime 8.2%, Great Soundtrack 5%, Story Rich 2.3%

Why You'll Like It: This remake provides a vibrant, fast-paced adventure with a classic fantasy feel and multiple character-driven storylines.

Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes is designed to bring players a modern take on a classic JRPG experience. Get ready to lead 100+ playable characters through a war-torn world only you can save.

Why similar: JRPG 42.5%, RPG 29.3%, Anime 9.2%, Story Rich 7.8%, Turn-Based Combat 5.9%

Why You'll Like It: A spiritual successor to classic JRPGs, it focuses on building a massive roster of characters and managing a large-scale political conflict.

"The promise begins." The "Dusk" series, a trilogy of RPG titles from Gust's popular Atelier series, tells the story of a world on the verge ruin, told from the perspective of its unique characters. The 1st title in the series "Atelier Ayesha" is now available as a deluxe version.

Why similar: RPG 57.7%, JRPG 20.4%, Turn-Based 8.2%, Anime 7.2%, Story Rich 2.8%

Why You'll Like It: This entry is known for its beautiful atmosphere and emotional storytelling, focusing on personal growth within a fantasy setting.

In this science fantasy RPG, choose between Claude or Rena, play through their perspectives, and unlock various endings. Recruit allies and defeat foes in fast paced real-time battles.

Why similar: JRPG 49.3%, RPG 35.9%, Story Rich 7%, Anime 5.1%, Fantasy 2%

Why You'll Like It: This remake features a fantastic blend of sci-fi and fantasy with a deep crafting system and a large, branching narrative.

"A story of two girls fulfilling their wishes." The "Dusk" series, a trilogy of RPG titles from Gust's popular Atelier series, tells the story of a world on the verge ruin, told from the perspective of its unique characters. The 3rd title in the series "Atelier Shallie" is now available as a deluxe version.

Why similar: RPG 55.8%, JRPG 14.5%, Turn-Based 8.2%, Great Soundtrack 7.9%, Anime 5.4%

Why You'll Like It: It rounds out the Dusk trilogy with a focus on character development and a world that feels lived-in and meaningful.

The mega-hit RPG, FINAL FANTASY VIII returns! This Steam® version features new graphical enhancements and a whole host of options to customise your gameplay experience.

Why similar: RPG 28.8%, JRPG 27.1%, Turn-Based 16.4%, Great Soundtrack 11.2%, Story Rich 5.5%

Why You'll Like It: It features a complex, character-focused story and a unique junction system that appeals to players who enjoy deep tactical customization.

The long awaited 4th installment of the popular "Arland" series that had begun with the "Atelier Rorona"! In this new story, players will revisit the nostalgic world of Arland and embark on exciting journey of alchemy together with Rorona's daughter, Lulua.

Why similar: JRPG 31.9%, RPG 29.4%, Anime 13.6%, Turn-Based 11.6%, Great Soundtrack 9.2%

Why You'll Like It: A charming and lighthearted JRPG that excels in its crafting mechanics and character-focused dialogue.

The future of an entire continent is at stake in this milestone entry in the Trails series! Explore the vast Calvard Republic with three different protagonists, nurture connections, and master powerful skills in both real-time and turn-based battles as you uncover the secrets at the core of Zemuria!

Why similar: JRPG 41.6%, RPG 35.1%, Anime 12.5%, Story Rich 3.5%, Fantasy 2.6%

Set in the autonomous region of Crossbell, the epic RPG Zero no Kiseki: Kai, which tells the story of the Special Support Section, is now available on Steam! The Steam version features 60 fps support + high definition picture & sound for an enhanced gameplay experience!

Why similar: RPG 46.8%, JRPG 35.4%, Story Rich 9.2%, Turn-Based Combat 6.7%, Singleplayer 1.9%

Grandia II is back and better than ever! The classic Japanese RPG returns with enhanced visuals, new difficulty level, and features both keyboard and gamepad support!

Why similar: JRPG 37.3%, RPG 25.5%, Great Soundtrack 11.7%, Turn-Based 8.7%, Story Rich 5.3%

Why You'll Like It: Known for its innovative turn-based combat system, it remains a classic example of how to balance strategy and narrative flow.

The Legend of Heroes: Sen no Kiseki III, which takes place in the Erebonian Empire after the end of the civil war, is now available for PC!

Why similar: RPG 39.1%, JRPG 36.5%, Story Rich 9.2%, Turn-Based Combat 7.4%, Romance 2.3%

Set in the autonomous region of Crossbell, the epic RPG Ao no Kiseki: Kai, which tells the story of the Special Support Section, is now available on Steam! The Steam version features 60 fps support + high definition picture & sound for an enhanced gameplay experience!

Why similar: RPG 44.6%, JRPG 37.2%, Story Rich 9.4%, Turn-Based Combat 6.9%, Singleplayer 1.9%

FINAL FANTASY® III, one of the best-loved games from the epic RPG series, available on Steam.

Why similar: JRPG 36.9%, RPG 32.2%, Turn-Based 21.4%, Great Soundtrack 6%, Fantasy 1.5%

Why You'll Like It: A classic JRPG experience that offers a challenging turn-based system and a traditional fantasy world to explore.

Celestian Tales: Old North is a refreshing take on the classic turn-based Japanese style RPG. Scrapping away the cliché of a destined person or a boy/girl-saving-the-world, the story is tailored for a mature audience and questions the bare morals of a human being.

Why similar: RPG 36.6%, JRPG 25.6%, Turn-Based 20.5%, Great Soundtrack 11.1%, Anime 5.3%

Why You'll Like It: An indie RPG that prioritizes a mature, character-focused narrative over traditional tropes, similar to the Trails series.

Take up your sword, channel your magic or board your Mech. Chained Echoes is a 16-bit style RPG set in a fantasy world where dragons are as common as piloted mechanical suits.

Why similar: RPG 33.7%, Turn-Based 26.8%, JRPG 26.6%, Turn-Based Combat 4%, Story Rich 2.8%

The Legend of Heroes: Sen no Kiseki role-playing game series is highly acclaimed by gamers all over the world for its elaborate character portrayals and epic storyline. The Legend of Heroes: Sen no Kiseki and The Legend of Heroes: Sen no Kiseki II have sold over 1 million copies in total.

Why similar: JRPG 35.2%, RPG 34.6%, Story Rich 9.2%, Anime 7.1%, Turn-Based Combat 7%

The Legend of Heroes: Sen no Kiseki role-playing game series is highly acclaimed by gamers all over the world for its elaborate character portrayals and epic storyline. The Legend of Heroes: Sen no Kiseki and The Legend of Heroes: Sen no Kiseki II have sold over 1 million copies in total.

Why similar: RPG 37.3%, JRPG 35.1%, Story Rich 9.4%, Anime 7.1%, Turn-Based Combat 7.1%

THE LEGEND OF HEROES: SEN NO KISEKI IV -THE END OF SAGA, the final chapter of the story-driven RPG series SEN NO KISEKI, is finally here!

Why similar: RPG 43.1%, JRPG 36.1%, Story Rich 8.6%, Turn-Based Combat 6.4%, Anime 4%

Celebrate the 10th anniversary of Tales of Vesperia and the return of this fan-favorite with the Definitive Edition!

Why similar: JRPG 42.9%, RPG 27.9%, Anime 12.5%, Great Soundtrack 7.9%, Story Rich 5.9%

A new entry in the “Bravely" series! Four new Heroes of Light emerge in a new world and story!

Why similar: JRPG 39.8%, RPG 29.8%, Turn-Based Combat 7.5%, Story Rich 6.6%, Great Soundtrack 4.8%

Experience the first “modern-era” Ys game, now off the small screen for its worldwide PC debut! Features a full party system, dozens of unique combat skills, and a massive overworld to explore. Uncover the secret of the Five Great Dragons, and help Adol Christin save the day once again!

Why similar: RPG 38.3%, JRPG 34.5%, Great Soundtrack 17.7%, Anime 8.2%, Adventure 0.6%

The definitive edition of the Atelier "Mysterious" series at a new price, with brand new content and various DLCs! "Atelier Lydie & Suelle" is the 3rd instalment: after discovering a mysterious painting, Lydie & Suelle get closer to their dream of running the best atelier.

Why similar: JRPG 30.5%, RPG 30.4%, Turn-Based 13.1%, Great Soundtrack 8.2%, Anime 8.1%

The definitive edition of the Atelier "Mysterious" series at a new price, with brand new content and various DLCs! "Atelier Sophie" is the 1st instalment: a chance encounter between Sophie and a sentient book Plachta takes them on an adventure to recover Plachta's memories.

Why similar: JRPG 32.2%, RPG 27.1%, Turn-Based 13.9%, Anime 10.1%, Great Soundtrack 7.3%

The Legend of Heroes: Kuro no Kiseki is finally coming to Steam®! The sprawling Republic of Calvard is experiencing an unprecedented economic boom brought on by post-war reparations. Here is the beginning of a new "Trails (story)".

Why similar: JRPG 36.3%, RPG 28.6%, Anime 11.4%, Turn-Based 7%, Turn-Based Combat 5%

The latest installment in the popular story-driven Kiseki RPG series is here! The 20th-anniversary title, The Legend of Heroes: Kai no Kiseki -Farewell, O Zemuria-, where the epic story of the continent of Zemuria takes a dramatic turn, is now available on Steam®!

Why similar: JRPG 38.7%, RPG 32.8%, Anime 10.6%, Turn-Based 10.4%, Romance 4.4%

Eight travelers. Eight adventures. Eight roles to play. Embark on an epic journey across the vast and wondrous world of Orsterra and discover the captivating stories of each of the eight travelers.

Why similar: JRPG 30.1%, Turn-Based 24.5%, RPG 22.8%, Great Soundtrack 8.7%, Story Rich 5.9%

.hack//G.U. is back! This collection includes all 3 original .hack//G.U. titles, Rebirth, Reminisce, and Redemption, all fully restored and remastered. As well as an all new 4th Volume: .hack//G.U. Reconnection.

Why similar: JRPG 36.6%, RPG 27.1%, Great Soundtrack 13.8%, Anime 12.7%, Story Rich 7.1%

Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter reimagines the first chapter of a beloved series, infusing it with enhanced visuals and refined gameplay. Join Estelle and Joshua, partners bound by fate, as they unravel dark conspiracies threatening the peace of the Liberl Kingdom.

Why similar: JRPG 41.7%, RPG 27.4%, Story Rich 8.8%, Turn-Based Combat 7.7%, Anime 6.8%

Romancing SaGa -Minstrel Song- returns as a stunning remastered edition, with new gameplay elements and quality of life features! Get ready for an even deeper story and an even more thrilling adventure!

Why similar: Turn-Based 29.2%, JRPG 29.1%, RPG 25.9%, Anime 5.8%, Story Rich 4.4%

Third release in the Arland series. Princess of the small frontier country of Arls, Meruru plans to use alchemy to stimulate the growth of her small country. Use Synthesis, Explore, and Battle to increase the population within the time limit and boost the advancement of the kingdom.

Why similar: RPG 41.2%, JRPG 21.6%, Great Soundtrack 11.9%, Turn-Based 9.6%, Anime 8.6%

Celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Kiseki series, a story-driven RPG that began in 2004, the landmark first installment, The Legend of Heroes: Sora no Kiseki FC (First Chapter), is receiving a full remake!

Why similar: JRPG 37.3%, RPG 30.3%, Anime 10.3%, Turn-Based 10.1%, Romance 4.5%

Witness the sins spun by jet-black and crimson-- The Kiseki saga is finally here! Kuro no Kiseki II is loaded with unique content, including a variety of new challenges throughout the Republic of Calvard.

Why similar: JRPG 36.5%, RPG 29.4%, Anime 11.1%, Turn-Based 7.3%, Romance 4.5%

The perfect mix of action, exploration and story with screen-filling bosses, unique platforming elements, and innovative puzzles.

Why similar: JRPG 36.5%, RPG 26.9%, Great Soundtrack 24%, Anime 8.6%, Adventure 1.3%

The definitive edition of the Atelier "Mysterious" series at a new price, with brand new content and various DLCs! "Atelier Firis" is the 2nd instalment: after Firis encounters alchemy and is able to leave town, she is taken on a magical journey that has no limits.

Why similar: RPG 32.2%, JRPG 29.5%, Turn-Based 11%, Great Soundtrack 9%, Anime 8.6%

GRANDIA HD Remaster brings enhanced visuals to both gameplay and cinematic videos.

Why similar: RPG 47.3%, JRPG 35%, Great Soundtrack 5.6%, Anime 5.4%, Adventure 3.3%

The empires of Zemuria have narrowly managed to escape the Great Twilight, a curse that threatened to end the world, thanks to the valiant efforts of those known as heroes. This has resulted in a ripple effect of events that hurtles the series toward its thrilling conclusion.

Why similar: JRPG 30.5%, RPG 28.4%, Turn-Based 19.1%, Anime 9.8%, Turn-Based Combat 4%

This edition includes new stories, playable characters (Clifford, Serri, and Kilo), and features that have been added to "Atelier Ryza 3: Alchemist of the End & the Secret Key."

Why similar: JRPG 26.2%, Turn-Based 26.2%, RPG 22.2%, Anime 7%, Story Rich 5.8%

FINAL FANTASY XII THE ZODIAC AGE - This revered classic returns, now fully remastered for the first time for PC, featuring all new and enhanced gameplay.

Why similar: JRPG 36%, RPG 34%, Great Soundtrack 13.1%, Story Rich 6.3%, Turn-Based 4.2%