Nihon Falcom’s Ambitious Slate: Trails in the Sky 2nd Chapter and Ys X: Proud Nordics Heading to PS5 by September 2026
Nihon Falcom, the venerable Japanese RPG developer renowned for its sprawling narrative universes and deep gameplay mechanics, has recently unveiled significant details regarding its upcoming releases. In a comprehensive financial report for the fiscal year ending September 2025, shared via its official Investor Relations portal, the company has officially confirmed that both The Legend of Heroes: Trails in the Sky 2nd Chapter and a PlayStation 5 version of Ys X: Proud Nordics are slated for release before the close of the fiscal year in September 2026. While precise release dates and windows remain undisclosed, these confirmations mark pivotal moments for long-time fans and newcomers alike, promising further expansion of two of Falcom’s most beloved franchises.
A Grand Return to Grancel: The Legend of Heroes: Trails in the Sky 2nd Chapter Confirmed for Multiplatform Release
The anticipation for The Legend of Heroes: Trails in the Sky 2nd Chapter has been a simmering undercurrent in the JRPG community for years. Following the impactful conclusion of its predecessor, which left players with a tantalizing glimpse of what was to come, this confirmation brings a much-needed sense of direction to its eventual arrival. The financial report explicitly states that the 2nd Chapter will be a multiplatform release, a crucial piece of information for players eager to experience the continuation of Estelle and Joshua’s journey on their preferred gaming systems.
This multiplatform strategy echoes the successful recent release of Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter on a diverse array of hardware. As previously detailed, the initial installment in the trilogy graced platforms such as the Nintendo Switch, the upcoming Switch 2, PlayStation 5, and PC. This broad availability ensured that a vast audience could immerse themselves in the foundational lore and character introductions of the Liberl Kingdom. The commitment to a multiplatform approach for Trails in the Sky 2nd Chapter signifies Falcom’s dedication to maximizing accessibility and ensuring that the next chapter of this epic saga reaches as many fans as possible, both domestically in Japan and across the globe.
The fact that Trails in the Sky 2nd Chapter will also see a worldwide release is particularly noteworthy. While initial releases often focus on the Japanese market, Falcom’s increasing emphasis on global distribution for its major titles demonstrates a growing understanding of its international fanbase. This ensures that players outside of Japan will not have to endure extended waiting periods for localized versions, allowing them to experience the full narrative arc without significant delays. The inclusion of a worldwide release underscores the series’ enduring global appeal.
Furthermore, the report provides an astonishing update on the sales figures for the original Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter. It has now achieved a remarkable 9 million copies sold worldwide. This monumental sales milestone is a testament to the game’s enduring quality, its captivating story, and the dedicated community that has supported it throughout its lifespan. Such impressive sales figures undoubtedly play a significant role in Falcom’s decision-making regarding future releases and platform strategies, reinforcing the commercial viability of bringing the entire Trails in the Sky trilogy to a wider audience. This success provides a strong foundation for the launch of Trails in the Sky 2nd Chapter, setting high expectations for its reception.
The Swift and the Bold: Ys X: Proud Nordics Gets the PS5 Treatment
The confirmation of a PlayStation 5 version for Ys X: Proud Nordics is another significant announcement, offering a platform upgrade for an action-RPG that has already garnered attention. This move indicates Falcom’s strategy to leverage the advanced capabilities of current-generation hardware to enhance the visual fidelity and performance of its flagship titles. While Ys X: Proud Nordics has already been released on the Nintendo Switch 2 and PC in Asia, the addition of a PS5 version signifies a substantial expansion of its reach and a commitment to delivering an optimized experience for PlayStation enthusiasts.
The report reiterates that a worldwide release for the Nintendo Switch 2 and PC versions of Ys X: Proud Nordics is scheduled for early 2026. This pre-existing global launch window provides a strong precedent and suggests that the PS5 version will likely align with or closely follow these dates, although specific details are yet to be provided. The inclusion of a PS5 version not only caters to the vast PlayStation player base but also allows for a potentially enhanced graphical presentation, smoother frame rates, and quicker loading times, capitalizing on the PS5’s cutting-edge technology.
The Ys X: Proud Nordics experience on PS5 is expected to benefit from the game’s existing enhancements. These include the addition of the Oland Island location, offering a new region to explore within the game’s vibrant world. Furthermore, players can anticipate delving into the Muspelheim dungeon, a challenging new area designed to test their combat prowess. The introduction of the Mana Hold ability promises to add a new dimension to exploration, allowing players to traverse previously inaccessible areas and uncover hidden secrets.
Beyond new content, the PS5 version is also poised to incorporate significant quality-of-life adjustments. These improvements are crucial for modern gaming experiences, often encompassing improved visuals and performance. This means players can expect a more refined and visually stunning presentation, with sharper textures, enhanced lighting effects, and a smoother gameplay experience, all designed to immerse them deeper into the thrilling adventures of Adol Christin and his companions.
For those eager to visualize what the PS5 release might entail, a trailer for the Nintendo Switch 2 and PC versions is available. This trailer offers a compelling glimpse into the game’s art style, combat system, and world design, providing a solid foundation for understanding the aesthetic and gameplay elements that will likely be carried over and potentially enhanced on the PlayStation 5. The visual presentation in the existing trailer showcases dynamic combat and expansive environments, setting a high bar for the PS5 iteration.
The strategic decision to bring Ys X: Proud Nordics to the PlayStation 5 underscores Falcom’s commitment to delivering its acclaimed titles across multiple major platforms, ensuring that the Ys series continues to reach an ever-expanding audience. The promise of enhanced visuals and performance on the PS5, combined with the already confirmed global release window for other platforms, paints a picture of a highly anticipated and well-supported launch.
Falcom’s Financial Year: A Closer Look at the Fiscal Report
The Nihon Falcom Financial Results for the Fiscal Year Ending September 2025 provide a fascinating insight into the company’s strategic planning and future product pipeline. Beyond the headline-grabbing confirmations of Trails in the Sky 2nd Chapter and the PS5 version of Ys X: Proud Nordics, the report also details upcoming audio releases that further underscore Falcom’s dedication to its expansive franchises.
On page six of the PDF document, a specific mention is made of the Trails in the Sky the 1st Original Soundtrack. This highly anticipated release is confirmed to arrive in Japan in December 2025. For fans of the series, the original soundtracks are more than just background music; they are integral components of the emotional narrative and world-building that define the Trails experience. The release of this soundtrack is a testament to the enduring legacy of the first game and its musical score.
Following closely on the heels of the Trails in the Sky 1st Original Soundtrack, Falcom has announced the Falcom Acoustics 3 compilation album. This collection is slated for release in March 2026. The “Falcom Acoustics” series is celebrated for its re-imagined orchestral and acoustic arrangements of beloved tracks from various Falcom titles, offering a fresh perspective on the series’ iconic melodies. The inclusion of a third installment signifies the depth and breadth of Falcom’s musical legacy, with many more fan-favorite tunes likely to be featured. These audio releases, positioned strategically within the fiscal year, demonstrate a holistic approach to franchise development, catering not only to gameplay experiences but also to the appreciation of the artistic and auditory elements that define Falcom’s games.
The success of Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter reaching 9 million copies sold worldwide is a crucial metric within this financial report. It not only validates the ongoing investment in the Trails series but also provides a strong justification for the development and release of Trails in the Sky 2nd Chapter. This figure highlights the series’ significant global reach and enduring popularity, suggesting a robust market for further installments.
The confirmation of a PS5 version for Ys X: Proud Nordics alongside its existing Switch 2 and PC releases illustrates a conscious effort to broaden the market appeal of their recent titles. By targeting the dominant PlayStation ecosystem, Falcom aims to capture a significant segment of the gaming audience, particularly those who appreciate high-fidelity action-RPGs. The early 2026 worldwide release for the Switch 2 and PC versions, coupled with the upcoming PS5 iteration, suggests a coordinated global launch strategy designed to maximize market penetration and capitalize on the excitement surrounding the Ys franchise.
The overall financial report, while containing standard fiscal data, offers compelling insights into Falcom’s strategic priorities. The focus on multiplatform releases for key titles like Trails in the Sky 2nd Chapter and the expansion of Ys X: Proud Nordics to the PS5 demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to game development and distribution. These announcements are not merely updates; they are declarations of intent from a company that continues to invest deeply in its rich legacy and innovative future, promising exciting times ahead for JRPG enthusiasts worldwide.
Navigating the Future: Release Timelines and Fan Expectations
The confirmed release window for both The Legend of Heroes: Trails in the Sky 2nd Chapter and the PS5 version of Ys X: Proud Nordics extends up to September 2026. This timeframe, while broad, provides a concrete target for fans to anticipate these highly awaited titles. The Japanese fiscal year ending in September 2026 encompasses a significant period, suggesting that development is well underway for both games, with Falcom aiming for a thorough and polished release.
The decision to position Trails in the Sky 2nd Chapter as a multiplatform release, following the lead of its predecessor, is a strategic move that prioritizes player access. The original Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter’s availability on Switch, Switch 2, PS5, and PC has demonstrably broadened its audience, and extending this accessibility to the 2nd Chapter ensures that the narrative momentum built in the first game can be carried forward without significant barriers. The worldwide release aspect further solidifies Falcom’s commitment to its global fanbase, allowing for simultaneous enjoyment of the game’s intricate story and beloved characters.
For Ys X: Proud Nordics, the confirmation of a PS5 version is a significant addition to its existing release on Switch 2 and PC in Asia. The early 2026 worldwide release for those platforms sets a clear expectation for when players can expect the game, and it is reasonable to infer that the PS5 version will either launch concurrently or shortly thereafter, given the provided fiscal year deadline. The promise of improved visuals and performance on the PS5, coupled with the inclusion of new content like the Oland Island location and the Muspelheim dungeon, suggests that this will be the definitive version for many players, offering the most immersive and visually spectacular experience.
The inclusion of the Mana Hold ability is a subtle yet potentially significant addition, hinting at a deeper level of environmental interaction and puzzle-solving that could further enrich the exploration aspects of Ys X: Proud Nordics. These quality-of-life improvements are becoming increasingly vital in today’s gaming landscape, and Falcom’s attention to such details demonstrates a commitment to delivering a polished and satisfying experience.
The sales success of Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter, now exceeding 9 million copies worldwide, serves as a powerful indicator of the franchise’s robust commercial appeal. This substantial figure not only validates the development of Trails in the Sky 2nd Chapter but also builds considerable excitement and expectation for its launch. Fans who have been captivated by the story and characters of the first game will be eagerly awaiting the next installment, and the multiplatform, worldwide release strategy ensures that this anticipation can be met across various gaming environments.
As we look towards September 2026, the gaming world anticipates the arrival of these two significant titles from Nihon Falcom. The developer’s consistent output of high-quality JRPGs, coupled with its willingness to embrace new platforms and enhance existing titles, solidifies its position as a cornerstone of the genre. The confirmed releases of The Legend of Heroes: Trails in the Sky 2nd Chapter and Ys X: Proud Nordics on PlayStation 5 represent key milestones in Falcom’s ongoing journey to deliver compelling narratives and engaging gameplay to a global audience. The detailed financial report serves as a beacon, illuminating the path forward for these beloved franchises and promising a wealth of content for dedicated players.