The Legend of Heroes: Trails Beyond the Horizon Announced for Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 – Release Date, Story Details, and Preorders

NIS America has officially announced that The Legend of Heroes: Trails Beyond the Horizon will launch for both Nintendo Switch and the next-generation Nintendo Switch 2 on January 15, 2026.

As the latest entry in developer Nihon Falcom’s acclaimed JRPG franchise, Trails Beyond the Horizon promises to continue the series’ tradition of rich storytelling and deep tactical gameplay on Nintendo’s most popular platforms. The Trails series, renowned for its sprawling narratives and interconnected cast, has steadily grown its audience on Nintendo Switch through releases like Trails Through Daybreak I and II.

Now, with Trails Beyond the Horizon, fans are set to embark on a new chapter where the stakes are higher than ever.

According to the publisher, this installment follows protagonist Van Arkride and his Arkride Solutions team as the entire continent of Zemuria braces for its inaugural pursuit of space exploration.

When an unexpected invitation from the enigmatic group Marduk arrives, Van finds himself allied with legendary figures such as Ashen Chevalier Rean Schwarzer and Father Kevin Graham on a mission that uncovers secrets central to Zemuria’s future. The story sets the stage for a compelling JRPG experience, featuring varied gameplay elements, including mech battles, dance sequences, beachside interludes, and high-stakes sword encounters—all hallmarks of the Trails universe.

NIS America stated in a recent announcement that the differing paths of the heroes ultimately compel them to confront the question at the adventure’s core: what lies beyond the edge of the horizon? For fans eager to dive in, there is ample time to revisit previous titles.

Industry sources recommend playing Trails Through Daybreak I and II to get accustomed to the series’ current mechanics and evolving battle systems, as well as to understand recent narrative developments.

These titles are readily available on the Nintendo Switch eShop, providing accessible entry points for both veterans and new players alike. Complementing the digital releases, NIS America has opened preorders for a special limited edition of Trails Beyond the Horizon.

Available exclusively at store.nisamerica.com, the package promises unique collectibles, although full details on the included items remain forthcoming.

Of note, the Switch 2 version will feature a game-key card and be priced $10 higher than the standard Nintendo Switch edition.

As of this writing, it is not yet confirmed whether an upgrade path from the physical Switch release to the Switch 2 edition will be offered. The Legend of Heroes: Trails Beyond the Horizon continues developer Nihon Falcom’s acclaimed work in the JRPG genre and highlights Nintendo Switch’s ongoing role as a premier platform for narrative-driven, strategic gaming.

For official updates, release information, and preorder details, fans are encouraged to visit the NIS America website.

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