Trails in the Sky 2nd Chapter Remake Shows How It's Done

Ever played a remake that felt like it was made by people who truly loved the original? That's exactly the vibe Trails in the Sky 2nd Chapter is giving off, and it's got one writer thinking about what could have been with Final Fantasy 7 Remake.

Here's the thing: Trails in the Sky 2nd Chapter is being called a perfect JRPG remake. Not just good, not just polished, but perfect. The kind of remake that makes you wonder why every studio doesn't take this approach.

The key difference comes down to philosophy. Square Enix took what some have called a "secret sequel" approach with Final Fantasy 7 Remake, essentially building something new on top of the original's foundation. It's a bold strategy, and it clearly has its fans.

But Trails in the Sky 2nd Chapter goes a different route. Instead of reinventing the wheel, it doubles down on deepening the source material. The result is a remake that feels like the definitive way to experience the story, not a companion piece or a reimagining.

That dedication to the original is what makes it stand out. Modernizing a classic JRPG isn't easy. You've got to update visuals, smooth out gameplay systems, and make it accessible to new players without alienating the veterans who grew up with it. Trails in the Sky 2nd Chapter apparently nails that balance.

It's a reminder that remakes don't have to be reboots. You can honor what made a game special while giving it the fresh coat of paint it deserves. Sometimes the best way forward is to look back and ask, "How do we make this even better?" rather than "How do we change this completely?"

So what do you think? Is the faithful remake approach the way to go, or do you prefer the bolder reimagining style? Will you be picking up Trails in the Sky 2nd Chapter?