Trials of Mana Score: Evaluating the Quality of the 3D Remake

Introduction

The Trials of Mana (originally released in Japan as Seiken Densetsu 3) was a beloved action RPG for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) in 1995. Despite its critical acclaim, the game remained exclusive to Japan until its official Western release in 2019 as part of the Collection of Mana. In 2020, Square Enix released Trials of Mana, a full 3D remake of the classic title.

This remake aimed to modernize the game with updated graphics, voice acting, and refined gameplay mechanics while staying true to the original’s charm. However, the reception has been mixed. Some fans praise the remake for its faithful adaptation, while others criticize it for lacking depth in certain areas. This article examines the quality of the Trials of Mana 3D remake, analyzing its strengths, weaknesses, and overall execution.

Visuals and Art Direction: A Mixed Bag

The Good: Vibrant and Faithful Aesthetics

One of the most noticeable improvements in the remake is its shift from 16-bit sprites to full 3D models. The game retains the colorful, anime-inspired aesthetic of the original, with lush environments and detailed character designs. The world of Trials of Mana feels alive, with dynamic lighting and weather effects enhancing immersion.

The character models, in particular, are well-crafted, staying true to the original designs while adding modern flair. Each hero and villain has distinct animations that reflect their personalities, making battles and cutscenes more engaging.

The Bad: Dated Animations and Technical Limitations

Despite the visual upgrade, the remake suffers from stiff animations and occasional graphical inconsistencies. Facial expressions during dialogue scenes often appear wooden, and some attack animations lack fluidity. Additionally, while the environments are beautiful, they sometimes feel empty due to limited interactivity.

The game also lacks advanced graphical features found in contemporary RPGs, such as ray tracing or high-resolution textures. While this may not be a dealbreaker for fans of the original, modern players might find the visuals somewhat underwhelming compared to other Square Enix titles like Final Fantasy VII Remake.

Gameplay: Refined but Simplified

Combat System: Faster and More Dynamic

The original Seiken Densetsu 3 featured real-time combat with a mix of melee attacks and magic. The remake retains this core mechanic but introduces several improvements:

• Smoother Controls – Movement and attacks feel more responsive, making battles more fluid.
• Class System Expanded – Players can now switch between classes mid-battle, adding strategic depth.
• New Abilities – Each character has unique skills that can be unlocked through progression.

These changes make combat more engaging, especially in boss fights where timing and positioning are crucial.

Simplified Mechanics: A Double-Edged Sword

While the combat is more polished, some mechanics have been streamlined to the point of feeling shallow. The original game had a stamina-based attack system, where players had to manage their attack chains carefully. The remake removes this, allowing unlimited combos, which reduces tactical depth.

Additionally, enemy AI is often simplistic, with many foes standing idle or attacking predictably. This makes normal encounters feel repetitive, especially in the late game.

Story and Localization: A Faithful Yet Flawed Adaptation

Narrative Strengths: A Classic Tale Retold

Trials of Mana features six protagonists, each with their own storylines that intertwine. The remake preserves the original’s branching narratives, allowing players to experience different perspectives based on their party composition.

The English localization is mostly well-done, with voice acting that captures the personalities of the characters. While some lines feel overly simplistic or cheesy, the overall tone remains faithful to the original’s lighthearted yet adventurous spirit.

Weaknesses: Lack of Modern Storytelling Depth

Despite its charm, the remake does little to expand upon the original’s narrative. Character interactions remain minimal, and some plot points feel rushed. Modern RPGs often include deeper dialogue options, side quests with meaningful consequences, or expanded lore—none of which are present here.

Additionally, while the voice acting is decent, the lip-syncing is often off, breaking immersion during cutscenes.

Soundtrack and Audio: A Nostalgic Triumph

Reorchestrated Music: A Highlight

One of the strongest aspects of the remake is its soundtrack. Composer Hiroki Kikuta’s original score has been beautifully reorchestrated, blending classic melodies with modern instrumentation. Tracks like Where Angels Fear to Tread and Meridian Child sound richer than ever, enhancing the game’s emotional moments.

Sound Effects and Voice Acting

The sound design is solid, with satisfying combat effects and ambient noises that bring the world to life. The voice acting, while not exceptional, is serviceable. Some performances stand out (such as Duran’s determined tone or Angela’s playful attitude), while others fall flat due to awkward delivery.

Replay Value and Content: A Decent Offering

Multiple Playthroughs Encouraged

With six protagonists and multiple class upgrades, Trials of Mana encourages replayability. Each character’s story offers slight variations, and experimenting with different party combinations adds variety.

Post-Game Content: A Missed Opportunity

Unfortunately, the remake lacks substantial post-game content. While there are optional bosses and higher difficulty settings, there are no major expansions or DLCs to extend playtime. Compared to modern RPGs with extensive endgame activities, this feels like a missed opportunity.

Final Verdict: A Solid but Imperfect Remake

Pros:

✔ Faithful adaptation of the original’s charm
✔ Beautifully reorchestrated soundtrack
✔ Improved combat mechanics
✔ Multiple story paths enhance replayability

Cons:

❌ Dated animations and stiff facial expressions
❌ Simplified gameplay mechanics reduce depth
❌ Lack of meaningful post-game content
❌ Storytelling feels unchanged from the 1995 version

Score: 7.5/10 – A Good, But Not Great, Remake

Trials of Mana succeeds as a nostalgic trip for fans of the original, offering a visually updated and mechanically refined experience. However, it falls short of being a groundbreaking remake due to its technical limitations and lack of modern RPG depth.

For longtime Mana series enthusiasts, this is a must-play. For newcomers, it’s a fun but flawed action RPG that could have been so much more.

Would you like any refinements or additional sections? I can expand on specific aspects like comparisons to other remakes or deeper analysis of the class system.