Overview
The original action RPG house. Nihon Falcom created Dragon Slayer in 1984 and Ys in 1987, establishing action RPG conventions before the genre had a name. Decades later, the Trails series built one of gaming’s most interconnected worlds—characters and events spanning multiple sub-series across years. Falcom’s independence allows creative ambition most publishers wouldn’t risk.
Fast facts
- Founded: 1981.
- Location: Tokyo, Japan.
- Independence: Never acquired.
- Signature: Ys, Trails series.
Pioneer era
| Title | Year | Innovation |
|---|
| Dragon Slayer | 1984 | Proto-action RPG |
| Xanadu | 1985 | Side-view action |
| Ys I & II | 1987-1988 | ”Bump” combat |
| Sorcerian | 1987 | Scenario system |
Ys series
| Entry | Year | Note |
|---|
| Ys I: Ancient Ys Vanished | 1987 | Series debut |
| Ys III: Wanderers | 1989 | Side-scrolling |
| Ys: The Oath in Felghana | 2005 | III remake |
| Ys VIII: Lacrimosa of Dana | 2016 | Modern peak |
Trails interconnection
| Sub-series | Setting | Games |
|---|
| Trails in the Sky | Liberl | 3 games |
| Trails from Zero/Azure | Crossbell | 2 games |
| Trails of Cold Steel | Erebonia | 4 games |
| Trails through Daybreak | Calvard | Ongoing |
Business model
| Approach | Result |
|---|
| Independence | Creative freedom |
| Licensing ports | Third-party conversions |
| Niche focus | Dedicated audience |
| Long development | Quality over quantity |
Sound Team JDK
| Achievement | Recognition |
|---|
| In-house composers | Distinctive sound |
| Rock-influenced | Action accompaniment |
| Fan following | Concert performances |
See also