Christmas is approaching, and Sony hasn’t forgotten RPG fans. Since December 23, PS5 owners can download two free demos of the future game The Legend of Heroes: Trails beyond the Horizondeveloped by Nihon Falcom And PH3 GmbHplanned for January 15, 2026.
While Chiaroscuro: Expedition 33 has recently been overshadowed by controversy around generative AI, the spotlight now turns to this new entry in the Trails saga, available exclusively on PlayStation for one of its two playable experiences.
Two very distinct demos to discover the game
Sony offers an unusual approach here: rather than a single standard demo, these are two separate experiments which are offered to PS5 players.
The first focuses on the game universe, highlighting the writing and narration. “Players can further explore the game world and interact with certain characters,” the article states. Good news: your progress will be preserved if you decide to purchase the full version when it comes out.
The second demo, more technical, allows you to test the combat mechanics. And this content, more muscular, is exclusive to PlayStation 5. “This demo is, oddly enough, a PlayStation exclusive,” emphasizes Sam Cawley.
A taste of what could be a future hit of 2026
Described as a classic turn-based RPG, The Legend of Heroes: Trails beyond the Horizon promises to appeal to fans of anime, vast worlds and strategic combat. The editor NIS America revealed an ambitious description of the game on Steam: “The future of an entire continent hangs in the balance in this landmark installment of the Trails series! Explore the vast Republic of Calvard with three different protagonists, forge bonds and master powerful skills in real-time and turn-based combat, all while uncovering the secrets at the heart of Zemuria!”
This version therefore allows you to get a head start on one of the major RPGs of early 2026, with gameplay already finalized and two different exploration angles depending on preferences.
A PS5 exclusive not to be missed during the holidays
PS5 owners can now download these two demos via the PlayStation Store. No PS Plus subscription is required to access it. This gesture from Sony comes at the right time, as gamers prepare to spend time at home during the Christmas holidays. “PlayStation players are receiving two gifts just in time for Christmas,” writes Gamingbible, which sees it as a promising taste of a very RPG year 2026.