Chrono Trigger, released in 1995, represents one of the most ambitious collaborations in gaming history. Three legendary creators came together to create what many consider the perfect RPG.

The Dream Team

Square Enix assembled what they called the “Dream Team”: Hironobu Sakaguchi (creator of Final Fantasy), Yuji Horii (creator of Dragon Quest), and Akira Toriyama (manga artist behind Dragon Ball). Each brought their unique vision to the project.

Time Travel Mechanics

The game’s time travel system allowed players to visit different eras: Prehistory, Middle Ages, Present, Future, and the End of Time. This innovative structure allowed for complex storytelling and multiple endings based on player choices.

Revolutionary Combat

Chrono Trigger introduced the “Active Time Battle” system with a twist – characters could combine their special moves into devastating “Tech” attacks. This system was so well-received that it influenced countless RPGs.

Multiple Endings

The game featured 13 different endings, depending on when and how players completed the game. This replayability was revolutionary for RPGs and encouraged players to explore every possibility.

Technical Achievement

Despite being on the Super Nintendo, Chrono Trigger featured over 2,000 frames of animation and a dynamic soundtrack by Nobuo Uematsu. The game pushed the console to its absolute limits.

Chrono Trigger remains a benchmark for RPG design, combining compelling storytelling, innovative gameplay, and technical excellence in a way that few games have matched since.