Highlights
Square Enix has been consistently producing high-quality RPGs, evident in their recent hits such as Octopath Traveler and Final Fantasy 16.Chrono Trigger, a beloved classic, is undoubtedly deserving of a console makeover due to its scarcity and limited availability on modern gaming platforms.
A remastered version of Chrono Trigger in HD-2D would revitalize its visuals while honoring its nostalgic origins, appealing to both new and long-time fans. Square Enix continues to impress with consistently impressive role-playing games, such as Octopath Traveler, Tactics Ogre: Reborn, and The DioField Chronicle. Additionally, the highly acclaimed Final Fantasy 16 showcases the company's versatility and quality. Despite being a top JRPG for decades, there is a growing interest in retro games and graphics play a vital role in their success. Many games could benefit from a makeover in the impactful HD-2D art style, but Chrono Trigger stands out as the most obvious choice.
Chrono Trigger Needs a Console Makeover
: Speculation on Square Enix's Next Adaptation Continues to MountWhile Chrono Trigger can be played on PC, Steam Deck, and mobile devices, it can be quite challenging to find on consoles, especially in physical format. As time goes on, the 2008 Nintendo DS release has become increasingly difficult to track down. The versions for Super Nintendo and PlayStation have attained the status of sought-after classics, but accessing them necessitates dusting off old hardware. For a game as renowned as Chrono Trigger, not having a seamless path to play it can be frustrating, and this becomes more apparent with the introduction and subsequent success of the Final Fantasy Pixel Remasters.
It would be a welcome development to witness the transfer of the original sprites onto modern hardware, just as Chrono Trigger's 16-bit visuals have effectively endured the test of time. Nonetheless, revamped graphics could invigorate the time-traveling narrative, without necessarily needing a Final Fantasy 7-esque remake (although that would be an exhilarating possibility). Rather, a facelift of some sort would complement a fresh release, enabling new players to fully grasp the groundbreaking nature of the Squaresoft RPG upon its 1995 launch.
HD-2D is Beautiful, but Nostalgic
The HD-2D art style used in games such as Octopath Traveler and Triangle Strategy seamlessly combines modern and nostalgic elements, resulting in a captivating visual experience. Not only has this style enhanced the immersion in new projects, but it has also breathed new life into timeless classics like Live A Live, which received both critical acclaim and a successful launch. By applying this art style to decades-old games like Chrono Trigger, iconic locations such as Zeal and the Millennial Fair could be revitalized with a modern twist, creating stunning visuals that further enhance the immersive experience.
Reintroducing Chrono Trigger through an HD-2D remaster would serve multiple purposes. Not only would it allow one of the greatest JRPGs ever made to attract a whole new generation of gamers, but it would also enhance its already timeless visuals while staying true to its original roots, pleasing long-time fans. This game has held a special place in the hearts of many for nearly three decades, and Square Enix's recent remasters of the NES and Super Nintendo era of Final Fantasy games have proven that there is still more to be gained from this era of role-playing. If Live A Live is given a second chance, then Chrono, Marle, Lucca, and Magus most certainly deserve one as well.
Chrono Trigger can be played on Mobile, Nintendo DS, PC, PlayStation, and Super Nintendo platforms.