Who is the Successor of Chrono Trigger?
Released in 1995, Chrono Trigger is a classic role-playing game developed by Square (now Square Enix) that has captivated gamers for generations. The game’s engaging storyline, memorable characters, and innovative battle system have made it a beloved franchise. But, what happened after Chrono Trigger? Which game can be considered its spiritual successor? In this article, we’ll explore the answers to these questions.
Chrono Cross: The Official Successor
Chrono Cross, released in 1999, is widely regarded as the official successor to Chrono Trigger. Developed by Square, Chrono Cross builds upon the same engine as Chrono Trigger and shares many similarities with its predecessor. The game’s storyline takes place in a parallel universe, where the player controls Serge, a character who is transported to different eras of history.
Radical Dreamers: A Prequel and Spiritual Successor
Radical Dreamers, a 1995 visual novel developed by Square, can be considered a prequel and spiritual successor to Chrono Trigger. The game’s story takes place 1999 AD, six months before the events of Chrono Trigger, and follows the adventures of Harlequin and Serge (the same character from Chrono Cross). Radical Dreamers explores the same themes of time travel and multiple timelines as Chrono Trigger.
Sea of Stars: A Modern Spiritual Successor
Sea of Stars, a 2020 role-playing game developed by Abbey Games, is often referred to as a modern spiritual successor to Chrono Trigger. The game’s developers have cited Chrono Trigger as an inspiration and have incorporated many of its mechanics, such as the active time battle system and the ability to travel through time.
Other Games That Pay Homage to Chrono Trigger
Several games have paid homage to Chrono Trigger over the years. Some notable examples include:
- I Am Setsuna: A 2016 role-playing game developed by Tokyo RPG Factory that pays homage to Chrono Trigger’s battle system and aesthetic.
- Lost Sphear: A 2017 role-playing game developed by Tokyo RPG Factory that shares many similarities with Chrono Trigger, including its battle system and character design.
- The Last Story: A 2011 role-playing game developed by Mistwalker that incorporates many of Chrono Trigger’s battle mechanics and explores similar themes of time travel and multiple timelines.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Chrono Cross is the official successor to Chrono Trigger, while Radical Dreamers can be considered a prequel and spiritual successor. Sea of Stars, a modern role-playing game, is also a spiritual successor to Chrono Trigger. Other games, such as I Am Setsuna, Lost Sphear, and The Last Story, have paid homage to Chrono Trigger’s mechanics and themes. Whether you’re a fan of classic role-playing games or are new to the genre, these games are sure to provide hours of entertainment and nostalgic value.
Table: Chrono Trigger Successors and Spiritual Successors
| Game | Release Year | Developer | Relationship to Chrono Trigger |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chrono Cross | 1999 | Square | Official Successor |
| Radical Dreamers | 1995 | Square | Prequel and Spiritual Successor |
| Sea of Stars | 2020 | Abbey Games | Spiritual Successor |
| I Am Setsuna | 2016 | Tokyo RPG Factory | Homage to Chrono Trigger |
| Lost Sphear | 2017 | Tokyo RPG Factory | Homage to Chrono Trigger |
| The Last Story | 2011 | Mistwalker | Homage to Chrono Trigger |
Key Points:
- Chrono Cross is the official successor to Chrono Trigger.
- Radical Dreamers is a prequel and spiritual successor to Chrono Trigger.
- Sea of Stars is a modern spiritual successor to Chrono Trigger.
- I Am Setsuna, Lost Sphear, and The Last Story are games that pay homage to Chrono Trigger’s mechanics and themes.