by Kathryn Martin

Created on: July 03, 2007   Last Updated: January 31, 2012

Square-Enix has always been know for its fantastic video games, most notable being the Final Fantasy Series. Back in 1995 though, when they were known as SquareSoft, they introduced one of the most memorable, and quite possibly the best video game in history - Chrono Trigger.

Chrono Trigger was a revolution in itself at that time, a variation away from the Final Fantasy Series. This game utilized every pixel of the 16 bit system it was created for to bring to life a believable world that was explored by time periods and colorful characters. The stunning colors and remarkable visual effects of the overworld map (although 2D) were remarkable at the time. It was simple, and complex at the same time.

Another great aspect of Chrono Trigger is the enhanced battle system and characters. You are allowed up to three characters in a battle, where you choose your actions and deal with the ATB (active time bar). The spells are incredible, as each of the seven playable characters possesses different forms of magic in a battle as well as weapons. For example, one character (Crono) possesses lightning, one fire (Lucca), while two others possess water but one can only deal ice damage (Marle and Frog). Two characters lack any magic whatsoever, relying on brute strength (Ayla) and technology (Robo) to do their bidding. The freak of nature would be Magus, who can cast shadow magic and a little bit of everything. That said, you can also combine spells for either duel techniques (two characters) or triple techs (all three involved in the brawl, or healing if you need it).

What would a game be without music? Chrono Trigger excels in the music, basing its time periods on a magnificent ensemble of varying pieces that you just cannot forget. The mysterious Middle Ages theme, the funky prehistoric theme, and the dreary tunes of the Future and Dark Ages. Not to mention, the individual character themes that match the characters perfectly. Ayla and Robo's will make you want to dance, while Marle's is somber and romantic. Even some of the non-playable characters have their own theme (Schala's is worth noting as mysterious). The music in this game draws you in and does not let you go the whole way through the journey.

Plot:
The major greatness of Chrono Trigger though is hardly the battle system, but instead is the incredible plot that blends characters together to make you want to save the world, and I am certain scared some people when they played it (as the 'Day of Lavos' was ironically

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