Games

Best of 2009 | 08 |07 | 06 | 05
Advanced Search

Stars indicate the most critically-acclaimed games.

Chrono Trigger

EMAIL PRINT ds

8.6 User Score:

Universal acclaim

Based on 56 critic reviews
How did we calculate this?

Based on 80 votes
Read user comments
Rate this game >

Game Info

Publisher: Square Enix

Developer: Square Enix

Genre(s): Role-Playing Game

Players: 1

ESRB Rating: E10+ (Everyone 10 and Older)

Release Date: November 24, 2008

Summary

[Metacritic's 2008 DS Game of the Year] When a newly developed teleportation device malfunctions at the Millennial Fair, young Crono must travel through time to rescue his unfortunate companion from an intricate web of past and present perils. The swashbuckling adventure that ensues soon unveils an evil force set to destroy the world, triggering Crono's race against time to change the course of history and bring about a brighter future. Features an engaging and unparalleled storyline, leading to the discovery of multiple epic conclusions to a journey that transcends time. An inspiring musical score created by Yasunori Mitsuda. Intriguing battle system made possible by the unique combination of the Active Time Battle system and Tech skills. Famed character designer Akira Toriyama lends his signature art style to create the vibrant world that has captivated gamers around the world. Taking advantage of the Nintendo DS hardware, CHRONO TRIGGER makes its way onto the portable platform with all-new dual screen presentation and Touch-Screen functionality. A brand new dungeon and a Wireless Play mode adds exciting new dimensions to this timeless classic. [Square Enix]

Cheat Codes & Hints: Cheat Code Central

Also On The Web: Official Website

What The Critics Said

All critic scores are converted to a 100-point scale. If a critic does not indicate a score, we assign a score based on the general impression given by the text of the review. Learn more...

100

GamePro

Regardless of whether you played it already or are new to the series, you owe it to yourself to check out this amazing title. [Dec 2008, p.97]

100

Games Radar (in-house)

We would normally hesitate to give any rerelease such a high score, but this is the ultimate edition of a true classic.

Read Full Review >

100

1UP

For fans, the reason to pick up Chrono Trigger is simply because it's available, intact, and enhanced. For newcomers, it's because the game has easily withstood the test of time.

Read Full Review >

100

G4 TV

This is a genuine classic, and portability just makes it that much better.

Read Full Review >

100

Eurogamer

Chrono Trigger is a masterclass in RPG design, its execution so far beyond the quality and poise of contemporary JRPGs it's embarrassing. It represents the work of a company at the very top of its field, a team of designers so confident with the rules that they helped establish that they felt free to subvert and invert them to glorious effect.

Read Full Review >

100

GameShark

It prides itself on being undyingly faithful to its source material; opting to create the ultimate edition of this must-own title with additions that never distract from the innovations that made the game a classic in the first place.

Read Full Review >

100

Gaming Age

If you've never played Chrono Trigger, then this is the version to get. The port is great, it looks really solid on the DS, runs fine, and everything is intact.

Read Full Review >

100

Cubed3

Regardless of whether or not you have played Chrono Trigger before, the DS remake is an absolute must-own for any RPG fan and is easily one of the year’s best releases.

Read Full Review >

100

Zentendo

Chrono Trigger is one of the most charming, endearing, and most fun role playing games I have ever had the pleasure of playing.

Read Full Review >

100

Gaming Nexus

Regardless of whether you missed it the first time or not, Chrono Trigger is a must-own game!

Read Full Review >

100

DarkZero

On the whole, the game is still full of fantastic little touches that you can’t help but love, all presented and executed in a simply timeless fashion. You can’t ask much more than that.

Read Full Review >

100

Eurogamer Portugal

Chrono Trigger has always been known for being one of the best in the genre. Plenty of reasons for that. This is the first legit opportunity for European gamers to try this classic, and the score is justified.

Read Full Review >

100

D+PAD Magazine

Never mind videogaming, Chrono Trigger is one of the great recent examples of storytelling in any medium. In short, it's everything role-playing games are meant to be, sucking you into a unique world until your identification with the game is inseparable from the characters and their goals.

Read Full Review >

100

BigPond GameArena

A near flawless epic.

Read Full Review >

Worth Playing

Easily one of the best video games I've played in the recent past, and I've played quite a few of them. Whether or not you're a fan of consoled-based role-playing games, you owe it to yourself to try this one; it might just change your opinion of them.

Read Full Review >

HellBored

From a gaming era that you would think was long forgotten comes a remake of one of the best RPG games ever to be released, now available on the DS, and a must play.

Read Full Review >

RPG Fan

While the DS can do more than the SNES could almost 15 years ago, this version of Chrono Trigger is definitively basic and could keep you entertained forever.

Read Full Review >

Vandal Online

Ultimately, Chrono Trigger is a good classic, as enjoyable today as it was years ago. It has not aged badly, and in fact, it can bring some new fresh features to players who didn't know it, in spite of the later titles they might have played.

Read Full Review >

Cheat Code Central

I could not be more pleased with this rerelease, and I certainly applaud Square Enix for rewarding their longtime fans with such a classic title on a current system. However, this game is not just for longtime fans, and if you have never been able to experience Chrono Trigger, the DS provides the perfect vehicle to do so.

Read Full Review >

Official Nintendo Magazine UK

As a remake this is recommended, but as it's a 'new' game in the UK it's essential. [Feb 2009, p.76]

Read Full Review >

GamingTrend

If you've played CT before and never "got it," or if you've avoided it for whatever reason, now's your chance to give it the shot it deserves. It will be well worth your time.

Read Full Review >

Gamer 2.0

It is definitely the most engaging RPG experience you’ll find on the DS and will continue to be played and praised.

Read Full Review >

GameFocus

You don’t have to pay hundreds of dollars for a US SNES version on eBay, import a Super Famicom and game from Japan or play the weaker PSOne version. This game is not only one of the best games ever made, but one of the best DS games available right now that every DS and RPG fan should have in their collection.

Read Full Review >

IGN AU

Chrono Trigger DS is a faithful port of the wonderful original, with subtle improvements to the script and a little extra gameplay. If the very, very minor sound issues, or the moderately-retro graphics don't bother you, then is a must-own, especially if you've never played it before.

Read Full Review >

Gamestyle

It gets better as it goes, and perhaps even better with age, and still puts most other RPGs to shame.

Read Full Review >

SpazioGames

Although 15 years have passed since its first publishing, Chrono Trigger is back on Nintendo DS with a devastating energy. Thanks to great graphics and design by Akira Toriyama the game delivers a great role playing experience. The narrative structure is deep and builds around fascinating characters, leading the player to thirteen different finales. A must-buy for every DS owner and role playing fan.

Read Full Review >

Game Positive

Sticklers for plot and veterans who are only searching for something new in their old favorite may be disappointed, but for everyone else, Chrono Trigger has aged well.

Read Full Review >

GameSpy

Chrono Trigger is one of the best examples of what the Japanese RPG experience can offer. Its gameplay feels more unique and inviting to those who aren't enamored with selecting boring attack commands for their static sprites to follow.

Read Full Review >

NintendoWorldReport

Regardless of price or underwhelming extra features, this is an excellent and authentic port of my personal favorite game of all time, and one I would recommend to virtually anyone. If you can read, you should play Chrono Trigger, and the new DS version is an accessible way to do that.

Read Full Review >

Kombo

Consider this one highly recommended. Chrono Trigger does not disappoint.

Read Full Review >

Gamervision

Chrono Trigger DS is a remake done right, and both longtime fans and new players should pick it up.

Read Full Review >

Pocket Gamer UK

Few games stand the test of time like Chrono Trigger. A role-playing classic, it's one of the very best the genre has to offer.

Read Full Review >

Nintendo Power

Despite my criticisms, Chrono Trigger is an amazing adventure and a required purchase for ardent fans and anyone who's never played the game before. [Holiday 2008, p.82]

Game Informer

It's a true classic, and playing it should be a government-mandated rite of passage for any role-playing fan. [Dec 2008, p.130]

Read Full Review >

Level7.nu

One of the best roleplaying adventures ever made is revived for the Nintendo DS, and it's as fantastic as it ever was. Despite being 14 years old this game still manages to wipe the floor with most games released in it's wake. Design, script, sound, characters, the time traveling mechanic and a number of other features are simply so ingenious that more than a decade of subsequent games has seen few titles to rival this experience.

Read Full Review >

AceGamez

Despite a few minor quibbles, Chrono Trigger is a triumph; there's a new dungeon to explore for those who are looking for something new and for those who've never played the game, or who've forgotten just how incredible it is, there's a whole world to save and a whole history to rewrite as you see fit.

Read Full Review >

Gamer.nl

Chrono Trigger hasn't lost its magic in 2009. The combat system is unique and effective, the story and its characters impressive and even the looks and sound of the game are more than you could wish for. It the end it was worth waiting for a European version.

Read Full Review >

VideoGamer

Chrono Trigger is brilliant for loads of reasons: the unobtrusive combat, the time-traveling plot, the incredible character design, the entrancing music, but what impresses most is how great it plays despite the fact it's 14 years old. It feels fresh, vibrant and innovative.

Read Full Review >

RPGamer

Chrono Trigger DS truly stands the test of time. From the distinct 2D visuals, to the wonderful score, to the singular characters, to the unique take on a well-known battle system, everything was done exquisitely in the 90s, and it is all there and just as fun today.

Read Full Review >

N-Europe

Chrono Trigger achieves a level of quality that most games today still haven't achieved, and it's a perfect example of balanced game design.

Read Full Review >

LEVEL (Czech Republic)

Time-proved game shows its quality in the world of next-gen graphics. Chrono Trigger is one of the best RPGs in history and DS version allows European players to enjoy it for the very first time. [Feb 2009]

Cynamite

Chrono Trigger rightfully climbs to the olymp of roleplaying games. Charming graphics, great story and a neat combat system make this classic an instant hit on the NDS!

Read Full Review >

Pelit (Finland)

Chrono Trigger is a timeless classic. The game's first European release was long overdue but it isn't too late even after 14 years. Of course the game can't deliver the same impact as it did back in the day but there's still a lot to love. [Mar 2009]

Gamers.at

Chrono Trigger is simply brilliant and an absolute must-have for any RPG-Fan – but everyone else should also take a closer look despite the simple 2D-graphics and the lack of a German translation.

Read Full Review >

IGN

The game is virtually unchanged in its core, having a new script re-write, but retaining the visuals, music, character designs, interface styles, and options of the source material. At the same time, Square Enix also ensures that this is the definitive version of Chrono Trigger out there, as the game comes complete with every option you could ever want for touch vs. button control, two or single screen display, or game pacing and difficulty.

Read Full Review >

GameZone

The must-have DS RPG you've like already played through, Chrono Trigger is a thoroughly entertaining game with a lengthy quest, an excellent combat system, an unforgettable soundtrack, likable characters and so much more.

Read Full Review >

NGamer UK

Not as perfect as grandad remembers, but its design quirks fade under an onslaught of unrelenting brilliance. [Mar 2009, p.68]

Read Full Review >

Games Master UK

Up there with the DS's best. Fast-forward to 7 February and pick this up yesterday. [Feb 2009, p.77]

GameSpot

This perennial time-travel adventure is worth falling in love with all over again.

Read Full Review >

PALGN

Taken off its pedestal and with all the hype and expectation dusted away, Chrono Trigger provides one of the most unique and entertaining adventures available on the DS.

Read Full Review >

Everyeye.it

Chrono Trigger was and still is a "must have" for RPG lovers. And not only for the historical importance of the game, but because even today, after fourteen years from the first release, there are few Jrpg that can compete against the Square-Enix title for the supremacy regarding plot, screenplay, character charisma and emotive impact. Anyway, to fully appreciate this game, the player have to ignore an evident technical backwardness, that the porting have not wiped out.

Read Full Review >

Multiplayer.it

Chrono Trigger is still today a masterpiece just like in '96 but the weak port made by Square Enix, especially compared with others efforts on DS from the company, left us a bit disappointed.

Read Full Review >

InsideGamer.nl

As a devote Chrono Trigger fan myself I have to admit that Chrono Trigger DS could have used some more improvements than just some touchscreen controls, an extra dungeon and a monster battle system. Still, this remains one of the best games ever made, and newcomers to the game should definitely pick it up right away. The way the compelling story, interesting characters, inspiring music and great gameplay are combined into one game, is something that RPGs to date haven't easily surpassed.

Read Full Review >

3DJuegos

Chrono Trigger was one of the best SNES videogames. Its compelling storyline, cared finish and contribution to the RPG genre is unquestionable. Yeah, this Nintendo DS version is more a nostalgic cry than a try to create a real remake, but if you are a loyal time traveler, there isn't a turn back: you must take this game.

Read Full Review >

Teletext GameCentral

The classic 1995 role-player is finally released in Europe and it's almost sad how fresh it still feels.

Read Full Review >

Thunderbolt

Chrono Trigger is worth travelling back in time for again and again.

Read Full Review >

What Our Users Said

The average user rating for this game is 8.6 (out of 10) based on 80 User Votes

Note: User votes are NOT included in the Metascore calculation.

John Smith gave it a10:
Brilliant game even back on the SNES. The story was the best part, and the control given to the player to alter the outcome at the ending depending on how much or how little you played beyond the basic soft-cap on the events that HAVE to be completed.

Will T gave it an8:
Definately one of the best RPGs on the DS and SNES but not compared to other consoles, a must have though, but not a game for everyone

Guy gave it a10:
I picked up this game about a year ago and I'm still getting a lot out of it. The original 16 bit graphics hold up really well, the gameplay is a blast, the story is epic, the level of content is enormous and it's a great RPG in general. If you're looking for a first RPG, go with one of the Mario and Luigi games, but if you've played an RPG beforem pick this little gem up. Now, because of the recent $20 price drop, anyone who finds any joy whatsoever in an RPG has absolutely no excuse not to pick this title up.

Steven A gave it a10:
This game is an SNES masterpiece. Now, I get to enjoy it on the go, with bunch of extras and goodies to entertain me. I hear that the difficulty was toned down in the DS version, but that didn't bother me. I sitll had a blast. Absolutely one of the best games out there. It was very revolutionary for its time. In today's standards, its still very unique and to play it on the Nintendo DS makes all the more unique. The graphics for the DS aren't anything revolutionary, but I'm not one to criticize a game for its graphics. The story is amazing, the gameplay is very fun, the music is beautiful and the replay value is extreme. A definite pick up to the RPG fan.

Hexen M gave it a10:
This is the best RPG of all time.The gameplay is a the best. The movies are way ahead of their time. The music is the best and the fights are cool. The game gets you hooked to the very end......

Sagan T gave it a9:
Chrono Trigger is an amazing game with bright ideas for originally coming out for the SNES. Traveling through all of the different times of the world, and running into the creatures and characters is very entertaining. Made by the dream team (creators of Final fantasy and Dragon Quest) Chrono Trigger's greatness is contributed by its timeless game play on the D.S. It is the must have title for the D.S.

anonymous gave it an8:
Its a good game, really fun and all. but it seems like every critic was just giving it a ten in order to avoid being mauling by feral square enix fans, like fallout 3, its fun, but overrated

Games

Sony

Microsoft

Nintendo

Other Platforms

Upcoming &Recent Releases

Chrono Trigger

Game Info

Summary

What The Critics Said

What Our Users Said

Upcoming &
Recent Releases