Crono
A quiet swordsman from Guardia who becomes the central hero of the time-spanning adventure.
Documented for this version
Which controls does this version use?
Actions
A | Confirm, talk, inspect, and select commands |
|---|---|
B | Cancel, close menus, and use the character’s field dash The dash function is available during field exploration. |
X | Open the main menu |
Y | Change the active party formation on the field |
LR | Navigate menus and cycle available selections |
D-pad | Move the character or cursor |
Control notes
Button functions can vary slightly by menu context.
Battle commands are selected through the command menu.
How it plays
How does Chrono Trigger play?
The game uses a top-down exploration view for towns, fields, dungeons, and historical locations. Players guide a party, talk to residents, solve environmental puzzles, collect equipment, and trigger story events across several time periods.
Combat takes place on the same field rather than in a separate battle screen. Characters use physical attacks, techniques, items, and cooperative dual or triple techs while an Active Time Battle gauge determines when commands become available. New abilities, equipment, and party members expand progression as the story advances.
Plan your run
What is the best way to play Chrono Trigger?
Talk to important characters more than once, especially after major events, because dialogue can change and optional scenes may become available. Keep several save files before major time-travel decisions and boss encounters.
Exploit elemental weaknesses and use dual techs to improve damage or healing efficiency. Rotate party members so their techniques develop, and check new eras for equipment, side quests, and items that are not required by the main route.
After finishing the story, New Game+ allows earlier access to late-game areas and makes the alternate endings easier to pursue.
Meet the cast
Who are the key characters?
Marle
A spirited princess of Guardia who joins Crono after fleeing her royal responsibilities.
Lucca
A brilliant inventor and Crono’s longtime friend, specializing in technology and fire magic.
Frog
A chivalrous knight transformed into a frog, determined to confront the forces that ruined his life.
Robo
A helpful robot from the ruined future who develops empathy and a strong sense of justice.
Ayla
The powerful leader of the prehistoric Ioka tribe, known for her directness and fighting ability.
Magus
A mysterious sorcerer whose connection to the central conflict is revealed through the story.
Documented inputs
What cheats and unlocks are documented?
Documented unlockNew Game+ unlocks after completing the main story and allows a new playthrough with much of the previous party progression and equipment.
Before you begin
What should you know before playing?
- 1
Save before major story choices and difficult boss battles.
- 2
Experiment with party combinations because dual and triple techs can change battle efficiency.
- 3
Use the End of Time to access training, party management, and time-period travel.
Editorial context
What do players highlight?
A landmark 16-bit RPG remembered for its pacing, music, time-travel structure, and unusually polished combat.
Its compact campaign, optional content, and multiple endings remain major strengths.
Community discussion
What are players saying? 0