Chrono Trigger combined a time-travel story, visible enemies, combo Techs and multiple endings into one tightly paced adventure. We picked RPGs that share its storytelling, inventive battle systems or 16-bit charm.
1. Chrono Cross (PlayStation)
Chrono Cross Greatest Hits · $32.97
The sequel replaces time travel with two parallel worlds, recruiting over 40 party members, while its story connects back to events in Chrono Trigger.
2. Final Fantasy VI (Super Nintendo)
Final Fantasy III 3 · $134.97
Released as Final Fantasy III in North America, it shares Chrono Trigger's ensemble cast, ATB battles and a dramatic story that changes the world partway through.
3. Secret of Mana (Super Nintendo)
Secret of Mana · $90.97
Square's action RPG uses real-time combat and a ring menu, with support for up to three players, giving it the colorful 16-bit adventure feel of Chrono Trigger.
4. Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars (Super Nintendo)
Super Mario RPG Legend of the Seven Stars · $149.97
Developed by Square, it uses timed button presses in turn-based battles and a lighthearted story, with visible enemies on the field like Chrono Trigger.
5. EarthBound (Super Nintendo)
A modern-day RPG with visible enemies and a rolling HP meter, mixing humor with an unexpectedly emotional story about a group of kids saving the world.
6. Lufia II: Rise of the Sinistrals (Super Nintendo)
Lufia II 2 · $225.97
Known for puzzle-filled dungeons and visible enemies that move when you move, plus the optional Ancient Cave, a randomly generated 99-floor dungeon.
7. Radiant Historia (Nintendo DS)
DS Radiant Historia · $68.97
Atlus's RPG has you jump between two branching timelines to change history, with a grid-based battle system that rewards combo planning.
8. Illusion of Gaia (Super Nintendo)
Illusion of Gaia · $56.97
An action RPG set in real-world ruins where Will can transform into stronger forms, telling a reflective story about history and fate.
9. Final Fantasy IV (Super Nintendo)
Final Fantasy II · $81.97
Released as Final Fantasy II in North America, it introduced the ATB system that Chrono Trigger builds on, with a story focused on redemption.
10. Dragon Quest V: Hand of the Heavenly Bride (Nintendo DS)
Dragon Quest V Hand of the Heavenly Bride · $226.97
Created by Yuji Horii with Akira Toriyama's art, as in Chrono Trigger, it follows a hero from childhood to fatherhood across a story spanning decades.
Frequently asked questions
Who made Chrono Trigger?
Chrono Trigger was developed by Square and released on the Super Nintendo in 1995. Its team included Hironobu Sakaguchi, Yuji Horii and artist Akira Toriyama.
How many endings does Chrono Trigger have?
The Super Nintendo version has twelve endings depending on when you defeat the final boss, often during New Game+. The DS version added one more.
Where else can you play Chrono Trigger?
Beyond the Super Nintendo, it was released on PlayStation in Final Fantasy Chronicles, on the Nintendo DS in 2008 and later on mobile and PC.