You don't have to be an existing fan of Chrono Trigger to appreciate the idea of the novel or the story itself. Only a story this good could make Chrono Trigger continue as one of the most popular RPGs of all time. It is, in fact, a story that stands out on its own, combining countless unique elements that make it a truly timeless classic. Check out these highlights about the project and the story it supports.
Strengths of the Novel Project Beyond the Game
Promotes reading in a way that is interesting to gamers
Pioneers a new breed of quality novels based on similar video games
Is void of "gamey" elements so that it reads like a novel instead of a journal of someone's play-through
Encourages further immersing into a great story rather than just the game itself (further mental engagement)
Qualities of the Story
Elements of fantasy, action, and adventure in many ways similar to other mainstream greats such as The Lord of the Rings
Time travel which is uniquely presented as a necessary aspect of the story's progression
Relationships cultivated through bonds of friendship and a bit of innocent romance
Characters that themselves experience personal struggles and growth throughout their quest and purpose in their lives
Underlying theme that everything occurring is doing so for a reason
Intermixed aspects of advanced technology, medieval civilization, scientific erudition, and antediluvian society
Investigative subplots that at times resemble a mystery adventure
Plotline rich in underlying meaning, foreshadowing, and interrelated events
Chrono Trigger the Game
The game itself first came out in 1995 on the Nintendo Super Famicon (Japan) and Super NES (America). In 1999, it made a comeback as a title on the Sony PlayStation, which included new animated
cut scenes. In late 2008, the game was released yet again on the Nintendo
DS system with more features, including retranslated text, new dungeons, more
map screen options, and a special monster-battling arena mode. Even more than a decade
since its initial release, the name Chrono Trigger is still vastly known amongst video gamers and esteemed as one of the greatest
RPG classics of all time.
If you're curious in the game itself, there are plenty of resources to check out. I've listed a few below to get you started: