Square Enix Revealing Chrono Trigger HD-2D Remake For Nintendo Switch 2?

The gaming community is abuzz with rumors regarding Chrono Trigger, including if Square Enix is planning an HD-2D remake, a re-release, or perhaps a new entry in the series. Despite years of silence, various hints indicate that something substantial may be in the works for the popular RPG.

One of the most significant signs of a prospective Chrono Trigger rebirth came with the release of Chrono Cross: The Radical Dreamers Edition. Square Enix made it clear that this initiative was, in part, a preservation effort to keep the game playable on newer systems. While the remaster received mixed reviews, it did satisfactorily, and Square Enix never voiced disappointment with its sales. This shows that the corporation is still interested in the Chrono franchise's viability in the current market.

Another major development was the release of Chrono Trigger for PC, which was based on a defective mobile port. Square Enix initially received criticism for the game but eventually patched it into a much better form. This expenditure on enhancing the PC version raised concerns about whether Square Enix was setting the framework for a later, more refined re-release.

The exclusion of Chrono Trigger from both the Super Nintendo Classic and the Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) service heightens the mystery. Unlike many other SNES classics, Chrono Trigger is still unavailable on these systems. Square Enix's choice to remove the game from such services shows that they believe it is too valuable to offer as part of a subscription package. Instead, it appears that they may be saving it for a larger, independent release.

Given Square Enix's previous history of remakes, an HD-2D edition of Chrono Trigger becomes more likely. While some fans may want a complete 3D remake, previous remakes, such as Secret of Mana, have been criticized for poor visuals and performance difficulties. Meanwhile, games like Trials of Mana and Live A Live demonstrated the power of HD-2D, making it a great contender for Chrono Trigger's rebirth. The game's classic ATB fighting system and timeless art style may benefit from an HD-2D approach while retaining the original's charm.

Another aspect favoring a future remake is Chrono Trigger's continuing value in the secondary market. The Nintendo DS version, which was formerly offered for $60 at retail, is now worth more than $200 brand new, while perfect SNES editions can bring hundreds. This persistent demand demonstrates the game's enduring appeal, which Square Enix is unlikely to overlook. Given their current emphasis on multiplatform releases and long-term projects, Chrono Trigger could fit into their evolving economic strategy.

Square Enix collaborates closely with Nintendo to revive classic RPGs. Nintendo expressly requested the return of Live A Live, which was successful on the Switch, and collaborated closely with Square Enix on titles such as Triangle Strategy and Octopath Traveler. This collaboration suggests that Nintendo is interested in bringing Chrono Trigger back, maybe as a big title on the speculated Nintendo Switch 2.

While Square Enix has indicated that they do not wish to oversaturate the market with HD-2D games, the success of Dragon Quest III HD-2D indicates that this technique is still possible. With all of these elements at play—the Chrono Cross remaster, the better PC version, the absence of NSO inclusion, and Square Enix's ongoing HD-2D efforts—it becomes increasingly likely that Chrono Trigger will return in some form.

With major gaming events approaching and the Nintendo Switch 2 is set to be released in 2025, a Chrono Trigger announcement could be near. Whether it's an HD-2D remake, a full-fledged 3D redesign, or a simple re-release, one thing is certain: Chrono Trigger is still one of the most beloved RPGs of all time, and fans are anxious to see it return to prominence.