Square Enix I want to play Chrono Trigger... but...

[Vivi-Gamer]

I want to play Chrono Trigger... but... I can't stand JRPG's with Silent Protagonists! This seriously can ruin the experience for me! As I've explained before many times, I understand the concept that with a blank avatar you're meant to step in their shoes and have characters directly speak to you. However, All I see is a blank character with no backstory/development whose interaction with other characters is awkward - Most notably so when a character talks around the fact and we see our Avatar simply nod... I really can't stand it.

But of course, I love many of Square's offerings and have heard this games praises sung to the heavens, so of course I'm curious. The game seems to be full of charm but the idea of playing as a character who barely interacts and just has no personality is so off putting to me.

I have the game on DS & recently snagged a mint DSi XL at a charity store, I've tested it and as a person who doesn't play on portables much it looks like a good way to experience it still. So I have the method, but I just don't know if the Silent Protagonist threat which has ruined other games for me will do the same this time...

 

[Ilyena]

So you don't like Breath of Fire? D=

I do understand what you mean about silent protagonists because of the lack of character development but I've also played RPGs with characters that developed very little (FFXII) and managed to enjoy them. I think the story and gameplay of Chrono Trigger is enough to make up for the silent protagonist issue. It really is a thoroughly enjoyable game, imo. And I say this as someone who fucking hates the character artwork with a passion. I get that Akira Toriyama has a unique style but I just don't like it (didn't like it in DBZ either). But I found myself enjoying it in spite of that. I'd say it's at least worth giving a shot.

 

[Miko]

Wow, yeah, I agree - the story and gameplay more than make up for the silent protagonist. And yeah, the main character does a lot of silent nodding and eye blinking, but I also feel like there is a bit of story development with his character despite the lack of dialog - especially with his important role later down the line. When I play as this character I don't feel like I'm playing as 'me' in his shoes, I genuinely feel like I'm playing as this character, who just happens to be a man of few words. Also, I feel like they did an amazing job shelling out all the other characters really well to make up for this. Or maybe I'm just bias because I really love this game.

I suppose when it comes to Chrono Trigger I'd say that it's riding on a thin line whether it could be bothersome or not. However I wouldn't let this one aspect of the game deter you from playing it, it's truly a good game in my opinion, and I'm sure in the opinion of many others. If you don't like Chrono Trigger I'd be really surprised if it was only because you hated the main character.

If we do sway you to play it I'd (we'd?) love to hear more about it from you! I've been hankering to play again but I've been in the middle of another game for the last few months! Good luck and I hope you change your mind!