Chrono Trigger/Gameplay: Difference between revisions

Just keep in mind that if you don't follow the walkthrough, focus on exploration rather than the adventure itself to get the most out of this game.

[[Image:Chrono Trigger Battle Modes.png|thumb|right|250px|Battle Mode options.]]

The first thing you will encounter within Chrono Trigger is a prompt as to whether you would like the battle system to be set to "Active" or "Wait."  The difference being turn based compared to real time action.   

Note that its possible to change between the two settings during the game by accessing the options menu (press {{snes|X}} and scroll to the right a few windows).

Throughout the game, characters will join and leave the party as the story progresses.  Only three characters can be used at a time and they cannot be switched within battle.  Outside of battle they can be switched via the options menu ({{snes|X}}).  Leveling characters, progressing through the plot, equipping equipment and using tabs are the only way to improve a character's strength.

Tech Points are complimentary to Experience Points.  Tech Points govern what abilities your character will be allowed to use (techniques are not gained by leveling) and so battling a lot is the only way to unlock more powerful techs.

*'''Attack''' - Symbolized by a little sword; the total amount of power from equipment, determines damage dealt by a normal attack, modified by power.

*'''Defense''' - Symbolized by a little shield; the total amount of armor from equipment, determines the reduction of damage from physical attacks.

*'''Stam.'''/'''Stamina''' - Used to determine your total defense.

*'''M Def.'''/'''Magic Defense''' - Reduces the effectiveness of an enemy's ability on the character.

*'''Exp'''/'''Experience''' - The total amount of experience the character has gained.

*'''Next''' - The remaining amount of experience needed to level.

Items come in use mainly for recovery, HP & MP and if an ally has fallen.   

Both items and equipment progress at a linear rate, so most of the time a new weapon or item will be better than what you previously had, however the effects are really what determine what you'll be using near the end of the game.

Like any traditional turn based RPG Chrono Trigger only differs with the option of the battle mode (active vs wait).  Again, it's best to try both styles to find what you like best (you can change the option at any time).  Player controlled characters and CPU controlled enemies will take turns performing actions, as specified by either player.  A battle ends either 1) when one team is killed, 2) when one side runs or 3) a special condition is met (an event or cutscene takes place).

If your entire party dies while in battle, you'll have to load your game!  Make sure you save often, and don't worry if only one or two of your members die, after battle they will be revived with 1 HP so you can heal them up as normal.  Remember that you can use revives if need be to keep the fight going, and later on you'll also gain revival abilities for one of the characters.

*'''HP/MP''': HP will determine whether your characters are alive or not.  MP will determine what techniques can be used and how many times they can be used.  Remember that both can be replenished using items, and HP can be replenished using certain techniques.

*'''Attack''': This will allow the character to attack a single enemy using their equipped weapon.  The effects of this are determined by the attack and power stats of the character, the weapon equipped, the enemy's stats, and whether the attack is a critical or not.  Note that attacks can miss, dealing zero damage.

*'''Running''': Running can only be used against most of the non-boss mobs.  If you press and hold {{snes|L}}{{cade|Plus}}{{snes|R}} your party will try to run, although it may look like they are just standing there.  If successful, the battle will end and the enemies will be gone.  You will not lose anything by running besides the possible gains from victory or the HP or MP you lost during battle.  If you can't run, a message will appear saying just that.

In the beginning of the game, exploration will be limited to walking and the use of ferries.  Eventually better modes of transportation will allow you to travel faster and to unexplored areas.  Unlike many other RPG's, there are no random mobs in Chrono Trigger so unless you are racing the clock, don't worry about time or roaming around.

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