Chrono Trigger 30th Anniversary: Square Enix Showcases Akira Toriyama’s Art in 4K

Square Enix is marking the 30th anniversary of Chrono Trigger, one of the most cherished RPG titles in gaming history, with exciting new tributes that celebrate its enduring legacy.

Originally released in 1995, Chrono Trigger continues to captivate fans worldwide with its innovative gameplay, memorable characters, and the legendary artwork of Akira Toriyama.

As the developer behind this timeless classic, Square Enix is going all out to honor its milestone year, offering a fresh look at the beloved game and its iconic visuals. In a recent development, Square Enix's Japanese YouTube channel unveiled a captivating video presenting close-up views of Chrono Trigger's character designs and promotional artwork.

The presentation offers high-resolution, 4K footage of key illustrations, including individual character portraits, the memorable campfire scene, and the celebrated battle artwork featured on the game's North American box cover.

This high-quality showcase serves as both an homage to the late Akira Toriyama and an opportunity for fans to appreciate the intricate detail and distinctive style that helped define Chrono Trigger's visual identity. Highlighting the ongoing festivities, video producer and modder Christa Lee brought attention to the video on social media, underscoring the widespread enthusiasm within the Chrono Trigger community.

The video is part of a broader social media campaign run by Square Enix.

According to a statement from Nova Crystallis, fans in Japan who follow the official Square Enix account on X (previously known as Twitter) can participate by sharing their favorite character and the campaign hashtag.

Selected participants will have the chance to win exclusive artwork, further increasing engagement and excitement around the anniversary. While the art giveaway is limited to Japan, the 4K video is accessible to Chrono Trigger fans globally, providing a rare opportunity to witness Akira Toriyama’s vibrant color work and masterful line art in unprecedented detail.

The resurgence of interest in Chrono Trigger's artistry once again illustrates the game's significant influence on the genre and its enduring appeal on platforms including the Nintendo Switch and the eShop. In addition to the art showcase, Square Enix also announced the upcoming release of 'CHRONO TRIGGER Piano Soundscape Arrangement,' an album featuring 12 newly arranged pieces, mainly spotlighting character themes.

This album is scheduled for launch in Japan on 26th November 2025, priced at 3,300 yen (plus tax).

For collectors and fans of Yasunori Mitsuda's iconic score, the album promises to be an essential addition. As Chrono Trigger celebrates three decades of innovation, storytelling, and artistry, Square Enix's continued support affirms the game's place as a pillar of JRPG history.

With ongoing initiatives like social media campaigns, high-resolution art showcases, and commemorative albums, the legacy of Chrono Trigger—and Akira Toriyama’s unforgettable designs—seems destined to inspire generations of gamers for years to come.

Square Enix Japan Chrono Trigger Enix Square Akira Toriyama Nintendo Nintendo Switch CHRONO TRIGGER Piano Soundscape Christa Lee Nova Crystallis