Chrono Trigger Remake Under Consideration by Yuji Horii, While Dragon Quest Will Continue Using Akira Toriyama’s Legacy
In a recent interview with GameReactor, Chrono Trigger fans received perhaps the most promising update in years: legendary game designer Yuji Horii, co-creator and scenario writer of the iconic RPG, has revealed that a Chrono Trigger remake is under active contemplation. While not in development just yet, Horii-san’s comments signal a growing interest in revisiting one of the most cherished games of the 16-bit era, potentially using the modern HD-2D visual style that has revitalized other Square Enix classics.
“It has been a long time since the original game was released, and I definitely want to do something with it,” said Horii. “I have been receiving a lot of requests from fans for a Chrono Trigger remake, and I am starting to contemplate it.”
– Yuji Horii via GameReactor Interview
While the speculation around a Chrono Trigger remake has persisted for years, fans were given false hope last week during Napoli COMICON when initial reports suggested Horii confirmed the remake's existence. Those reports were later debunked as an interpreter miscommunication. However, this latest statement from the Dragon Quest mastermind gives the clearest indication yet that a revival may be on the horizon.
If the remake materializes, it would likely use Square Enix’s signature HD-2D engine—famous for Octopath Traveler, Live A Live, and Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake. This would retain the pixel-art charm of the SNES original while bringing modern lighting, depth, and animation fidelity to the timeless tale of time travel, friendship, and fate.
The Future of Dragon Quest with Akira Toriyama’s Artistic Legacy
In a separate conversation with GameReactor, Horii also opened up about the future of the Dragon Quest franchise following the heartbreaking loss of legendary artist Akira Toriyama earlier this year. Toriyama was the original character designer for both Dragon Quest and Chrono Trigger, and his passing marked a tremendous loss for the Japanese gaming and manga industries.
“I was shocked when I learned about his passing… But he had left many things before he passed,” Horii said. “We can still make the next Dragon Quest title using what he had left.”
– GameReactor
This confirmation offers a reassuring sense of continuity, suggesting that Toriyama's contributions will live on in future entries—possibly including Dragon Quest XII: The Flames of Fate, which is currently in development. Horii’s statement reaffirms Square Enix’s commitment to respecting Toriyama’s legacy, while evolving the beloved RPG franchise with the same artistic essence that has defined it since 1986.
A Glimmer of Hope for Time Travelers and Slime Tamers
While nothing is official yet, Yuji Horii’s openness to a Chrono Trigger remake combined with his reverent handling of Dragon Quest’s future suggests that Square Enix’s classic RPG lineage remains in thoughtful hands. Fans of both series can remain hopeful—not just for remakes, but for fresh entries that honor the spirit of their creators.
Would you prefer a Chrono Trigger remake in HD-2D or full 3D? And how do you feel about Toriyama's legacy continuing in future Dragon Quest titles? Share your thoughts below.
