Characters of Chrono Cross

Characters of Chrono Cross From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Serge (center) with some of the playable characters of Chrono Cross. First row: Mojo, Macha, Doc, Mel, Guile, Sprigg, and Starky. Second row: Razzly, Glenn, Leena, Kid, Nikki, and Sneff. Third row: Van, Harle, Norris, Radius, Irenes, and Pierre. Fourth row: Draggy, Greco, Luccia, Korcha, Janice, Zappa, and Poshul. Bottom left: Pip. Bottom right: NeoFio. Chrono Cross (Japanese: クロノ・クロス Hepburn: Kurono Kurosu?) is a role-playing video game developed and published by Square (now Square Enix) for the PlayStation video game console. It is the successor to Chrono Trigger, which was released in 1995 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System. While its predecessor, like most role-playing games at the time, only offered a handful of playable characters, Chrono Cross was notable for making 45 different characters available for recruitment over the course of the game, each with distinct backstory and speech patterns. Reception for the game from critics was very positive, with some journalists, such as GameSpot, even giving the game a perfect score.[1] However, reception for the cast of characters was more mixed; some critics were impressed by the quantity, variety, and individuality offered by the characters, where others complained of an emphasis of "quantity over quality". Contents [hide] 1 Creation and influences 1.1 Radical Dreamers 1.2 Conception 1.3 Parallel dimensions 1.4 Accent system 2 Playable characters 2.1 Serge 2.2 Lynx 2.3 Kid 2.4 Guile 2.5 Norris 2.6 Nikki 2.7 Viper 2.8 Riddel 2.9 Karsh 2.10 Zoah 2.11 Marcy 2.12 Korcha 2.13 Luccia 2.14 Poshul 2.15 Razzly 2.16 Zappa 2.17 Orcha 2.18 Radius 2.19 Fargo 2.20 Macha 2.21 Glenn 2.22 Leena 2.23 Miki 2.24 Harle 2.25 Janice 2.26 Draggy 2.27 Starky 2.28 Sprigg 2.29 Mojo 2.30 Turnip 2.31 NeoFio 2.32 Greco 2.33 Skelly 2.34 Funguy 2.35 Irenes 2.36 Mel 2.37 Leah 2.38 Van 2.39 Sneff 2.40 Steena 2.41 Doc 2.42 Grobyc 2.43 Pierre 2.44 Orlha 2.45 Pip 3 Non-playable characters 3.1 Belthasar 3.2 Dario 3.3 Crono, Marle, and Lucca 3.4 Devourer of Time 3.5 Dragon God 3.6 FATE 3.7 Miguel 3.8 The Shaker Brothers 4 Reception 5 References Creation and influences[edit source | editbeta]

Radical Dreamers[edit source | editbeta] Main article: Radical Dreamers A background of dark, ancient ruins, a pillar to the left, a man in white standing on the pillar, a pillar in the middle on which a scarlet jewel sits, an outcropping on the right on which three characters stand, including Magil in dark blue clothes, Serge in blue clothes, and Kid in green and brown clothes, "'So, Vera. Looks like Porre couldn't keep their hands out of this after all,' says Lynx, flatly."

Early, alternate looks to some characters that would later in Chrono Cross. Left-most is Lynx, in his original, human form, while the two characters on the right show Serge and Kid's original appearances, respectively. A few of the core characters from Chrono Cross originate from an earlier game titled Radical Dreamers.[2] Chrono series writer Masato Kato felt that the first game in the series, Chrono Trigger, did not wrap up all of the story arcs, and as such, wrote the story of Radical Dreamers to conclude some aspects of it.[3] However, due to the rushed nature of the development schedule, it being a short, text based visual novel, and being released on an obscure add-on for the Super Nintendo, (the Satellaview), Kato would label the game "unfinished", leading to the conception of a more complete game, which would be Chrono Cross.[3] Serge, Kid, Lynx, Viper, and Riddel all originate from the game, although in varying degrees of similarity to their Chrono Cross counterpart. In Radical Dreamers, Serge, rather than being a silent protagonist, actually narrates and is a traveling musician, and Lynx, instead of being a Cat-human hybrid, is just a human. With the release of Chrono Cross, the events of Radical Dreamers, along with their characters, were retconned as events that took place in a similar but different alternate reality.[4] Conception[edit source | editbeta] Once work on the actual Chrono Cross started, the initial vision beyond character recruitment was even more expansive. The game initially was intended to be able to have the player recruit any person they encountered, through either interacting or battling them.[5] However, eventually the development team found this to be too ambitious, and narrowed it down to 64 playable characters, and then again down to 45 characters for the final game, which were then drawn by character designer Nobuteru Yūki.[6] The backgrounds of some minor characters were left to members of the staff.[7] Parallel dimensions[edit source | editbeta] The developers of Chrono Cross created a world consisting of two parallel dimensions.[2] There is the "Home World", the one the game starts in, and the "Alternate World", the one that is traveled to early on in the game. Both contain the same basic world, but both show different possibilities and outcomes based on prior decisions. For example, in one world, a character may become rich due to a past wise decisions, while in the other world they may be poor as a result of not making that same decision. As such, there are sometimes two very different versions of characters. Alternately, sometimes one version of a character is shown, whether it be that they had died due an event that only happened in one world, or merely are not present for the events of the game. The development team stated that even they had a hard time keeping everything straight amongst all the character relationships and differences between the two worlds while developing the game.[5] Accent system[edit source | editbeta] A vast majority of the 45 characters in the game were developed to have their own unique accents and speech patterns.[8] In order to do this, the translation/localization team created the "Auto-Accent Generator".[2] At first, the dialogue was written in a basic, general sense. Then, depending on which party member is in the player's character party for a given events, the text was put through the character's respective "filter" in order to make the phrase sound like them.[6] For example: General text - "Hello, how are you?" Australian Character - "Hey mate, how are ya?" Pirate Character - "Aye matey, how are ya?" This approach made it so the development team didn't need to store over 40 slightly different variations of the same text within the game, but rather, have the game internally stream one version of general text through the "Auto-Accent Generator" program.[9] Translator Richard Honeywood would say in retrospect that while working with such a computer algorithm helped deal with memory constraints, the process of getting it to work work was described as "mind-boggling".[9] Despite the ultimate success of using the system, there were still some detailed scenes in which it wasn't usable, where the dialogue had to be written specifically by hand in order to make sense.[6] Playable characters[edit source | editbeta]

The game contains 45 total playable characters, although it is not possible for the player to recruit all characters over the course of one single game. Some characters join automatically, while others only join based on the actions of the player. Several times in the game, there are multiple paths to take in the game, revolving around different characters. Only one path may be taken, meaning only characters from that path can be recruited, as characters from alternate paths are never met in order to be recruited. However, the game employs a New Game + system, where, upon starting a second game, characters who had been recruited on the prior play through will become available over certain parts of the game. As such the player can retain character from the first game, while taking alternate paths to recruit characters missed the first time. The characters are presented in the order given in the game's master list of playable characters. Serge[edit source | editbeta] Serge (セルジュ Seruju?) is the silent protagonist of Chrono Cross; he clearly communicates with other characters, but his actual text is not communicated to the player. He is an uncomplicated youth from Arni Village, a small fishing town on the south part of the El Nido Archipelago's central island. His journey begins when he is abruptly swept through a dimensional rift into Another World, in which he meets a young thief named Kid. This sets the wheels in motion that will determine the truth behind Serge, his relationship with Lynx, and the future of the parallel worlds. In his youth, Serge had been attacked by a panther demon. To save his son, Serge's father Wazuki attempted to sail to Marbule to find a cure for the panther's poison. He and Miguel set out during a storm and ended up in the Sea of Eden, and entered Chronopolis. There, Serge was exposed to the Frozen Flame and healed. After the storm passed, Serge was listed by the Prometheus Circuit as an "Arbiter", the highest security level of Chronopolis and was the only life form able to access the flame, hindering FATE's ability to control El Nido. It is revealed later that Schala sensed Serge's cry throughout time and in her effort to reach Serge she inadvertedly created the storm which led him to Chronopolis. In order to access the flame and stop the Prometheus Circuit, allowing FATE to have total control over El Nido, FATE needed a physical form, and uploaded its mind into Wazuki, as well as changed Wazuki's appearance to that of a humanoid panther since Serge developed a phobia toward felines after the panther attack. In Another World, Serge was drowned by Lynx in the year 1010 AD at the age of seven. The Home World was in fact created as a result of Kid traveling back in time after the events of Chrono Cross to save Serge from Lynx. Serge uses the "swallow", a combination of two wide, curved blades on opposite ends of a pole resembling the tail feathers of a common bird, the swallow (apparently, a kind of double-bladed eku). After beating Dario later in the game, Serge can obtain the corrupted Masamune. To keep out of trouble, the spirits of Masa, Mune, and Doreen then combine with Serge's Sea Swallow to form the Mastermune, the same swallow featured on the CD cover of Chrono Cross. Lynx[edit source | editbeta] Lynx, known as Yamaneko (ヤマネコ Yamaneko?, "Wildcat") in the Japanese version, serves as one of several antagonists in Chrono Cross. A feline demihuman, Lynx is Kid's archenemy. Lynx appears to have insight on Serge's current situation, far more than Serge does himself. He is known to be seeking the legendary Frozen Flame, and at the start of the game, he has been living among the Dragoons of Viper Manor. For reasons unknown to Serge, Lynx is actively seeking him out. Lynx is merely using the Dragoons to acquire the Dragon Tear from Viper Manor. Lynx and Serge cross paths a few times, with Lynx repeatedly making cryptic references to things not yet known to the player, such as Serge's status as a "Chrono Trigger". As stated in the previous game and later in Chrono Cross, the definition of a Chrono Trigger is "pure potential"; to be more accurate, the potential for altering history according to one's dream. In a dramatic sequence in Fort Dragonia, Lynx manages to possess Serge's body and to trap Serge in his own, effectively becoming Dark Serge. The game continues from there, the player using Lynx's body and his skills. Dark Serge quickly becomes a scourge, tarnishing Serge’s reputation, and placing Kid under a spell, forcing her to follow him. Once back in his Home dimension, Serge in Lynx's body realizes that Lynx once inhabited Home World as well; he served as an agent of the militarist nation of Porre and helped overtake El Nido. As such, he is highly unpopular among the residents of El Nido. Still, Lynx has not been seen for many years as he had actually led the Acacia Dragoons to be trapped in the Dead Sea while searching for the Frozen Flame. Lynx is not actually seen, but it is confirmed by series creator Masato Kato in the Ultimania Guide that Lynx did go to the Dead Sea with Harle and died there. After the player succeeds in giving Serge a new human body (he is literally "reborn" as his true self), the player enters the Chronopolis and defeats Dark Serge and FATE. Near the end of the game, Lynx is revealed to have been Wazuki, Serge's father, brainwashed and shapeshifted by FATE. When the young Serge was bitten by a panther demon, Wazuki and his friend Miguel sailed to meet the Sage at Marbule. The violent storm caused by the Lavos-fused Schala threw them off course and they ended up in the Sea of Eden. Due to the storm, FATE, the supercomputer which controls Chronopolis, shut down temporarily. Serge was healed by the Frozen Flame but was at the same time chosen as the Arbiter of Time between Lavos and the beings of the planet. Wazuki's mind was eroded by his fears, catalyzed by gazing into the Flame. Wazuki and Serge returned to Arni, while Miguel remained trapped as FATE rebooted. Despite their return, Wazuki's mind eventually succumbed to FATE; he was turned into the physical manifestation of Serge’s greatest fear, a humanoid panther, and was instructed to drown Serge in order for FATE to regain control of the Frozen Flame. However, it was not sufficient, as the Flame's chamber is sealed by another defense mechanism. In 1015 AD, Lynx and his assistant Harle attempt to persuade Lucca into unlocking the defense mechanism, Prometheus. As Lucca does not comply, they burn down her home and orphanage. This event can be witnessed later in the game, through time travel. Serge watches the scene and meets Kid, before returning to his own time. Kid[edit source | editbeta] Kid (キッド Kiddo?) is a protagonist in the game, a member of the band of thieves known as the Radical Dreamers. She first comes to Serge's aid when he is attacked by Karsh, Solt, and Peppor on Cape Howl. Depending on the player's choices, she may then join the party there, later, or not actually join the party at all for the entire game duration. Whether Kid joins the party on Cape Howl or not, she directs Serge in the direction of Termina, Viper Manor, and her evil foe Lynx. This sparks her extensive role in the storyline. It is revealed late in the game that Kid was raised in an orphanage owned by the scientific genius of Chrono Trigger, Lucca. It is also revealed that Kid is actually the daughter-clone of Schala. During the fall of Zeal, Schala was thrown into Lavos's dimension. She became one with the alien parasite, and in the wake of its defeat became the entity known as the Devourer of Time. In the darkness beyond time, Schala heard the cries of Serge in 1010 AD when he is drowned by Lynx, and magically created a daughter clone of herself sometime during 1004 AD. Lucca finds this baby and raises her in her orphanage. An added movie sequence in the PlayStation and Nintendo DS re-releases of Chrono Trigger shows Lucca finding Kid. Kid then joins Serge in the adventure of Chrono Cross, and then travels back in time to save Serge from being drowned by Lynx. In the ending credits, she seemed to be seen wandering in some unspecified modern locations and a photograph shows her older and married to Serge. She speaks with an Australian accent, as indicated by her use of several Australian slang terms such as bugger, bloke, and sheila. Guile[edit source | editbeta] Guile (アルフ Arufu?, Alf) is a traveling magician searching for treasure. In the game, Guile has made a bet with a fortune-teller that he could successfully break into Viper Manor, and bring back an item to prove he did it. The player, who is also tasked with breaking Serge into Viper Manor; may chose to join up with Guile. He only joins the party if Serge asks for his assistance. Guile is only shown in the "Alternate World". While he is not shown at any point in the "Home World", Sneff recognizes the "Alternate World" Guile as part of the "Magic Guild", suggesting he had seen the "Home World" Guile before. Guile doesn't have a particular speech style, but does commonly reference "mystery" or "magic". Early in the game's development, Guile was intended to be the character Magus from Chrono Trigger, who after the events of the first game, was traveling through time to find his sister, Schala.[10] However, over the course of development, upon adding such a large cast of characters to the game, the development team felt that his story couldn't sufficiently be focused on, and as such, he was switched into the Guile character.[10] Guile's Japanese name, Alf, does share the name of one of Magus' pet cat when he lived in the Kingdom of Zeal in Antiquity (12000 BC), which was a purple cat named Alfador. Norris[edit source | editbeta] Norris (イシト Ishito?, Ishito) is a commander in the Porre Military that has overtaken Termina in Serge's Home World. His weapon of choice is a gun. He is the leader of the Black Wind, a kind of undercover investigations team within the Porre Army. He was assigned to infiltrate the Dragoons, but his assignment ended in mystery. He tried to destroy Grobyc and the StrongArm by provoking an explosion in a lab, but ended up killing only a scientist, Luccia's brother. In one of the endings, it is revealed that he is the "kind stranger" that delivered Hydra Humour to Kid in the event you choose not to save her. When Serge, in Lynx's body, visits the Viper Manor Ruins, Norris realizes that the feline demihuman is not the real Lynx and offers his assistance to Serge and the party. Nikki[edit source | editbeta] Nikki (スラッシュ Surasshu?, Slash) is a guitarist in the Magical Dreamers, a musical troupe of which the dancer Miki is also a member. The Nikki native to Another World is one of the three guides to Viper Manor from which the player can choose early in the game. His Home World counterpart is later encountered in an effort to cleanse the monster-infested island of Marbule. Nikki attempts to obtain Fargo's aid in this endeavor and in the process learns that Fargo is his father and, by extension, that Marcy is his sister. He recruits Serge (who at the time is in Lynx's form) to help him secure Fargo's assistance and subsequently performs the Song of Marbule to reveal the otherwise invisible monsters inhabiting the island. Viper[edit source | editbeta] General Viper, called Jyakotu Taisa (蛇骨大佐 Jakotsu Taisa?, lit. Colonel Snakebone) in the Japanese version, is the 56-year-old hereditary lord of El Nido and leader of the Acacia Dragoons. He served on the Zenan continent as one of the four former Dragoon Devas, the highest rank of the Acacia Dragoons, from 1003 AD until his retirement, sometime after 1005 AD[3][11][12] Serge faces him in battle once during the game. According to Radius, Viper seeks the Frozen Flame to overthrow the nation of Porre and create a peaceful world similar to the defunct kingdom of Guardia.[12] An optional dialogue in which Viper faces his statue in Termina has him expressing regrets and claiming that he is "just a fool chasing his own desires".[13] Riddel[edit source | editbeta] Riddel, called Riddle (リデル Rideru?) in the Japanese version, is not an Acacia Dragoon but is associated with them as the 24-year-old daughter of General Viper. She was engaged to her childhood friend Dario and has been heavy-hearted ever since his apparent death.[14][15] Her presence is required in a sidequest to restore Dario's memories, who survived in Home World. At the end of the sidequest, Dario decides to rebuild the destroyed Viper's Manor and Riddel suggests that they make it an orphanage.[16] Riddel is portrayed as a kind and beautiful woman.[17] Karsh[edit source | editbeta] Karsh (カーシュ Kāshu?) is a 27-year-old man and one of the four Dragoon Devas. In 1017 AD, Karsh and his childhood friend Dario were sent on a mission to investigate the Isle of the Damned, but the expedition resulted in Dario's apparent death. In a flashback, Karsh considers the possibility that he might have killed Dario out of jealousy over fighting skills and Dario's engagement to Riddel. However, a sidequest reveals that Karsh only acted in self-defense, as Dario was possessed by the evil sword Masamune. Karsh is fought as an antagonist twice during the game. He is portrayed as rough but honorable, and usually refers to Serge as "junior".[18][19] During development, a design of Karsh wearing full armor was rejected for not fitting the game's atmosphere.[20] Zoah[edit source | editbeta] Zoah (ゾア Zoa?) is a 28-year-old man and one of the four Dragoon Devas. He constantly wears an iron helmet to cover his face due to a war injury.[21] He rejects wealth and power and has chosen to dedicate his life to battle,[22] although the fortune teller in Termina senses "deep sadness" beneath his helmet.[23] Zoah is fought as an antagonist once or twice depending on the story branch. In the English version of the game, his dialogue lines are all written in capital letters to emulate his voice booming through the helmet. During development, Zoah was meant to be "the prince of a certain country", watching over the protagonists' actions and wearing the helmet not due to an injury but to hide his true identity. However, because of time constraints, the event hinting at this was not implemented and his backstory altered.[21] Marcy[edit source | editbeta] Marcy, called Marcella (マルチェラ Maruchera?) in the Japanese version, is a 9-year-old girl and one of the four Dragoon Devas. Although she appears human, she is actually the daughter of Fargo and a demi-human, Zelbess. Marcy was saved soon after birth by Luccia, on the Zenan continent, and raised by her from a distance due to Zelbess' death and Fargo believing that the baby did not survive.[24] Marcy knows that she has demi-human blood but has not come to term with it.[25] She initially abhors Serge and faces him in battle twice, but apologizes to him when Lynx betrays the Acacia Dragoons. Her original name during development was Rachel.[20] Korcha[edit source | editbeta] Korcha (コルチャ Korucha?) is a troublemaker in the town of Termina, but when Kid is poisoned, he is there to rescue her as she falls from a Viper Manor balcony. He becomes enamoured with Kid, and helps Serge find the Hydra Humour needed to cure her. During a negotiation over the use of his boat, Korcha proposes to Kid, but no answer is given. Luccia[edit source | editbeta] Luccia (ルチアナ Ruchiana?, Lutianna) is a scientist who conducts experiments on live animals, such as the character "Pip", in Viper Mansion. If the player choses to have Serge speak to her after the first battle with Lynx, she joins the party, wanting to observe Serge's strength. A letter she gives to Kid, if revived late in the game, shows that Luccia was scientific colleagues with Lucca from Chrono Trigger. Luccia speaks with a German accent. She is only present in the "Alternate World", as the Viper Manor in the "Home World" is in shambles. Poshul[edit source | editbeta] Poshul (ポシュル Poshuru?) is a talking female dog who belongs to Leena. Her favorite food is Heckran Bones, and she talks with a lisp. She is the only character who can be recruited from either of the two dimensions.[26] Razzly[edit source | editbeta] Razzly (ラズリー Razurī?) is a fairy, and is native to Water Dragon Isle in the Home World. She is found in Home World's Hydra Marshes, having been captured by Madame Pentapus, who intends to eat her, but Serge, falling through a hole in the ceiling of Pentapus's lair created by a defeated Wingapede, fall directly on top of Pentapus, knocking her unconscious. They notice Razzly, who is trapped in a cage, but Pentapus comes to and a battle ensues. Serge defeats the Pentapus and manages to set Razzly free. She then joins forces with Serge. When Razzly speaks, she replaces the words "fairly" and "very" with the word "fairy". If you choose not to save Kid, Razzly is not available. There is only an empty cage in Madame Pentapus's lair, indicating that Razzly has already been eaten. Zappa[edit source | editbeta] Zappa (ザッパ?) is a blacksmith from the town of Termina, and had been one of the four Devas of the Acacia Dragoons prior to the events of the game. He is the husband of Zippa, and father of Karsh, who has succeeded him as one of General Viper's 4 Dragoon Devas. Zappa has a Scottish accent. He is portrayed in both the "Home World" and "Alternate World", though differently in each one. In the "Alternate World", he is seen as a thriving blacksmith, providing weapons and equipment to the Acacia Dragoons. However, in the "Home World", his business struggles and has to shut it down, due to the Acacia Dragoons being completely wiped out and because of the Porre military restricting his business. Additionally, in the "Home World", he and Zippa are saddened because Karsh has been missing (later found to be dead) for the last three years. As such, if the player has Serge talk with Zappa in the "Home World", he will join the party, in order to search the world for Karsh, and new prospects in blacksmithing. Orcha[edit source | editbeta] Orcha (オーチャ Ōcha?) is the cook at Viper Manor, and remains there when the Acacians relocate to Ft. Dragonia. The Porre Military made him ingest Quaffid seeds, and then transformed him into the Hell's Cook to have him torture Riddel, but he is defeated by Serge, when he arrives in Lynx's body. He reverts to normal, and joins forces with Serge. Despite the fact that he talks similar to Korcha and has a similar name, there is no evidence that the two are related, nor do they even appear to know each other. Radius[edit source | editbeta] Radius (ラディウス Radiusu?) is a 62-year-old retired Dragoon Deva. Starting in 1003 AD, he and the previous group of Dragoon Devas served on the Zenan continent, where he and his friend Garai eventually found the lost Masamune sword sometime after 1005 AD. This resulted in Radius assassinating Garai in a fit of jealousy partly induced by the cursed sword. Radius discarded the sword and kept the cause of death to himself, retiring from fighting to look after Garai's sons, Dario and Glenn, until Dario became a Dragoon Deva.[3][12] In Another World, Radius then left the world's affairs to live in the Hermit's Hideaway, while in Home World he moved to the village of Arni and became the village chief. When Serge, in the body of Lynx, returns to Arni, Radius engages him in battle before realizing he is not the real Lynx. He is portrayed as a skilled, knowledgeable retired warrior.[27] Fargo[edit source | editbeta] Fargo (ファルガ Faruga?, Farga) is the captain of the S.S. Zelbess and Nikki and Marcy's father. In Another World, he captains a pirate ship, the S.S. Invincible. Serge stumbles across the ship in the fog south of Hermit's Hideaway and, once aboard, is challenged by Fargo to various tests of strength. In Home World, Fargo is the captain of a cruise ship, the S.S. Zelbess, and is a cheater in his own casino. Fargo exudes a very "macho" persona, and occasionally speaks with pirate dialog. Formerly a Dragoon Deva along with Radius, Garai, and Zappa. Macha[edit source | editbeta] Macha (ママチャ Mamacha?, Mamacha) is a mother-figure from the island of Guldove. She has two children, Korcha and Mel. If the player choses to have Serge not help Kid when poisoned, Macha joins the party. Macha uses kitchen utensils as weapons. Like Korcha, Mel, and Orcha, Macha commonly subs in "cha" for "you" in her sentence, saying "dontcha?" in place of "don't you?". Glenn[edit source | editbeta] Glenn, called Grenn (グレン Guren?) in the Japanese version, is a 20-year-old Acacia Dragoon apprentice. His disordered hair is described as that of a "zealous hero" by the developers.[20] Unlike most other dragoons, he follows his own moral sense and is willing to break military regulations depending on the stakes.[28] After the death of his father Garai, he and his brother Dario were looked after by Radius. Since Dario's apparent death, Glenn has been trying to follow his brother's footsteps as a dragoon.[29] If the Einlanzer swords from both dimensions are retrieved, Glenn is able to dual wield the two in battle. He is portrayed as sweet and popular among the people of Termina, with a growing maturity that surprises those who knew him as a kid.[30] He bears the same name as the character nicknamed Frog from Chrono Trigger, but has different origins. Leena[edit source | editbeta] Leena, called Rena (レナ Rena?) in the Japanese version, is a 16-year-old childhood friend of Serge. She is very close to him but she does not consider themselves to be a couple.[31][32] As children, the two made a promise of some sort at Opassa Beach.[33] When Serge meets the Leena from Another World, she does not believe him to be the dead Serge but a boy with a memory disorder; she joins the player's party to help him recover, provided the player has not recruited Kid at that point. Although her description in the status screen is "Sweet Country Gal", her brother Una, in both dimensions, points out that she is prone to temper tantrums.[34][35] Miki[edit source | editbeta] Miki (ミキ?) is a famous dancer, known throughout the El Nido Archipelago. In Another World, she is on tour with Nikki, while in the Home World, she is a performer aboard the S.S. Zelbess. Fargo stands in the way of this goal until the Fargo from Another World is brought in to confront his Home World self. The S.S. Zelbess is brought to Marbule where Miki takes part in a performance, in which the Song of Marbule is played to render the strange monsters vulnerable. Then Serge, still in Lynx's body lands in Marbule and defeats the monsters restoring Marbule. Miki subsequently joins with Serge after he finds her on the S.S. Zelbess, bored after the performance. It is hinted that Miki loves Nikki, but it is not reciprocated. Harle[edit source | editbeta] Harle (ツクヨミ Tsukuyomi?) is a minor antagonist with ambiguous motives; while she strays closely towards redemption, circumstances and her own destiny will not allow it. In the US version of the game, her speech is written with a French accent and is often interspersed with French words. As her name suggests, Harle is a harlequin jester. Harle, in the beginning, appears primarily as a gadfly, taunting and distracting Serge and his party, and interfering with their plans, intermixed with flirtations directed at Serge. She wears full costume throughout the game, including a large horned hat and heavy facepaint. Her physical disguise and painted smile convey symbolically to the viewer that she is playing a role. She has some similarities and connections to the character Kid. Early in the game, Harle works with Lynx against Serge and his party. However, she eventually befriends Serge, which confuses the player as to where her interests lie. After Lynx switches bodies with Serge, Harle finds Serge in the bizarre, cartoonish world in which he has found himself and tries to convince him that he is really Lynx and has never been Serge. When he emerges into solid reality (in the Home World), Harle accompanies "Monsieur Lynx" as he struggles to discover the fate of Kid and find another Dragon Tear to return to normal. Shortly before Serge recovers his true form, Harle departs from the group with decidedly mixed feelings and resumes her own mysterious quest. The party meets up with her one last time, inside the Chronopolis. There, finally deciding to change her ways, she tries to convince Kid to leave the Frozen Flame be, for reasons that were unknown. Kid takes the Frozen Flame anyway, thus unintentionally breaking the seal of the six Dragons, allowing them to merge into the legendary Dragon God to wreak havoc upon humans as it had once before; Harle then snatches the Frozen Flame and leaves, never to be seen again. Later, the Time Prophet reveals that she was really the "Dark Moon Dragon" created by the six Dragons under the cover of a storm that knocked out FATE's motherboard system 18 years prior. From then on her mission was to spy on Lynx and find a way to release their seal—meaning that Harle was never aligned with Lynx, and that she serves the Time Devourer(name given to the six merged dragons in English language versions, not the creature fought as the final boss), but she was having second thoughts. By the time she found the Frozen Flame in Chronopolis she knew what would happen to both her and Serge, so she attempted to guard it from Lynx and Kid, but failed; her fate after the Dragon God's rebirth is not clearly revealed, although one of the endings reveal that she did not merge with the Dragon God, as the other dragons did. It is suspected by some that Harle is a dark reflection of Kid. They share vital stats, her facial structure seems almost identical to Kid's beneath her heavy makeup, and when speaking to the psychic in Termina, both characters receive the same fortune. It is revealed near the end of the game that Harle shares a link with the Time Devourer, the mutated form of Schala, Kid's "mother". The nature of the link between the two characters remain speculatory, but the existence of this link was confirmed by series creator Masato Kato in the Ultimania Guide.[36] Janice[edit source | editbeta] Janice (ジャネス Janesu?, Jyaness) is a female rabbit and human hybrid monster trainer aboard the S.S. Zelbess. If the player choses to have Serge defeat her three times in the monster battle tournament, she joins the party. Draggy[edit source | editbeta] Draggy (龍の子 Ryū no Ko?, lit. "Dragon Child") is literally a baby dragon. His origins trace back to an egg in Fossil Valley. If the player choses to have Serge take the egg to the incubator at Ft. Dragonia in the Home World, the egg is hatched and Draggy results. Upon hatching, it joins the party. In being a baby dragon, his dialogue usually replaces r's with w', mimicking a child's way of speaking, for example, referring to himself a "Dwagon". Starky[edit source | editbeta] Starky (星の子 Hoshi no Ko?, lit. "Star Child") initially appears as "Mega-Starky", a huge alien, that Serge must fight when arriving on Home World Sky Dragon Isle in the Home World. Once defeated, he shrinks down to normal size. Starky's main goal is to collect "Star Fragments", which he explains to be broken parts of his spaceship that shattered upon contact with the planet. He joins the party to collect all of the Star Fragments, but upon traveling to Another World, he discovers the spaceship completely intact in that dimension. From the spaceship he retrieves an anti-gravity device allows the party to reach Terra Tower in the sky, which had been otherwise unreachable. Sprigg[edit source | editbeta] Sprigg (スプリガン Supurigan?, Spriggan) is a resident of the Dimensional Vortex, where Serge is sent after trading bodies with Lynx. After he gains entry into her house, she agrees to help him gain entry into the tower on the hill above her house, and joins forces with him in order to find a way out of the Dimensional Vortex. Together with Harle, they succeed, emerging in the Hydra Marshes of the Home World. Sprigg's most unusual ability is Doppelgang, which allows her to transform into certain monsters once they have been defeated by her with normal attacks, or anyone later carrying the Forget-Me-Not Pot. Sprigg must be in her own form in order to remember monsters. Monsters she beats while Doppelganged will not be remembered. Additionally, monsters that Sprigg can Doppelgang into can be used against Janice in the Grand Slam battles on board the S.S. Zelbess. According to the Ultimatia, she is a fiend. Mojo[edit source | editbeta] Mojo (ラッキーダン Rakkī Dan?, Lucky Dan) is a human-sized voodoo doll, who encounters Serge in the basement of one of Serge's neighbor's houses. Mojo is seen as an idol by the neighbors, although this changes quickly after he joins the party. Although he equips a glove, he attacks his enemies with the large nail he is impaled on. Eventually, he falls into despair as he realizes that as a voodoo doll, he was created for the sole purpose of bringing people pain. With the group's help, he realizes that his origins do not matter, it is the actions he takes in the present that define who he is. At this point, he dedicates himself to spreading happiness throughout the world, and his name becomes Mojoy (ハッピーダン Happī Dan?, Happy Dan), a play on 'More Joy'. Turnip[edit source | editbeta] Turnip (カブ夫 Kabuo?, lit. Male Turnip) is first discovered growing in the ground outside of the Hermit's Hideaway after if the player chooses to cool the ground in the area. Upon freeing him, he joins the party. His mannerisms and animations resemble Frog from Chrono Trigger.[original research?] Turnip is actually the incarnation of a sleeping Acacia Dragoon's dream.[citation needed] NeoFio[edit source | editbeta] NeoFio (改良種フィオ Kairyōshu Fio?, lit. Improved Breed Fio) is the result of one of Luccia's experiments, and is brought to life by Luccia after Serge obtains the Life Sparkle, located in the Hydra Marshes. As soon as NeoFio comes to life, she joins Serge's group of allies. Greco[edit source | editbeta] Greco (ジルベルト Jiruberuto?, Gilberto) is a former wrestler, who performs several religious duties in the town of Termina, most of which are linked to death. His hut is located just east of the main portion of the town, along the bay. He wears a mask and cape similar to that of a luchador, and he also uses Spanish words as part of his vocabulary. Prior to the events of the game, his best friend, a man named Ghetz, was killed in some sort of accident which Greco may or may not have been involved, but the experience led him to his current path in life. Before the opportunity in which he may be recruited, he is actually on an exorcism assignment in Fossil Valley, presumably to get rid of Skelly, whose possessed skull is found there by Serge. When Greco can be recruited, the player witnesses him performing a funeral service. His U.S. name, especially combined with Ghetz's young sister, whom he watches over, Romana, is a pun on Greco-Roman wrestling. Skelly[edit source | editbeta] Skelly (スカール Sukāru?, Skull) is a skeleton clown whose bones are scattered around the archipelago. The player must re-assemble him so that he may visit his grandmother. Depending on when you reassemble him, you will have to go through a few events before you can come back and recruit him into your party. Funguy[edit source | editbeta] Funguy (キノコ Kinoko?, lit. Mushroom) is the father of Leena's friend Lisa, who runs the element shop in Termina. While initially a normal human, if the player chooses to have Serge feed him the "strange mushroom" item, it turns him into a mushroom-like humanoid creature. Blaming Serge for his condition, he joins the party in hopes of finding a cure. A cure is never found, but Funguy comes to terms with his new appearance, and decides to live his life in the forest by the end of the events of the game.[37] His counterpart in the Home world, falls mysteriously ill around the time Funguy transformed. Irenes[edit source | editbeta] Irenes (イレーネス Irēnesu?) is a mermaid, and hails from the town of Marbule. In the Home World, her main goal is to convince Fargo to help save Marbule from the creatures that have taken up residence in the town. Irenes's sister, Zelbess, fell in love with Fargo. Tragically, Zelbess died. Because of that, Fargo became vindictive against demihumans and forced them to work as slave labour on his cruise ship, ironically named after Zelbess. Irenes still lives in Marbule, alone, and weeps at night for her sister. When Serge comes to see her, she sees a way out of her sad predicament and follows him to the S.S. Zelbess. All of the vowels in her dialogue have umlauts on them. Mel[edit source | editbeta] Mel (メル Meru?) is Korcha's adopted little sister, and she is known for doodling with her crayons and having little to do with anyone around her. When Kid recovers from her poisoning at the hands of Lynx, Mel steals her elements during the night, but leaves behind evidence indicating that she is the thief. Korcha outsmarts Mel, and with Serge's help, surrounds her, and she is forced to return Kid's elements to her. Leah[edit source | editbeta] Leah (リーア Rīa?) is an orphan child living on the isolated island known as Gaea's Navel. She is the daughter of an unnamed warrior who disappeared "to the sky" when she was very young.[38] She helps Serge find the Green Dragon, and joins the party upon defeating him, desiring to travel the world to help her decide if she wants return to her villiage or not, and to see if she can find out what happened to her father.[39] Leah's appearance and speech is similar to Ayla from Chrono Trigger, such as the tendency to add the suffix -um to some words in her speech, or using the phrase "Oooga Booga".[40] Upon the end of the game, Leah states that she will name her daughter Ayla as well.[40] She is only portrayed in the "Home World", as riding a creature called a "Wingapede" is the only method to traveling to Gaea's Navel, and the Hydra Marshes from which a "Wingapede" come from are raided and poisoned in the "Alternate World". Van[edit source | editbeta] Van (バンクリフ Bankurifu?, Vancliff) experiences inconsistency amongst his two personas; this is likely done to emphasize the differences between the two dimensions. In Another World, he and his family are rich and live in a mansion in Termina. In the Home World, however, his family is poor and they live in a small house occupying exactly the same spot as the mansion. To make things worse, Van's father is under threat of eviction. The Van from the Home World joins forces with Serge after hearing that he is searching for the Frozen Flame. Van and his father, Gogh, are named after the famous Dutch painter Vincent van Gogh. Like the real-life painter, Van and his father possess artistic talent and have unhappy lives. Van's alternate personas are just one of the examples of how particular aspects of the game differ drastically, while the world stays roughly the same as a whole. While the circumstances are different, Van is not happy either way. In Another World, Van's father is too occupied with acquiring more wealth to pay attention to his son. In the Home World, Van and his father struggle to make ends meet. Sneff[edit source | editbeta] Sneff (スネフ Sunefu?) is a performance magician indentured to Fargo in the Home World, due to his gambling debt to the captain. However, this is due to a rigged setup that causes Fargo to win every time. Upon Serge removing a part from Fargo's cheating device, rendering it inoperable, Sneff is able to earn back his freedom, and proceeds to join the party. Sneff is missing his front teeth, and thus is unable to pronounce some sounds. He pronounces "three" as "free" and "teeth" as "teeff." Steena[edit source | editbeta] Steena (スティーナ Sutīna?) is Direa's pupil from Guldove and helps Serge find the "Chrono Cross", as well as assisting him in recovering his former body back after its was switched with Lynx's. She is known to guard the Dragon Tear in Guldove. Her tech skills involve summoning the souls of characters who are known to have died during the game; this includes her mentor, Direa, the Hydra from the marshes, and Glenn's father, Garai. Doc[edit source | editbeta] Doc (ドク Doku?) is the doctor of the island village of Guldove. However, he struggles to cope with being unable to help patients. When Kid is poisoned by Lynx's dagger, she ends up under his care, and he feels remorse for being unable to provide the cure. As such, to make up for it, if the player choses not to not have Serge help Kid, Doc joins the party, in hopes of broadening his world view and knowledge. Doc speaks in surfer lingo.[41] He is present in both the "Home World" and "Alternate World", largely having the same characteristics. Grobyc[edit source | editbeta] Grobyc (ギャダラン Gyadaran?, Gyadrun) is a cyborg, and nicknamed "Killing Machine", from the Porre Military.[42] Cold and calculating, he only answers to anyone who is stronger than himself.[43] As such, Grobyc joins Serge's party automatically, after Serge defeats both himself, and another cyborg, Guillot, while rescuing Riddell from Viper Manor.[44] Grobyc spelled backwards is "cyborg". He refers to himself in the third person, and his dialogue substitutes all spaces between words with dashes, simulating a rigid and mechanical speech pattern.[45] Pierre[edit source | editbeta] Pierre (ピエール Piēru?) is a vain, conceited swordsman living in the city of Termina, who values "beauty" over work ethic.[46] He refers to himself as a great hero,[47] yet is merely living in a rented room of Zappa's and unable to even pay rent on time.[48] He moved to Termina because he aspires to go to Vipor Manor to meet with General Viper about being part of the "Acacia Dragoons", of which are the highest level of knights. However, he fears he won't be let in without his "Hero's Medal". Pierre is only part of the game's plot if Serge opts to find his "Hero's Medal", and chooses him as his way into Viper Manor. Upon joining the party, Pierre opts for the party to just walk in through the front gates, which, despite leading to many fights, ultimately gets them inside the Manor. Later skirmishes between Kid and Lynx prevents any discussion on Pierre ever discussing being a Dragoon with Viper. Pierre speaks with a French accent, though very amateurishly, and speaks in a condescending manner.[49] He is only depicted in the "Alternate World"; he is not seen in the "Home World", where there is no opening in the "Acacia Dragoons", which have been entirely wiped out. Orlha[edit source | editbeta] Orlha (オルハ Oruha?) is a resident and bartender on the island village of Guldove. She first appears in the game as the person who convinces the Doctor not to give up on saving Kid from being poisoned. Later in the game, she is seen as a protector of the island as well, defending it when the Porre invades. Serge, stuck in Lynx's body, appears to be with the Porre military, and is forced into fighting her. After the battle, Serge is able to convince the Porre soldiers to leave, saving Orlha and Guldove. Orlha, grateful but unable to trust him in his Lynx/Porre form, gives him a brooch. If the player chooses to have Serge bring the brooch to Orlha once he's back in his original body, Orlha joins the party.[50] Orlha is only shown to exist in the "Alternate World". Rather than another version of herself, she has a twin sister, Tia, who only exists in the "Home World".[51] Orlha had been searching for her her whole life, but only finds her if she joins Serge's party and travels to the other world. She finds Tia dying, and is unable to save her, but Tia's spirit inhabits the blue brooch Serge returns to her, traveling with Orlha and even helping her attack in battle. Orlha doesn't follow a particular speech pattern, but is often shown as a "voice of reason" in serious times, and a rowdy tom boy in battle situations. Pip[edit source | editbeta] Pip (ツマル Tsumaru?, lit. Packed) is a cute creature that Luccia had been experimenting on in her laboratory. If player choses to have Serge unlock his cage, he can later be recruited aboard the S.S. Invincible.[52] Pip is unique, being the only character that goes through transformations depending on how the player uses him in battle. Depending on what color elements are used while he is in battle, he may transform into an angel, devil, or neutral, stronger version of his normal self. Each variation has slightly altered attacks and physical appearances. Pip's speaking pattern involves substituting many "l" and "r" sounds with a "w", and using "de" in place of "the".[53] He is only shown to exist in the "Another World"; in the "Home World", the lab he was experimented on, in Viper Manor, was destroyed. Non-playable characters[edit source | editbeta]

Belthasar[edit source | editbeta] Belthasar was the "Guru of Reason" in the ancient Kingdom of Zeal in Chrono Trigger. He returns as the ultimate mastermind behind much of the events of Chrono Cross. In the previous game, he started to go insane and eventually died when he was warped to 2300 AD as a result of the incident caused by Lavos at the Ocean Palace. However, after Crono's party changed the dark future into a brighter one, he landed in that new future instead. There, he constructed Chronopolis and discovered the Time Devourer. He then created Project Kid and planned out the events necessary to lead to the Time Devourer's destruction. After setting up the experiment that would cause Chronopolis to go back in time, he departed to the modern era of 1020 AD to watch his plan unfold. He speaks to the party a few times, eventually giving them the Time Egg necessary to find and challenge the Time Devourer and save Schala. Dario[edit source | editbeta] Dario is Glenn's older brother. He, along with Zoah, Marcy, and Karsh are part of the Four Acacian Dragoon Devas. One day he was sent to the Isle of the Damned along with Karsh to find the Masamune. When they found the Masamune, Dario recklessly took the sword out of the ground, succumbing to the Masamune's evil influence. He then attacks Karsh in a rage, slashing at him without mercy. Karsh defends himself, trying to get through to Dario. Dario comes through just long enough to tell Karsh to kill him. Karsh reluctantly strikes him down, feeling horrible guilt. The Shaker Brothers, Solt and Peppor, believed that Karsh killed Dario in cold blood. However, through a series of events, the truth is revealed. When Serge and friends go to the Forbidden Island in the Homeworld, they find Dario survived and is supposedly recovering. However, by bringing Riddel, who was engaged to marry Dario, to the Forbidden Isle to talk to Dario, it reveals that he is still under the influence of the Masamune, and that it has returned to its "original" owner. By fighting a very tough battle, Dario is released of the Masamune's evil hold and the Masamune is once again purified. Crono, Marle, and Lucca[edit source | editbeta] Crono, Marle, and Lucca - These heroes of the original game appear as childlike apparitions at the Dead Sea, in an illusion at Terra Tower, and upon Opassa Beach, the site of the dimension split. While they chide Serge at the Dead Sea, they instruct him otherwise, notifying him of the Chrono Cross Element, his role in stopping the Time Devourer, and other important points of history. Whether Crono and Marle died in the fall of Guardia Kingdom is a mystery;[7] it is unknown whether they are true ghosts or are merely projections of an unknown source. Devourer of Time[edit source | editbeta] The Devourer of Time is the creature resulting from Lavos absorbing Schala. Lavos returns as the main villain, but does not appear until the end. By accident during Chrono Trigger, Schala was banished to the darkness of time, where later, the remnants of the defeated Lavos arrived and began absorbing the former princess of Zeal to create a new being. The resulting life-form — the Time Devourer — would have been capable of devouring all spacetime once matured. Though unknown to Serge for most of his quest, the entire events concerning the dimensions and the creation of El Nido were set in motion to empower him to defeat the Time Devourer and free Schala. Using the Chrono Cross, he accomplished this mission. The Time Devourer was decisively defeated and Schala saved, though Schala's later fate is unknown due to an ambiguous ending. A live action girl shown to wander in some unspecified modern locations, although this was confirmed by Kato to not necessarily be Schala or Kid but rather an unrelated "what if there was a Schala in our world" moment. In the Chrono Trigger DS port, the Devourer of Time is shown in a less advanced stage of its evolution, named the Dream Devourer. Dragon God[edit source | editbeta] The Dragon God was a biological plasma machine created by the Dragonian race that existed in an alternate universe, where the Reptites survived and became the dominant race on Earth. When the city Dinopolis was sucked into the same dimension as Chronopolis, a battle ensued. In the end, the Dragonians lost the war, their city sunk into the sea, and the Dragon God itself was splintered into six beings, which became the Dragon gods that were sealed over the islands. Some like the Sky Dragon and the Water Dragon were worshiped as deities while others were in hiding. They used Serge and his party to destroy FATE so they could break the seal and become one again. They created Harle to ensure it, though she was reluctant. However, it was revealed that the Dragon God was absorbed by the Time Devourer long ago during its separation (this is why it is listed as Time Devourer in the battle against it). FATE[edit source | editbeta] FATE is a supercomputer which was created by Belthasar in the distant future. Constructed from Mother Brain, a super computer in the Apocalyptic Future of 2300 AD. No longer driven insane from the avoided cataclysm, thanks to Crono and the gang, and merged with Robo now known as the Prometheus Circuit. FATE is self-aware and can operate alone. Referred to as the Goddess of Fate by the people of El Nido, FATE operates as an unseen villain until late in the game. Following the Time Crash, FATE would not risk discovery of Chronopolis or the Flame by populations of the past, which could compromise its creation in the future. It took every measure to prevent this, sealing off the Sea of Eden. FATE created the islands comprising El Nido through terraforming. They were populated by the Chronopolis scientists and their descendants, brainwashed to be able to live a peaceful life in FATE's 'paradise'. FATE began distributing 'Records of Fate' (floating green tetrahedrons) across El Nido, which the denizens consulted daily. Unbeknownst to the human subjects, FATE used the Records to subconsciously control the minds of the El Nido population, subtly manipulating each person's individual judgement to stop them from leaving El Nido and interfering with history. Using machines to run Chronopolis, FATE was able to monitor El Nido with efficiency and halt any tampering. When the young Serge came into contact with the Frozen Flame, the Prometheus Circuit, a stand-alone program, sealed it away so not even FATE could access it. Unable to draw power from the Flame, FATE's control over El Nido was effectively severed. It single-mindedly set itself to remove all obstacles. During the events of the game, Lynx schemed to be able to possess Serge's body, since that would allow him to enter the Flame's door (which recognizes only the body of its "arbiter"). Lynx succeeded and indeed managed to release the Flame's lock. It is revealed that FATE's desire was to use the Flame to reincarnate itself into a real, and new, living species. Lynx/FATE was defeated by the real Serge, however, before it could realize its dream. In Chrono Trigger, FATE's original form was of the holographic artificially intelligent Mother Brain, which governed the future's robot population. Because the Day of Lavos will no longer occur (following the first game), this event is erased from existence. Miguel[edit source | editbeta] Miguel is Leena's father as well as a close friend of Wazuki. When Serge was bitten by a panther demon, he accompanied Wazuki on a voyage to Marbule in search of a cure. However, a bad storm causes the boat he was travelling on to be veered to Chronopolis. Once arrived he was instructed to bring Serge to the Frozen Flame and was consequently healed. Wazuki returned with Serge to Arni Village, but Miguel remained as FATE's guardian. Once Serge reaches the end of Chronopolis in the Home World, Miguel explains that every decision and divergence that one doesn't make, a future that never existed, ends up in the Dead Sea. The results of events in Chrono Trigger led the destruction of the then future and consequently ended in the Dead Sea. The Shaker Brothers[edit source | editbeta] The Shaker Brothers, Solt and Peppor, main purpose is to provide gameplay tips. Referencing the spices salt and pepper, the two come across the player's party and indirectly teach various game mechanics to the battle system. The two commonly argue and blunder about with one another. Additionally, one speaks in a redundant manner, using phrases like "painfully painful" and "obviously obvious", where the other excessively uses the word "shake", in phrases like "Let's shake it to them!" or "Let's shake it out of here!" If the player has Pierre in their party, a third character, Ketchop, is introduced. Ketchop's only words are shouted references to sauces, like "TOMATO". Reception[edit source | editbeta]

IGN strongly praised how Squaresoft handled the cast of characters of the game, stating "What makes all of this even more impressive is that Square was able to give each of the game's 40-plus playable characters different characteristics and, in many cases, distinct accents and speech patterns. The accents were handled surprisingly well and most were pretty consistent throughout the entire game. That combined with the fact that each of the characters in the game plays an important role in the plot of the story help brings them to life as individuals. The character development isn't the best you'll find in an RPG, but it's better than most."[8] GameSpot similarly praised the cast, stating, "Surprisingly, Chrono Cross seemingly endless supply of characters works to its benefit, not its detriment...Every last one of the 40-plus members is a unique, story-driven, and valuable contributor. Unlike many cast-of-thousands RPG epics, each character in Chrono Cross is an interesting and worthy addition to your team. Everyone has a beautiful character model, excellently animated attacks, and three unique "limit break" type special skills. There's even a miniquest or special requirement for every character's best skill...While you'll certainly have your own handful of favorites, you'll never add someone to your party and wonder, "Why is this character in the game?" There are no disposable placeholders in Chrono Cross."[54] The review did concede that much of the Chrono Trigger fanbase disapproved of the concept of 40+ characters prior to release, but the reviewer ultimately felt the game handled it well and should dispel any such concerns.[1] RPGFan also praised the cast, not only for its size and character development, but for the unique scenario of allowing some characters to interact with alternate versions of themselves due to the game's alternate dimension scenario.[2] Simon Seamann of RPGamer was more critical of how the cast was handled in the game, criticizing the difficulty in switching characters and transferring equipment between them, which he felt discouraged players from experiencing the varied cast.[55] Lack of character development outside of the core, required cast of characters was also cited as a problem.[55] References[edit source | editbeta]

Square (August 15, 2000). Chrono Cross. Square Electronic Arts. Studio BentStuff (January 27, 2000). "『クロノ・クロス』人物相関図" [Chrono Cross Characters Correlation Diagram]. Chrono Cross Ultimania (in Japanese) (1st ed.). DigiCube. pp. 74–75. ISBN 4-925075-73-X. ^ a b http://www.gamespot.com/chrono-cross/reviews/chrono-cross-review-2545933/ ^ a b c d http://www.rpgfan.com/reviews/chronocross/Chrono_Cross-5.html ^ a b c d Studio BentStuff, ed. (1999). Chrono Cross Ultimania (in Japanese). Square Enix. pp. 476–477. ISBN 4-925075-73-X. ^ Square. Chrono Cross. (Square). PlayStation. Level/area: Chronopolis. (2000-08-15) Kid: Kid: Radical Dreamers ...!? And me name's on here, too! What the bloody hell is goin' on? Kid: ... This seems to be an archive from a different time than our own. / Kid: Aside from the two worlds we already know about ... there may be other worlds and times which exist ... ^ a b Studio BentStuff (January 27, 2000). "『クロノ・クロス』人物相関図" [Chrono Cross Characters Correlation Diagram]. Chrono Cross Ultimania (in Japanese) (1st ed.). DigiCube. pp. Event Team – Room #1 Interviews. ISBN 4-925075-73-X. ^ a b c Studio BentStuff (January 27, 2000). "『クロノ・クロス』人物相関図" [Chrono Cross Characters Correlation Diagram]. Chrono Cross Ultimania (in Japanese) (1st ed.). DigiCube. p. 76. ISBN 4-925075-73-X. ^ a b "Chrono Cross — GamePro.com Interview, Fan Questions Part 3". GamePro. IDG Entertainment. 2000-11-24. Archived from the original on 2008-12-05. Retrieved 2007-04-27. ^ a b http://www.ign.com/articles/2000/08/16/chrono-cross ^ a b http://articles.cnn.com/2000-09-29/tech/chrono.cross.interview.idg_1_translation-squaresoft-playstation/2?_s=PM:TECH ^ a b http://web.archive.org/web/20081205105145/http://www.gamepro.com/article/features/7033/chrono-cross-gamepro-com-interview-fan-questions-part-3/ ^ Chrono Cross. Level/area: Viper's Manor, Another World. "Karsh: The general is the head of the Viper clan and has governed these islands for generations. But that's not all. When he was ordered to take up a new post on the main continent, he made quite an impact as the leader of the Acacia Dragoons and was promoted to general. He has retired from the army since then and currently serves as the lord of El Nido." ^ a b c Chrono Cross. Level/area: Hermit's Hideaway, Another World. "Radius: Glenn's father, Garai, the blacksmith, Zappa, and I used to tear up the battlefield. But that was a good fifteen years ago... When Garai lost his life on the central continent, I vowed to become his sons' guardian. I officially retired four years ago, after Dario received his father's sword, the Einlanzer.[...] I believe General Viper intends to overthrow the nation of Porre with the power of this legendary flame. [...] Perhaps the general envisions a bright and peaceful world, much like Guardia was at one time..." ^ Chrono Cross. Level/area: Termina, Another World. "Viper: ...... I must have been fooling myself. Pretending I was a good lord... I am not worthy of being honoured with such a large statue. I am just a fool chasing his own desires." ^ Chrono Cross. Level/area: Viper's Manor, Another World. "Zoah: OUR LEADER, DARIO, DIED IN AN ACCIDENT 3 YEARS AGO... HE WIELDED THE HOLY SWORD, EINLANZER, AND WAS A TRUSTED CONFIDANT OF GENERAL Viper. HE WAS ENGAGED TO THE GENERAL'S DAUGHTER, MISS Riddel, AND WAS NEXT IN LINE TO BECOME THE HEAD OF THE VIPER CLAN." ^ Chrono Cross. Level/area: Viper's Manor, Another World. "Acacia Dragoon: It's been 3 years since Sir Dario's death... Miss Riddel has been heavy-hearted since, and it feels as though all the life went out in this manor." ^ Chrono Cross. Level/area: Viper's Manor, Home World. "Riddel: We have to bear in mind that children will be living here. Why not officially make this place into an orphanage?" ^ Chrono Cross. Level/area: Termina, Another World. "Woman: I saw Miss Riddel visiting the shrines again. She made a darling couple with her childhood sweetheart, Dario. It's such a pity that he died so young... They say beautiful women rarely find happiness..." ^ Chrono Cross. Level/area: Viper's Manor, Another World. "Zippa: His name is Karsh. He's a pretty rough character, but he's a good boy." ^ Chrono Cross. Level/area: Viper's Manor, Another World. "System: Who is this Serge? Karsh: Oh, you mean, junior." ^ a b c DigiCube staff (December 24, 1999). "彩色原画" [Original Pictures]. Chrono Cross: A View of the World – Missing Piece (in Japanese). DigiCube. pp. 112–113. ISBN 4-925075-72-1. ^ a b Studio BentStuff (January 27, 2000). "Room No.1 – Event Team". Chrono Cross Ultimania (in Japanese) (1st ed.). DigiCube. p. 471. ISBN 4-925075-73-X. ^ Chrono Cross. Level/area: Terra Tower. "Zoah: HMPH! WHAT MEANING IS THERE TO A LIFE OF STRIVING AFTER WEALTH AND POWER...? IT IS NO USE TO YOU ONCE YOU DIE! AS FOR ME, I CHOOSE TO LIVE IN BATTLE AND ONE DAY TO DIE IN BATTLE." ^ Chrono Cross. Level/area: Termina, Another World. "I sense deep sadness beneath that mask of yours... ^ Chrono Cross. Level/area: SS Zelbess, Home World. "Irenes: Luccia tried to säve my sister Zelbess... But she was önly äble to säve the bäby... Marcy... Luccia felt respönsible and has suppörted Marcy from a distänce throughöut her life." ^ Chrono Cross. Level/area: Terra Tower. "Marcy: What? Oh, I already knew that... I know that half of the blood within me is that of a demi-human... And I know that it'll be easier for me if I can accept that fact... ^ Chrono Cross. Level/area: Arni, Home World. "Boy: Do you know what Poshul's favorite food in the whole entire world is? Heckran bones!" ^ Chrono Cross. Level/area: Arni, Home World. "Woman: I did everything just as Chief Radius told me. And now, the aches in my body are completely gone! What a fine man our chief is. Skilled, competent, caring... I heard he was quite a warrior in his prime. You could learn much from our chief and grow up to be a great man like Radius." ^ Chrono Cross. Level/area: Termina, Another World. "Woman: Are you sure about that? If worse comes to worst, you might be discharged from the Acacia Dragoons. Glenn: Yes. I will act in accordance with my faith, even if I have to break military regulations. I must go." ^ Chrono Cross. Level/area: Main ending. "Glenn: Yes! I will continue to follow in my brother's footsteps as a great dragoon!" ^ Chrono Cross. Level/area: Termina, Another World. "Woman: That boy is dear, sweet Glenn, a member of the Acacia Dragoons. Pretty popular with the people here. But it really surprises me to see that naughty little boy grown so mature..." ^ Chrono Cross. Level/area: Opassa Beach, Home World. "Poshul: Weee! Leena'th here! How are you doing!? Ohhh!!! Are you two on a date? Sowwy, Me think Me should reave you two arone! / Leena: Oh, pulease! Don't be silly." ^ Chrono Cross. Level/area: Arni, Another World. "Leena: It's not like Serge is going to come back... Mom always tells me I shouldn't dwell on a lost loved one..." ^ Chrono Cross. Level/area: Opassa Beach, Home World. "Leena: So, Serge, you haven't forgotten about the promise we made that day!? Hehee...... That makes me... happy." ^ Chrono Cross. Level/area: Arni, Another World. "Una: Yeah, my sister still needs to work on her temper... She has those temper tantrums, you know... You get a slap in the face before she even opens her mouth. I'm sure if she gets herself a boyfriend, she'll act a little more ladylike..." ^ Chrono Cross. Level/area: Arni, Home World. "Una: Don't tell her I said so, but my sister's a bit uptight, you know? Could you, like, break her in a little? You know, make her act a little more ladylike?" ^ Studio BentStuff, ed. (1999). Chrono Cross Ultimania (in Japanese). Square Enix. ISBN 4-925075-73-X. ^ Funguy: Well, I guess it's time for me to head back to the forest. You know, I really don't mind the way I look anymore. So don't worry about it. ^ Leah: You know-um father? Father is-um brave warrior. Leah lose-um father when Leah very little. Grandma say-um father went-um to sky. ^ Leah: Maybe Leah find-um father if Leah come-um. Also, Leah need decide-um something. Leah decide-um right, Leah return-um to village. ^ a b Leah: Leah already have-um name for Leah's child. Big, strong name. Aylaaaaaa!!! New song of land! Bye, Serge. Oooga-Booga! ^ Doc: Another world? You mean to say such a thing exists? Truly bodacious... ^ Porre Officer: That's right. This is the Killing Machine Grobyc. ^ Grobyc: Grobyc-only-takes-orders-from-those-who-are-stronger. ^ Grobyc: Grobyc-only-takes-orders-from-one-who-is-stronger. Thus-Grobyc-will-join-you-in-your-battle. ^ Grobyc:Show-Grobyc-your-skill. ^ John: I'm working hard to become a future hero!!! The first step to heroism is building a good physique! Pierre: That a boy! But, the most important trait of a hero is beauty. ^ Pierre: What is a hero like moi to do? ^ Zappa: Pierre...Ye still owe me last month's rent... ^ Pierre: One graceful flash of mon sword will surely have them saluting moi as the guest of honor... ^ Orlha: ...Listen, Serge. Promise me this. When you successfully regain your true self, come visit me. I will gladly aid you then... ^ Doc: Tia, is that you Tia? What the...? Orlha: No, I'm not Tia...Please calm down. I am Tia's twin sister, Orlha... Doc: Tia's twin sister...? H-Hold on a sec! What exactly is going on? ^ Pip - Ummm...Would you mind opening dis cage quietwy? ... Thanks! I'll make my escape later. ^ Pip - My dweam is to sail de vast sea someday on a big, huge ship...Would you mind opening dis cage quietwy? ^ http://www.gamespot.com/chrono-cross/reviews/chrono-cross-review-2545933/?page=2 ^ a b http://www.rpgamer.com/games/chrono/ccross/reviews/ccrossstrev3.html [hide] v t e Chrono Main series Chrono Trigger characters (Crono) music Radical Dreamers Chrono Cross characters music Other games Final Fantasy Chronicles Chrono Break Fan games Chrono Resurrection Chrono Trigger: Crimson Echoes Wikipedia book Book:Chrono series