Some big Chrono Trigger fans have been on a mission for a long time now to make a sequel to the original game. According to their website, it featured "~35 hours of game play, 10 multiple endings, and 23 chapters, much like the original Chrono Trigger; it was around 98% complete. The plot featured the original cast as they struggled against a new villain risen from the legacy of Zeal."



Subtitled Crimson Echoes, Square Enix has, sadly, pulled the plug on the project. While this is no surprise in the console community, we still wish, like many others, console companies would learn from the PC community and work with fans on projects like this instead of against them.

Of course, Square Enix are well within their rights to do this, though I think the matter of timing could have been handled in a more sensible fashion. Then again, Square Enix isn't exactly known for their tact or decency when dealing with the outside world, either.

Nonetheless, project member ZeaLitY remains a little optimistic that perhaps this is a sign of greater things to come: "I sincerely hope this action is a sign that Square Enix cares about the franchise and intends to produce future titles, and not merely a shortsighted legal exercise that will further alienate a tired, neglected fan-base."

The Gamer Access, however remains skeptical, noting that "previous projects were shut down years ago, and have we seen anything other than a remake? No, we have not."

In some ways, it seems like missed potential, as they go on to recall: "This angers me to no end. The team behind Crimson Echoes had no intention of making any money off of this project, nor was it started from scratch like previous endeavors. There a ton of ROM hacks that exist for tons of different games all over the internet, yet Square Enix feel the need to shut down any "threats", which would have only increased interest in the series. When fans modded Half-Life and created the first-person success we all know and love as Counter-Strike, what did Valve do? They bought the license for the game and made money off of it instead of arrogantly shutting down the hardwork of their fans.

"Why can't Square Enix do this? When you practically ignore a series with a massive fanbase and don't release a brand new game in it for 10 years you have to expect these things. Why not make some money and promote the work of your fans at the same time?"

chautemoc via ds.kombo.com »