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[meanspartan]

Best way?

SNES version on a Trinitron, or on an HDTV through the XRGB mini.

But considering that a loose copy of the game goes for $100, most people don't have old Trinitrons or XRGB Minis ($300) lying around (or even an SNES)-

Most cost effective way while still getting a decent version?

DS version. Can usually be had for under $30.

Stay away from the Ps1 rerelease.

 

[NinjaCoachZ]

I recently had a custom repro cart made, basically I wanted a definitive version of CT. I got it in a red cart (to match the label) and with a new translation (called Doctor L translation) that featured the original names and uncensored content. I couldn't be more satisfied with it, and the translation is great. I get to hear Frog say bastard a lot and other things about lavos being god etc. removed with the Woosley version. Here are some screens, maybe I'll post some more later:

[screenshots snipped]
Unfortunately these photos I took of my TV do not do it justice

I also use the scart to HDMI converter so I can play my NA SNES in HD!
And the colors and visuals are stunning especially for games like CT.

It's all worth it in my opinion, it's playing CT as it should have been.

This reminds me of that really profane Tales of Phantasia fanslation where they have lines like "I bet Arche fucks like a tiger".

 

[charlequin]

Good lord, this picture is a crime against humanity.

See my comment above. If you think DS audio even with headphones is as good as the SNES audio chip, then I'm done here

Nothing but a physical SNES is actually going to sound as good as the SNES sound chip (and even then, a shitty TV speaker will more than counteract that) but the DS version is a very close approximation. You're describing it as having a hiss that doesn't exist, so I think something's fucked up in your system or your headphones.

The DS one is definitive imo with a better translation

I prefer the original US SNES translation to the more recent retranslation. It's got a bit more character to it

This is a rough call. The original SNES script is a classic Woolsey joint and properly quite beloved -- it's one of the first translated JRPGs to really work at establishing the different characters through distinct writing styles, in an era when even most good localizations were relatively flat and toneless. It's extremely charming and it was a big part of why people fell in love with the game in the first place.

The DS version fixes up a lot of elements that were restrained by technology in the SNES version -- super-short item names and such. It also files down some of the rough edges of the SNES script, which is a plus or minus depending on how much you thought those rough edges contributed to the charm. It doesn't meld the Woolsey translation with a modern revisiting as well as the GBA FFs do, but it's definitely very solid.

I prefer the SNES version overall, but I played through on the DS a few months ago and I found it plenty good. I think someone can go with either and do alright.

That's just my preference though, really any version of the game is fine, whichever version you can get your hands on most easily.

I think someone's better off not playing CT than playing the PS1 version, tbh, just because the pace is one of the great aspects of the game and the horrid loading times completely ruin it.

 

[Nanashrew]

I recently had a custom repro cart made, basically I wanted a definitive version of CT. I got it in a red cart (to match the label) and with a new translation (called Doctor L translation) that featured the original names and uncensored content. I couldn't be more satisfied with it, and the translation is great. I get to hear Frog say bastard a lot and other things about lavos being god etc. removed with the Woosley version. Here are some screens, maybe I'll post some more later:


Snip


Unfortunately these photos I took of my TV do not do it justice

I also use the scart to HDMI converter so I can play my NA SNES in HD!
And the colors and visuals are stunning especially for games like CT.

It's all worth it in my opinion, it's playing CT as it should have been.

How do all the frog puns translate though? There are a ton of those.

 

[charlequin]

Can you turn off the shitty PS1 anime cutscenes in the DS port?

Yes.

 

[beanman25]

DS, but SNES for now. Can't find my DS cart.

 

[borghe]

Best way?

SNES version on a Trinitron, or on an HDTV through the XRGB mini.

But considering that a loose copy of the game goes for $100, most people don't have old Trinitrons or XRGB Minis ($300) lying around (or even an SNES)-

Most cost effective way while still getting a decent version?

DS version. Can usually be had for under $30.

Stay away from the Ps1 rerelease.

I have all of the above. (SNES, cart and Wega 4:3 HDTV that line doubles 240p content). I should really play it again now....

 

[jnWake]

Ayla's dialogue at the end of the Rainbow Shell quest makes the DS translation awesome. The "Good Ending" has some funny Ayla parts too.

The DS extra content is fine. Lost Sanctum is crappy with the asset reuse and awful grinding but the Dimensional Vortex was cool IMO. Extra final boss was also very challenging.

I recommend the DS version.

 

[Zolbrod]

Another SNES purist here.

Although my main reason is that the extra content in the DS version is so mind-numbingly dull it felt like it tainted the overall experience, even if it's optional.

 

[randomkid]

Good lord, this picture is ALL OF THESE PICTURES ARE a crime against humanity.

yes

 

[skLaFarebear]

DS definitely.

 

[The Spoony Hou]

Hey, guys! Wouldn't be cool if the DS port appeared on the Wii U VC?

Too bad it's not happening.

 

[entremet]

Just wanted to provide references for my previous statement regarding the quality of the DS sound:

It came from 1up (RIP)

he DS version of Chrono Trigger has a winter release date in Japan, and while little has been said yet about the new features this enhanced port will include, Mitsuda promises that fans won't be disappointed. "I think a lot of [Famitsu] readers were hoping for a Chrono Trigger port, and now we're finally making that wish come true," he comments. "I had the music for the Nintendo DS version stay as close as possible to the SNES original, so I think you'll like how it turns out. Whether you're playing for the first time or reflecting on the past as you go, I hope all of you enjoy it."

http://www.1up.com/news/yasunori-mitsuda-chrono-trigger-finally

Hey, guys! Wouldn't be cool if the DS port appeared on the Wii U VC?

Too bad it's not happening.

Blame SE. They could if they wanted to.

 

[Swordian]

The extra content in the DS version is garbage and it lacks the awesome attract mode. SNES or Wii VC is the way to go.

 

[XxSlasherMcGirkxX]

I gotta go with the SNES version. The DS version is very good with all of the features but the new translation in inferior to the old one. Plus the SNES has better audio and the game looks nicer with a bigger picture.

 

[GaimeGuy]

Wtf @ people saying the audio quality is lower on the DS.

It's a perfect rip.

 

[Acrylic7]

DS version is very perfect.

 

[entremet]

Wtf @ people saying the audio quality is lower on the DS.

It's a perfect rip.

It is. People are going by the DS's shitty speakers.

Not only that the DS card format holds more data than SNES carts did, so you could do higher quality samples.

 

[ar4757]

so glad i was able to score the DS version for $6 on friday. haven't played it in like 10+ years.

Same! Except I haven't played it ever.

 

[Lumpy Onion]

I have every incarnation and would gladly play on my Wii U via Wii VC. I prefer the controls of the classic controller pro over the 3DS. The audio sounds better for me going through my reciever (although DS version is perfect with headphones). The Woolsey translation was far more charming that the DS release imo. And I find it more satisfying to play it on the big screen because of the epic nature of the story. It's not a very long game so it's not like I am glued to the screen for too long either.

I also didn't find the DS extra features to be very compelling at all. The 2 extra dungeons are kind of sloppy quality-wise. Especially after seeing the effort put into the ones in FF IV and V for the GBA.

 

[entremet]

I have every incarnation and would gladly play on my Wii U via Wii VC. I prefer the controls of the classic controller pro over the 3DS. The audio sounds better for me going through my reciever (although DS version is perfect with headphones). The Woolsey translation was far more charming that the DS release imo. And I find it more satisfying to play it on the big screen because of the epic nature of the story. It's not a very long game so it's not like I am glued to the screen for too long either.

I also didn't find the DS extra features to be very compelling at all. The 2 extra dungeons are kind of sloppy quality-wise. Especially after seeing the effort put into the ones in FF IV and V for the GBA.

My favorite part of the DS version were the PS1 version additions--bestiary, item list, tech list, treasure guide, ending viewer, and music player, but without the jank of the PS1 version.

I also loved dual screen interface.

But you're right about the extra content. It was very poor and grindy.

 

[Eyothrie]

It is. People are going by the DS's shitty speakers.

Not only that the DS card format holds more data than SNES carts did, so you could do higher quality samples.

With a $100 pair of AKG headphones, the DS bass output just isn't as deep as the bass output on SNES and the treble isn't as crisp. It's less dynamic to my ears. It's a good representation. Very close, even. But to me it just doesn't pack as much punch.

 

[Ziffles]

The DS music is a bit grainier than the SNES version due to the lack of hardware filtering, and no hardware echo-reverb (although it was simulated for some tunes). It has nothing to do with the speakers or whatever. The area that suffered more on the DS version IMO were the sound effects, which were either recorded at a low sample rate instead of being generated in realtime like on the SNES, or are just generally inferior sounding and less impactful. Overall it sounds like an emulator from the late 90s.

That said, if the first time you're hearing the music is on the DS, it will still be good.

 

[entremet]

With a $100 pair of AKG headphones, the DS bass output just isn't as deep as the bass output on SNES and the treble isn't as crisp. It's less dynamic to my ears. It's a good representation. Very close, even. But to me it just doesn't pack as much punch.

I didn't notice a difference. I just compared based on this thread.

However, I compared my lossless Chrono Trigger OST rip to the CT DS music player on the same set of reference speakers. I don't have a SNES cart.

I couldn't tell any difference. But I'm no musician, you may be pickier and more discerning.

 

[hardcastlemccormick]

I want some double blind A/B testing on SNES versus DS version Chrono Trigger sound tests in this thread now. I can't play it until I know these results.

 

[POWERSPHERE]

I played it for the first time on DS and it was amazing.

 

[POWERSPHERE]

I have every incarnation and would gladly play on my Wii U via Wii VC. I prefer the controls of the classic controller pro over the 3DS. The audio sounds better for me going through my reciever (although DS version is perfect with headphones). The Woolsey translation was far more charming that the DS release imo. And I find it more satisfying to play it on the big screen because of the epic nature of the story. It's not a very long game so it's not like I am glued to the screen for too long either.

I also didn't find the DS extra features to be very compelling at all. The 2 extra dungeons are kind of sloppy quality-wise. Especially after seeing the effort put into the ones in FF IV and V for the GBA.

Every 8 and 16 bit game should be available on the Wii U. The gamepad is the perfect retro machine

 

[GaimeGuy]

It is. People are going by the DS's shitty speakers.

Not only that the DS card format holds more data than SNES carts did, so you could do higher quality samples.

They should use headphones like me!

 

[The Spoony Hou]

Blame SE. They could if they wanted to.

Of course I blame SE. I would blame them even more if I remembered they exist more often.

 

[petethepanda]

I really wish the iOS version had appropriate fonts/menus.

 

[sixteen-bit]

I still love rocking the SNES (or WiiVC) version on a CRT, but the DS version is quite good. Especially with the $6 Square Enix store sale.

 

[Bladelaw]

SNES version is on Wii VC.

This if you don't want to play the DS version for some reason.

 

[entremet]

I've been replaying both DS and SNES versions (Wii VC via a Sony CRT)

I've got to say, the DS version still wins out for me. I'm playing on an DSiXL and the sprites are crisp and bright. I don't have a PVM yet, but I can't see it beating the DSiXL much. I'm playing via component and the image is much softer on my Sony CRT. But obviously no scanlines on the DS, but I'm no scanline fetishist.

My only beef with the DS version is the small font size, but I prefer the new localization.

I do feel a bit more nostalgia with the Woosley translation on the SNES and playing on CRT also doubles that nostalgia--it's how I played the original SNES cart.

But for the DS there's the portable factor, which ads tons for QoL.

It's just more comfortable playing on my DS than on my CRT. I can multitask--although CT is far from grindy--play on my commutes, and put the game on sleep mode for quick access.

Can't go wrong with either version, but more and more the DS version is winning out for me.

 

[Triforce141]

Looks like this thread got bumped.

I say if you can, go with the Wii U Virtual Console Inject with 2x Internal Resolution scaling and brightness corrected. (Picture is not mine)

 

[Intel_89]

The DS version is the most robust in terms of features and the performance is pretty much flawless, any version is a great way to play it, the only exception being CT on PS1.

 

[Spring-Loaded]

Is there a definitive answer? Looking through this thread, there are a lot of conflicting answers

 

[Tarsul]

personally i didnt like the ds version because neither with the speakers nor with my headphones the sound was good enough. And since chrono trigger has one of the best (if not THE best) soundtracks of all time it simply does not suffice. As such, I can only recommend the SNES version.

It really takes a lot away if the music is not working as intended. But everyone has to decide for themselves...

 

[entremet]

Is there a definitive answer? Looking through this thread, there are a lot of conflicting answers

There's just two really--SNES/SFC versus DS.

PS1/PSN/iOS have been disqualified. The rest is thinking about your preferences and available platforms.

 

[univbee]

There's just two really--SNES/SFC versus DS.

PS1/PSN/iOS have been disqualified. The rest is thinking about your preferences and available platforms.

This is pretty much the correct answer.

To take a different perspective, neither the SNES/SFC or DS version is "bad" in any way, so you don't really lose anything major.

DS if you're playing on a DS/3DS, OR need to play the games in French, Italian, German or Spanish.

SNES/Wii/Wii U VC if you want to play on a TV or don't have a DS.

 

[PumpkinSpice]

Looks like this thread got bumped.

I say if you can, go with the Wii U Virtual Console Inject with 2x Internal Resolution scaling and brightness corrected. (Picture is not mine)

2x internal resolution of a 100% 2D game with added emulation quirks thrown in.

 

[Vinland]

Is there a definitive answer? Looking through this thread, there are a lot of conflicting answers

I think it really comes down to what tech you have available to you. I have a 36" Wega in my den so obviously the SNES version is definitive. No bones about it. However, I actually played the game first on DS and fully enjoy that version. I live in the south so I drive pretty much everywhere so portables are just couch curlers to me so the DS is just not definitive given both options.

So in the absence of a good CRT setup, the DS should be the definitive choice. Not sure about the VC stuff I don't have too too many and those I do have for snes I don't own on the original to compare.

 

[entremet]

I think it really comes down to what tech you have available to you. I have a 36" Wega in my den so obviously the SNES version is definitive. No bones about it. However, I actually played the game first on DS and fully enjoy that version. I live in the south so I drive pretty much everywhere so portables are just couch curlers to me so the DS is just not definitive given both options.

So in the absence of a good CRT setup, the DS should be the definitive choice. Not sure about the VC stuff I don't have too too many and those I do have for snes I don't own on the original to compare.

Wii VC for SNES is perfect, even down to the original resolution. It's the SNES ROM for discussion purposes.

Obviously you will get minimal lag is you connect it to a modern display, but it's CT not a twitchy fighter. But if you connect to a CRT or via a Framemeister, you're golden.

 

[Triforce141]

2x internal resolution of a 100% 2D game with added emulation quirks thrown in.

Better sprite scaling and rotation, the race with Johnny, certain tech effects, and other things looks much better with the 2x IR scaling compared to 1x IR.

Another DS game with sprite rotation/scaling for example:

 

[Pinky]

The DS version is great.

well the best version is probably the DS version.

This.

 

[A Link to the Past]

PS1 is a non-option.

SNES is a good option if you want to play on the TV and just only care about the original stuff.

DS is good for portability, and some of the extra content is decent. Translation is fine too.

 

[LewieP]

As previously stated, the SNES version wins for me, but even so there are aspects of the DS version I prefer.

It's strange to me that a romhack for the DS version that replaces it with the original SNES translation doesn't exist. I'd have thought there would have been a reasonable amount of demand for it.

I wouldn't say that the original translation is sacred, there are a few areas where it could be improved upon, but I wouldn't want to lose all of the tone and personality (which I feel in some areas the DS translation is guilty of), just smooth things out a little.

I'd probably go for a romhack that simply removed the additional content, I'd like to pretend it doesn't exist.

 

[Narroo]

With a $100 pair of AKG headphones, the DS bass output just isn't as deep as the bass output on SNES and the treble isn't as crisp. It's less dynamic to my ears. It's a good representation. Very close, even. But to me it just doesn't pack as much punch.

...Have you tried a headphone amp...?

Sounds dumb, but higher end headphones require a lot of power and the DS probably can't output that much. Then again, I'm not familiar with AKG, so maybe it'll do nothing.

 

[Bjoern the Smexy]

DS version is the absolute best, but if you want to play a different version, there's the original SNES version on Wii VC (NOT Wii U VC).

With a hacked Wii U you should be able to inject a dumped Chrono Trigger DS ROM into the Wii U's emulator.

DS if you're playing on a DS/3DS, OR need to play the games in French, Italian, German or Spanish.

The DS version does not have multi-language options.
It is English only. The game only exists in English and Japanese languages.

 

[charlequin]

It's strange to me that a romhack for the DS version that replaces it with the original SNES translation doesn't exist. I'd have thought there would have been a reasonable amount of demand for it.

Unfortunately the people who hack different translations into games already released in English overlap pretty heavily with the ultra-literalist nuts who hate on the Woolsey CT/FF6 scripts.

 

[Vinland]

Wii VC for SNES is perfect, even down to the original resolution. It's the SNES ROM for discussion purposes.

Obviously you will get minimal lag is you connect it to a modern display, but it's CT not a twitchy fighter. But if you connect to a CRT or via a Framemeister, you're golden.

Wii snes VC is good from what I've read but the only games I own for Wii VC came through club Nintendo like Majoras Mask and I do know different emulation of hardware produces different results.

I do here people bemoan the Wii U Snes VC and I only have vague memories of the originals gameplay for the ones I do have. Earthbound, for instance, plays ok but my point of reference to the cart is old. I remember the game selling for 20 bucks in a pile of tens of new boxes more than I remember playing it.

i do want to buy Yii's on the Wii VC so maybe I'll try out CT for comparisons sake sometime.