Preview from Nintendo Power #68

[Razig]

Here's a prerelease image of Chrono Trigger that I can't recall seeing elsewhere, taken from Nintendo Power #68 (January 1995) in a "Special Edtion" report on the November 1994 Shoshinkai game show.

The picture is a little blurry, but we can see Crono, Lucca, and Ayla facing off against several Robos. I would assume this was an earlier version of the R-Series battle, if not for Ayla's presence. The location doesn't quite match any particular spot in the final game, but the terrain is instantly recognizable as a Lab 16-type area. The lighting effects are interesting; it looks as if a combo attack from the Robos is being reflected by Crono's sword. I don't remember any effects like these in the final game.

Has anyone seen this picture before or have any information about what's happening?

[Prince Janus]

I actually have a copy of that issue, and I remember seeing that same image.

Hilariously, the other screenshots spoil Magus as a playable party member

[Vehek]

That's one of the images on the Prism Cards. Don't know if I've seen it in any of the magazines.
https://www.chronocompendium.com/Term/CTCP:Character_Cards.html#Robo

[Acacia Sgt]

I would assume this was an earlier version of the R-Series battle, if not for Ayla's presence.

I'd say it's more likely the R-Series were gonna be common enemies. Robo, Atropos, and the ones we fight in the Factory are all designated R-6#Y. That could imply there's at least 60 more, so... random enemies?

Wouldn't surprise me if that got scrapped if so, so Robo could remain unique so to speak. It'd take away from him if there were common enemies that were basically him. The other R-Series in-game were already pushing it and made the point well enough on their own.

[ZeaLitY]

Added to the Alpha page.

[Dialga_Palkia]

Tales of Phantasia was known overseas at the time despite never getting released here? And that is Brambert, the Elven Leader of Heimdall? Too bad he was cut from the final product as a guest character as a Chester replacement.  Also maybe it was originally to that scrapped Robot Colosseum?