Frog (Chrono Trigger)

“Ma'am, thou'rt mistaken, I'm not a pet, I'm a Knight and master swordsman.” (Chrono Trigger)

Frog is a party member in Square Enix’s Chrono Trigger. He is recruited in the medieval era, and is therefore one of the earliest characters seen in the game. Later on, it is revealed that he was originally a human, who had been transformed into a Frog by the evil wizard Magus.

Frog is unique among the trope of non-human party members. Oftentimes amongst a group of protagonists, the non-human member is somewhat more light-hearted and fits into more of a mascot role. Notable examples include One Piece’s Tony Tony Chopper or Final Fantasy VII’s Cait Sith. However, Frog is one of the more tragic and serious members of the Chrono Trigger party. His background, honour, and sincere chivalry give him a level of depth that elevates him above the level of “silly animal character.” (His team move with Ayla, “Slurp Kiss,” is also one of the best moves in the entire game.)