Awesome Video Game Sountracks #2

For many people, music is the cure for all their physical and mental problems. It can make us feel happy, nostalgic, and in some occasions, make us cry. Others create their own so they can share similar sentiments with other people. Whether it gives you a peace of mind or amplifies your imagination to its highest degree, music has its way of making us feel a specific sensation. Sometimes you can’t quite put your finger on it; you just hear it, and you’re suddenly in awe.

It’s not solely because they make the games memorable, the music itself is impactful enough that you’d want to listen to it again and again. With that said, I thought I’d take the time to share some video game soundtracks worth listening to.

Shadow of the Colossus
I thought I’d begin Part 2 with a real show-stopper. Why? Because I can. But anyways…

In spite of SOtC’s grim and dark atmosphere, it was a magnificent adventure to behold. Colossi battles were intense as they were frightening, every place visited left a lasting impression, and the entire quest seemed like a desperate, one-way trip to oblivion. The game’s masterful soundtrack definitely reflected that concept. The melodious crescendo of the violins, the thundering roar of the trumpets, and loud thumping from the drums made each theme a triumphant experience. I won’t needlessly mince words at this point; I’ll let the soundtrack speak for itself.

The Opened Way
A Violent Encounter
Revived Power
Counterattack
A Despair-Filled Farewell

Super Mario Galaxy

You know, I haven’t had as much fun playing a Mario game since Super Mario 64 came out. A number of games I’ve played over the years often leave me feeling depressed after I reach the ending. Thankfully whenever I’m feeling down, I know I can always count on Mario to feed me with a spoonful of sugary love and mouth-watering happiness. And as extremely corny (not to mention stupid) as that last line sounds, I would be lying to myself if Super Mario Galaxy didn’t make me feel those emotions.

Good Egg Galaxy
Fight to the Death at Koopa's Fort
Into the Galaxy
Battle for the Grand Star
Galaxy Plant

Honestly, it’s difficult to even create a set list of my “all-time favorite” SMG theme songs. The soundtrack contains some classic, rearranged songs from other Mario games, and its original tracks sound fresh and original; all beautifully orchestrated. Right now, I’m going to go as far as declaring Super Mario Galaxy’s soundtrack as one of the best I’ve ever heard.

Final Fantasy VIII

If it’s any JRPG series I’d never stop caring for, it’s Final Fantasy. If it’s any composer that can create great music, it’s Nobuo Uematsu. And in Final Fantasy VIII, he’s able to make the world and its characters meaningful motivations to go back to. Once a familiar theme plays in the background, you immediately think of specific events. Whether it’s watching Squall Leonhart and Seifer Almasy duke it out in the introductory cinematic or witness a tearful ending with Rinoa Heartily, you would know of these characters if you’ve played the game. If there’s anything the FFVIII soundtrack has accomplished, it’s how it made the entire experience unforgettable.

Don't Be Afraid (Battle Theme)
Force Your Way (Boss Theme)
Liberi Fatali
Balamb Garden
The Man With the Machine Gun

Xenosaga Episode I: Der Wille zur Macht

As soon as you start the game, the initial theme songs already set the game’s typical anime/space opera premise; you’re in space, huge alien-faced monsters arrive and go on a killing spree. You then gather up a posse and venture forth to save the galaxy from destruction (not exactly the game’s premise, but you get the idea).While Xenosaga suffers from regular 15-minute cutscene intervals, slow-paced gameplay, and lack of a good map, at least you can appreciate the outstanding narrative, its cast of characters, and wonderful music.

Life or Death
Battle
Gnosis
Panic
The Miracle

Okami

Okami might as well be the most entrancing depiction of Japanese legends immortalized in storybook-like/video game form. The game’s unique art style is arguably its strongest point, but also boasts a soundtrack that is soothing, intense, and invigorating. There are many intriguing places and epic battles to be expected in the world of Okami, and every track memorably reflects each landmark in pure, melodic Japanese ambience. The world may someday fall to despair, but you can always rely on a celestial wolf-god and her trustworthy sidekick to always bring hope to its people once again.

Kushi's Ride
Ushiwaka's Dance
Kamiki Village
The Sun Rises
Reset (Vocal Track)

On a side note: if you haven’t played Okami yet, you owe it to yourself to play this delightful masterpiece.

If you missed Part 1, you can find it in this link:

Awesome Video Game Soundtracks #1

David Gabriel, NoobFeed