Gaming is a highly prevalent sector of the entertainment industry, bringing joy to many people through achievement, socialisation and (most of the time) relaxation. The soundtracks that supplement games often enhance the experience to greater levels, evoking emotion and even more indulgence. Let’s take a look at the top five tracks from – in my opinion, the greatest game of ALL TIME – Final Fantasy VII Original.
This is a game that is dear to my heart and it commenced my love for the RPG genre of gaming. I believe that its visuals, story and gameplay still hold up as well today as they did upon its release way back in 1997 (yes, I am that old) and the musical score for this album is sublime. There is a total of 85 tracks in this game and each song was composed, arranged and produced by Japanese composer, Nobuo Uematsu, who transformed the direction of classical music from this very score.
1. ‘Let the Battles Begin!’
This is a song that undeniably gets the blood pumping. A Rock/Synth piece blending trumpets, keyboard, guitar and drums, it plays in almost every battle that takes place during your epic adventure with Cloud and the gang, setting the pace for your incoming endeavor.
2. ‘Waltz de Chocobo’
Although not an adrenaline pumping piece, this very short track is one of my favourites – simply for the pure enjoyment it accomplishes. Whilst playing, you chat to a Chocobo (think giant yellow Ostrich) and it’s so happy with your exchange that it does a little dance and gives you a present – an addition which makes the game all the more immersive.
3. ‘Aerith’s Theme’
Full of emotion, this is an exceptional orchestral-like piece; it starts softly, only to hit a soaring crescendo and accordingly soften once more. Despite only comprising of a few instruments, you could easily be listening to a full orchestra. This amplifies the emotional connection between you and the character, inducing that goose bump effect that is felt so often during powerful moments.
4. ‘Hurry!’
This is another one of those tracks that fills you with tension and gets the adrenaline pumping. The Synthwave effects arising out of trumpets and symbols are all bolstered by a ticking clock, making you feel like you are genuinely running out of time – a prime example of how music can enhance the video game experience.
5. ‘One-Winged Angel’
One of the last tracks you will hear during the game, this is a sincerely epic piece of music. Being the only song that includes vocals, it mixes together multiple genres to create one truly emotive arrangement. It contains a blend of Orchestral, Rock and Classical styles of music, yet materialises as an Operatic piece. Listening to it coaxes a slight adrenaline boost mixed with a distant tension – both amplified as you play the game. Suddenly the vocals kick in, and in your mind, you’re ready to face whatever is yet to be thrown at you.
So that’s my personal top 5 Final Fantasy VII original tracks, tell me what you think of the list – do you agree, disagree, have some alternate suggestions or do you have a game soundtrack I should check out? Leave a comment below or reach out on Twitter at @KRJR82.
Listen to the full Final Fantasy VII original soundtrack:
Things have been difficult for a lot of people in recent months and for some it will continue to be, but know that you are all loved, there is help out there for you should you need it and you deserve to be shown that love and respect in every aspect of your life.
Until next time, take care of yourself and each other.
Words by Kris Reeves
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