It only seems apropos that the first non-weekly article series to be posted on SuperPhillip Central in 2018 is First Things First, as this series of articles celebrates the best video game openings from our hobby's past and present. We're on a bit of a hand-drawn kick with Part Five's game and opening selections. From modern takes on old classics like Sonic Mania, to a handful of PS1 classics, this edition of First Things First: Best Openings in Gaming has some very good stuff on offer!
Take a look at past parts of this ongoing article series and then tell me in the comments which games you think SuperPhillip Central is missing so far.
Best Openings in Gaming - Part One
Best Openings in Gaming - Part Two
Best Openings in Gaming - Part Three
Best Openings in Gaming - Part Four
Sonic Mania (PS4, XB1, NSW, PC)
Sonic Mania's opening video captures the brilliance that was the Sonic CD opening with a familiar intro, showing off some fantastic animation with crystal clear HD visuals. Starting with a ride up an elevator, our three heroes get pumped and primed to let loose, wild, and free in a white space of impressive geometry, bouncing springs, beautiful vistas, and twisting paths -- and all doing it with that signature Genesis-era attitude that old school Sonic fans adore. To see such an opening was also seeing the preview of the awesomeness that Sonic Mania's actual gameplay content had in store. Maybe we'll be seeing some nominations and potential awards for Sonic Mania during this month's SuperPhillip Central Best of 2017 Awards...!
Dragon Ball Z Budokai 3 (PS2)
Back in the day, we didn't have any fancy schmancy Dragon Ball Super that continued the adventures of Goku, Gohan, Vegeta, Piccolo, et. al. No, sirs and madams, we had Dragon Ball GT to endure, and Dragon Ball Z Budokai 3 was the game that shoved a lot of the characters and designs from that series down our throats. However, we did get an amazing array of Dragon Ball series-related games around that time, sort of the golden years, if you will. Packed with characters and a love letter to Dragon Ball Z fans, Dragon Ball Z Budokai 3 emanated quality for both casual fighting game fans and lovers of Saiyans, Namekians, and Earthlings alike. The whole fun, fighting game begins with this introductory cutscene, capturing the essence and spirit of the source material remarkably. Note: The Japanese version is the one represented, but the North American version is great as well. It just features an instrumental rendition of the opening theme.
Wild Arms: Alter Code F (PS2)
First Things First originally saw the Wild Arms series in its very first edition with the debut of the series on the original PlayStation. Now, we turn to the remake of that game -- at least its opening. While not as powerful as the original Wild Arms' opening cutscene, Alter Code F still provides some honest emotion, particularly revolving around that red balloon wafting in the wind and the final scene viewed in the movie at a massive pile of brick and kindling that once was the castle and kingdom of Adlehyde. The new party members in this edition of Wild Arms also are provided time to shine as well. Like I said, it doesn't beat out the original Wild Arms (and that's somewhat due to my own nostalgia towards the game and its opening), but the introduction movie to Alter Code F does the job well all the same.
Chrono Trigger (PS1)
Speaking of the work of Dragon Ball creator Akira Toriyama, let's move on to our next game. With the launch of the PlayStation and the ability to use CDs instead of limited capacity cartridges, developers were able to put a lot more data into their games. Not only was the ability to produce richer sound available to devs, but so was the ability to add video. One of my favorite aspects of the PS1 was the introduction of anime cutscenes and how prevalent they were in Japanese games. This was seen even in ports brought over from past platforms, specifically the Super Nintendo. Chrono Trigger was one of these games, and to see so many familiar sights from a game many played in their youth in cutscene form as older and wiser gamers, it was a memorable experience. Akira Toriyama's work from Chrono Trigger was masterfully animated and colored to such rich detail. Then, you have composer Yasunori Mitsuda's theme for the game playing over the footage. It's a familiar yet totally new look at the world of Chrono Trigger, all done in but one, single opening movie.
Mega Man X5 (PS1)
Mega Man X5 was essentially the culmination of the X sub-series of Mega Man games. It was to be the conclusion of the story until Capcom saw its sales as a positive result and pushed for more games featuring X and Zero. The opening of Mega Man X5 is a lot more meaningful with the idea that no more Mega Man X games were going to be made, but it still leaves a nostalgic impact nonetheless. By showing quick glimpses of battles fought in past Mega Man X games, such as X versus Sigma and the villain's trusty attack dog in X1, X battling Serges, Agile, and Violen in Mega Man X2, and Zero dueling with Colonel from X4 -- these moments reminded players of the hard fought battles, victories, as well as losses taken in the war against Sigma and his Mavericks. Everything was on the line story-wise with Mega Man X5, and this cool opening movie helped to hammer that point home.
Jet Force Gemini (N64)
While the PlayStation had its higher capacity compact discs for the addition of better sound and the better implementation of video, the Nintendo 64 didn't have as much capabilities sticking with cartridges. That said, loading times were limited on N64 games. Let's do away with this tech talk, as that bores me! Onto the last game opening of Part Five of First Things First with a non-anime/non-hand-drawn introductory movie! Rare made a ton of amazing games on the Nintendo 64, but some aren't as widely talked about, such as Blast Corps for one, and this game, Jet Force Gemini. This sci-fi epic sees Mizar's insectoid army ambush the peace-loving Tribals as well as Team Jet Force Gemini's ship. The trio of heroes: Juno, Vela, and Lupus escape to their individual escape pods, being flung across the galaxy at opposite corners. You damn, dirty ants! Juno, Vela, and Lupus are about to take the fight right to Mizar's home turf as payback!
Showing posts with label chrono trigger. Show all posts
Showing posts with label chrono trigger. Show all posts
Friday, January 12, 2018
Monday, April 3, 2017
SuperPhillip Central's Favorite VGMs - "Double Your Platinum, Double Your Fun" Edition
It's Monday morning here at SuperPhillip Central, and it's time to make your work week start on a good note-- quite a few good notes! In fact, so many notes that they make up five different great pieces of video game music!
This edition of SuperPhillip Central's Favorite VGMs begins with a double dose of Platinum Games. We begin with Nier: Automata and then kick it into high gear with Transformers Devastation. Following that is another rockin' theme, but this time it's from the underrated PlayStation 2 gem Gitaroo Man. Finally, two RPGs, one classic and one modern, Chrono Trigger and Tales of Zestiria, wrap up another awesome edition of the VGMs!
Just click on the VGM volume name to hear the song, and check out the VGM Database for all past VGM volumes featured on this weekly recurring SPC segment. Now, let's get on to the music!
v1366. Nier: Automata (PS4, PC) - Song of the Ancient Atonement
Our first Platinum Games-developed piece of goodness comes from the most recent release on this edition of the VGMs, Nier: Automata. The game isn't just one of the best rated games of the year, but it also sports a sensational soundtrack. This theme I hand selected is a rousing arrangement of a theme heard in the original Nier, which unlike Automata, didn't receive as wide of critical acclaim. Still, if you're curious, check out the original Nier as well, available on PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360.
v1367. Transformers: Devastation (Multi) - Decepticon
The other Platinum Games title represented on SuperPhillip Central's Favorite VGMs is a licensed game, Transformers Devastation. Instead of a stirring orchestral and vocal theme, we have a riveting rock and roll piece of music. Hear the shredding of the guitar as you obliterate Decepticon scum in this quality Transformers game.
v1368. Gitaroo Man (PS2) - The Legendary Theme
Going from two well known games to a gem in the PlayStation 2's wide range of quality software, we have Gitaroo Man, a quirky and eccentric rhythm game with music by Japanese band COIL. The Legendary Theme has a nice beat to it, rockin' melody, and is just mellow in general. If you have the desire to rock out, look up a copy of Gitaroo Man for the PS2 or check out Gitaroo Man Lives on the PSP (a port of the PS2 original).
v1369. Chrono Trigger (SNES) - The Epoch - Wings of Time
Chrono Trigger is a game about going through time, and that's really what SuperPhillip Central's Favorite VGMs is all about, listening to music through time. Well, we won't be going into the future that much, save for games that may release in Japan before the rest of the world maybe. Anyway, this theme from Chrono Trigger takes us back to a simpler time in gaming, long before message board, forums, YouTube comment sections, and rampant toxicity within the hobby.
v1370. Tales of Zestiria (PS4, PS3, PC) - Fight Between the Wind and the Blinking Sky
Let's wrap up this edition of SuperPhillip Central's Favorite VGMs with another RPG, but one that isn't quite as influential as Chrono Trigger. Tales of Zestiria served as an anniversary title for the Tales of series, and it delivered a stupendous soundtrack! If you need any proof, listen to this stellar battle theme. A joint soundtrack effort by Motoi Sakuraba and Go Shiina, Tales of Zestiria's music is pure bliss!
This edition of SuperPhillip Central's Favorite VGMs begins with a double dose of Platinum Games. We begin with Nier: Automata and then kick it into high gear with Transformers Devastation. Following that is another rockin' theme, but this time it's from the underrated PlayStation 2 gem Gitaroo Man. Finally, two RPGs, one classic and one modern, Chrono Trigger and Tales of Zestiria, wrap up another awesome edition of the VGMs!
Just click on the VGM volume name to hear the song, and check out the VGM Database for all past VGM volumes featured on this weekly recurring SPC segment. Now, let's get on to the music!
v1366. Nier: Automata (PS4, PC) - Song of the Ancient Atonement
Our first Platinum Games-developed piece of goodness comes from the most recent release on this edition of the VGMs, Nier: Automata. The game isn't just one of the best rated games of the year, but it also sports a sensational soundtrack. This theme I hand selected is a rousing arrangement of a theme heard in the original Nier, which unlike Automata, didn't receive as wide of critical acclaim. Still, if you're curious, check out the original Nier as well, available on PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360.
v1367. Transformers: Devastation (Multi) - Decepticon
The other Platinum Games title represented on SuperPhillip Central's Favorite VGMs is a licensed game, Transformers Devastation. Instead of a stirring orchestral and vocal theme, we have a riveting rock and roll piece of music. Hear the shredding of the guitar as you obliterate Decepticon scum in this quality Transformers game.
v1368. Gitaroo Man (PS2) - The Legendary Theme
Going from two well known games to a gem in the PlayStation 2's wide range of quality software, we have Gitaroo Man, a quirky and eccentric rhythm game with music by Japanese band COIL. The Legendary Theme has a nice beat to it, rockin' melody, and is just mellow in general. If you have the desire to rock out, look up a copy of Gitaroo Man for the PS2 or check out Gitaroo Man Lives on the PSP (a port of the PS2 original).
v1369. Chrono Trigger (SNES) - The Epoch - Wings of Time
Chrono Trigger is a game about going through time, and that's really what SuperPhillip Central's Favorite VGMs is all about, listening to music through time. Well, we won't be going into the future that much, save for games that may release in Japan before the rest of the world maybe. Anyway, this theme from Chrono Trigger takes us back to a simpler time in gaming, long before message board, forums, YouTube comment sections, and rampant toxicity within the hobby.
v1370. Tales of Zestiria (PS4, PS3, PC) - Fight Between the Wind and the Blinking Sky
Let's wrap up this edition of SuperPhillip Central's Favorite VGMs with another RPG, but one that isn't quite as influential as Chrono Trigger. Tales of Zestiria served as an anniversary title for the Tales of series, and it delivered a stupendous soundtrack! If you need any proof, listen to this stellar battle theme. A joint soundtrack effort by Motoi Sakuraba and Go Shiina, Tales of Zestiria's music is pure bliss!
Thursday, August 4, 2016
Best Boss Battles in Gaming History - Part Sixteen
WARNING: POSSIBLE SPOILERS FOR THE FOLLOWING GAMES:
They're baaaaaack~! After fifteen previous parts (that's 75 boss battles so far!), Best Boss Battles in Gaming History is back for another round of great boss fights that exemplify fantastic design, genuine creativity, a unique hook, or are just plain fun to fight! After you've checked out the bosses featured on this sixteenth installment, feel free to peruse past lists, conveniently located below!
Part One
Part Two
Part Three
Part Four
Part Five
Part Six
Part Seven
Part Eight
Part Nine
Part Ten
Part Eleven
Part Twelve
Part Thirteen
Part Fourteen
Part Fifteen
Since the following list has spoilers, check it out after the break!
- Metal Gear Solid (PS1)
- Bayonetta (Wii U, PS3, 360)
- Devil May Cry 3 (PS2)
- The Wonderful 101 (Wii U)
- Chrono Trigger (SNES, DS)
They're baaaaaack~! After fifteen previous parts (that's 75 boss battles so far!), Best Boss Battles in Gaming History is back for another round of great boss fights that exemplify fantastic design, genuine creativity, a unique hook, or are just plain fun to fight! After you've checked out the bosses featured on this sixteenth installment, feel free to peruse past lists, conveniently located below!
Part One
Part Two
Part Three
Part Four
Part Five
Part Six
Part Seven
Part Eight
Part Nine
Part Ten
Part Eleven
Part Twelve
Part Thirteen
Part Fourteen
Part Fifteen
Since the following list has spoilers, check it out after the break!
Monday, January 25, 2016
SuperPhillip Central's Favorite VGMs - Winter Role-Playing Edition
It's Monday, so that can only mean one thing. Well, aside from obvious things like most people going back to work or school. What I'm talking about is SuperPhillip Central's Favorite VGMs! I have for you a themed edition this week, an edition chock full of RPG goodness.
This week we start off with some Ys I & II Chronicles music. Then we enter into a waltz with music from Kingdom Hearts II. Etrian Odyssey IV: Legends of the Titan leads us to the halfway mark of this week's edition, while Chrono Trigger and Skies of Arcadia take us home.
If after listening to the VGMs this week has left you yearning for more, check out the VGM Database, where more than 1,000 past VGM volumes are located for your listening pleasure!
v1061. Ys I & II Chronicles (PC) - First Step Towards Wars
Yuzo Koshiro originally composed the themes heard in many early Ys games. Falcom's masterful arrangers took the already excellent compositions and turned them into even greater pieces with the Ys remakes. This theme, First Step Towards Wars, plays early in the first Ys game, which featured simplistic combat compared to future games in the series.
v1062. Kingdom Hearts II (PS2) - Waltz of the Damned
Yoko Shimomura is a goddess of a game composer. That's not spreading it on too thick, is it? Her work in Kingdom Hearts 2 is fantastic, as exemplified by this theme that plays during the Beast's Castle level of the game, obviously modeled after Beauty and the Beast. Played in 3/3 time, as waltzes are wont to be, Waltz of the Damned is a magical and marvelous piece of music.
v1063. Etrian Odyssey IV: Legends of the Titan (3DS) - Area I - Windy Plains
We just can't get away from Yuzo Koshiro, can we? While we sampled a composition from his past works, his compositions on Etrian Odyssey IV: Legends of the Titan is much more recent, but no doubt just as capable and compelling. This beautiful travel theme for the Windy Plains area of Etrian Odyssey IV welcomes the listener with gorgeous strings and piano.
v1064. Chrono Trigger (SNES, DS) - Secret of the Forest
We've already had some great composers featured on this RPG-filled edition of SuperPhillip Central's Favorite VGMs. Now I feature one of my favorite game music composers of all time, Yasunori Mitsuda. His work on Chrono Trigger was quite stressful to him, making it so he became ill during working on the music. Thankfully, the equally awesome Nobuo Uematsu of Final Fantasy fame came through and assisted Mitsuda with work on the soundtrack.
v1065. Skies of Arcadia (DC) - Little Jack
Vyse and crew travel the skies of Skies of Arcadia in a variety of vessels. The Little Jack is Drachma's ship and namesake, one of the earlier ships used in the game. Little Jack as a theme is heroic and majestic, great for soaring through the skies, passing by towns and clouds alike, as the adventure continues.
This week we start off with some Ys I & II Chronicles music. Then we enter into a waltz with music from Kingdom Hearts II. Etrian Odyssey IV: Legends of the Titan leads us to the halfway mark of this week's edition, while Chrono Trigger and Skies of Arcadia take us home.
If after listening to the VGMs this week has left you yearning for more, check out the VGM Database, where more than 1,000 past VGM volumes are located for your listening pleasure!
v1061. Ys I & II Chronicles (PC) - First Step Towards Wars
Yuzo Koshiro originally composed the themes heard in many early Ys games. Falcom's masterful arrangers took the already excellent compositions and turned them into even greater pieces with the Ys remakes. This theme, First Step Towards Wars, plays early in the first Ys game, which featured simplistic combat compared to future games in the series.
v1062. Kingdom Hearts II (PS2) - Waltz of the Damned
Yoko Shimomura is a goddess of a game composer. That's not spreading it on too thick, is it? Her work in Kingdom Hearts 2 is fantastic, as exemplified by this theme that plays during the Beast's Castle level of the game, obviously modeled after Beauty and the Beast. Played in 3/3 time, as waltzes are wont to be, Waltz of the Damned is a magical and marvelous piece of music.
v1063. Etrian Odyssey IV: Legends of the Titan (3DS) - Area I - Windy Plains
We just can't get away from Yuzo Koshiro, can we? While we sampled a composition from his past works, his compositions on Etrian Odyssey IV: Legends of the Titan is much more recent, but no doubt just as capable and compelling. This beautiful travel theme for the Windy Plains area of Etrian Odyssey IV welcomes the listener with gorgeous strings and piano.
v1064. Chrono Trigger (SNES, DS) - Secret of the Forest
We've already had some great composers featured on this RPG-filled edition of SuperPhillip Central's Favorite VGMs. Now I feature one of my favorite game music composers of all time, Yasunori Mitsuda. His work on Chrono Trigger was quite stressful to him, making it so he became ill during working on the music. Thankfully, the equally awesome Nobuo Uematsu of Final Fantasy fame came through and assisted Mitsuda with work on the soundtrack.
v1065. Skies of Arcadia (DC) - Little Jack
Vyse and crew travel the skies of Skies of Arcadia in a variety of vessels. The Little Jack is Drachma's ship and namesake, one of the earlier ships used in the game. Little Jack as a theme is heroic and majestic, great for soaring through the skies, passing by towns and clouds alike, as the adventure continues.
Monday, April 6, 2015
SuperPhillip Central's Favorite VGMs - "Park Your Keister, It's the Day After Easter, Meister" Edition
Easter Sunday was yesterday, so it only makes sense to follow that up with a Monday edition of SuperPhillip Central's Favorite VGMs that features classic RPG and action-adventure games. Why does it make sense? Okay, you got me. It really doesn't. I was just looking for any excuse to bring out some nostalgia to SuperPhillip Central's Favorite VGMs. This week's list of games starts big with Chrono Trigger, continues with Final Fantasy: Mystic Quest, moves on to Breath of Fire II, moves to the Sony side of the spectrum with Wild ARMs, and concludes with a heartfelt theme from Alundra. Let's get to the music!
v846. Chrono Trigger (SNES) - Frog's Theme
One of the more popular party members to join Chrono's cause in the Super Nintendo RPG classic Chrono Trigger is Frog. His theme has a majestic sound to it, as well as a Far Eastern flavor. It's the perfect song to get ready for an epic battle against enemies both small and large!
v847. Final Fantasy: Mystic Quest (SNES) - Town of Forest
Like you'll hear with the next VGM volume, Final Fantasy: Mystic Quest's Town of Forest gives a great sense of homeliness. It's a warm theme thanks to the warm synth that is played that invites you to stay in the safe boundaries of its town, chat with the locals, and upgrade your equipment.
v848. Breath of Fire II (SNES, GBA) - My Home Sweet Home
This theme is played in the majority of towns in Breath of Fire II. It says something to the longevity of My Home Sweet Home that you can hear it so much (and you will hear it so much in the game) and still never grow tired of it. It's a theme that brings a sense of home and comfort every time it is heard in the rough and dangerous world of Breath of Fire II.
v849. Wild ARMs (PS1) - Adlehyde Castle
Wild ARMs is one of my favorite RPG soundtracks of all time. It is in the same league as Final Fantasy VI, Final Fantasy Tactics, Star Ocean: The Second Story, and Xenogears to me. Part of that is the myriad of memorable themes and leitmotifs that come from the soundtrack, including this familiar theme from Adlehyde Castle. Michiko Naruke did a fantastic job with this soundtrack.
v850. Alundra (PS1) - The Shrine of the Lake
A heavily piano-centric piece from Alundra, essentially Sony's response to The Legend of Zelda series, The Shrine of the Lake is a beautiful, magical piece of music that evokes an emotional feeling with its motif and accompaniment. Almost makes you want to relive Alundra if you've already played it, doesn't it? Heck, I'm going to relive it now!
v846. Chrono Trigger (SNES) - Frog's Theme
One of the more popular party members to join Chrono's cause in the Super Nintendo RPG classic Chrono Trigger is Frog. His theme has a majestic sound to it, as well as a Far Eastern flavor. It's the perfect song to get ready for an epic battle against enemies both small and large!
v847. Final Fantasy: Mystic Quest (SNES) - Town of Forest
Like you'll hear with the next VGM volume, Final Fantasy: Mystic Quest's Town of Forest gives a great sense of homeliness. It's a warm theme thanks to the warm synth that is played that invites you to stay in the safe boundaries of its town, chat with the locals, and upgrade your equipment.
v848. Breath of Fire II (SNES, GBA) - My Home Sweet Home
This theme is played in the majority of towns in Breath of Fire II. It says something to the longevity of My Home Sweet Home that you can hear it so much (and you will hear it so much in the game) and still never grow tired of it. It's a theme that brings a sense of home and comfort every time it is heard in the rough and dangerous world of Breath of Fire II.
v849. Wild ARMs (PS1) - Adlehyde Castle
Wild ARMs is one of my favorite RPG soundtracks of all time. It is in the same league as Final Fantasy VI, Final Fantasy Tactics, Star Ocean: The Second Story, and Xenogears to me. Part of that is the myriad of memorable themes and leitmotifs that come from the soundtrack, including this familiar theme from Adlehyde Castle. Michiko Naruke did a fantastic job with this soundtrack.
v850. Alundra (PS1) - The Shrine of the Lake
A heavily piano-centric piece from Alundra, essentially Sony's response to The Legend of Zelda series, The Shrine of the Lake is a beautiful, magical piece of music that evokes an emotional feeling with its motif and accompaniment. Almost makes you want to relive Alundra if you've already played it, doesn't it? Heck, I'm going to relive it now!
Monday, December 9, 2013
SuperPhillip Central's Favorite VGM - Knight of the Wind Edition
Welcome to Monday here at SuperPhillip Central. It's time once more for SuperPhillip Central's Favorite VGM, celebrating the best and loveliest of video game music. Our list is 500 songs strong, and we have no signs of stopping. This week we have music from Sonic & the Black Knight, Perfect Dark, and Chrono Trigger.
v521. Sonic & the Black Knight (Wii) - Knight of the Wind
Many Sonic the Hedgehog fans argue till the cows come home on whether Jun Senoue's influence on the music of the series was a good thing or a bad thing. If you're not into cheesy rock, then you probably care for it. We happen to like both the modern music and Senoue's offerings. Sonic & the Black Knight's soundtrack is one of those, and this is the main theme of the game, Knight of the Wind.
v522. Rune Factory: Frontier/Tides of Destiny (Wii/Wii, PS3) - Trampoli Square
Used in both Rune Factory: Frontier and Tides of Destiny, Trampoli Square is a peaceful song complemented by wonderful woodwinds and gently flowing piano. While the actual games were disappointments, the soundtracks remain great to listen to.
v523. Super Princess Peach (DS) - Giddy Sky 1
Super Princess Peach had a novel idea-- take the familiar plots of the Super Mario Bros. series and invert them. Now, Princess Peach is the heroine on a journey to rescue the captured Mario Bros. The music of the game was suitably upbeat and cheery, perfect for a saunter through the colorful worlds of Super Princess Peach.
v524. Perfect Dark (N64, XBLA) - Chicago: Stealth
From a light heroine to a darker one, Joanna Dark's sci-fi escapades as a special agent in Perfect Dark made for hot and heavy action. It is one of SuperPhillip's favorite shooters of all time. The soundtrack, too, is incredible, really pushing the capabilities of the Nintendo 64's sound chip.
v525. Chrono Trigger (SNES) - Boss Battle
Can you believe it has been 524 game themes without a nominee from Chrono Trigger? Well, we have fixed this with VGM 525. The lead composer of Chrono Trigger, Yasunori Mitsuda, felt immense pressure composing all of the music by himself. The situation got so stressful that Mitsuda-san suffered an ulcer. Thankfully his coworker and friend Nobuo Uematsu of Final Fantasy fame stepped in to help complete the soundtrack.
v521. Sonic & the Black Knight (Wii) - Knight of the Wind
Many Sonic the Hedgehog fans argue till the cows come home on whether Jun Senoue's influence on the music of the series was a good thing or a bad thing. If you're not into cheesy rock, then you probably care for it. We happen to like both the modern music and Senoue's offerings. Sonic & the Black Knight's soundtrack is one of those, and this is the main theme of the game, Knight of the Wind.
v522. Rune Factory: Frontier/Tides of Destiny (Wii/Wii, PS3) - Trampoli Square
Used in both Rune Factory: Frontier and Tides of Destiny, Trampoli Square is a peaceful song complemented by wonderful woodwinds and gently flowing piano. While the actual games were disappointments, the soundtracks remain great to listen to.
v523. Super Princess Peach (DS) - Giddy Sky 1
Super Princess Peach had a novel idea-- take the familiar plots of the Super Mario Bros. series and invert them. Now, Princess Peach is the heroine on a journey to rescue the captured Mario Bros. The music of the game was suitably upbeat and cheery, perfect for a saunter through the colorful worlds of Super Princess Peach.
v524. Perfect Dark (N64, XBLA) - Chicago: Stealth
From a light heroine to a darker one, Joanna Dark's sci-fi escapades as a special agent in Perfect Dark made for hot and heavy action. It is one of SuperPhillip's favorite shooters of all time. The soundtrack, too, is incredible, really pushing the capabilities of the Nintendo 64's sound chip.
v525. Chrono Trigger (SNES) - Boss Battle
Can you believe it has been 524 game themes without a nominee from Chrono Trigger? Well, we have fixed this with VGM 525. The lead composer of Chrono Trigger, Yasunori Mitsuda, felt immense pressure composing all of the music by himself. The situation got so stressful that Mitsuda-san suffered an ulcer. Thankfully his coworker and friend Nobuo Uematsu of Final Fantasy fame stepped in to help complete the soundtrack.
Wednesday, July 17, 2013
SuperPhillip Central's Top 100 Games of All Time (40-31)
On June 5, SuperPhillip Central turned five years old. We're celebrating big the only way we know how, with a list of our favorite 100 games of all time. SuperPhillip Central's staff has come together to come up with this list. These don't necessarily have to be the best, but they are indeed our favorites. Coming up with an order for these games has been an immense challenge. We're sure you won't agree with our order-- heck, we don't even agree with our order. That said, we hope you'll at least agree with our picks, and if you don't, at least you can read our rationale for our choices. Regardless, for ten weeks, we will be counting down our favorite games of all time. Please join us for this great undertaking.
If you missed a previous edition of our countdown, look no further than these links:
Games of All Time (100-91)
Games of All Time (90-81)
Games of All Time (80-71)
Games of All Time (70-61)
Games of All Time (60-51)
Games of All Time (50-41)
Let's return to the countdown!
40) Animal Crossing: New Leaf (3DS)
The most recent game to be released that is one this countdown, Animal Crossing: New Leaf turns from a video game into an addiction quite quickly. After hearing the criticism of City Folk (the Wii game) players that there were far too few changes to the Animal Crossing formula, the developers behind the game decided for a huge change in the form of becoming the mayor of town. This allowed you to create public works projects and enact ordinances for your town. The level of customization was one that hadn't been seen in an Animal Crossing game-- a series that already had plenty of customization options. Now players could alter the look of their house, create unique patterns that could be placed on clothing, signs or the ground, and even create custom-patterned furniture. We here at SuperPhillip Central have already clocked a total of 160 hours to New Leaf in the span of one month and one week. To say Animal Crossing: New Leaf has become an addiction isn't too far off. Be forewarned before you play or you could end up like us!
39) God of War (PS2)
It's amazing how we enjoy a series whose main protagonist is a some male adolescent power fantasy come to life in virtual form. Kratos may be a total jerk who is hard to like, but his games are anything but hard to like. While not our absolute favorite God of War game, the original God of War was an epic roller coaster of a ride, all beginning with Kratos leaping from boat to boat being rocked back and forth by the choppy sea waves while having to deal with the multi-headed Hydra. God of War turned the action dial up to 11, offering action sequences so intense and thrilling that many competing games just paled in comparison and seemed tame. Sprinkled throughout the action were small puzzles and platforming sections to create a nice sense of pacing to the entire game. All of this was tied up together into an ultraviolent package, making God of War one of the most entertaining action games of all time.
38) Castlevania: Symphony of the Night (PS1, SAT)
Before Castlevania: Symphony of the Night, Castlevania games were mostly linear affairs with brutal difficulties. The first Castlevania game in the 32-bit era was Symphony of the Night, and it completely changed how future Castlevania games would be created. Many would try to outdo Symphony of the Night, and most would fail. Following the formula that Metroid and Super Metroid created, Symphony of the Night had players controlling Alucard through a nonlinear castle. As he defeated bosses and earned new abilities, he could venture into new portions and areas of Dracula's behemoth-sized castle. Alucard could obtain new weapons and equipment and even earn experience to level up his strength, defense, among other attributes. Unfortunately, it seems this manner of Castlevania game is in hibernation, but we hold hope that one day the series will return to this preferred Super Metroid-inspired formula.
37) Pokemon Red/Blue/Yellow (GB)
Not everyone on the SuperPhillip Central staff got as into Pokemon as much as Phil did. He was in middle school when Pokemon Red and Blue released, and he bought (i.e. had his mommy buy for him) the Blue version with Blastoise on the cover. He was so engulfed with the Pokemon mythos that he woke up really early every weekday morning just to watch the Pokemon anime, he drew his own line of Pokemon comic books and he collected every figurine and trading card he could find. The original games seem so ancient now and slow. Still, there's this wide sense of nostalgia that makes the trio of Pokemon games so cathartic to play. We didn't have to worry about IV training. We worried about catching 'em all and finding a friend to hook up Game Boys with to trade Pokemon that we couldn't get in our version of the game. Many called Pokemon a fad, but it still goes strong to this day, especially with the upcoming release of Pokemon X and Y.
36) Ratchet & Clank: Up Your Arsenal (PS2)
Not the best Ratchet & Clank game, but it's pretty darn close. Ratchet & Clank: Up Your Arsenal is our pick as the second best Ratchet & Clank game in the entire series. It featured a glorious mix of platforming and shooting action, and it didn't sacrifice its tone to do that mix either. (We're looking at you, Jak & Daxter!) Up Your Arsenal featured more expanded levels than in past games, a wide array of awesome weaponry (approximately 20) that could be leveled up upon repeated use, and the same trademark humor that makes the Ratchet & Clank games so endearing. It introduced one of our favorite villains, Dr. Nefarious, a hater of all squishies (aka organic life). Up Your Arsenal was the first game in the series to offer online multiplayer. While the PS2 servers are long gone, those that have the Ratchet & Clank Collection for PlayStation 3 can online multiplayer out. It's truly a blast, much like the entire package that is Ratchet & Clank: Up Your Arsenal.
35) Sonic 3 & Knuckles (GEN)
Is this cheating combining the two games? We hope not, but even so, we're sticking to our proverbial guns here. After all, the main point was combining Sonic the Hedgehog 3 and Sonic & Knuckles to create this excellent platforming adventure. The pinnacle of Sonic's 2D exploits is Sonic 3 & Knuckles, a game that, back in the day, required players to insert the Sonic & Knuckles cartridge into the SEGA Genesis (or Mega Drive for our PAL pals) and then place the Sonic the Hedgehog 3 cartridge into the S&K one. What all that added up to was a fantastic journey through an abundant number of well designed levels, zones, and acts. You could play as Sonic and Tails or Knuckles, each having their own separate endings to up the replay value. Then there was trying to obtain all of the Chaos AND Master Emeralds via the Blue Sphere bonus stage mini-game. Sonic 3 & Knuckles is everything fans of old school Sonic the Hedgehog adore and must-play-gaming for those who have not experienced this glorious combination of games as of yet.
34) Chrono Trigger (SNES)
How can you not have a game on a Top 100 Games of All Time list that doesn't include Squaresoft's named Dream Team of Hironobu Sakaguchi (Final Fantasy series creator), Yuji Horii (Dragon Quest series creator) and Akira Toriyama (famed artist of the Dragon Quest and Dragon Ball series)? We didn't just include Chrono Trigger on this list because of the men who worked on it. We included it because it's one of the greatest RPGs ever devised. Everything about Chrono Trigger was exemplary, including its many multiple endings, its character-driven story with side quests that fleshed out each character, its drop-dead gorgeous graphics and its incredibly unique and entertaining battle system. It is a total shame that PAL players could not play Chrono Trigger when the game originally released. In fact, the game would first be available to them with the Nintendo DS port released in 2009. We believe that with how great Chrono Trigger is, the wait may have very well been worth it-- no matter how agonizing.
33) Final Fantasy Tactics (PS1)
One of the first Final Fantasy spin-off games, outside of Mystic Quest, Final Fantasy Adventure and Final Fantasy Legend, Final Fantasy Tactics verily leaped over what a Final Fantasy spin-off could be by providing sensational tactical RPG gameplay, a dramatic plot of politics and betrayal and one of the best soundtracks for a video game ever composed. Players joined the ranks of Ramza, an upper class cadet who is thrust into the center of The Lion War, consisting of two factions desiring the throne of the country of Ivalice. Final Fantasy Tactics was a huge departure of what made the mainline games so popular. The game was played on grid-based battlefields that featured an isometric camera angle that could be spun around. Constants from Final Fantasy such as magic, summons, jobs (an idea taken from Final Fantasy V) and items returned, as did various enemies like Bombs, Chocobos and Marlboros. Two sequels came out on Nintendo platforms, but they came nowhere near the level of Final Fantasy Tactics. In all honesty, few tactical RPGs have ever come close to Final Fantasy Tactics's level.
32) Final Fantasy IV (SNES)
Though Final Fantasy IV (or as it was known in the West as Final Fantasy II) is not our favorite Final Fantasy game, it might as well be our most played due to how many re-releases this classic has seen. From the Super Nintendo original, to the PS1 version, to the Game Boy Advance release, to the Nintendo DS remake, to the PSP Complete Collection... yikes. We've played a lot of Cecil Harvey's story of romance, betrayal and crystal collecting. Final Fantasy IV was the first Final Fantasy game to use an Active Time Battle (ATB) system, where when a party member or enemy's gauge fills, they are able to choose an attack. This constant amount of action with little in the way of waiting made for more exciting battles. The ATB would be used in several subsequent Final Fantasy games, and they were made all the better for it. The plot of the game has been called everything from a brilliant early example of excellent video game storytelling to something that modern games can be thankful of. Final Fantasy IV delivers in story, gameplay and presentation-- a hat trick deserving of the series.
31) Mega Man 2 (NES)
Widely accepted as the best classic Mega Man game, Mega Man 2 introduced eight of Dr. Wily's Robot Masters to battle as opposed to the six of the original game. These bosses and their respective levels could be taken on in any order, but for the easiest time, using the weapon that a given Robot Master is weak against was recommended. Choosing the correct order to take down the Robot Masters (as each defeated Robot Master gave Mega Man its signature weapon) was essential to having the smoothest go of it. Of course, one could make Mega Man 2 and its subsequent sequels as difficult as they'd like by taking on bosses using only the Mega Buster, for instance. Mega Man 2 stands as an important title for the series as it introduced new concepts to the games like a helpful password system and Energy Tanks to restore lost health. The former was a godsend, as that meant one didn't need to play through the entire game in one sitting. While not our favorite classic Mega Man game, there's no denying Mega Man 2's influence to Capcom's now neglected franchise.
We have but three more parts of our top 100 list to get through. The best of the very best is coming, and we hope you'll stick with us to this unprecedented (at least on SuperPhillip Central) list's conclusion.
If you missed a previous edition of our countdown, look no further than these links:
Games of All Time (100-91)
Games of All Time (90-81)
Games of All Time (80-71)
Games of All Time (70-61)
Games of All Time (60-51)
Games of All Time (50-41)
Let's return to the countdown!
40) Animal Crossing: New Leaf (3DS)
The most recent game to be released that is one this countdown, Animal Crossing: New Leaf turns from a video game into an addiction quite quickly. After hearing the criticism of City Folk (the Wii game) players that there were far too few changes to the Animal Crossing formula, the developers behind the game decided for a huge change in the form of becoming the mayor of town. This allowed you to create public works projects and enact ordinances for your town. The level of customization was one that hadn't been seen in an Animal Crossing game-- a series that already had plenty of customization options. Now players could alter the look of their house, create unique patterns that could be placed on clothing, signs or the ground, and even create custom-patterned furniture. We here at SuperPhillip Central have already clocked a total of 160 hours to New Leaf in the span of one month and one week. To say Animal Crossing: New Leaf has become an addiction isn't too far off. Be forewarned before you play or you could end up like us!
39) God of War (PS2)
It's amazing how we enjoy a series whose main protagonist is a some male adolescent power fantasy come to life in virtual form. Kratos may be a total jerk who is hard to like, but his games are anything but hard to like. While not our absolute favorite God of War game, the original God of War was an epic roller coaster of a ride, all beginning with Kratos leaping from boat to boat being rocked back and forth by the choppy sea waves while having to deal with the multi-headed Hydra. God of War turned the action dial up to 11, offering action sequences so intense and thrilling that many competing games just paled in comparison and seemed tame. Sprinkled throughout the action were small puzzles and platforming sections to create a nice sense of pacing to the entire game. All of this was tied up together into an ultraviolent package, making God of War one of the most entertaining action games of all time.
38) Castlevania: Symphony of the Night (PS1, SAT)
Before Castlevania: Symphony of the Night, Castlevania games were mostly linear affairs with brutal difficulties. The first Castlevania game in the 32-bit era was Symphony of the Night, and it completely changed how future Castlevania games would be created. Many would try to outdo Symphony of the Night, and most would fail. Following the formula that Metroid and Super Metroid created, Symphony of the Night had players controlling Alucard through a nonlinear castle. As he defeated bosses and earned new abilities, he could venture into new portions and areas of Dracula's behemoth-sized castle. Alucard could obtain new weapons and equipment and even earn experience to level up his strength, defense, among other attributes. Unfortunately, it seems this manner of Castlevania game is in hibernation, but we hold hope that one day the series will return to this preferred Super Metroid-inspired formula.
37) Pokemon Red/Blue/Yellow (GB)
Not everyone on the SuperPhillip Central staff got as into Pokemon as much as Phil did. He was in middle school when Pokemon Red and Blue released, and he bought (i.e. had his mommy buy for him) the Blue version with Blastoise on the cover. He was so engulfed with the Pokemon mythos that he woke up really early every weekday morning just to watch the Pokemon anime, he drew his own line of Pokemon comic books and he collected every figurine and trading card he could find. The original games seem so ancient now and slow. Still, there's this wide sense of nostalgia that makes the trio of Pokemon games so cathartic to play. We didn't have to worry about IV training. We worried about catching 'em all and finding a friend to hook up Game Boys with to trade Pokemon that we couldn't get in our version of the game. Many called Pokemon a fad, but it still goes strong to this day, especially with the upcoming release of Pokemon X and Y.
36) Ratchet & Clank: Up Your Arsenal (PS2)
Not the best Ratchet & Clank game, but it's pretty darn close. Ratchet & Clank: Up Your Arsenal is our pick as the second best Ratchet & Clank game in the entire series. It featured a glorious mix of platforming and shooting action, and it didn't sacrifice its tone to do that mix either. (We're looking at you, Jak & Daxter!) Up Your Arsenal featured more expanded levels than in past games, a wide array of awesome weaponry (approximately 20) that could be leveled up upon repeated use, and the same trademark humor that makes the Ratchet & Clank games so endearing. It introduced one of our favorite villains, Dr. Nefarious, a hater of all squishies (aka organic life). Up Your Arsenal was the first game in the series to offer online multiplayer. While the PS2 servers are long gone, those that have the Ratchet & Clank Collection for PlayStation 3 can online multiplayer out. It's truly a blast, much like the entire package that is Ratchet & Clank: Up Your Arsenal.
35) Sonic 3 & Knuckles (GEN)
Is this cheating combining the two games? We hope not, but even so, we're sticking to our proverbial guns here. After all, the main point was combining Sonic the Hedgehog 3 and Sonic & Knuckles to create this excellent platforming adventure. The pinnacle of Sonic's 2D exploits is Sonic 3 & Knuckles, a game that, back in the day, required players to insert the Sonic & Knuckles cartridge into the SEGA Genesis (or Mega Drive for our PAL pals) and then place the Sonic the Hedgehog 3 cartridge into the S&K one. What all that added up to was a fantastic journey through an abundant number of well designed levels, zones, and acts. You could play as Sonic and Tails or Knuckles, each having their own separate endings to up the replay value. Then there was trying to obtain all of the Chaos AND Master Emeralds via the Blue Sphere bonus stage mini-game. Sonic 3 & Knuckles is everything fans of old school Sonic the Hedgehog adore and must-play-gaming for those who have not experienced this glorious combination of games as of yet.
34) Chrono Trigger (SNES)
How can you not have a game on a Top 100 Games of All Time list that doesn't include Squaresoft's named Dream Team of Hironobu Sakaguchi (Final Fantasy series creator), Yuji Horii (Dragon Quest series creator) and Akira Toriyama (famed artist of the Dragon Quest and Dragon Ball series)? We didn't just include Chrono Trigger on this list because of the men who worked on it. We included it because it's one of the greatest RPGs ever devised. Everything about Chrono Trigger was exemplary, including its many multiple endings, its character-driven story with side quests that fleshed out each character, its drop-dead gorgeous graphics and its incredibly unique and entertaining battle system. It is a total shame that PAL players could not play Chrono Trigger when the game originally released. In fact, the game would first be available to them with the Nintendo DS port released in 2009. We believe that with how great Chrono Trigger is, the wait may have very well been worth it-- no matter how agonizing.
33) Final Fantasy Tactics (PS1)
One of the first Final Fantasy spin-off games, outside of Mystic Quest, Final Fantasy Adventure and Final Fantasy Legend, Final Fantasy Tactics verily leaped over what a Final Fantasy spin-off could be by providing sensational tactical RPG gameplay, a dramatic plot of politics and betrayal and one of the best soundtracks for a video game ever composed. Players joined the ranks of Ramza, an upper class cadet who is thrust into the center of The Lion War, consisting of two factions desiring the throne of the country of Ivalice. Final Fantasy Tactics was a huge departure of what made the mainline games so popular. The game was played on grid-based battlefields that featured an isometric camera angle that could be spun around. Constants from Final Fantasy such as magic, summons, jobs (an idea taken from Final Fantasy V) and items returned, as did various enemies like Bombs, Chocobos and Marlboros. Two sequels came out on Nintendo platforms, but they came nowhere near the level of Final Fantasy Tactics. In all honesty, few tactical RPGs have ever come close to Final Fantasy Tactics's level.
32) Final Fantasy IV (SNES)
Though Final Fantasy IV (or as it was known in the West as Final Fantasy II) is not our favorite Final Fantasy game, it might as well be our most played due to how many re-releases this classic has seen. From the Super Nintendo original, to the PS1 version, to the Game Boy Advance release, to the Nintendo DS remake, to the PSP Complete Collection... yikes. We've played a lot of Cecil Harvey's story of romance, betrayal and crystal collecting. Final Fantasy IV was the first Final Fantasy game to use an Active Time Battle (ATB) system, where when a party member or enemy's gauge fills, they are able to choose an attack. This constant amount of action with little in the way of waiting made for more exciting battles. The ATB would be used in several subsequent Final Fantasy games, and they were made all the better for it. The plot of the game has been called everything from a brilliant early example of excellent video game storytelling to something that modern games can be thankful of. Final Fantasy IV delivers in story, gameplay and presentation-- a hat trick deserving of the series.
31) Mega Man 2 (NES)
Widely accepted as the best classic Mega Man game, Mega Man 2 introduced eight of Dr. Wily's Robot Masters to battle as opposed to the six of the original game. These bosses and their respective levels could be taken on in any order, but for the easiest time, using the weapon that a given Robot Master is weak against was recommended. Choosing the correct order to take down the Robot Masters (as each defeated Robot Master gave Mega Man its signature weapon) was essential to having the smoothest go of it. Of course, one could make Mega Man 2 and its subsequent sequels as difficult as they'd like by taking on bosses using only the Mega Buster, for instance. Mega Man 2 stands as an important title for the series as it introduced new concepts to the games like a helpful password system and Energy Tanks to restore lost health. The former was a godsend, as that meant one didn't need to play through the entire game in one sitting. While not our favorite classic Mega Man game, there's no denying Mega Man 2's influence to Capcom's now neglected franchise.
===
Thursday, June 6, 2013
Top Ten SNES Soundtracks
The Super Nintendo is one of our favorite systems of all time. We don't say that out of pure nostalgia either. A lot of the games available for the system that we enjoy are classics that remain as good now as they did then. Rather than talk about our favorite games for the system (we can do that at a later date), we want to talk about the music of the software for the system. Picking and choosing ten out of the immense library of great games with great soundtracks is no easy task. We know we left out favorites of people. That's what's so great about the Super Nintendo-- there's so much good music and so many excellent games to select from. We hope that at least you will understand our reasons for picking the ten titles that we have. Let's get to the sensational sounds, shall we?
10) Super Mario World 2: Yoshi's Island
The first game our list is a game that starred Yoshi as the hero, with Mario in the backseat, so to speak, in baby form. It's Super Mario World 2: Yoshi's Island, a classic in every sense of the word, from its gameplay to its level design and of course, music. You have such catchy tunes like Flower Garden and Athletic, but then you also have dramatic tunes like Castle & Fortress, Boss, and Final Boss. It's a grand soundtrack, for sure, and one that evokes memories of tossing eggs and screaming babies.
9) Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars
A soundtrack fitting for a game set in the mystical Mushroom Kingdom, Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars is a marvelous masterpiece of magnificent music. The soundtrack was composed by Yoko Shimomura, whose works you might recall from the Kingdom Hearts series. No doubt fans of this game are really familiar with the themes heard in the game such as Beware the Forest Mushrooms, Fight Against an Armed Boss, Rose Town, Let's Do the Fooka Fooka (Nimbus Land), and Goodbye Geno.
8) Donkey Kong Country
David Wise needs employment at some big studio. He's deserved that, hasn't he? Is he still out of work? Someone answer us!! Anyway, we exclaim all these things because Mr. Wise's work on the Donkey Kong Country trilogy is absolutely phenomenal. Don't believe us? Foolish mortal! Take a listen to these atmospheric tracks that are not only catchy but full of delightful ambiance. There's Jungle Groove, Mine Cart Madness, Treetop Rock, Ice Cave Chant, and Fear Factory. Glorious, glorious music! The Donkey Kong Country soundtrack is a work of art, but it's not Wise's best work on the system. Stay tuned for that game coming up on this list!
7) Mega Man X
Right when you press start and enter the opening Central Highway level, you're greeted with this rocking song, letting you know you're in the thick of some seriously awesome action. Then, after the initial level has been completed and Zero has saved X's hide, you get a great stage select theme. Don't miss out on the excellent level themes, such as Flame Mammoth, Storm Eagle, and Sigma 1st. Choosing which Mega Man X game from the original SNES trilogy was a tremendous challenge, and it was a toss-up between X1 and X2. We figured we might as well go with old true blue.
6) Super Mario World
We put Super Mario World's soundtrack at the sixth position for a variety of reasons. Well, actually two. 1) We have a good bit of nostalgia that comes out when we hear this soundtrack, and 2) It's just a well done soundtrack. Koji Kondo provided the simple yet virtuoso-like tunes for Super Mario World. The classics are so classic that we don't even need to describe them to most people. Just listen and be taken back to your childhood, or if you were born in the year 1995 onward, we're so sorry for your misfortune. There's Overworld, Athletic, Underwater, Castle and Ending.
5) Breath of Fire
The original Breath of Fire is one of our favorite RPGs of the 16-bit era. Even though it has been outclassed by other games of the same genre, we still hold a special place for Ryu and the gang in our gamer hearts. Breath of Fire's soundtrack was composed by Alph Lyla, what was then Capcom's in-house composition team, featuring Mari Yamaguchi, Minae Fuji, Yasuaki Fujita, and Yoko Shimomura. Like any great RPG soundtrack, you have a wide range of feelings that you get from listening to the music. From sadness with Fate to a warm feeling of nostalgia with Day and Night. Then there's memorable themes like A Road, Battling, and Dawn.
4) The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past
The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past is one of most well regarded games in the history of this fine hobby of ours. Not even Zelda's creators could create a 2D Zelda that topped it. You're free to disagree, however. Regardless, the soundtrack is also something that made A Link to the Past so special, composed by Nintendo veteran Koji Kondo. There's, of course, the Overworld Theme, which plays in virtually every Zelda game, but this one is one of the more majestic versions. Then there's Hyrule Castle, The Dark World, Forest of Mystery, and the introduction of a legacy theme for the series, Zelda's Lullaby. Bah! Now we want to replay A Link to the Past for, like, the fiftieth time!
3) Chrono Trigger
The third best SNES soundtrack comes from the marvelous mind of Yasunori Mitsuda. Well, actually that isn't entirely true. You see, Mr. Mitsuda was so stressed out with the undertaking of composing the music for Chrono Trigger that he needed the assistance of Final Fantasy series composer Nobuo Uematsu to contribute some tracks. Regardless, this team effort stands as one of the greatest SNES soundtracks. How could you not enjoy this time traveling epic with songs like Zeal Palace, To Far Away Times, Battle With Magus, Brink of Time, and Battle 2?
2) Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy's Kong Quest
David/Dave Wise had a little support composing the soundtrack to our next game, but most of the music comes from him and him alone. Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy's Kong Quest features a wide array of musical styles that are as atmospheric as the levels they are played in. Plunder the deep with Lockjaw's Saga, party like it's 1975 with Disco Train, get mellow with Hot-Head Bop and Stickerbrush Symphony, and hear the melody of DKC's Gangplank Galleon with Snakey Chantey. David Wise's music accentuates each level splendidly, and the masterful compositions are ones that sound great to this day.
1) Final Fantasy III
Not just our favorite Super Nintendo soundtrack, but also one of our favorite soundtracks of all time, Nobuo Uematsu's Final Fantasy III (or as it's now known in the West by its true name, Final Fantasy VI) provides a wide range of musical styles and emotions. The forlorn and beautiful Celes brings tears to our eyes, the sound of Terra makes us ready for adventure, and the town theme of Kids Run Through the City Corner gives us such a warm feeling with its instrumentation and melody. Final Fantasy VI also possesses several of the greatest boss battles themes from a game, such as The Decisive Battle, The Fierce Battle, and Dancing Mad. Final Fantasy III is a music composition triumph, regardless of what medium it is in.
We've named our favorite Super Nintendo soundtracks, and there's many we wanted to add but had no room, like Super Metroid, Final Fantasy II, Secret of Mana, Mega Man X2, and Kirby Super Star! However, even though we've listed our favorites, there's just the matter of answering this one question: What are your favorites? Let us know in the comments section.
10) Super Mario World 2: Yoshi's Island
The first game our list is a game that starred Yoshi as the hero, with Mario in the backseat, so to speak, in baby form. It's Super Mario World 2: Yoshi's Island, a classic in every sense of the word, from its gameplay to its level design and of course, music. You have such catchy tunes like Flower Garden and Athletic, but then you also have dramatic tunes like Castle & Fortress, Boss, and Final Boss. It's a grand soundtrack, for sure, and one that evokes memories of tossing eggs and screaming babies.
9) Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars
A soundtrack fitting for a game set in the mystical Mushroom Kingdom, Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars is a marvelous masterpiece of magnificent music. The soundtrack was composed by Yoko Shimomura, whose works you might recall from the Kingdom Hearts series. No doubt fans of this game are really familiar with the themes heard in the game such as Beware the Forest Mushrooms, Fight Against an Armed Boss, Rose Town, Let's Do the Fooka Fooka (Nimbus Land), and Goodbye Geno.
8) Donkey Kong Country
David Wise needs employment at some big studio. He's deserved that, hasn't he? Is he still out of work? Someone answer us!! Anyway, we exclaim all these things because Mr. Wise's work on the Donkey Kong Country trilogy is absolutely phenomenal. Don't believe us? Foolish mortal! Take a listen to these atmospheric tracks that are not only catchy but full of delightful ambiance. There's Jungle Groove, Mine Cart Madness, Treetop Rock, Ice Cave Chant, and Fear Factory. Glorious, glorious music! The Donkey Kong Country soundtrack is a work of art, but it's not Wise's best work on the system. Stay tuned for that game coming up on this list!
7) Mega Man X
Right when you press start and enter the opening Central Highway level, you're greeted with this rocking song, letting you know you're in the thick of some seriously awesome action. Then, after the initial level has been completed and Zero has saved X's hide, you get a great stage select theme. Don't miss out on the excellent level themes, such as Flame Mammoth, Storm Eagle, and Sigma 1st. Choosing which Mega Man X game from the original SNES trilogy was a tremendous challenge, and it was a toss-up between X1 and X2. We figured we might as well go with old true blue.
6) Super Mario World
We put Super Mario World's soundtrack at the sixth position for a variety of reasons. Well, actually two. 1) We have a good bit of nostalgia that comes out when we hear this soundtrack, and 2) It's just a well done soundtrack. Koji Kondo provided the simple yet virtuoso-like tunes for Super Mario World. The classics are so classic that we don't even need to describe them to most people. Just listen and be taken back to your childhood, or if you were born in the year 1995 onward, we're so sorry for your misfortune. There's Overworld, Athletic, Underwater, Castle and Ending.
5) Breath of Fire
The original Breath of Fire is one of our favorite RPGs of the 16-bit era. Even though it has been outclassed by other games of the same genre, we still hold a special place for Ryu and the gang in our gamer hearts. Breath of Fire's soundtrack was composed by Alph Lyla, what was then Capcom's in-house composition team, featuring Mari Yamaguchi, Minae Fuji, Yasuaki Fujita, and Yoko Shimomura. Like any great RPG soundtrack, you have a wide range of feelings that you get from listening to the music. From sadness with Fate to a warm feeling of nostalgia with Day and Night. Then there's memorable themes like A Road, Battling, and Dawn.
4) The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past
The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past is one of most well regarded games in the history of this fine hobby of ours. Not even Zelda's creators could create a 2D Zelda that topped it. You're free to disagree, however. Regardless, the soundtrack is also something that made A Link to the Past so special, composed by Nintendo veteran Koji Kondo. There's, of course, the Overworld Theme, which plays in virtually every Zelda game, but this one is one of the more majestic versions. Then there's Hyrule Castle, The Dark World, Forest of Mystery, and the introduction of a legacy theme for the series, Zelda's Lullaby. Bah! Now we want to replay A Link to the Past for, like, the fiftieth time!
3) Chrono Trigger
The third best SNES soundtrack comes from the marvelous mind of Yasunori Mitsuda. Well, actually that isn't entirely true. You see, Mr. Mitsuda was so stressed out with the undertaking of composing the music for Chrono Trigger that he needed the assistance of Final Fantasy series composer Nobuo Uematsu to contribute some tracks. Regardless, this team effort stands as one of the greatest SNES soundtracks. How could you not enjoy this time traveling epic with songs like Zeal Palace, To Far Away Times, Battle With Magus, Brink of Time, and Battle 2?
2) Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy's Kong Quest
David/Dave Wise had a little support composing the soundtrack to our next game, but most of the music comes from him and him alone. Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy's Kong Quest features a wide array of musical styles that are as atmospheric as the levels they are played in. Plunder the deep with Lockjaw's Saga, party like it's 1975 with Disco Train, get mellow with Hot-Head Bop and Stickerbrush Symphony, and hear the melody of DKC's Gangplank Galleon with Snakey Chantey. David Wise's music accentuates each level splendidly, and the masterful compositions are ones that sound great to this day.
1) Final Fantasy III
Not just our favorite Super Nintendo soundtrack, but also one of our favorite soundtracks of all time, Nobuo Uematsu's Final Fantasy III (or as it's now known in the West by its true name, Final Fantasy VI) provides a wide range of musical styles and emotions. The forlorn and beautiful Celes brings tears to our eyes, the sound of Terra makes us ready for adventure, and the town theme of Kids Run Through the City Corner gives us such a warm feeling with its instrumentation and melody. Final Fantasy VI also possesses several of the greatest boss battles themes from a game, such as The Decisive Battle, The Fierce Battle, and Dancing Mad. Final Fantasy III is a music composition triumph, regardless of what medium it is in.
===
We've named our favorite Super Nintendo soundtracks, and there's many we wanted to add but had no room, like Super Metroid, Final Fantasy II, Secret of Mana, Mega Man X2, and Kirby Super Star! However, even though we've listed our favorites, there's just the matter of answering this one question: What are your favorites? Let us know in the comments section.
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