Genshin Impact isn’t just a game that’s easy on the eyes — it’s marvelous to the ears as well. Massively OP’s Chris has taken to wandering our halls humming its tunes and forcefully grabbing us and shaking us because we hadn’t listened to the soundtrack yet.
Well, I for one am tired of all of the shakings, so I listened through nearly 200 tracks from this relatively new online RPG. If I had to describe Genshin Impact’s score, I would say that it’s mostly a chill experience that would be perfect for a full album play. I did pick out a selection that I particularly liked, and here I present it to you so that you won’t get shaken either.
“Beats of Water Drops”
Clearly you can hear where this track gets its name. The happy synth drops place into mind the sensation of falling water. Don’t be fooled by the simplicity of the first part of this track, as it soon gets more complicated — and more intense.
“Bustling Afternoon of Mondstadt”
This track definitely gets my vote for the best piece from this score. There’s something delightfully charming in an old school JRPG way that makes me think of peaceful villages and tranquil beginnings.
“Rapid Like Wildfires”
This battle theme wears its Chinese heritage proudly, delivering pulse-pounding action as it dances gracefully from start to finish. I think you can get a sense of the combat of Genshin Impact from this piece, which is why I wanted to include it.
“Liyue Defense”
Continuing with an action theme, “Liyue Defense” cranks up the intensity and sends us hurtling toward an epic showdown with… something. My imagination doesn’t really fill in that gap, but I do think this track begs to be played at top volume, even if your neighbors complain.
“Welp, Didn’t Expect That”
From the title there, you can guess that this tune is going to be silly — and you’d be absolutely correct. This is the kind of track that has all of those cartoony cues like boings and cowballs and the like. It’s marvelous.
“Against All Odds”
I have to admit that the opening to this track grabbed me right away with its intriguing and mysterious tone. Something’s afoot… but what? The pressure builds, an ominous piano arrives, and we’re probably all gonna get eaten by dragons by the end.
MMOs are meant to be heard as well as seen, and chances are that music ties your memories to these games more than you might realize. Every two weeks Jukebox Heroes listens through a game soundtrack and picks out the highlights to share and discuss. And if you like this column, then don’t miss the author’s MMO music podcast, Battle Bards!
