Even the most casual of video game soundtrack fans must know the name Yasunori Mitsuda. The legendary composer is perhaps best known for his work on Chrono Trigger, Chrono Cross, Xenogears, and Xenoblade Chronicles, although his library goes much further than that. Mitsuda has stayed very active in the past few decades, and it stands to reason that sooner or later, he’d be tapped to work on the score for an MMORPG.
This, in fact, has already happened. Alongside composers Dong-Hyuc Shin, Jun-Su Park, and Sa-Yin Jeong, Mitsuda helped to craft the soundtrack for Lime Odyssey. Unfortunately, this anime MMO never made it out of its Korean beta, which means that most people are unaware the game even existed — nevermind its soundtrack.
But that’s where the power of Mitsuda’s reputation comes into play, because fans who love the man made an effort to retrieve and repost this score for all to love. And it is a lovely score indeed, the kind that most MMOs would kill to have. Let’s check it out together today!
“Make Zone”
This is a nicely stirring piece that transitions from what you think will be an epic build-up to a rather light-hearted melody around 1:15. It’s very beautiful and a welcome addition to my music library.
“Farm”
For the life of me, this sounds exactly like something you might hear in a pastoral village from a classic RPG — and I love it for the pretend nostalgia that it creates. It’s another cheery, childlike track that fits perfect down home on the farm.
“Alsavara Light”
What a terrific tune! It’s so full of life and energy, bounding around the place with those soulful strings and piano peppiness (sorry, alliteration is a must here). From what little context I can glean, this was a city or zone track, although to my ears it sounds a lot like a title or cutscene theme.
“Hero Grave”
This dungeon crawling (?) track corners the market on ancient mystery, tip toeing around while adding ethereal vocals to lend more atmosphere.
“Class Change”
A very multifaceted track that swells into this mighty fanfare of victory. It’s just a tremendous treat to listen all the way through — and the louder, the better.
“West Tumbara”
I’m really captivated by this enchanting piece, with echoing bells and a warm theme dancing around. I would love for this to be the music for any zone that I was adventuring through.
“Port”
Finally, we have another chipper melody featuring a nautical bent, happy flutes, and an accordion. Simple, but good.
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!
