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| Derek Heemsbergen |
What's better than a warrior of light?
03.19.12 - 8:28 PM
While Final Fantasy: The 4 Heroes of Light enjoyed only moderate popularity upon its North American release in 2010, I was immediately captivated by the game's synthesis of retro-inspired graphics and music, going so far as to give it my award for Game of the Year.
I have a soft spot for music that changes dynamically, as well as variations on a single theme. (My heart is apparently full of soft spots; perhaps I should see a doctor about that.) This soundtrack delivers in both of those areas, with battle music that changes when the player is in danger and town music that shifts when day gives way to night. The game features a unique graphical style and color palette, so when I listen to this soundtrack, I can't help but associate it with color. Many of the field areas feature synth horns and flutes, lending them a lively, whimsical atmosphere that fits with the bright pastel colors visible during the day. In contrast, the nighttime music is subdued, much like the blanket of darkness covering the environments when the tunes play. What I found most impressive was Mizuta's ability to evoke emotion without sophisticated orchestration. It reminds me of a time when simple melodies would get stuck in my head as a child, and I'd hum them all the way home from school.
I can see how some may be put off by the soundtrack's retro styling, but for those of us that grew up playing RPGs on the NES, SNES, and Genesis, this music is a most welcome throwback to the good ol' days.
