In a memory far far away...

Those who know me are aware that my iPod contains practically only soundtracks. It is basically the only thing I listen to. To a large extent, my recent interest in The Beatles is because of the Rock Band game of the same name. Although my music library is mostly filled with film soundtracks, videogames are the reason I like what I like today. One game in particular, can be held responsible for most of my tastes. We must go back to 1992, in a dark basement, on an old TV that did not have a remote...

A long time ago
In a galaxy far, far away...

Believe it or not, Super Star Wars was my first exposure to the Star Wars universe. It bloomed a strong passion that endures to this day. And most importantly, this game introduced me to John Williams. Where the game X-Wing defined what I would ultimately prefer about Star Wars, the Super NES title is the reason why my music collection is what it is and why I love
Star Wars unconditionally.

I mentioned John Williams because his was the first music I really got into on my own. It wasn't because my parents owned the CD or because a friend recommended it; it was what I wanted to listen to. From then on, music would define what I liked and didn't like, be they films, videogames, etc.

An ordinary movie with an excellent theme may become a surprise hit. A good
TV show with a bland theme song may not hold my interest. A strong soundtrack in a game makes a huge different on my enjoyment of said game.

So it is with chagrin that I find today's game music less memorable than back in the day. Granted, part of the emotional impact that music had to have is now carried through with the music, we hear tunes less frequently due to how games are now made, but this same observation could be extended to films too. Maybe it is because directors do not want a theme so strong that it detracts from the visual experience, or maybe moody and atmospheric tracks sell... No matter the answer, I am always looking for those few notes that make me smile, no matter what.

Here are some of my favourite game themes.

Uncharted: When I first booted the game, and watched that coin turn, I was amazed at what was playing. It conveyed so many things: Grandeur, adventure... Was this going to be the Indiana Jones game we never got? Nathan's Theme is a very classic kind of theme that embodies, in my humble opinion, the series very weel.

Mega Man 2: A Classic. Every single track in that game "sings" awesome. I could mention the classic Mecha Dragon stage... Oh wait, I just did. Flash Man and Wood Man are also some of my favourites.

Shatter: Not themes per say as they are not associated to anything specific, but that soundtrack is worth every penny. It helps that the game is fantastic too.

The Metroid Prime Trilogy: Look at some of my older blogs and at pressstarttwoplay.blogspot.com. On the other hand, Metroid: Other M was tremendously disappointing music wise.

Final Fantasy VI/III: The Returner's Theme. Locke's, Terra's, Cyan's, Setzer's (just thinking about the moment in the dark world where we ask why are we going to his wife's tomb... To get another airship of course... Gives me goosebumps :) ) Need I say more?

What are some of your favourite themes/tracks and why?

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Metroid: Other M - The end of my Metroid summer

I'm starting this post as the final credit to Other M scroll in front of me. A rather bland orchestral piece is playing, not memorable at all. No Samus Theme, really?

The game does something really cool after the credit. A fun and story related way to finish collecting the items. The epilogue actually made me appreciate the game more.

In many ways, it feels like a 3D version of Metroid Fusion. You are aboard a space station, sections are locked, sometimes unlocked. You must use navigation rooms to progress, etc.

My biggest disappointment has to be the music. Few classic themes are used and even when they are, their impact is not really strong. Also, no classic pickup chime? Honestly, the sound used sounds a regurgitating computer. There were no moments like realizing that you are listening to a slowed version of the Brinstar theme as you embark on a new adventure on Tallon IV. No eery and familiar tune to make the slow trek through water more enjoyable. No heroic theme to let you know that you are indeed THE BEST bounty hunter in the galaxy. No bombastic chanting as you explore a fiery region.

Story wise, I couldn't care less. I've already typed enough words on Metroid to show that even if the game was a total failure (which it is not), I would still enjoy it. It is, however, way too full of itself and heavy handed. I guess Samus would be prone to monologuing a lot... She does spend a lot of time alone. At least we now have some context to the Adam of Fusion.

Maybe this Metroid aims to get new fans, and the gameplay may succeed in doing that. I hope it sells well... I mean, the game IS fun. The I guess I was expecting something more epic.

In the end, this further proves how different American and Japanese sensibilities are towars storytelling. Prime is a lot more akin to Bioshock, with little exposition, most of the story comes from elements you scan (something you never have to do) whereas Other M feels like a classic Japanese with » stock characters (the geekyscientist, the faceless mooks, the evil colonel, ...).

The Prime series managed to instill so much life and lore in the universe. Sure, you had to read to get to that, but it was worth it. Who wouldn't to see another game where the Chozos aren't explored more?

After Other M and Fusion, the space left for Samus to explore seems a lot smaller. No more Metroids..., no more Space Pirates. Maybe it's time for her to rest. No matter what folks might say about her latest adventure, in my humble opinion, it is mission complete.

P.S.: This post was written over a few nights, hence the lack of cohesion of sorts.
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Why Oh Why?

Why oh why did I have to start playing again? Mounts. I love collecting stuff. Especially in World of Warcraft, where it doesn't take physical space. I'm currently sitting on 89 mounts, my rarest being the Rocket from the card game.

You know what? Screw today's post, I need to play WoW!

All kidding aside, I'm enjoying Metroid - Other M (well, the parts where I play). I recommend picking it up if you are a fan of the series. If you are on the fence, rent it, chances are you will be surprised.

Some reviews talked about the controls and most of the reviewers did not seem convinced. I personally have no quarrel with them. Even the part where you need to point at the screen (I did need to put the Wii "condom" back on though, otherwise I wouldn't hide the IR part enough).

A'right, back to work, I mean, WoW!