Nobuo Uematsu- Final Fantasy

Final Fantasy: The number one series of games that have come to define me as the person I am. From Aerith's death to Terra's courage. From Zidane and Dagger's love to Kefka and Sephiroth's pure hate. They have all shaped me many ways.

A video game is not just defined by a great plot or great gameplay. It is defined by its music, and Final Fantasy's Nobuo Uematsu is one of the best gaming music composers. His ability to draw out the emotions of each of characters, each setting is simply nothing short of just extraordinary. His ability to connect one theme to another is simply just natural and intuitive. I have decided to pick out some of my favorite pieces. I won't comment a whole lot, just enjoy.

Man With the Machine Gun- Final Fantasy VIII

See how great the influence of Final Fantasy is. Stockholm, Sweden. Are you kidding me? That ain't in Japan. No, this song does not endorse mass killing and machine guns. Play the game for yourself to see what it's about :)

A few things to notice right at the beginning. The continuous 7 note theme that is constant throughout the piece, and the whirlwind of strings. This song is supposed to be energetic and uplifting. Look at the conductor in the ponytail! Man he is going all out!

Note the glorious horn solo that is answered by the winds. Awesome stuff.

Melodies of Life- Final Fantasy IX

Just a gorgeous song about true love. Gotta love this. Love the mix of orchestra and guitar.

One Winged Angel- Final Fantasy VII

I hate Sephiroth. Sephiroth can go die in a freakin' hole.

That being said, notice how powerful and dramatic the orchestra. Brass is just huge in this piece. The choir is singing in........ Latin? How cool is that? Who writes in Latin these days? This piece is just absolutely epic and awesome. Just the best background music to a boss battle ever.

To Zanarkand- Final Fantasy X

Originally written for just piano, arranged for orchestra in this version.

Absolutely gorgeous melody, which is the main theme that is heard throughout the entire game. This song represents the sadness, the pain, the sacrifices, the swirling emotions that are constant themes throughout the game. Would you sacrifice yourself for a loved one?

Terra's Theme- Final Fantasy VI

Actual song starts at about 1:44. No live version of this one.

Best theme song for a character ever. The piece is march-like, with full melody and power in the winds and brass. Flute has the main melody, with the French Horns providing the main harmony. Truly an epic piece.

Real Emotion- Final Fantasy X-2 

Skip to about 1:00. No, I do not dance to this song in my bedroom. ;) Not gonna lie, but this is the only pop song that I actually listen to.


I hope that you have been enlightened and now love these pieces.


Now go eat some rice.


Ray