Playstation, 1999
Composer: Yasunori Mitsuda
Yasunori Mitsuda is one of my favorite VG composers. It was difficult picking this one over Chrono Trigger, but I picked it because it’s more unconventional. I don’t think there’s another VG soundtrack that sounds quite like this. This is a beautiful OST, enhanced by Mitsuda’s decision to use real instruments—guitars, violins, flutes, and even some exotic instruments. Many of these songs are perfect to listen to if you want to relax. Mitsuda also brings back certain themes from Chrono Trigger, which is great. Once again, it was difficult picking out five specific songs, but here are five of my faves.
Time’s Scar
This is the theme for the game’s opening, and it’s legendary! It starts off really calm with a flute serenading us, but at 58 seconds the song kicks into high gear with an intense rhythm. Now the strings come in with the melody. At 1’49” the song slows down as the strings lengthen the same theme they’ve been playing, and then they crescendo again into a climactic ending. It’s so good! I think it beats Chrono Trigger’s opening theme (which is great) because it’s more interesting and exciting.
Home Aruni Village
This is the theme for the protagonist’s home village. It’s so relaxing! The guitar and flute are both very soothing, and there’s a wooing sound in the background. If that’s not enough, the melody is also very nice, giving a feeling of a safe village that’s small and homey. This is one of my favorite town themes from any RPG.
Dream of the Shore Near Another World
This song may be short, but it packs a punch. From the very outset, the song grabs your attention with its strange yet inviting sounds from voices and guitar plucks. Then the violin comes in with the melody, which is once again very relaxing. The feelings this song evokes are ones of mystery as the song sounds a bit otherworldly, yet it’s comforting. Pretty great!
Another Termina
This one is a lot more exciting. You’ll hear much more unconventional instruments here, such as bagpipes, exotic woodwinds, and a strange “boing” sound. The vibes here are completely happy and celebratory. It’s a bit reminiscent of the Guardian Millennial Fair from Chrono Trigger, but it’s actually more exciting than that song. The rhythm here is also spot-on.
Navel of the World
This one has a subtle intensity to it. A flute comes in at 15 seconds and gives off jungle vibes. But then the song slows down a bit before moving into a second part which sounds more Arabic due to its style and melody. The exotic drums throughout the song also go a long way in making it sound interesting.
Als check out: Chrono Trigger OST
Download this OST here
I wouldn't say Chrono Cross is my favorite soundtrack but it is probably the one I listen to most often, so that should tell you something. It's just so good!
Same here, I'll put it on every now and then just because it's so calming and beautiful (moreso than any other VG OST).
I reviewed Chrono Cross way back when for The Dallas Morning News. Really felt like it should've been its own thing, and not a sequel to anything. The battle system was just a cleverly disguised card game. Graphics and music were nice, though. I Am Setsuna felt more like a Chrono Trigger sequel than Chrono Cross did. With a few storyline tweaks, I Am Setsuna could've been like a Chrono Trigger side story set in the ice age era.
Honestly, I couldn't understand Chrono Cross's battle system, kinda ruined the game for me. I Am Setsuna looks cool. Also, Sea of Stars (coming out this year) is a very Chrono Trigger-esque game, and apparently Mitsuda is even doing some music for it!
I have a vivid memory of picking up this game for PSX when my friend and I used to go flea market hunting for games. It was a two CD box. I remember playing it but not for more than a few hours. I forget why I stopped. Music sounds great though.
Well now it's being ported to Switch, which is good since getting a PSX copy now is probably pretty pricey.
Oh, man, I've got so much to do on Switch when I get it hooked up.
