Everything Is Final Fantasy

This Studio Ghibli classic carries a powerful message of non-violence but it is also a complicated question when our hero is moved to take a life.

We continue our series on Studio Ghibli & Hayao Miyazaki with an introduction to and examination of the first few minutes of Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind; a true masterpiece.

We listen to an analyze some truly iconic Final Fantasy battle themes from FFVII and Tactics. We begin with Trisection and the oddly titled Run Past Through the Plain before diving into the monster that is Let the Battles Begin, including its Remake and Rebirth.

We listen to and analyze the battle themes from Final Fantasy X, IX, and VIII. How does Nobuo Uematsu use those unmistakable rhythms and clever instrumentation to create the perfect battle music? How does the FFX piece mirror the pacing of the battle system? Do the modern instruments in FFIX fit? And why is Don't Be Afraid such a BANGER?

We listen to and analyze three different Final Fantasy battle music pieces from three different composers. Working backwards in time, we start with Masayoshi Soken's composition for FFXVI then Yoko Shimomura's FFXV battle theme. We wrap up with Masashi Hamauzu battle music for FFXIII. Plus, some Metal Gear Solid and Super Smash Bros music makes its way into the conversation!