#Ocarina of Time Hyrule Symphony

[legend-of-zelda-voices]

Compilation Post

Yuko Kawai

First Role for LoZ: Hyrule Symphony CD (Malon)

Other LoZ Roles: (None)

Alternate LU Voice for: Malon

Some characters with the same voice:

...

In the CD:

"The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time Hyrule Symphony" CD

5. Lon Lon Ranch (Theme)

The CD contains orchestrated versions of songs from Ocarina of Time. The rest of the CD can be found here if you're interested.

Original Post

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Speaking

(None)

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Singing

"Kimi ni Okuru Yell" from Brave Command Dagwon CD

Translated title: "Cheer for You"

Short Version here or in original post below

Original Post with Lyrics

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"Enrai" from Saber Marionette J

Translated title: "Distant Thunder"

Original Post with Lyrics

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"Ai no Etude" from Sailor Moon CD

Translated title: "Etude of Love"

This song is a duet.

Original Post with Lyrics

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"From sunset to sunrise ＜piano & strings ver.＞" from A Song to the Sun

She is one of two chorus members in this song.

Original Post with Lyrics

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Some other songs with just vocalizations. They're from something called the "LINK" soundtrack: HOPE for... and TWEETS of S

Original Post with Lyrics

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"Blue Mint wo Sukoshi Dake" from Yajikita Gakuen Douchuuki OVA 02

Translated title: "A Drop of Blue Mint"

Original Post with Lyrics

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"Various Long Albums" featuring Yuko Kawai

(Time stamps for each song in the video descriptions)

Little Tokyo - All 11 songs by Yuko Kawai

Fujiyama Paradise - All 11 songs by Yuko Kawai

Fumin Syndrome - All 11 songs by Yuko Kawai

Peppermint Age - Only the Songs by Yuko Kawai

Full Version of 2nd Song

Original Post with Lyrics

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[bigsoftmarshmallow]

How would Ganondorfs (Wind Waker, Ocarina of Time, Twilight Princess, Hyrule Warriors, and Tears of the Kingdom) & Demise react to a modern smartphone? If explained all the things it could do, what would they use it for?

If the Ganondorfs and Demise were introduced to a modern smartphone, their reactions would range from curiosity to amazement, with each of them finding different uses for the device based on their personalities and goals. Here's how each would react and what they might use a smartphone for:

Wind Waker Ganondorf

Initial Reaction: Wind Waker Ganondorf, who is more philosophical and reflective than his counterparts, would be intrigued by the smartphone’s potential to access vast amounts of knowledge. After a brief period of suspicion and doubt, he’d be captivated by its ability to show him things he’s never imagined.

What He’d Use It For:

Research & Strategy: Wind Waker Ganondorf would use the smartphone to gather information on the world, learning about history, geography, and strategies from other cultures to enhance his tactical thinking.

News & Global Information: He’d use the phone to monitor global events, especially geopolitical conflicts, finding parallels to his own goals.

Music & Art: Given his reflective nature, Wind Waker Ganondorf might also be interested in music and art, possibly developing an appreciation for symphonies or visual art from different eras.

Scene: Ganondorf sits in the ruins of Hyrule, staring at the small device in his hand. The world had crumbled beneath the waves, but this... this small box contained all the knowledge of the modern world. He swipes through images of landscapes, battles, and cities, his mind racing with possibilities.

"So much knowledge... hidden in the hands of mortals," he murmurs. "I could have ruled this world with such tools."

Ocarina of Time Ganondorf

Initial Reaction: Ocarina of Time Ganondorf, a megalomaniac with ambitions for total domination, would be both suspicious and fascinated by the smartphone. After understanding its potential, he’d see it as a tool for expanding his influence and power.

What He’d Use It For:

Social Media Manipulation: Ganondorf would use social media platforms to subtly spread his influence, sowing discord and manipulating public opinion to create chaos.

Surveillance: He would use the phone’s ability to track locations and spy on people via cameras to keep tabs on enemies, potential threats, or even allies.

Commanding Armies: The communication abilities of the smartphone would allow him to organize and command his followers more effectively, giving him the ability to control vast networks from a distance.

Scene: Ganondorf's eyes narrow as he watches a video of a global leader addressing a crowd. The people hang on every word. He smirks, fingers tapping against the phone. "I can make them follow me," he mutters, scrolling through comments and noting how easily opinions are swayed. "This world will be mine before they even know it."

Twilight Princess Ganondorf

Initial Reaction: Twilight Princess Ganondorf, who exudes a more cold and calculated demeanor, would see the smartphone as a tool for both control and knowledge. He’d be less fascinated by its entertainment features and more focused on how it could serve his plans for domination and control of the Twilight Realm.

What He’d Use It For:

Hacking & Control: Ganondorf would likely develop an interest in the more technical aspects of the phone. He might even try to learn hacking to break into systems, control information, and manipulate governments.

Communication: He would use the phone to keep in contact with his spies and agents, communicating in secret codes and issuing orders from afar.

Twilight Magic Research: Ganondorf might be curious about scientific advances and new technologies that could be twisted to serve his purposes, particularly anything that could amplify his connection to the Twilight Realm.

Scene: Ganondorf stands in his darkened throne room, the soft glow of the smartphone illuminating his face. A security camera feed flickers on the screen, showing him the movements of a key political figure. "So easily manipulated," he mutters, tapping the screen. "This device gives me more power than they could ever know."

Hyrule Warriors Ganondorf

Initial Reaction: Hyrule Warriors Ganondorf, the most battle-hungry and aggressive version, would initially scoff at the smartphone, thinking it weak and beneath him. However, once he realizes its potential for organizing large-scale assaults and coordinating his armies, he would embrace its power.

What He’d Use It For:

Battle Coordination: He’d use messaging apps and other organizational tools to coordinate attacks and manage his armies in real time.

Media Control: Ganondorf would use social media to spread propaganda and increase his influence over the masses, twisting narratives to present himself as a conqueror worthy of respect.

Entertainment: As a warrior, he might actually enjoy certain fighting games or watching videos of historical battles for entertainment and inspiration.

Scene: "Such a small device," Ganondorf grunts, turning the smartphone over in his hand. "And yet, with it, I could command legions." His eyes gleam as he sets up group messages with his generals, issuing orders with a few taps of the screen. "This... this could be my greatest weapon."

Tears of the Kingdom Ganondorf

Initial Reaction: Tears of the Kingdom Ganondorf, who is intelligent and deeply strategic, would immediately see the smartphone as a means to gather knowledge and increase his hold over Hyrule. He would appreciate the breadth of information at his fingertips and the potential for subtle manipulation.

What He’d Use It For:

Historical & Tactical Research: Ganondorf would dive deep into the smartphone’s access to history and tactics, using it to learn about modern warfare, diplomacy, and advancements that he could incorporate into his strategies.

Social Influence: He would use the phone to spread subtle misinformation, manipulate public perception, and undermine the authority of those in power.

Mapping & Exploration: Ganondorf might use modern GPS and mapping technologies to expand his reach, exploring unknown regions of the world with ease.

Scene: Ganondorf scrolls through articles and maps, his mind racing with possibilities. "All this knowledge," he murmurs, tapping the screen. "Centuries of history, at my fingertips." He smiles, dark and cold. "I can twist it to my will. This world will never see me coming."

Demise

Initial Reaction: Demise would view the smartphone with disdain at first, seeing it as a weak human tool. However, once he learned about its ability to manipulate information and control masses of people, he would see it as a valuable asset in his quest to conquer all.

What He’d Use It For:

World Domination: Demise would see the phone as a tool to conquer not just Hyrule, but all realms. He would use it to study modern civilizations, finding weaknesses to exploit.

Manipulation of Fear: He would likely use the phone to spread fear and chaos, taking advantage of the interconnected world to stir unrest and manipulate leaders through fear.

Surveillance: Demise would love the idea of watching his enemies from afar, tracking their every move and waiting for the right moment to strike.

Scene: Demise stares at the smartphone in his hand, the glowing screen a stark contrast to the dark aura surrounding him. "A tool for the weak," he growls, but as he watches the world news flash by, his lips curl into a slow, menacing smile. "And yet... with this, I can spread fear faster than ever before. They will fall before they even realize what’s happening."

Overall Uses and Thoughts:

While each version of Ganondorf and Demise would initially react differently to a modern smartphone, they would all eventually see it as a tool for manipulation, control, and enhancing their ambitions. From social media manipulation to real-time battle coordination, the smartphone would become an essential part of their plans for domination.

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Bonus: HW Ganondorf, Ghirahim, and Zant Group Chat!

Group Chat: Forces of Darkness

Ganondorf: I have gathered you both here to discuss our next move. Hyrule is vulnerable. We must act soon.

Ghirahim: Ooooh, our glorious king is feeling impatient~ 😏💅 But of course, my liege, your wish is my command. 🌹✨

Zant: yEs tHe vEry FoUnDaTiOn oF hYruLe WiLL fALl UnDeR oUr miGhty bOOts!!! 😈👑

Ganondorf: Zant, I need you to speak coherently. We cannot conquer anything if I can’t understand what you’re saying.

Ghirahim: Yes, Zant, darling, try to keep up. We can’t have you tripping over your own madness during battle. 🤭💀

Zant: lOl i HaVe mAdNeSs On mY siDe, GhirAhIm. tHaT’s mY pOwEr!! 😵‍💫✨

Ganondorf: Enough. We have no time for your childish games. Focus. Our next target is the Hyrule Castle. Ghirahim, you will lead the vanguard. Zant, you will handle the diversion.

Ghirahim: Awwww, leading the charge? You're making me blush, Kingy~ 😘💖 Consider it done, my blade is ready. 🔪🖤

Zant: bUt wHy am i tHe dIvErsIoN?? i WaNt tO lEaD tOo!! 😡😭

Ganondorf: Because you lack discipline. That is why. If you want to lead, prove yourself first. And stop typing like that. It’s irritating.

Zant: 😒 fInEeeE… I’LL sHoW yOU whO lAcKs dIscIplInE… i’LL dEstROy tHem aLL!!!!

Ghirahim: Zant, darling, sweetie, please. You'll give yourself wrinkles. Now then, King Ganondorf~ Shall I prepare an ambush? Perhaps a little surprise for those meddling heroes? 🎭✨

Ganondorf: Yes. Proceed with your plans. I want them caught off guard. If all goes well, their precious kingdom will fall. Failure is not an option. Do I make myself clear?

Zant: yEs!! wE wiLL rAiSe tHe bAnNeRs oF dArKnEsS!!!

Ghirahim: Crystal clear, my king~ 😏💋

Ganondorf: Do not fail me.

[vifetoile]

Tagging @mudora because I really liked their Ocarina of Time analysis of the Zonai and the Golden Goddesses and @roy-dcm2 because i liked their analysis of Majora's origins

I was seeing some meta about the goddess Hylia and her "chosen" and it seemed to boil down to the idea that in the legend of zelda, destiny is all-powerful and imbues all story beats, major and minor. And something about that just rubbed me the wrong way and it's not because i just find hylia and demise very boring

There may always be lads in green, and there always be a princess or two, but I think free will is still very much a force in the world of Hyrule and its neighbors.

Destiny is a powerful force, that cannot be denied. Revali, for instance, never could have been the Hero himself; that role always belongs to a Hylian youth named Link. A Sheikah named Impa will invariably be tied to the Princess. And yet I can't shake the feeling that free will is present in the lives of everyday people, and even those destined to live the cycle over and again, they can chose how they will express their destiny.

Free will is what builds Tarrey Town and what enables Impa to open Kakariko Village (OoT) to the common folk. Free will is what Midna exercises to break the mirror of twilight. Groose's character development is free will. FURTHERMORE in Termina, Link comes as a reminder of people's agency. He helps the people who have lost all hope. What do people do when they've lost hope? They forget they have free will.

Free will prompts Zelda in OoT to bisect the timeline and break her own heart in the name of childhood & love. Bisecting the timeline doesn't serve any purpose of destiny, in fact it throws destiny into a big ol tizzy. It's not a divine act, it's a human one from a human perspective.

Hell, if there is no free will, then the gods laugh whenever Zelda and Link fall in love.

Video games are an interesting medium in which to discuss free will versus destiny--- I mean, you're controlling a little dude but you yourself are following breadcrumbs laid down by a creator who definitely exists. But I think that Hyrule is meant to be a setting where free will matters, even if only to contrast when the overwhelming symphony of Destiny does come to town. Hyrule is a land to explore and find joy in discovery, for the player and for Link, and I can't square that with the idea that Destiny is everywhere and no one has any choice at all.

[bitchesgetriches]

Productivity music #6: Video game soundtracks

What is it?

Video game soundtracks might be even better than movie soundtracks for productivity. They’re longer and stronger, baby! Designed to withstand the stress tests of being replayed on long loops, in any conceivable order, with a consistent volume.

Don’t play video games? Fine, your loss—just don’t sleep on their soundtracks.

Where to start listening

Bitch-approved favorites include:

Life is Strange: Puts the acoustic guitar at the center of its sensitive, gentle, reflective indie sound. Listen here.

Final Fantasy X Piano Collections: Engaging, emotive, highly listenable piano solos from the most respected composer in gaming. Listen here.

God of War: Viking-flavored ambient fantasy music that somehow feels both smaller and more cinematic than its peers. Listen here.

Legend of Zelda, Ocarina of Time, Hyrule Symphony: Straightforwardly gorgeous classical-inspired orchestrations. Listen here.

Breath of the Wild: Rightly one of the most praised soundtracks in gaming history. Inimitably eclectic, with a gentle, minimalist genre-defying sound. Listen here.

Animal Crossing, New Leaf: Light, calm, totally unchallenging music you can do hella chores to. Listen here.

Katamari Damacy: A bizarre, groovy, poppy weirdness. Some songs have lyrics, but they’re not in English, so whatever. Listen here.

Bastion: A very unique East-meets-West sound. Like a couple of grungy Spaghetti Western cowboys joined forces with a hip-hop producer and, I don’t know—a random sitar player? Listen here.

Mass Effect: Pounding synthy beats for space marines who need to catch up on their space paperwork. Listen here.

Tetris Effect: A game that’s literally built on a framework of spacious, pulsating, mesmerizing beats. Listen here.

Keep reading.

[margindoodles2407]

Do You Want Cinematic Covers of All Your Favorite Zelda Soundtracks? Yeah You Do! Allow Me to Help.

Here is the first part of this masterpost. If you're like me and want to hear movie-style reorchestrations of your favorite Zelda soundtracks, but can't seem to find any (or just forget which ones you liked), then this post is for you. I'll be updating this later eventually but for now, the ones I've found will be in bold. Feel free to add your own favorites!

The Hyrule Fantasy: The Legend of Zelda

Zelda II: The Adventure of Link- Zelda II: The Adventure of Link Orchestral Arrangement (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wt2HvFrmcbQ&list=PLQ58HYTDzLvJbJUP1WPuTMj5DATMUCEr4&pp=iAQB) by The Second Narrator

A Link to the Past

Link's Awakening- The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening Complete Orchestral Arrangement (https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLQ58HYTDzLvL92US1q6csKkVmQN-4SeT-) by The Second Narrator

Ocarina of Time- Hero of Time (https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLczA8pMWxlsHl7kJS4J0NWh68I_fG2nNT) by Materia Collective

Majora's Mask- Children of Termina (https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLeSI4RRDG8EHehOniWw1fuhy_QLZmI_PI) by ROZEN

Oracle of Ages/Oracle of Seasons

Four Swords

The Wind Waker- Wind Waker Orchestrated (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z3XPFHqHTAs&list=OLAK5uy_lcaIuT600LFkN3eN1xf7mVY1T7-6RmcyU) by The Marcus Hedges Trend Orchestra

Four Swords Adventures

The Minish Cap

(oohooheehee here's a good one) Twilight Princess- Twilight Symphony (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NyNR1MJavvA&list=PLk33pAYvZ9URuZ12t-pxMlKpYpbjK5qOL) by ZREO: Second Quest

Phantom Hourglass

Spirit Tracks

Skyward Sword

A Link Between Worlds

Tri Force Heroes

Hyrule Warriors

Breath of the Wild

Tears of the Kingdom

[eriquin]

Tagged by @steviesbicrisis

rules: tag 10 people you want to get to know better

relationship status: married

favorite color: purple

song stuck in my head: it's just the wii music going on in there

last song i listened to: Playlist says "Hyrule Field" by Koji Kondo. Specifically The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time - Hyrule Symphony from 1999. Guess now is as good a time as any to put that playlist back on.

3 favorite foods: .... uuuuuuuugh. I love food. I love to cook! So I'll say: homemade lasagna, which I make approximately once a year for Thanksgiving. Seven-layer cookies from the smitten kitchen recipe, which I haven't made in a couple of years. And cream puffs from Lyndell's in Somerville.

last thing I googled: "cat folk forgotten realms" ... I saw the D&D movie over the weekend and have been adding stuff about it to my queue and couldn't remember the name "tabaxi".

dream trip: I'd like to visit Japan. But I'd also like to go back to Italy and take trains around to visit multiple cities.

anything I want right now: Finish something. I'm making good progress with 100 words a day on established stories (2 WIPs on ao3 and 1 for the steddie bigbang) and then running my script to decide what I work on next. The 100 word benchmark is a low bar to clear.

Tagging: @captainhaterade, @delicatelygloriousphoenix, @gigglebug, @saanphoenix, @fiore-della-valle, ... my brain is not supplying more people. Sorry.

[realroykoopa]

My Zelda Timeline

My Zelda timeline inspired by lorulean historian, Brian David Gilbert, and Bird Keeper Toby: Includes fan creations:

keep in mind not everyone may agree on this timeline. This isn’t to discredit anyone else’s personal timeline it is simply the way I see the games as fitting together:

Majora’s Mask prequel manga 

Minish cap and split:

Timeline 1: Minish cap bad ending: Zelda is turned to stone and Vaati briefly rampages but Link seals Vaati in the four sword leading to the rest of the four swords trilogy.

Four Swords

Four Swords Bonus Manga Stories 

Four Swords Adventures 

Timeline 1A: link to the past and other classic Zelda games: A branch off from the four swords trilogy in which Ganon tries to steal the triforce and gets sealed in the sacred realm. 

A link to the past 

Nintendo Land: Zelda Battle Quest 

Oracle of ages and seasons 

Ancient Stone Tablets and Link’s awakening 

The Time Break and BS The Legend Of Zelda: Link goes into the multiverse after being stranded in the Mario universe, whilst he is gone the events of BS The Legend Of Zelda happen in which a different set of protagonists battle Ganon since link is absent:

Super Mario RPG

Donkey Kong Country 3

Captain Rainbow 

Super Mario Maker

Super Mario Maker 2

Mario Kart 8

Soulcalibur II 

Sonic Lost World Legend Of Zelda Zone

Scribblenauts Unlimited 

End of time break: Link returns to his own universe:

Oath of Riruto

A link between worlds 

Tri force heroes 

Zelda’s Adventure 

End

Timeline 1B: CDI Shenanigans: Instead of going to the sacred realm Ganon goes directly for Hyrule leading to the original Zelda games and media. 

Zelda Game watch

The legend of Zelda and the moblin’s magic spear book presumably takes place at some point during the original Zelda game. 

The Faces of Evil 

Zelda Game and Watch 

The wand of Gamelon 

Crystal Trap and Shadow Prince

Zelda Tv Show and Valiant Comics  

Captain N 

Zelda 2: Adventure of Link

Battle of Mirage Castle

End 

Timeline 2: Minish Cap good ending: the regular ending of Minish Cap leading to the prospering of Hyrule and a different origin for Ganon. 

Cadence Of Hyrule 

The Skull Kid And The Mask manga story 

Ocarina Of time 

Rouru Of The Watarara Manga story 

Link and the Portal of Doom 

Tingle’s Rosy Rupeeland

Tingle's balloon trip of love 

Majora’s Mask 

Link’s Crossbow Training

Twilight Princess

Wind Waker 

Phantom Hourglass

Tingle’s Balloon Fight DS 

Spirit Tracks

Timeline 2A: Terrako doesn’t go back in time resulting in the breaking of Demise’s curse and Hyrule prospering for eternity:

Breathe Of The Wild 

Tears Of The Kingdom

Timeline 2C: Champions succeed: Terrako Travels back in time allowing the champions to succeed. However Ganon was meant to be destroyed for good to break the curse so unbeknownst to them they have doomed The Hero, Hylia, and Demise to reincarnate for eternity meaning there will never be true peace in Hyrule:

Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity 

Hyrule Warriors 

Hang ‘Em Hyrule a Zelda western fan Film 

Modern Zelda Fan Film 

Demise’s curse is never broken leading to Link, Zelda, and Ganondorf reincarnating for the rest of time. 

Timeline 2D: Cadence doesn’t come to Hyrule:

Octavo’s Ode 

Ganon’s Fury 

Symphony Of The Mask 

Ocarina Of Time 

Wind Waker Arc (Hyrule Warriors)

Leads back to Phantom Hourglass in Timeline 2 and continues as normal from there 

I haven’t been able to figure out where the hell Skyward Sword fits on the timeline though. It clearly can’t be first since the first timeline cannot logically include Skyward Sword as part of its backstory due to the fact that Zelda 2 gives a different origin story for the very first Princess Zelda. Unless the Zelda from Zelda 2 is the same as the one from Skyward Sword this would not work. It could go after Minish Cap but it would be hard to explain how the humans go from living on the ground to in the sky. The easy solution would be to say that the timeline was never unified in the first place.

[theclubhero-blog]

Zelda recebe tributo eletrizante da banda DragonForce

Por Vinicius Torres Oliveira

DragonForce, uma banda bem conhecida pelos jogadores de Guitar Hero, lançou um delicioso tributo a The Legend of Zelda. A banda de power metal responsável pelo épico ‘Through the Fire and the Flames’ lançou uma nova faixa, ‘Power of the Triforce’. A letra e o vídeo da faixa contêm muitas referências à franquia Nintendo. O elogio, divulgado nesta quarta-feira, 18, é o próximo esforço da banda, WARP SPEED WARP SPEED, que tem lançamento previsto para 15 de março de 2024​​Parte de Warriors. Enquanto isso, ‘The Power of Triforce’ foi lançado junto com um vídeo. Não se esqueça de incluir clipes que evitem possíveis violações de direitos autorais, mas que também sejam muito amigáveis ​​aos fãs (via NintendoLife). A letra, por outro lado, é um banquete de ovo de Páscoa. O refrão rápido anuncia a chegada das “lendas surgindo dos Portões do Tempo” que colocarão a Triforce fora do alcance dos vilões em Ocarina of Time. O artefato dourado é o tema da próxima passagem. “Sabedoria, coragem e força estão unidas como um só, e agora todos sentem a glória da Espada Mestra. Os fãs reconhecerão outros nomes como Ganon, Agahnim, Twilight Princess, Great Deku Tree e Kingdom of Hyrule. Confira a letra completa. Esta não é a primeira vez que o grupo demonstra interesse em jogos. No passado, a banda lançou singles como "Symphony of the Night", uma homenagem a Castlevania, e "The Last Dragonborn", uma homenagem a The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim.

[decaffinatedtunes]

"Movement II - The Ocarina of Time" from Symphony of the Goddesses

Follow me on: Patreon | SoundCloud | YouTube | Twitter

Performed Digitally by: Jacob Barber

Themes by: Koji Kondo Arranged by: Chad Seiter Orchestrated by: Susie Benchasil Seiter & Chad Seiter

I do not own the Symphony of the Goddesses, or any arrangements therein. I am not affiliated in anyway with Nintendo or Jason Michael Paul Productions, Inc. Symphony of the Goddesses is the property of Jason Michael Paul Productions, Inc.

This was a BEAST of a track! The longest I've performed yet, and the second longest in the whole symphony (second only to the Link to the Past movement)! I really pushed myself for quality and fidelity, trying everything I've learned to get the sound I wanted and I think it absolutely paid off.

This piece is challenging on it's own right, difficult time signatures, tons of polyphony, and intense instrumentation definitely threw me through a loop. I love so many little pieces of its brilliance. Translating Link's Nightmare musically was such a successful way of beginning the piece, and the expansion of the Title Theme was absolutely gorgeous.

I would also argue that Chad and Susie's arrangement of Hyrule Field is absolutely the best I've heard, and the way it transitions into Saria's Song is just brilliant. Furthermore, I ADORE the sequence they create with Ganondorf Battle, into a richly reorchestrated Escape from Hyrule Castle, flowing seamlessly into the Last Battle. And that last moment with the Seal of the Six Sages and the little sting of Majora's Theme... this is probably one of my favorite pieces of video game orchestral music.

What was most interesting to me was how easily many of the pieces flowed together. While I've definitely gotten a better grasp on mixing, some parts present real challenges but overall the dynamic level was well balanced in the orchestration. I think I've definitely picked up a few tricks for future use.

One last tidbit--this performance is actually a bit of preservation too, as you actually won't ever hear the Ocarina of Time Movement performed in its entirety anymore (at least at the Symphony of the Goddesses), as they cut the first two minutes of the movement to make time for the Skyward Sword Movement, omitting the Link's Nightmare and Deku Tree segments.

Hope you all enjoy this track as much as I did making it! It triggered some long-buried nostalgia for me. Even though I don't enjoy playing OoT anymore, this refreshed the amazing memories I had with the game--maybe it'll do the same for you!

(Transcribed in Sibelius 2018. Sequenced, mixed and mastered in FL Studio 20)

[facet-head]

Vines that give me life...

[legend-of-zelda-voices]

Yuko Kawai is an alternative voice actress.

First Role for LoZ: Hyrule Symphony CD (Malon)

Other LoZ Roles: (None)

Alternate LU Voice for: Malon

Some characters with the same voice:

...

In the CD:

"The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time Hyrule Symphony" CD

5. Lon Lon Ranch (Theme)

The CD contains orchestrated versions of songs from Ocarina of Time. The rest of the CD can be found here if you're interested.

[zarvasace]

I have decided something dumb: my modern AU versions’ favorite music.

Time: guitar solos and duets. He’s good with anything instrumental as long as it’s not ocarina music.

Twilight: straight up country boy

Wild: a large variety of EDM. He thinks EDM remixes of dumb songs are fun.

Wind: doesn’t really have a favorite yet, hasn’t been exposed to a lot of recorded music in general. He’d probably be a fan of the gen z popular music, meme songs, and oddly romanticism as he does like conducting in his head

Warriors: recent to old pop music, Adele and Coldplay. Has a hidden, small taste for fantasy metal. Goes to the symphony a lot and cries because it’s beautiful.

Legend: hasn’t been exposed to much either. He’s a great musician though and can appreciate a lot of different kinds. He’d say symphonic music is pretentious but secretly love it and get emotional about the abstract pieces (he and Wars would bond if they let themselves). He’d sing Broadway songs when nobody else is around but say that his favorite is hardcore goth rock (I gotta project somewhere.) see: Giving Ground by The Sisterhood

Hyrule: also hasn’t been exposed to much. He’d like songs with a good message and not know anything about genre. He’d go from *it’s the cliiiiiiimb* to *through the fire and the flames we carry oooooon* without any chill.

Sky: jpop. He tried to get into kpop but it wasn’t his thing. Has an entire playlist of anime openings and endings he can’t get enough of. More on the indie side of things otherwise. See: Inochi no Tabekata by Eve. Or like, Flamingo by Yunezu Kenshi.

Four: honestly doesn’t care too much. The most likely out of everyone to listen to 80s classics like Foreigner. Blue likes punk sometimes too, Red likes video game music and heartfelt singing, Vio likes show music and foreign language, Green’s fine with whatever’s on the radio. As long as the song doesn’t focus on cats or green peppers they’re fine. Partial to songs about rainbows.

[shadow13dickpistons]

I was tagged by @newleafover​ to go over four albums I’ve been into lately, though I mostly listen to mixes? And most of what I listen to is in no way new. Sooooooo....I picked out the four most recent CDs I listened to (as far as I’m aware, anyway) that I also enjoyed. So:

David Bowie’s Heathen! @bigtiddiegothgirlfriend​‘s favorite tour, and it has some hauntingly beautiful tracks. “Sunday” and “I Would Be Your Slave” are standouts for me, but there are other great ones as well.

That 1994 studio recording of Brigadoon I was talking about recently, it’s really good.

The 2008 South Pacific revival, which was going on while I was in New York, but I didn’t see. My overall reaction was “it’s okay.” Like, the singing was fine. If you want something that sounds like Mary Martin, but isn’t, this is fine. But I will take the 2006 Carnegie Hall concert version every single time, cause it has grit. It has emotion. It’s FUN. This was, again, okay. It was by no means bad. But eh.

Legend of Zelda Ocarina of Time Hyrule Symphony. Pretty much what the cover says. It’s fun.

I tag @pharaoh-ink​, @bigtiddiegothgirlfriend​, and @apprenticemockingbird​.

[demonfox38]

Completed - Zelda II: The Adventure of Link

Oh, my language is going to be vulgar on this one.

So, I'm a crusty millennial who likes old garbage. Most of the media I like is old enough to drink and be a member of the US congress, but probably couldn't be due to the country that produced it. Now, I'd like to think that I've got good reasons to like older media, particularly when it comes to video games. It's a bit hard for my NES to bug me for microtransactions/DLC and emanate the screams of children and man-children alike. But, as much as I like my retro junk, there's one thing I'm very, very happy about regarding modern video games. The variety of game types now-a-days is a blessing. It's rare that someone is stellar at all game types, and I sure have my weaknesses.

It took me a long time to realize that I could be good at video games, and I wholly blame the glut of 1980s platforming games on that.

Look, platforming is not a forgiving genre. Particularly, back in the day where you had characters dying in 1-3 hits before factoring in death pits. It existed then for the reason that fourteen million instakill indie horror games exist now. Instantly killing the player is a lot easier to code than, say, having to track a health bar or their new position as an enemy swats them into a different room. Sometimes, a coder's gotta do what they can to keep themselves sane.

But, from a player's perspective, this style sucks!

Getting good at a platforming game requires practicing the same levels over and over again, developing a sense of your character's inertia and limitations. Without a save state or a warp to narrow in on a particularly troublesome location, it's hard to get learning to stick. You could lose a lot of games and time trying to put it all together. And some poor little character is always suffering because of your ineptitude! Such failure feels like a fork in an electrical socket. Succeeding in these circumstances requires a great deal of emotional resilience and a contrary attitude. And you know what? That's just not something I had as a kid. In fact, one could say I had my aggression and competitive drive scolded out of me. I'm just now getting that back.

So, yeah. I had a little trouble with "Zelda II: The Adventure of Link."

"Zelda II" is part of a trifecta of NES games that get routinely shit on by retro reviewers. Like its peers "Super Mario Bros. 2" and "Castlevania II", this game is generally considered an inferior game due to an extreme change of gameplay and appearance from its predecessors. And you know what? That attitude sucks. I'd rather have a variety of different games with a cast I like than have them pigeon-holed into one genre. In "Zelda II"'s case, however? The game mechanic shift was so extreme that I can easily see the ire it raises. Hell, I felt it. I wouldn't go so far to say that it's the worst Zelda game ever, but man, does it have structural defects.

In "Zelda II", Link's goal is to save an ensorcelled Zelda from eternal slumber by picking up a Triforce chunk that was pitched into a fuck-off palace way at the edge of Hyrule. (No, not the Zelda from the first game. Another Zelda. Same Link, though.) To do that, he's got to slap six gemstones into various temples across the countryside. Naturally, that includes picking up his trusty sword, leaping into battle, and then maybe straight into a death pit.

That's right. This Zelda is actually a Mario.

Further complicating the matter is a sharp switch in battle style and item accruement. While the previous Zelda game was about room management and ranged combat (or at least, as much as that was allowed), this game is all about jamming Link's dinky sword into an enemy's face and running off as fast as he can. Now, Link can learn a few tricks to help with the slash and dash, like directional stab mechanics and spells. But, as far as getting new weapons to help you? Sorry, bud. No bombs or boomerangs here. Well, except for the assholes throwing boomerangs at you, anyway. You just can't steal them.

The game encourages polishing the player's skill with Link through a level system. After acquiring XP through good ol' fashioned monster murdering, Link can cash his points out, improving his life, magic, or attack power. As the player levels him up, stats become more costly to improve. If Link gets a total game over before you use your XP, it is wiped out. Alright, fine. Fair, I guess. But, I wouldn't recommend looking at Japanese footage of this game if you don't want to give yourself a migraine. It turns out that as a part of some rebalancing, the level-up system was stacked to try and keep players from dumping all of their points into a single stat early into the game. Particularly, attack. Considering how painful and annoying enemy logic gets in this game, it's such a drag to learn that Japanese players literally could cut their way right out of that struggle. Thanks for dicking with the game design again, American publishers.

I guess we got better looking sprites and sound effects out of the deal? Hooray for wiggly Barba.

Even with leveling mechanics and a handful of heart and magic containers, this Link feels much frailer than the original Zelda's Link. Like, it's hard to believe he's supposed to be the same guy. Even at max health and defense, you could get Link wiped out with 8-32 hits (as opposed to 16-64 hits from the first game.) Exacerbating that is a life system that can yoink those health bars at any pit's whim and Link's range/health restoration being tied to a limited pool of magic. It feels like you're playing with a ceramic replica of the original character. You can make it work in a fight, sure, but you'd rather have a sword than a shard of a broken teapot.

If you don't have a bushido-level acceptance of death, you're not going to make it very far in this game. I'm not being hyperbolic. You have to accept that you are going to kill Link. You're going to watch that little fairy boy fade to black as the world flashes around him, and you're going to see that a lot. You're going to toss his bitch ass into the river to get a game over and restock your lives because fuck if you're going to wipe out inside a dungeon and have to start your bitch ass back at Zelda's temple again. That little counter on the main menu isn't how many times you have wiped out. It's how many times you've clawed your way out of the abyss with a middle finger raised.

Oh. Minor epilepsy warning on boss and Link deaths, by the way.

Having gone full bleak there for a moment, there are a few pieces of knowledge that can help slow down the cycle of life and death:

There are towns with nice ladies in red dresses and orange robes that will heal your ass for free. You should talk with them a lot.

There are classes of enemies that will drop items after they have been killed six times. Most of the time, this is a magic bottle that restores MP. Sometimes, it's a bag of experience. No monster will drop anything to heal your HP.

Also, some enemies are literal rat bastards that steal your XP. Some also give you no XP on killing them. Yeah. I know. Annoying.

The Life spell is in Saria. The downward stab is in Mido. (I realize these are very strange sentences if you're more familiar with "Ocarina of Time.") Getting these can make a night and day difference in surviving the game. So, keep that in mind.

You do get a spell that will turn you into a fairy. You can use it to game pits and sneak past lock doors. Just don't abuse it too much. It's expensive.

The dungeons have this little statue in front of them that you can whack with your sword. In most locations, it'll drop either a magic bottle or an Iron Knuckle. Game entering and exiting a dungeon as much as possible to restore yourself to full vitality.

You can get into random fights on the overworld (represented either by a little black blob or a more threatening human-sized blob.) Staying on gold roads will mean these encounters produce no enemies.

Also, you can use those random battles to override forced platforming sections. Not that I would recommend cheating in such a fashion. 😉

The game will give you a level up after you plug a gemstone into a dungeon. If you're close to leveling up anyway, turn around and grind up to the top, cash in what you've got, and then go pitch that gem.

Link has a crouch, not a duck. You think pressing down on the D-pad will evade projectiles aimed at your face, but it does not. Crouching is only good for blocking floor-level garbage. It's best not to think of the down button as much as possible, really. Only use it to pick up crap off the ground and cheese the final boss. Otherwise, jump.

I know that I said earlier that "Zelda II" is mechanically like a Mario game, but you know what other perspective might help? Try and play Link as a Metroidvania Castlevania character. There's an attack style in games like "Castlevania: Symphony of the Night" and "Aria of Sorrow" where you walk, jump, and attack in such a way that you never stop moving forward. That's what you've got to do. Walk, jump at an enemy, bonk on forehead. (Depending on how fast you press the attack button, you may need to delay swinging your sword just a teeny bit. At least, I had a bad habit of swinging too early.) With any luck, when you hit the ground, you will be able to keep on moving. You do not want to get stuck playing "poke-the-hole" with your enemies, particularly with how turtle-y some of them can get.

So, the game's a brutal bitch, but I don't want to spend the entire time shitting on it. Let's talk about improvements.

Honestly, I like the sprite style of the side-scrolling sections better than the previous game. Everyone/thing has more room to be rendered, so they look clearer. I can't say the monster or dungeon design here is my favorite, but hey. Easy to see. Yippie. Could have used a map though. Maybe some more tile textures in the dungeons?

NO. STOP. BE NICE.

There are more people around that want to help Link out. Like, whole towns filled with helpful healing ladies and dudes that will teach you magic and the occasional sword strike. Most of their conversation makes sense (although, there's a memetastic fault in translation regarding a character being named Error instead of what I'm assuming should have been Errol.) People good. Want to help people. People help me.

Except for towns where some of the people are monsters, and one of the times they overlapped a healing lady to get text box priority, and then they killed me. Boo.

I'M SORRY. I HAD A HARD TIME.

The music variety is pleasant. Only a few tracks have escaped the game to go into use elsewhere, but there's only one that I'm really iffy on. The NA release did a fine job transposing what they could using a different sound chip, and there are striking uses of the sample channel being used in ominous situations.

But…like…I struggle to see where fighting through this game is worth it. And maybe it comes down to the final boss. Like, the penultimate one? Absolutely cool. A bitch to fight, but I can't knock how massive and intricate its sprite is. But, the final boss? I suppose it comes down to personal tastes, but I find mirror matches/rivals to be exceedingly dull. Like, good for you. You know how I fight. I do too. Come back to me when you know the weaknesses of my style and use a fresh set of skills to throw at me.

Like, it's not the worst ending in the Zelda series. (My vote for that would go to "Link's Awakening.") You do get Zelda saved. But, given that the final boss is some kind of dark clone of yourself…it begs a lot of questions. Was there any concrete plan for the forces of darkness in Hyrule, or were various monster tribes just scuffling around, being dicks without any overarching plan? Were some monsters trying to keep you out of the Great Palace for a good reason? Would there have been any threat of Ganon reviving at all if Link just…sat on his ass behind a castle for the next century or managed his anxiety in a different way? Why does the manual bother to separate Zeldas and the game does not? Oh, wait. The Japanese intro correctly distinguishes this and the American one does not. Why am I not surprised? What's the difference if you don't see the Zelda you saved from the first game, anyway?

This game is a lot of work. I had to psych myself up to play it every time, and by the end, I was rattled enough by my nerves that I literally camped in my bathroom for a few minutes just to make sure I didn't get sick on the couch. Very stressful. And I'm not sure that stress was worth it, frankly. Life's hard enough as it is right now. I literally have a stress rash on my neck from the shit I'm going through in real life. No, you did not need to know about that. But maybe you need to know that I've been having a hard time lately, and this game did nothing to alleviate me from the stresses of reality. And what's the point in checking out from reality if a fantasy world is just going to make me miserable, too?

There are better games to play in this style. Hell, there are better games on the NES in this style. You know what you should go play? "Faxanadu." It's uglier than "Zelda II", sure. An absolute idiot when it comes to basic mathematics. But it's very chill about platforming and death. And maybe I just want to chill the fuck out for a while.

[lapeppermusic]

Ocarina of Time is my favorite Zelda game. Hands down. It's just got the best music, the best story, engaging gameplay, and at the time the graphics were revolutionary! It was the first 3D step into the world of Hyrule, and it was amazing! I have so many fond memories wasting time playing this game in college, and the music has stuck with me to this day. It was the game that bridged the gap between my childhood love for Zelda and a true appreciation for the series as an adult.

When I set out a couple months ago to do an Ocarina of Time medley, I was a bit overwhelmed. Have you ever looked at the official soundtrack?! It's enormous! There was SO much music to choose from, and I had a really difficult time leaving certain ones out. (um, Gerudo Valley?! The Symphony of the Goddess nailed it so hard that it should never be redone. Ever.) Here's the breakdown of what I did include:

0:00 - 0:54: Opening titles, Temple of Time, Original theme 0:54 - 1:56: Enter Ganondorf 1:56 - 2:32: Hero of Time (original theme/song of time) 2:32 - 4:08: Hyrule Field 4:08 - 5:45: Zelda's Lullaby 5:45 - 6:23: Sheik's Theme 6:23 - 6:50: Interlude 6:50 - 9:28: The Final Battle 9:28 - 10:13: Opening Credits interlude 10:13 - 12:03: Zelda's Lullaby and End Credits

I know it's a long one, but I'm also going to separate Hyrule Field and the Final Battle as separate tracks, since they really can stand alone on their own. I hope you enjoy it! :)

[jadeender]

The Fortress of Darkness and Light Part 1

The next morning the heroes awoke and prepared for the final battle, Legend assured them they could reach Veran’s fortress before the day was over and they revealed in the idea that in only a matter of hours they would be free. Free from the influence of the darks and finally back to their own selves. 

With all their weapons and armor at the ready, magical tools on hand the ten of them set out from Legend’s house. The purple rabbit man, Ravio, had insisted on following them, claiming to worry about Legend’s safety. 

Sighing Sky walked alongside his friends, he should have felt happy to almost be rid of Stygian, but he didn’t. If he was honest he hadn’t felt much at all recently. Stygian kept quiet most of the time which was almost worse than talking constantly. 

The day passed in a haze, everyone was on edge legend and Ravio led the group reassuring every once and awhile they were getting close. Despite being “good friends” Sky never really saw Ravio and Legend act like it. Both of them kept their attention on other things and rarely spoke to each other while they were traveling. 

Sky just wanted it all to be done, he wanted to rest. It had been so long since he’d had a refreshing deep sleep, since he dreamed instead of having cryptid nightmares that only filled him anxiety and stress.

Just after their noon time lunch break Legend turned to address them, his skin had become more ashen recently and the green highlights in his hair more pronounced. 

“In just about ten minutes of walking Veran’s fortress should be in sight. Once we get in we just have to make it to the top and take her out. The usual stuff. I don’t know what kind of traps she’ll have set up so be ready for anything.” With the Legend turned around and lead them on.

Surely enough very soon the fortress appeared in their vision, it appeared like a twisted imitation of Hyrule castle. Colored all dark great a shadow was cast over the land, as they continued on the draw bridge opened and Veran’s voice drifted out over the wind,

“Heroes of light, creatures of dark, and those in between. You seek to be free yet first you must pass through my fortress, trials of dark and trials of light await you. Only if you embrace both will you succeed.” 

As Veran’s voice faded so did the light around them and the heroes slipped into unconsciousness. 

____________________________________________________________________________

When Sky awoke again it was like his head was full of dense clouds that made his thoughts fuzzy and slow. Looking around he saw only Legend, Four, Wild, and Twilight. The others were gone. A quick survey showed they were in a small room with a corridor leading outward. 

“She split us up.” Legend observed looking at his friends before registering, “Wait where’s Ravio?”

“He’s probably with the others.” Twi comforted as Sky moved to sitting still trying to clear his head, all their words felt muffled and distant. 

“That means he’s alone with Eternal, and Conqueror, and Callous.” Legend’s breath speed up slightly, looking on the edge of panic. “We need to find them.”

Four grabbed Legend’s hand and signed something Sky couldn’t see. As Twilight continued, “No, that means he’s there with Time, and Warriors and Hyrule. They wouldn’t let the darks hurt him.”

Legend mumbled something Sky couldn’t hear, his ears finally beginning to clear he heard Wild speak up. “We need to get moving, I’m sure we’ll meet up with others if we just go through. 

The others nodded and gathered their things. Sky stood noticing his second sword had slipped out of its scabbard, the sword he loathed to use but found himself carrying most often. Fi still wouldn't respond, not so much as a word or even a feeling in months, it was almost easier to use the demon sword rather than have to deal with that silence.

Sighing lightly he put his swords back in their scabbard as the ghostly image of his old enemy appeared by him, not that the others could see.

"Finally we made it to the stupid palace, I can't wait to be free of this stupid light." Griahim complained as he often did. 

Sky just ignored the sword spirit as he started to follow the others. Ghirahim continued to complain as they went, complaining that he hadn't taken care of the blade or complaining about the temple and it's garish design.

As they ended the hall it opened into a wide room with black and white tiles if the floor, as Wild who was in the lead stepped in the first tile it made a sound like a note played on the piano. 

“What the…?” Wild started.

Veran’s melodious voice floated over them once again “Each of you must play along to the song of the tiles, for if you dont death will befall on these trials.”

The five looked at each other, before Sky spoke up. “I think we need to play music, as we walk across.”

From his bag Sky drew his Zelda’s harp, the small golden harp reminded him of her. A heavy weight settled in his heart as somewhere in the pits of their soul he felt Stygain’s repulse for her. Sky still loved her, more than he had ever loved anyone before, but using her harp felt wrong in his hands.

Trying to push that feeling of disgust away he strummed the harp lightly its golden tones still melodious as they always had been. Four and Legend turned to their bags and dug through them, Four producing a simple ocarina and Legend producing a harp, quite different from Zelda’s. Legend’s harp was pink and blue in a circle, with golden features. As he strummed it the others could feel the power that came from it, this was not just an instrument.

Wild and Twilight just kind of stood there awkwardly and Four turned to them signing “You music play?”

“Well um I do have one thing I could try, I’m not very good with it.” With a few taps of the Sheikah slate wild pulled out an accordion. He squeezed the instrument a few times tapping the keys on the side in a familiar melody though Sky couldn’t recall its name. Legend nodded and they turned back to Twilight who shifted nervously.

“Do you not play any instrument?” Legend questioned. “I've got a spare few in my bag….”

“I um, I usually howl.” Twilight muttered. The others attention snapped back to him. 

“You what?” Legend laughed.

“I howl, I can whistle too but not without a piece of grass.” Twi said his face becoming more assured. 

“It’ll be fine Twilight.” Wild said looking at the others, he shifted his accordion and turned back around to face the room.

Sky watched as Twilight shifted into his wolf form and let out a howl, deep and full. The others played their instruments along with it, the sounds of their odd five piece band mingling together.

Sky strummed the harp as they made their way through the room, each new tile would make a note and they would respond by playing the same or accompanying ones, as they hurried over the floor it grew into a song of sorts each note helping to create the symphony. As Sky played the feeling of the harp in his hands made him warm, glad that he had this piece of her with him.

As they reached the final tile of them room it sounded with a deep tone like that of a church bell striking, though they tried to recreate it only Twilight’s howls came anywhere close to it. Though he should have felt panicked Sky didn’t, he felt calm, calmer than he had in awhile but Zelda’s harp always had that effect on him. Instead Sky just briskly walked forward off the tile into the safety of the hallway as the tile began to crack and shake. The others quickly followed running and in some cases jumping off to make it into the hallway. 

After putting away their instruments the other turned to Sky.

“How did you know that would work?” Twilight questioned. “There could have been some other trap or trick.” 

Sky simply shrugged, “It was the last tile, it was the simplest path.”

After a few more odd glances the others continued on ward as they started through the maze of Veran’s castle, they honestly did more getting lost than they did solving puzzles or setting off traps.

But as they continued Sky kept thinking about that puzzle, about the song they played, once he put it together it seemed familiar, like something Zelda would have played for him when they were younger. An image of her playing the harp, her hands moving lightly over is strings, golden hair gleaming in the sun appeared in his mind conjuring up a small smile on his face.

Could have this witch designed the puzzle, for him? To remind him of his Zelda? Sky’s thoughts wondered at the possibility, but why would she have done that? As he followed that line of reasoning Sky thoughts turned, she was using Zelda’s song to mock him. To use something he loved against him.

The dark part of his mind, the voice and emotions he’d come to associate with Stygian spoke. “You let your pathetic obsession with her make you a fool, even before this witch stepped in.”

“Its not an obsession, I love her.” He defended yet the voice rose again.

“And that makes you all the weaker, thinking yourself worthy of a goddess.” 

Sky’s heart fell as he considered the words, was he really worthy of her and her affection? He spent his entire life learning how to fight to protect her, to be a knight for their home. But for what? For a woman that would never be able to be with him even though they had been reincarnated so many times together. 

The harp now hidden in his pack seemed to grow heavy at his thoughts and he felt a growing repulsion to the instrument. All of that, just to solve a stupid puzzle?