It’s been a shameful while since I last delivered a Jukebox Heroes column to you, but what better occasion is there for a revival than a new MMO launch? Lost Ark’s release has taken the gaming world by storm, and between the title’s gorgeous visuals, addictive gameplay, and accessible systems, it’s quite deserving of its popularity.
However, in this space we want to look at another terrific aspect of this MMOARPG: It’s score. Composers Yong Kim and Brian Tyler and Conductor Allan Wilson collaborated to bring a rather amazing soundtrack that bolster’s the game’s high fantasy feel, and today I want to bring to you six highlights from the OST.
“Main Theme”
A purely lovely theme kicks this expansive soundtrack off. I really appreciate how light and fluffy it is. It’s not trying to be epic or overloading, just inspirational and enthusiastic. You really get that from the flute belting out an earworm of the theme.
“Black Tooth”
The interesting combo of a Spanish guitar and a choir leads us into a stirring track of adventure, danger, and victory. This wouldn’t be too far out of place in a Pirates of the Caribbean movie, if that gives you an idea of where it’s going.
“Dawn of Arkrasia”
Swirling with magic and mystery, this piece sends us rocketing down a river of crescendos and discoveries. It’s painfully good, putting me in mind of the spirit of Spielbergian adventure movies that I loved back in the ’80s.
“Calm Village”
Every MMO has at least one, you know, and it comes standard with the most mellow tunes that its simple inhabitants can create. This track is nothing more and nothing less. It may not be my favorite village song of all time, but it’s perfectly serviceable while you milk the mega-cows and fight the demon chickens for their delicious spirit eggs.
“Midnight Circus”
Welcome to the Big Top — OF INSANITY. Video game composers really, really love to marry circus or calliope music with madness. They certainly seem to go together well, so I’m not fighting them on this. This is Danny Elfman-style craziness right here.
“Ocean World”
Sailing is, weirdly enough, a big part of this MMO, so I figured we had to include at least one related track in this list. Ocean World takes us on a jaunty cruise where the buffet is stocked full of fast-paced thrills and the dance instructor is leading everyone in a nautical jig.
Need more Lost Ark soundtrack goodness? Check out Battle Bards’ episode exploring the score!
MMOs are meant to be heard as well as seen, and chances are that music ties your memories to these games more than you might realize. Every two weeks Jukebox Heroes listens through a game soundtrack and picks out the highlights to share and discuss. And if you like this column, then don’t miss the author’s MMO music podcast, Battle Bards!
