Octopath Traveler - For Redemption/Decisive Battle 2, Performed by NJGSO

Premiered at NJGSO's Fall 2023 Concert Composed by Yasunori Nishiki Arranged by Ziad Asadi and V. Luberi (of the Virtual Video Game Orchestra) Adapted by Jacob Zeleny Video Editor: Jon Rosario of Elementality Studios https://www.elementalitystudios.com Audio Engineer: Bill Rouse https://billrouseaudio.com NJGSO presents its own “try not to headbang challenge.” It’s an unspoken rule of Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPGs) that they must have insanely catchy and downright epic boss battle themes. This track is certainly no exception! Octopath Traveler comes from the legendary JRPG masterminds at Square Enix, releasing on the Nintendo Switch back in 2018. The game puts you in the role of 8 different stories, each one starring a new character. Though it bears a striking resemblance to classic Super Nintendo-era titles from Square, it has a few modern tricks on display: namely, its orchestral soundtrack. With a brief build up at the beginning, this arrangement quickly launches into a frenzy of pounding drum patterns, rhythmic electric guitar, and sweeping strings. The aforementioned guitar provides a consistent “Hard Rock” sound to the piece, fitting for a decisive battle. The momentum continues through to the grand finale, with a powerful blast of drums and an unexpectedly pleasant chime melody (you’ll know it when you hear it!) #njgso #vgm #orchestra #octopathtraveler #octopath