In Defence of Zelda: Breath of the Wild's Soundtrack

[@GMTK]

Beautifully done Mathew. Bravo.

[@GameScoreFanfare]

Thanks Mark, means a whole lot. :) Your own BotW music video really pushed me to try and find something unique to say, so thanks for that too!

[@guilhermehentz]

love you mark

[@oceanman2811]

Mark Brown hey i know you, i watch your videos too have we met before ?

[@jakebaigent7582]

WHO THE FUCK IS MARK BROWN? lol.

[@oceanman2811]

Jake Baigent go check his channel

[@emilypepper1277]

Botw music make me think of someone wistfully thinking of a place they can’t return to because that place no longer exists, which I find really fitting, but sad.

[@cometvaudin2850]

Tube Cat It kinda makes me think of Link's internal struggles as he wonders who he actually was 100 years earlier. Is he the same person or has he changed? The music gives off this quiet contemplation of one's identity and their 'destiny'.

[@vadimmanuilov7401]

Like “Spirited Away”. Sort of.

[@andreiamendes5449]

Saudade. One of the hardest words to define in the world, from the portuguese language, check it out if you'd like.

[@Celcil49286]

Nostalgia

[@candicraveingcloude2822]

@@Celcil49286 Not quite. It's like nostalgia sure, but it's not for a place or time you've been to, but for a place you have never been. It's like if you could ask the question "can you miss something you never had?" and the answer being "yes you can."

[@DiogoVKersting]

I also thought it was really cool how the music of Tarrey Town develops along with the Town development, in the end reflecting the multi-cultural nature of the town.

[@Mikedragon971]

It's my favorite piece of the game, hearing it bare, then hearing it again after each new villager came in was one of my personal joy in the game.

[@Pika250]

And that's covered in Mark Brown's video.

[@BlazeTaleo]

God I love that so much, instruments being brought in with each person until it’s a full piece, awesome

[@elijahy8433]

This was my favorite thing about the soundtrack and my favorite side quest in the game. Whenever I hear the music I get a huge smile on my face.

[@Swezzaful]

Ugh especially the little goron bells they get me every time. I hear it even it vah rudania

[@loconnolly7474]

you could also say that the silence in botw's music is the japanese idea of ma - meaning negative space. the idea that a lack of something tells as much as something itself

[@Cuzjudd]

Yeah it just tells me to run from one side of the map to other without really pushing me a long. I don't like it

[@ikebirchum6591]

Cuzjudd then look up a 10 hour loop of the ocarina of time overworld theme on youtube and play that over the gameplay until you inevitably get sick of it

[@MrSnowmanJoe]

Cuzjudd I suggest you avoid the outdoors. I feel like you'd probably die trying to circumnavigate the earth.

[@WiresDawson]

If you need music to push you along, then you must have some weird genetic deformity, m8.

[@andrewsharp4950]

This is very true, "ma" plays a large part in much of the Studio Ghibli films, and other iconic Japanese productions. The lack of something is itself a thing. Something not often recognized or valued as often in the West. Yin and Yang are deep cultural undertones in much of Eastern culture, where the West usually views things from a good vs. evil dichotomy, where evil must ultimately lose and disappear. As opposed to the cyclical nature of good and evil as seen in Zelda games. The East is more likely to embrace good and evil as two sides of the same coin. You can't have a heroic adventure for link without a threat imposed by Ganondorf. This is part of why Ganondorf is usually sealed away, not truly destroyed.

[@bloocheez3]

The "A Guardian sees you!" music nearly gives me a freaking panic attack.

[@noahmeserve4720]

That's kinda the point. These otherworldly machines that killed so many people should be fear-inducing in every way.

[@noahmeserve4720]

@Ian Minondo-Lilley I can't really understand that english but I'm gonna assume you aren't telling me to fuck myself

[@noahmeserve4720]

@Ian Minondo-Lilley Ah yea, makes sense. Ohhhh, the internet

[@lamihadamshareef5270]

My first moveing gurdian iwas just climbing moutainuntill the music kicked in i pushed it off the moutain into bottom by cauting its legs but when ever music of the gurdian kicks is just fearful to hear.

[@evecampbell3069]

@Ian Minondo-Lilley I can never grammar.

[@SamPearman]

I didn't realise anyone was annoyed at Breath of the Wild's soundtrack at all. I personally loved it. I thought it was spectacular and incredibly appropriate. Actually, the only thing that annoys me soundwise is that I often hear birds that don't actually exist (especially owls), which creates an odd dissonance when I'm specifically hunting for fauna and listening for specific birdcalls.

[@GameScoreFanfare]

+Sam Pearman hahahaha this is true! I imagine one day every sound will have an actual in-game source.

[@SamPearman]

Game Score Fanfare It wouldn't even need to, just only make noises for things that can be found in that rough area but at a distance... However I sort of think that this game could've done it. Or at least leave the foley as rustling trees and stuff and leave out birds!

[@cederelhall]

The owls always do get me

[@Mr.Potts05]

The owls sound like an actual person making owl noises 😅 which makes me imagine some guy in the booth making owl noises haha

[@O1OO1O1]

It took me years to track a bird that made a noise I always heard in real life. Owls can also be hard to find. It's not too unrealistic.

[@megasean3000]

That’s the thing people can’t understand, this game isn’t a heroic adventure, it’s a tragedy. It’s a tragedy seeing Zelda work herself to the bone to defend Hyrule, fail and break down. It’s a tragedy seeing the proud and graceful Rito to be grounded out of fear of being shot down by Vah Medoh. It’s a tragedy seeing Yunobo be blessed with Daruk’s Protection, but is too scared to use it effectively. In comparison to the brave and strong Daruk. It’s a tragedy seeing the Zora who are blessed with long life, loved Mipha, and must live on without her heartwarming presence. It’s a tragedy exploring Hyrule and seeing the things that would have been so great to see in its prime reduced to cinders and destruction. Of course there’s not going to be as much majestic trumpets or epic drums, this isn’t a magnificent Hyrule, it’s a mourning Hyrule.

[@GameScoreFanfare]

+mega sean Great point. I wish I used the word "tragedy", that's exactly what it is.

[@WiresDawson]

very well said!

[@nottocleverxx614]

Nicely put 👏

[@mpacino1224]

It is a tragedy. The washed out colors of the apocalyptic Hyrule. It's like watching a black and white movie from the 1930's.

[@aggressivepianonoises813]

It also must not be very happy for the gerudo to have to resort to a chief that’s still a child, have their most prized possession and the heirloom that represents the pride of their people stolen, and know that every day, every step Vah Naboris takes towards their town, that’s one step closer to their demise and the town’s ruin.

[@capriottimultimedia]

The sound of the open, natural world is music itself. The wind blowing through the trees, the waterfalls cascading over ancient ruins, the choirs of bugs exclaiming their harmonies.

[@WiresDawson]

completely agree. another of my favourite games, The Witness, did this just as brilliantly. sadly, though, it's a really under-appreciated method of scoring games.

[@radleyXIII]

Honestly, I never felt very emotionally invested in a video game until Breath of the Wild. The soundtrack to me is the representation of the emotions of Link on what he feels or think. Whether it's solitude on the field being attacked or ambushed by enemies or even feeling safe in a town or stable, it makes the sound track more personal and relatable to understanding Link as a character.

[@andrewchabin7026]

Yeah if you like this game and it's sound track, try outer wilds, that one got me really interested too

[@gogo.yubari6589]

Finally someone who agrees, I personally think the silent moments in botw make the loud music in battle or the dramatic music when You reach a stable so much more meaningful.

[@realMG420]

I don't understand the hate Breath of the Wild's soundtrack gets. Sure, there isn't a lot of music, but that doesn't mean the music is bad. When music starts playing in the background, it's almost always fantastic. Just look at Rito Village and Hyrule Castle. Plus, I can guarantee you that if there was an orchestral score constantly playing in the background in every area in BotW, it would be a very different experience. BotW is a very different Zelda game, so the musical styles of the previous games in the series really wouldn't work in it.

[@Buggaton]

I was slagging off the soundtrack of BotW because I hated the shrine music. Zelda's theme appearing with just voices during the final memory and Tarrey Town changed my mind.

[@osirisfrazier6079]

I especially loved Rito Village theme mainly because it's based from Wind Wakers Dragon Roost Island's theme... which was just- agh yes.

[@Buggaton]

@@osirisfrazier6079 I didn't know that having never played it but Rito tune is sick. Reminds me a little of Harrogath from Diablo 2 because of the strings.

[@maximusthedude8305]

Actually, there IS a lot of music. I own the whole soundtrack and it’s over 4 hours all up I think

[@GamerAJ-1025]

It would be horrible to play if we had Hyrule Field from OoT playing 24/7. For a Zelda game where you will spend a lot of time playing, having an irritating orchestral loop in the background will frustrate everyone.

[@ganthc]

“The soundtrack is too silent.” Weird, because I was constantly hearing sounds. Crickets, owls, the wind, rain, thunder, Link’s footsteps as he walked into a ruin or across grass. I felt that the atmospheric track was perfect for this game. With the sad piano that would play soft notes as you moved through Hyrule. Or when you would see your first Dragon and hear the absolute beauty of its song. Heck, people whined that the Shrine music got old. And yet they wanted some repetitive track in the open world? I hope Nintendo sticks to their guns on using atmospheric sounds as part of the soundtrack in Botw 2. I’m still playing the game. Doing every side quest and Shrine, taking my time to beat the game. This is truly my favorite game of all time.

[@maxrn3923]

Agreed!!

[@pedroivog.s.6870]

This game isn't like OoT in wich you go to the Gerudo's desert and beat the dungeon and it's done, in BotW you're constantly walking and seeing new places in the same area

[@thaneros]

Ambient sounds and soundtracks are two different things

[@polarnite]

One thing, shrine music nothing to do with openworld music, atleast we have different music for each places but shrine is same. Why u even defend for shrine music, they even have same design.

[@ganthc]

@@polarnite as long as you spend exploring in the open world, you want a shrine music track during that time you’re there? No one is defending shrine music…but if you get tired of it, chances are you’d get tired of an open world track. The environmental soundscape with occasional piano notes was perfect.

[@ChardBothamYT]

The minimalist score really bothered me when the game first came out, but I just completed my third full playthrough last night and I have to say I've really fallen in love with what it manages to accomplish. You summed it up very nicely.

[@ChardBothamYT]

Okay buddy

[@joelman1989]

Wow, you must really love this game! I mean it's not like it's one of the greatest games ever made or anything. It's not like it simultaneously manages to be both the best use of an open world in a video game, and the best puzzle and Zelda game, simultaneously making it the greatest of 3 genres.

[@bryshares]

+xXx Hardcore Gamer Minecraft and More xXX In other words, it wasn't bombastic and brash as you wanted?

[@NewsofPE]

666 likes, so sorry to fuck up that perfect like score

[@thefiercedeity9058]

Traktor Oil that final boss theme and the divine beast bosses are fire though

[@vuppet5684]

The soundtrack is incredible! From The calm open world to the calamity infested hyrule castle, the soundtrack has all the good types of music you need. Some can be forgettable compared to other games like Wind waker’s Outset island, twilight princess’ Hyrule field but that doesn’t matter that much. This game is different to every game including the first. The music can be calming. It can be quiet. It can be mysterious or it can be iconic! There are some good songs that stand out like revali’s song, hyrule castle, Sidon’s theme, the main theme, the shrine music (the dlc version), the guardian theme and more! All in all, the soundtrack is masterful and deserves to be awarded the best open world soundtrack to date

[@MelissaSamms]

I feel like part of the reason there's been so much hate for BOTW's music is that games have set an expectation of constant stimulation as a form of entertainment. There are some games that incorporate and encourage the player to pause (first to mind is Journey), but overall, gameplay is often focused on a "go gO GO" mentality. For a AAA game to incorporate quiet and peaceful moments in a game - particularly in the middle of gameplay - is unusual. Most players (and reviewers) would be thrown for a loop by that, and the first instinctive interpretation of that feeling would be "I don't like this" because yes! It is uncomfortable! Particularly if you haven't slowed down in a video game ever in your life! I love that Nintendo has done this, and I hope it becomes more common (when well executed, at least) because I love it. Great work on this video! Thanks for sharing :)

[@mooseyluke]

Can we talk about how beautiful and moving Daruk's theme is? You know, Daruk, the huge GORON fella? It really emphasises that everyone was affected by the calamity, even the tough rugged Gorons. It has a harsh contrast to the themes of, say, Goron City or death mountain, the kind of Goron music you would expect. All you hear is sorrow and regret

[@GameScoreFanfare]

This is lovely. You should just take over the channel.

[@mooseyluke]

Luke Rooney Looks like you're yelling at me with your picture 😂 anyway, I suppose it's quite difficult for mining to be affected at all with just the nature of what it is. Rudania has been causing more frequent volcanic activity, and everyone looked up to and respected Daruk. It's more a look back to his legacy I suppose

[@intheairex]

Oh boy, the renedition of the Gorok theme in the Zelda symphony tour is just beautiful.

[@hammyuiop]

Recently I went to the concert and I wholeheartedly agree. I had no idea it would be played, but when it did everyone in the hall just lit up. It was absolutely fantastic!

[@mooseyluke]

I need to get on that tour the next time it rolls around to the UK

[@33LB]

1. play the overworld theme from ocarina of time on repeat. 2. play breath of the wild with that overworld theme in the background. 3. now you understand that heavy, repetitive music can become over-bearing in an open world game.

[@ddnava96]

True. In other installments you barely stay in the overworld when compared to the time you spend on towns/dungeons. In BotW you spend about 80% of the time in the overworld. Hearing a music track repeat thousands of times over 80 hours (on a usual 100 hour playthrough) would be really bad

[@AdeptArcanist]

I'd rather listen to pretty much any song from oot or mm on repeat than botw's entire soundtrack. botw is no better than oppressive silence!

[@arenkai]

4. Then realize that's not how you implement exploration music in a game and proceed to learn something about game design and world building.

[@33LB]

5. Consequently learn that a few tone-setting piano chords is appropriate for a game with an expansive overworld and everyone who complains is a 12 year old who doesn't understand how music and game design work.

[@arenkai]

6- Then remember that Skyrim's exploration theme matched the overworld perfectly despite being orchestral I'm not saying BOTW's exploration themes weren't good or didn't match the theme, that's not my point, I'm just pointing out that your comparison was really dumb to begin with since I don't know who would think for a second that repeating the same music on a loop while exploring is a good thing.

[@danny2256]

So glad this video exists. I'm a music major who absolutely fell in love with this game's soundtrack, and I always hate when reviewers and others crap on this game for not having good music. There's actually an incredible volume of deeply meaningful music in the game. I've spent over 170 hours in the game and sometimes I still discover completely new music in random areas while I play. Fantastic soundtrack!

[@towwong2822]

Person: "BotW has no good music" Me: **laughs in molduga phase 2 theme**

[@Nat_the_Chicken]

*laughs in Maz Koshia*

[@kingly456]

*Laughs in Kass*

[@Nat_the_Chicken]

@@kingly456 Eh, I thought he got annoying after a while, but whatever.

[@kingly456]

@@Nat_the_Chicken Wait are you talking about his music or just him overall? If you hate the music that's fine I wont judge but I do love the music for its meaning and for the message that it's trying to convey (literally). As for the character as a whole not only he made almost everyone gay (I said almost because mr sexy fish over there turned everyone gay) but also how dedicated he is to the mission his mentor/teacher gave to him

[@Nat_the_Chicken]

@@kingly456 Oh no, he was great, I just got tired of hearing that same old song over and over again on his accordion. Edit: Also very true about Sidon.

[@robwarriors62]

There is some irony in the Temple of Time music. You said it is stripped but the chords that Kataoka implemented underneath are incredibly rich and musically genius. It may even be the 'fullest' sounding Song of Time we've had. Anyway, great video. I hate it when people say the soundtrack is bad because it is an absolute masterclass.

[@somemoomoofan]

I got chills when hearing it, ngl

[@Nat_the_Chicken]

Hey, that's true. The original consisted of nothing but melody (although it was a very grand, intimidating melody), and I guess that kind of fit with the idea of playing the melody on your ocarina, but the BotW version invokes much more subtle, complex and tender emotions. On a less serious note, when I heard the song pop up in a CalebCity video I couldn't stop laughing. kzbin.info/www/bejne/p5mnnWWIqaycmqs

[@ShycoWar]

It's almost as if, in spite of its ruined state, the melody is desperately trying to pick itself back up in the name of hope, all remnants of its former glory condensed into whatever it can still muster. It's nothing short of poetic if you think about it that way, methinks.

[@chuckmp]

I couldn't agree more. BotW acheived something that too little games can. Using the absence of music to make us feel things. It fits the post-war time of the world so well.

[@rockinmusicquarterly12]

exactly i dont think epic, iconic music would work in an overworld like this, we're literally wandering in a deserted, broken hyrule

[@Ydanay9]

If you’ve ever played Dark Souls, they do this in an amazing way. When you’re walking through the world, waiting for the next boss fight, there’s no music. Only the clanking of your boots, or the sounds of fighting an enemy. But when you get to an important location, like a boss fight, then the score amps up, and is insanely powerful because of the absence of music before. It’s one of my favorite aspects of the game.

[@SuperMase9X]

Kazz's song, to me, always feels welcoming every time I hear it.

[@lynkedworld]

My thoughts were always "alright where is this bird bitch"....I didnt like him that much

[@sheevpalpatine1105]

i loved at first but it kinda pissed me off to wait at this one shrine for the blood moon

[@deemac3470]

The only song i liked from the game

[@JohnnoNonno]

@@sheevpalpatine1105 you could have just used a bonfire to wait faster

[@potatoking4227]

@@JohnnoNonno or do what i did have my switch open stand at the shrine pedestal naked and just do other things while waiting for a blood moon.

[@Ryuujin1078]

Someone that GETS IT. Well done video sir

[@MrBilliam1234]

I never thought music was a problem in this game. I think your strongest point is that the music would’ve gotten annoying after a while and I 100% agree with you

[@abseessea3141]

10:12 ...Sometimes you can even hear the performer breathing. **Breath** Me: O_O I HEARD IT!! I've NEVER NOTICED BEFORE, OH MY GOD!!! Sidenote: This video is perfect; if you called hear me I'd applaud you

[@subprogram32]

While I have heard some simular points before, the bit where you talk about music acting as a kind of gravity well for the player towards (or away from) important locations was a really cool bit of knowledge that changed my perception of the game. (and further helps explain how they so intuitively got away with little to no external markers in the world - cos a lot of them were in fact musical!)

[@GameScoreFanfare]

oh my goodnes, gravity is the perfect way to describe it. I wish I thought of that!

[@subprogram32]

Quickly, edit the video before it goes out to the public! :P

[@GameScoreFanfare]

I would quite literally die.

[@Charziken909]

Little to no external markers except to impa, the magic upgrades, the four main bosses, and the final boss... u know, the unimportant stuff lol

[@subprogram32]

if you've seen any ubisoft open world game the last decade or so you would know those markers are a positively tiny amount. It's like, less then ten?

[@Katastrophe9009]

I really liked the subtlety of the soundtrack in BOTW. It was very atmospheric, just like the game itself. It was there when it needed to be, and disappeared just as it was wearing out it's welcome.

[@UrbanTheMyth]

THANK YOU for adressing this. This was a criticism I've always hated hearing. Simple and atmospheric music is very under appreciated. The creators sacrificed making a few hum-able tunes for actually engrossing the player in the game, which is much more important. I've always liked the soothing nature of this kind of music when it's used appropriately. Girls Last Tour is show that's loved for it, Journey is a game loved for it, and do I even have to mention, Samurai Jack? Calling this music "bad" because it's not the same as in previous games is just silly and a weak argument.

[@CalebCraft10]

UrbanTheMyth The dungeon themes, boss themes, and areas where there should just generally be music are kinda lame though.

[@dr6559]

UrbanTheMyth So people can't criticize it to you? I found the music completely lifeless.

[@link8042]

I honestly don’t care what others say, I really like Breath of the Wild’s music. It’s my opinion anyways.

[@UrbanTheMyth]

the point is that the land is sort of lifeless.

[@UrbanTheMyth]

And people can critique the music but "it's bad" is a weak criticism is all

[@DEVN31]

I also loved how when you ride your horse long enough, the classic Zelda theme comes in with nothing but a violin, it being the only time the melody is heard.

[@aidanhayward3329]

The music in this game functions similarly to minecraft’s

[@anzeg-]

I haven't played it in many years, but I always wished a lot of the 'creative mode' soundtracks would make it to survival. I still remember 'Aria Math'. Have they added to the music over the years? Or still largely the same?

[@SeamusTheHunter]

@@anzeg- I'm a tad late, but 3 new underwater tracks came with 1.13; aside from that, nothing is new. Creative music still plays in Creative Mode and survival music still plays in Survival Mode.

[@micanikko]

I was thinking of the same thing actually as I was playing minecraft earlier. I couldn’t quite put why, but it just felt awfully familiar like botw’s music

[@kangelenjoyer]

@@anzeg- I consider it a blessing that I never have to hear that shit in survival mode. I absolutely hate the creative mode themes.

[@juanitopantuflapantufla2605]

Actually minecrafts music plays randomly, so if you are lucky and it sounds in an epic moment like finishing a house or reaching your home after exploring that moment sticks But if the moment is not special you do not realice that the music is there because it escalates very slowly and is very subtle

[@Silavite]

This...! This video describes my feelings towards BotW's soundtrack far more eloquently that I ever could. The music augments the mood of the game. I wasn't on board with the silence and ambiance at first. What changed my mind about that happened about a month ago when I first listened to, and then got the opportunity to play, Symphony No. 1 - Mvt 1 by Gustav Mahler. The piece has bombastic moments, particularly the last 3 minutes or so. More than that though, the piece takes advantage of quiet. Ambiance. The beginning of the piece is simply strings on a unison A at pianississimo (REALLY quiet, in other words). The woodwinds come in on a softly, haltingly, for a measure, and quit. Then again after a measure of rest. Finally, they follow a descending melody for a few measures. Then ambiance again. Much of the piece is like that, with areas of quiet, interrupted only by the occasional clarinet, representing a cuckoo's call. Playing BotW after listening to such a piece silenced my criticisms of its soundtrack. The game's world, it's atmosphere, mood, or whatever else you may call it - is complemented by the soundtrack.

[@GameScoreFanfare]

+Silavite ugh, you get it. That's lovely!

[@carlosvidal6663]

As a musician, you don’t know how much I appreciate your videos

[@GameScoreFanfare]

+Carlos Vidal I'm so pleased that it can be of some value to you. 🙂

[@Unclevertitle]

I find the varying overworld music of the game just more peaceful and calming than anything else and a nice contrast to the tension building, rhythmically complex (thus toying with your expectations your anticipation of the next note) music of the main battle theme, or the bombastic music of the mini-bosses Stone Talus, Hinox, and Molduga, or the downright terror inducing Guardian theme. And the quirky weird Guardian scout theme that seems to troll you as you figure out how just how to fight one in the various "Major Test of Strength" shrines. A lot of times I didn't bother teleporting to a location because I enjoyed the act of traveling there far more than enduring a rather brief uninteractive loading screen. And the music and general sounds of the game are part of that. By contrast most overworld themes in Zelda have more going on in the music than is happening in the world around you. The music is big and impressive because the game... well isn't... as much. Granted they were at the time very impressive games, but I wonder if we'd have the same impressions and nostalgia for the series if the music weren't as exciting as it is. In BoTW the exciting moments have exciting music, the tense moments have tense music, the peaceful moments have peaceful music, the frightening moments have frightening music, the silly moments have silly music, the dread march full of determination towards Hyrule castle has exactly that kind of very specific music. I don't need heroic themes just to cross the distance between objective A and objective B. I don't need a heroic theme to justify running through a open field. I already know I'm on an adventure why should the music remind me of this? I'd have to go back and play the older games in the series to check but honestly I think BoTW has the more fitting music for the moment to moment situation in game than any other Zelda game to date. I may be exaggerating here or just not remembering how well each game in the past fits.

[@GameScoreFanfare]

+Unclevertitle I love everything about this comment.

[@captainfozzer858]

I actually prefer the breath of the wild soundtrack to previous games, it suits the game far better than the original style would have

[@Antonio-is2cn]

...Why?

[@mshishii4485]

@@Antonio-is2cn because BOTW is a game of exploring. it's a game where you find new things, meet new people, etc. every place in BOTW has its own atmosphere, and if there were to be constant music playing, then the magic of the game would cease to exist. the magic of the game is in the little moments, the same thing goes for the music. the silence in some places also allows you to take in the scenery since you're able to hear all of the creatures, and just everything around you. it really is a "breathe of the wild". instead of it being fast-paced, it makes you focus on nature and your surroundings. that's why having music spread out instead of the music always being in the background is perfect. because when you hear music in the game after it is silent, it feels special. it's able to evoke feelings in you.

[@kingly456]

The music that plays when a Guardian spots you fills me with anxiety whenever I hear it

[@TheJuggernautBitch]

completely agree it always kind of bothers me when people say this

[@Linkl0nk]

The Juggernaut Bitch Why does it bother you? It’s just their opinion.

[@TheJuggernautBitch]

I don't know thats just my opinion

[@BADGRAPHIX]

I don't know about OP but it bothers me because it tells me people just didn't get it and they're going to dumb down the next game in response to the criticism. That's what happened with the Dark Souls series.

[@I69dolphinsyolo]

BADGRAPHIX dumb down the next game? We are talking about the music in the game, right?

[@livale8337]

Music can be dumbed down. While it might be other people's opinions that Breath of the Wild's soundtrack was bad, I think that's mostly a case of people not realizing that if it was full and adventurous and heroic the game itself would lose much of it's impact and receive even more flack. A case of nostalgia clouding one's judgement that if it was like before it would actually be worse. This game sets a precedent for Zelda games in the future as Zelda games before it did for it, and the music will change with the feedback. If people have missed the plot and not realized that a big part of the impact comes from the minimalism of the sound track, then there's a chance that Nintendo will try to avoid that in the future even when it is best. Hence, dumbing down.

[@TylerMeacham]

it's so good it's so good it's so good. i shed a small tear because WORDS and FEELINGS.

[@victhom19]

I felt the music did capture that feeling of being out in the wild in a vast place to discover. Kind of like getting lost in the middle of nowhere but curious as to what lies further. While the tracks aren't as memorable as other tunes from Zelda games, I know that the developers wanted to capture that feeling of being a small person in a huge world.

[@technosauruspunk3375]

Breath of the Wild is so quiet that I didn't much think of it until the music that plays when you're cantering or galloping played for the first time, and I thought I had unwittingly entered battle. I like how quiet it is. It's like being out in real nature itself

[@Dratini__]

This video needs more attention

[@nikkoa.3639]

You're telling me people diss Hetsu playing maracas? Blasphemy!

[@TheNyleve16]

I don't think anyone can diss Hetsu's magnificent maraca playing. He is an exceptional maraca player. 10/10

[@RealityRogue]

9:21 is an accurate representation of every players reaction to seeing a guardian. Also that transition tho!

[@SugaredEdits]

So excited every time you post a video!! I've got to make a Patreon pledge, this was a good reminder haha. You do such a beautiful analysis that as a music person it's just a relief to hear someone who mechanically understands music and gets the emotional punch behind it and presents it so well. The moment that always stands out to me in BOTW because of the music is the movement of the divine beasts. You hear the creaking of beast, the score kicks up and then you pull back with the champion. It just feels so...significant.

[@GameScoreFanfare]

Ahhhh thank you so much! This is so lovely!

[@Celcil49286]

I agree, I love the defining of the music and how you transitioned it into the story so you get a well understanding of the game as a whole. Just concluding it’s a well assembled game. I’ve watched this video about 30+ times loving how the explanation of how it is a redemption story and that’s always been my favorite type of hero. A troubled one that wants to make things right, made me fall in love with the game in a whole different perspective. Thank you

[@chrisd.5660]

Your channel is proof KZbin views still favor quality content over rushed, clickbait, daily content.

[@joshuadillon319]

I cannot believe that at in 12:30 - 12:40 you had that rising crescendo to musically support your point. And as you nailed that point, you didn't give us that music cadence. I felt so unfulfilled in that moment in the lack of that finalizing cadence chord. I felt so robbed :( I loved your vid btw.

[@GetterRay]

BotW's soundtrack is the ultimate pleb filter. People complaining about lack of memorable tunes are the worst, considering that the game has lots of them. Just because its not blaring in the overworld 24/7 doesn't mean that they don't exist.

[@dr6559]

GetterRay Maybe people just have preferences?

[@Angel-fl8my]

D R no

[@dr6559]

angel Awww is someone mad that not everyone thinks this game is the second coming of Christ?

[@Angel-fl8my]

D R yes. No, I was just kidding around

[@Angel-fl8my]

D R but I do think a constant, "epic" soundtrack wouldnt fit the game.

[@habsi70]

Great analysis! I was not aware, that the soundtrack to BOTW is so controversial. It was clear from the first moment that it is different, but is is so masterful, bold and mature! For me one of the greatest game soundtracks and sound designs.

[@rainbowcupcakeish]

I love it when you go into a stable or a cozy village and you feel so safe and warm lol. The music in Kakariko village is my fav, sometimes I just stay there for ages just for the music

[@colewright3790]

I thought that the soundtrack was perfect for it what it was. The soft ambience of an empty kingdom, showing how the calamity could devastate all but nature. The music reflects that once there was something bigger, but it’s all gone now... and Hyrule Castle is, in my opinion, one of the most memorable tracks in the series, not only because of the song itself, but also the contrast between the outdoor and indoor themes that show hope and despair in equal measure. I personally think that BotW’s sound direction was the best in the series.

[@raioh4747]

for context: I'm a travel photographer, almost 30 yrs old now and first played zelda when I was 7. I played BOTW during quarantine, after being locked in for almost a year, not being able to travel and go hiking, my main passion in life, and I couldn't ask for a better soundtrack, it's simple and perfect, it knows the value of silence, and more than that, it understands the musical quality intrinsic to nature, the birds chirping, the wind passing by the trees, the sound of a river... Imo the sound of nature is music greater than any composition could acomplish and BOTWs music serves to enhance that, not overpower it. This game's sound deisgn is perfect, and whenever I think about why I love this game more than any other midia I've experienced, I think about the first time the hyrule theme kicked in while riding the horse at night through grassy fields, looking at the night sky and seeing it all come together in this beatifull work of art. I still boot up the game whenever I'm feeling down just so I can gallop around those fields and listen to that score. In the future, other games will probably surprass BOTW's open world design, combat mechanics, etc, but I don't think any other game will make me feel like I did playing this one, especially considering the circumstances in wich I played it, and a lot of that is due to the soundtrack. This game has spirit, you just gotta listen to it.

[@ezequieljimenezgarcia5081]

Chapeau! BoTW is a game which needs to be played with a headset in order to perceive all the little details of the music. Nice work man.

[@GameScoreFanfare]

+Ezequiel Jiménez García oh absolutely, fully embrace the ambience. I recommend playing it in handheld mode purely for that reason.

[@naenoart]

Hey, Mathew! First of all I want to say: Wow, the editing was on point!! I already loved every aspect of BotW’s soundtrack before, but you gave me a few new, great perspectives on it. Amazing and very satisfying to watch - just like all of your videos! The ending completely blew me away… Thank you so much for making these videos, you really made my day!

[@GameScoreFanfare]

Oh I'm pleased you thought the editing was good, I feel like I might've been a bit lazy this time around! haha. Your comment really means a lot to me, thank you. :)

[@kickitoldskool]

MogamiArt Looks like you're first, so you get a Crown: 👑

[@west_polee]

Ok, for those who think the game needs overworld music, start the game, turn on the hyrule feild theme for 10 hours when your in the feild. Annoying isnt it?

[@GameScoreFanfare]

Now do the same for Ocarina of Time and realise how even more annoying that is. (I LOVE OoT's field theme, but over 10 hours? No thanks.)

[@LS95774]

I think "On the Great Sea" is a more realistic example though, because without the red sail in WWHD, sailing takes FOREVER

[@oliverchannelle6919]

I think Skyrim manages to create a balance. Sometimes it's silent, sometimes music plays, and it never feels repetitive or too empty.

[@stygian3824]

Oliver Channelle gotta disagree, I've been using skyrim as an example in previous replies. Not only do I find it very boring, but the lack of variation combined with the complexity of the soundtrack makes it really annoying. Don't get me wrong skyrim has some epic tracks but the overworld theme was awful for me. Especially during the long ass loading screens

[@west_polee]

Yeah, I love songs like The Sky (from skyward sword) Termina Field, The Great sea etc but I find Oot's Hyrule Field theme annoying Af.

[@radstag6967]

"Silence is a sound too" -Akira Yamaoka

[@pinkiepie7823]

I have no issue with the Hyrule field theme. It really helps convey the isolation of this big world. And the town themes? Fantastic. Every one of them. The divine beast themes perfectly capture the sense of urgency and capture the individual element they emphasize well. BUT. I think they missed the mark on the themes that were supposed to be heroic. I was so disappointed to learn that all the blights had the same music, even with some elemental differences. Other than field bosses and Ganon, the blights are the only bosses we have in the game. I would have much preferred a theme based off at least the divine beast theme itself rather than the same boss theme every time.

[@tinomendoza7045]

If anything the composers to the soundtrack showed a lot of restraint in making sure to give the world a very somber and graceful tone. Not every zelda game is gonna be oot nor should it try to be and botw soundtrack helps it establish its own identity.

[@GameScoreFanfare]

+tino mendoza preach!

[@noahfrankel7966]

In my opinion the Breath of the Wild music blends so well with the game, that nobody notices how spectacular it is.

[@harry012197]

I think BoTW soundtrack is underrated, Kokiri forest, Hyrule castle, Guardian theme and Kass’ theme are fantastic. Just to name a few.

[@LukaGoldbell]

Just wanted to say. With the way you explained the tone of the game and how the music portrayed it, I felt like I wanted to cry. Well done driving your point home. I loved this game and its music, however much or little there was at any given time. :)

[@melteddali8000]

God that point about hearing the breath of the instrumentalist in the Kakariko village is fantastic. That piece is already my favorite of the soundtrack but damn that definitely helps me appreciate it even more

[@tonatiuhmaldonado9873]

2:07 nobody is talking about how he dodged that laser WTF dude?

[@GameScoreFanfare]

It was a total fluke.

[@link8042]

Game Score Fanfare That was SOO close..

[@eccentricorbiter1390]

Tonatiuh Maldonado Flores Dodging lasers is easy. You just run perpendicular to the Guardian's line of sight.

[@livlaughsss1217]

Whenever you see one of the dragons for the first time and the breathtaking music starts playing along with this beautiful creature flying around.

[@thisisfyne]

Ooooooooooooooooooh yes! Also some criticisms about the beasts/dungeons are somewhat fair, but their music themes are beyond brilliant.

[@flutterbree]

I'm so glad someone else heard the congruencies in the BotW melodies and the songs they're derived from. I pointed out the Temple of Time example to someone who loved OOT and it blew their goddamn mind!

[@missedthebandwagon976]

Kass's music is beautiful and such a good way of telling the player there's some mystery nearby.

[@weirdo7319]

This has really changes my perspective on the music of BotW

[@BluesBrogio]

Brilliant vídeo about a brilliant soundtrack. I have to admit I shed a tear towards the end...

[@Kirkklan]

The only counter argument I have to this is to imagine the Hyrule Field theme playing over and over again. Besides, I do agree that this fits with the game as it gives you time to appreciate the surroundings, and think about puzzles in the overworld. Life doesn't always need a soundtrack. Sometimes it just needs ambience.

[@cozyKyra]

Really great discussion, you brought up some good points about how the music pulls the player to locations of interest. One thing I think you missed though is the opposite of how the player can interact with the music. When you're riding your horse across the field and the music begins playing, if you have been riding for a long time it will fill in more instruments to "complete" the song, I think giving you a great sense of progress as you travel. Both for the distance you've covered and how far you've come in the game.

[@GameScoreFanfare]

+LittleGadget yeah the way the Zelda Overworld theme fades in when riding at night is just perfection.

[@rnelody5496]

BOTW is the first Zelda-game I've ever played, and I think that's a good thing. I had no expectations to live up to, no pre-conceived notions of what I wanted it to be. The music and sound-design, in my opinion, is one of the best parts of this game. Sometimes, games have soundtracks that are so good you remember them for ages, even save to your playlist, and they work! But sometime it feels like that kind of music pulls you out of the game world a little, just because it's very in your face about its presence. BOTW is one of the most immersive games I've played, simply because the music is so sparse. It punctuates your actions, but never pulls itself to the foreground. And because of that, you start noticing other sounds, like birds chirping, goats bleating, enemies grunting, your horse's panting and snorting, even just the things on Link's back clanking together as he walks. It forces you to pay attention to the world around you, especially since those sounds can be vital indicators of stuff like incoming enemy attacks or wildlife you can hunt for food. I think a lot of people went in expecting a bombastic, grandiose soundtrack that they'll be able to save to their nostalgia playlists and remember for years to come. Not getting that might be disappointing. But I think this music serves the game world a lot better, feeling not like something laid over the world, but an integral part of it.

[@ddgaxelnilsson7855]

Breath of the wild probably has one of the most well done soundtracks in video game history. Every soundtrack hits the atmosphere perfectly. Hyrule fields being abandoned with maybe one or two destroyed settlements from before the calamity. Hateno Village is impossible to explain but it fits perfectly. Breath of the wild is as you said, post apocalyptic. The combat themes having small ‘notes’ whenever you hit an enemy. The people who criticise the soundtrack have just seen the shell of it. Scruffy’s video explains it perfectly.

[@londondeer]

It's one of those things that will be much more appreciated in a decade or so when BOTW isn't the newest Zelda game any longer. Most people were burnt out because its been a long time since a truly incredible console Zelda game, and the music is the most exciting part for some people.

[@hedge1199]

imo the silence kind of adds to it sometimes. and the music that is there is really pretty anyways

[@thisisfyne]

Agreed, the bits of silence let the sounds of nature emerge, and then you can often hear a complex mix of animals and birds, bugs, wind, water flow, etc. It truly adds to the immersive feeling of the game while contributing to its grandeur.

[@SayberV1]

I loved the soundtrack and in my opinion, it represents the poverty and decay of hyrule and the Zelda franchise being born again and being taken in a fresh new direction.

[@GandalfGreyhame3]

Being my first Zelda game, I absolutely loved this music and game so much

[@slk32999]

I love the moments of silence because I feel more connected to Link's experience since he wouldn't have a soundtrack playing constantly during his journey. It lets me think about Link as a character in a more interesting way

[@tyrel5150]

Beautiful analysis. Eyes watering up just from feeling the emotions you conveyed in the music and the game even though I’ve been playing it as much as I can. I feel what you say.

[@-alexanderhosch-4828]

As much as I agree, godammit does it feel good to have the twilight princess or Windwaker soundtrack play in the background

[@MinkDaddy]

Fantastic video! Any Musician with a true musical ear can tell you that the music in BOTW is fantastic. If you happen to be one of those people who don't like it, that's your opinion, which is fine, but don't argue to me that it's bad or poorly written.

[@Sera-F1nn]

Totally agree.

[@pressxtowin9778]

This is the best video game soundtrack review I've watched. You are very knowledgeable and analytic but don't get lost in the weeds of technicalities. It actually makes me appreciate Zelda even more. Well done.

[@GameScoreFanfare]

You're very kind, thank you! 😊

[@constantspider]

I remember that somebody else pointed this out and it was really interesting. The temple of time, when being looked at from the ledge that you walk on when you exit the shrine of resurrection, looks completely normal and intact. and only after you approach from any other perspective does it reveal its decayed self

[@KumoKumiko]

I have to say, this is an impeccable video, and it definitely got me thinking about and appreciated some of the music cues that I hadn't initially noticed. I think what this video highlights best for me, is that I can understand and appreciate the atmosphere BotW crafted, but that emptiness is what stays with me, and is why I'm not as into the game, and by extension not as invested in the soundtrack. The story takes place after the end, and all of my victories are footnotes, because I'm just a dude who stumbled out of a hole in the ground with no pants on and the hero guy pretty much died 100 years ago and I don't remember any of that. The vast majority of interesting characters and emotional development and arcs are brief, fleeting things rooted in past glory and telling the tale of tragic failure, and they require effort to find in a broken, empty world. There's powerful expression in making a game that tells the story that way, but it just...didn't grab me. I had fun, though. Getting new gear, seeing neat areas, wandering around in general made for a neat sandbox, and the stories I made up for myself while playing in that sandbox. But....that's not usually what I come to a Zelda game for. Real talk though, the soundtrack does good work. I mean, has anybody HEARD the music of the 'divine beast' and Final Boss of Champion's Ballad yet?? Come ON. those tracks were STUNNING

[@ChristianThatLovesGod]

I love botw soundtrack I think it was one of the best. I never knew so many people hated it

[@samsonfgc3472]

The one place where I feel that the music falls short is in the dungeon themes. They feel like they're building up to a melody that never really comes. You're on these ancient weapons from even before a previous apocalypse. They are grand, and they're alien. And you have to reclaim them. Vah Medoh opens on the wonderfully dissonant chords that feel threatening and alien, that fade behind grand walls of strings that have more elements constantly layered on top of them. And none of them are link. None of them are the player. It just feels like the determination of the piece is missing.

[@mikanob37]

i never played the game with some other music playing in background because it was too quiet or less epic. the game was only complete with its intended music combined with rhe environment. brilliant work.

[@jenniferchough]

Dear Sir, I just want to say thank you. I had gone down a rabbit hole of youtube videos about various BotW topics and would read or hear every now and again how Nintendo failed with the music in this game. I was astounded by this line of thinking. Everything from the simple, melancholic piano glisses in the open air to the effing insane piano counterpoint (have you seen the score for this--it's amazing) underlying dark beast ganon's soaring theme, is thoughtfully and perfectly matched with its environment and moments. I believe it is one of the most carefully and painstakingly curated soundtracks to a game in recent history. The next time someone tells me that BotW went wrong in the music department, I am just going to link this video to them instead of having my head explode in their general direction. So back to thanking you...this was a well-crafted and edited critique, especially about why even negative space or absence of sound greatly contributes to mood and emotion. The team behind BotW's music utilized this well in addition creating rousing, memorable themes for different areas and events. Here's Dark Beast Ganon's theme for reference (brilliant 8-bit ode at 1:09). It gives me palpitations, as it should because your facing the primeval. But the soft moments of music in this game make my heart just as happy. kzbin.info/www/bejne/hqjKmHyMedqasNE

[@thegeekclub8810]

Holy crud this video is really good. This gave me a whole new appreciation for Breath of the Wild's score, and I already loved it!

[@levonbarber9070]

I haven't heard 9:25 in so long legit got chills down my entire body from the piano

[@zephyr-62]

What a fantastic video!!! I love the ending ^^

[@josebocanegra8720]

I know this is late from the original post but I feel like the music is perfect, cause this isn’t some giant quest to save hyrule which would fit having a bombastic soundtrack. Link tried and failed, his second attempt is the protect the remains. Plus its a HUNDRED years later, everything is ruined and the people he cherished are dead. Theres no heroic music because for the people link meets along the way, never met a hero, they were born with the castle in ruins and monsters dominating, it was their reality. Link is suffering from familiarity and total ambiguity at the same time, the music reminds me of that

[@jordanalexander]

This is one of the most insightful videos I’ve ever seen created for a video game - I’ve rewatched this multiple times! Incredible job!

[@lunaraine]

OMG! your videos are so lovely I always wanted a channel that covers the meanings of gaming music an finally there's one here and I love it very much you're making really really good and lovely content and I can't await your next video also I love your voice it's just so fitting for this kind of videos keep up the good work, you deserve some more attention ^^

[@GameScoreFanfare]

+Leetsch this is the first time I've had a positive comment about my voice. 😄 Thank you!

[@brunosanchez1375]

For a game like this zelda i really liked the minimalism of the soundtrack, but for a game like odissey it was a harder pill to swallow, i hated the silence there when the game doesn't have the atmosfere to back it up

[@Booksds]

Bruno Sánchez Was there much silence in Odyssey? I remember most of that game being filled with music, other than in the Mushroom Kingdom for some reason

[@brunosanchez1375]

Booksds I remember the sand kingdom especially becuse it had great music in the town and the ruins but the rest of the desert you only had the wahooos to make you company

[@brickvideos4851]

They made the Mushroom Kingdom silent because they wanted the player to utilize the sound list to put on whichever song they wanted.

[@thisisfyne]

BOTW > Skyward Sword, on all accounts, including its music. The melancholy is palpable and so well executed. The Hyrule Castle track(s) still give me goosebumps each time I visit this area. Vah Rudania is also incredible!

[@maxschannel8547]

BOTW > Skyward Sword, on all accounts. Except its music. You really need to listen to Skyward Swords soundtrack again without bias if you can't grasp that. Breath of the Wild's lack of music shouldn't be seen as a smart technique for one to have a connection with the world in the game. But as a lack of music. Sometimes less ISN'T more. Its less. If you can name more than 3 actually memorable songs from the OST, then you're kidding yourself.

[@TheLyricalWrdsmth]

Pointing out that some of the tracks are direct iterations of tunes from previous entries in the series is exactly what I was hoping you'd mention. It's something I began picking up on part of the way through my time with the game. I think the music works regardless of this reality, but pointing this out highlights just how appropriate the soundtrack is thematically. Botw is, among so many other things, an undeniable masterclass in composition and sound design for video games. Thank you so so much for this video, subscribed.

[@SandyParsley682]

Thank you for this video. It deeply troubled me that the score was so absent. I can't believe I was so dense as to not realize this. I should have known. You've actually increased my opinion of Breath of the Wild and helped me better understand it as a game as well, not just its music. My brother and I have been discussing how it is just so underwhelming in so many ways (I still stand by my opinion that there needed to be actual temples and dungeons more than the 120 shrines nonsense), but this makes me appreciate the game and music so much more. Thank you.

[@buffet_time]

The Rito village theme is the best piece of music in the Entirety of the series

[@GameScoreFanfare]

+Buffet Time I didn't think they could improve on Dragoon Roost Island, but I'm so glad to be proved wrong.

[@buffet_time]

ya man, Dragon Roost Island has by far the best music in Windwaker, but my favorite track has always been a track from OOT and it was always changing, but damn is Rito Village in BOTW so good. And it's introduction is amazing, it fits better than any piece of music in any game i've ever played not even kidding. Truly beautiful.

[@chaosmos24]

'Lost Woods' theme from OoT is still my favorite for some reason.

[@BlazeTaleo]

chaosmos24 it’s good

[@gamersinger5118]

Buffet Time Don't know about all that. I love all music in the Legend of Zelda series but Ballad of The Wind Fish is easily my favorite. Such a beautiful melody and it is quite slow and not overbearing like Saria's Song. Though I still love Saria's Song as well.

[@looking_arround]

Well stated. However, I wish other moments in the game had more music. For new fans, the broken Temple of Time theme may mean nothing to them. A bit more... I guess consistency(?)... Might have helped understand the broken feeling. Something like a faded track, a lone piano with small intervals instead of small sequences might have helped bring more attention to something like the Temple. I wish that visual queues also influenced the music. Possibly have the temple of time crumbling, and each time it crumbled, the music came to a standstill. It starts off strong, but the closer you are to meeting the King or the more the temple crumbles, the quieter the music becomes. Possibly, the soundtrack could also grow in volume or become less fragmented the more Divine Beasts you conquered. I understand that the silent atmosphere of BotW made the player pay more attention to the game, but it also left the player bored at times. A new track here and there could've brought more attention to the game

[@PokeRedstone]

Trust me, 200 hours of the same over world themes is far more boring than no music at all. In fact, it’s worse. It’s infuriating.

[@aliciarose_art]

The music in botw is so good in my opinion, for many of the reasons you've said! For example even now when I'm playing it, when I hear the dragon theme I want to drop everything I'm doing and just appreciate the dragon doing it's thing, and I feel awe and warmth. I doubt it would've had the same effect without the music

[@elmergalilei3772]

this is my first time watching one of your videos and i just wanted to say i was absolutely blown away, both by the quality of the analysis and script, and by the way you tied each segment together at the end. when the word ‘burden’ appeared on the screen i felt like i’d been punched in the face but in an absurdly wonderful way, as if i should thank whoever did the punching. your character analyses were also incredibly enlightening!!! going to go rifling through the rest of your work now, but while i’m here, thank you for this video, and for doing this gorgeous soundtrack justice

[@lewismatthews1442]

The way you demonstrated the song of time music connection really stirred up my nostalgic emotions, you explained that perfectly!