Opera Singer Reacts: lichdragon fortissax (Elden Ring OST)

[@lo-keyloki9986]

One of the craziest things about Fortissax is when you dive into his lore you learn that he is a true bro.

[@pracitus]

Corrupted by death, a tragedy

[@jonahward4522]

Was just chillin beside his boi

[@user-op2bh7rc9z]

Elden rings Sif

[@Dragens2]

its the artorias in form of a dragon

[@generalfeldmarschallaugust8089]

Imagine having a 4 winged gigantic dragon as your best bro damn that would be awesome

[@blueveil3277]

To keep it short but understandable: Godwyn was a powerful demigod, the classic Heroic and Beloved God. So Heroic, that he defeated the Dragon Fortissax, so Beloved that after the fight, they became friends. In the day of Godwyn's Death, Fortissax flew to his aid, but couldnt help his friend, and got corrupted by the power of Destined Death. Now, Fortissax "lives" to fight and protect Godwyn's body, using not only his own Red Lightining spells, but Godwyn Golden Lightining Spells, infused with the Death Blight created by his friends fall.

[@sageofalltime7867]

Godwyn didn't deserve a death like that 😔

[@jonathanturull8508]

It was Gransaxxs the dragon in the capital that Godwin defeated not fortisaxxs. He was allied to Godwin afterwards.

[@DarkloreAether]

@@jonathanturull8508 Godwyn defeated Fortissax. But instead of killing him, he spared and befriended him which results in the Dragons and Golden Order living in Harmony, thus founding the Dragon Cult.

[@carnictus23]

@@jonathanturull8508 objectively wrong

[@daharra]

"and they were roommates"

[@TheEgalisator]

"I'm sure this (fromsoft) boss is at least twice the size of the player". In related news, I'm pretty sure bread is edible.

[@LyonsRoarGolf]

Every fromsoft game: Humanoid fight this boss; also the boss is a building that is more agile than you and attacks you.

[@ZetaMoolah]

@@LyonsRoarGolf Visions of Maliketh

[@wurmturm]

@@ZetaMoolah dog ahead

[@thecrabmaestro564]

This is a very accurate analogy, because when you do find a boss that's not twice your size or more it's rare, and it's rare to find a mouldy loaf on the shelf

[@AlyssMa7rin]

@@thecrabmaestro564 but those ‘normal bosses’ are almost always awesome

[@proudlarry8225]

Fortissax is also the brother of Lansseax, the dragon who ran the church after peace was made between the Ancient Dragons and the Demigods of the Golden Order. Who granted the beloved hero lord Vyke her blessings and hoped he would bring salvation only to watch him fall to the temptation of chaos. Dragons can't catch a break in this world.

[@fegeleinherman8587]

Dragon in Sekiro and Dark Souls:... First time?

[@CeraphineLuna]

There was one friendly dragon in Ds2, about the size of the mother of dragons in Caelid, but you had to kill it in order to get an item that essentially made you hollow-proof. Then I guess there was that hidden dragon in ds1 for a covenant

[@CeraphineLuna]

...which everyone chopped the tail off for a weapon

[@tuyoufpazic5746]

​@@CeraphineLuna sinh?

[@HavocHounds1988]

@@CeraphineLuna That dragon however was a fake dragon, created by Aldia and his experiments.

[@lokai765]

This song is impossible to predict holy moly, you think its going one direction and it goes a completely different direction that works more than you expected, very neat song

[@MarcoMeatball]

It’s a wild time for sure!!!!!!😮

[@matthewmontesano9517]

Turns from utter fear into complete glory

[@RommelStorm]

Keep in mind that Fortissax is a hidden optional boss. That means this gem is literally hidden away until a curious soul completes Fia's questline and gets rewarded with this magnificent track.

[@randomperson093]

And went through half of ranni's questline for the death mark,imagine being the first person to discover this boss

[@AlasdairGR]

Fortissax was one of the biggest surprises in the game for me. I had seen some of the late game bosses because I couldn't control myself and was watching some speedrunners and streamers playing the game. But Fortissax thankfully remained unspoiled and once I got done with Fia's quest on my own playthrough and entered her dream, the last thing I expected was a boss fight with an amazing looking dragon. I had the biggest smile on my face the whole fight.

[@gamester512]

....Or in my case gets other people to clear the way through the giant ants/bees because they freak me out so much that I can't even stand to get close to them. Me having a phobia of bees/wasps definitely didn't help either.... >_

[@draw2death421]

The fight itself is also meh at best lol. Its so wierd, why did Fromsoft like put 10 points to music for fortissax but for fight they recolored Lanseax, gave him 1 new glaive attack and slightly different version of the roar and called it a day.

[@draw2death421]

​@@AlasdairGRtoo bad the fight itself was a reskin lanseax with 1 new attack lol.

[@joshuamagruder2241]

As a cello player, when that cello kicked in I had goosebumps for like five years afterwards. Also quick edit, it also blows my mind that a human composes these tracks. A human brain.

[@MarcoMeatball]

Hard to imagine right? We love the cello!!

[@Ryan-nm8pw]

As a non-cellist, what about that cello drop is so spine chilling? It's not that it's particular complex, but man, it just sounds so sad yet also regal?

[@StefanScripca]

Leave it to the Japanese to be so creative in their chord choices. They've always exploded with this sort of left-of-field thinking in music and not only. This is just madness!

[@LtCdrXander]

@@Ryan-nm8pw I feel like it's spine chilling because in these kinds of epic orchestral boss themes, maybe we don't typically expect slower, more melancholic and sad melodies like the solo cello part delivers. I don't play cello (I'm a percussionist), but I still got shivers when the cello came in. I was not expecting the physical feeling of the cello in my ears as well as the feeling of sadness in my heart that came from the cello. Maybe I over-explained a bit, but overall I think it's spine-chilling because it subverts expectations

[@nicolaslabra2225]

that part of " a human brain" is sad to think about since we might start hearing more and more AI made stuff.

[@lilkonna]

Elden Ring really delivered on the dragon fights. The OSTs of Lichdragon Fortissax and Dragonlord Placidusax are phenomenal and their fights are so cinematic that dying 30 times to Fortisaxx didn't bother me at all. After completing the story I'm now clearing up all side bosses, collecting every item and have rebirthed myself for PvP as a dragon cultist!

[@reclusiarchgrimaldus1269]

John 3:16 New International Version 16 For God so loved(A) the world that he gave(B) his one and only Son,(C) that whoever believes(D) in him shall not perish but have eternal life.(E) 🙏!!!!!

[@thesterben5573]

even the wingwalker dragons and magma wyrms are cool

[@InternetHydra]

A shame it underdelivered them as characters... the most history and involvement with humans then any souls game and they have the least involvement with the player other then generic hostility then all of them.

[@lilkonna]

@@suntzu9076 I can see what you mean! I was quite fortunate in my play through and didn't have the camera go all wacky on me, however watching some people on KZbin looks painful. Maybe I'll suffer through it on my next character.

[@1Hexxer]

Agree on Placidusax but Lichdragon is way too easy for his level/area. To get to him you have to either a) defeat Radahnn, Twin Gargoyles and Fia´s Champions or b) defeat two shardbearers, the dragon tree sentinel knight in front of leyndell, navigate sub-terranian shunning grounds and kill fake Mogh. So compared to the other fights you have had at that point yes he is too easy, he hits decently hard for his level but his hp bar is way too small, most attacks have massive windups during which he is completely free meat. He looks cool, has one of the best tracks and the is called a god damn lich dragon, but he folds like wet paper.

[@brisngir6984]

God, Fortissax was such a cinematic fight, but I was so caught up trying to dodge his lightning that I never got to properly hear the track! I think the 'Lich' in his name is pronounced with a hard ch sound though, like chair. At least assuming it carries over from Liches as a class of undead, which would make sense with his character.

[@MarcoMeatball]

I pronounced it the German way 😂

[@Beesman88]

@@MarcoMeatball I think you nailed it with the comparison of summoning Mephiso in Faust, so german pronunciation is appropriate. Du wirst nicht beten!

[@bountybernd]

​@@MarcoMeatball it is not that wrong to pronounce it german. It is an old english word which basically means corpse. In german we still say "Leiche" for corpse. Allthough i think it's intended to be pronounced with a hard ch. BTW Love your videos. I am binging them now :D

[@reclusiarchgrimaldus1269]

Careful how you say his name dude

[@reclusiarchgrimaldus1269]

John 3:16 New International Version 16 For God so loved(A) the world that he gave(B) his one and only Son,(C) that whoever believes(D) in him shall not perish but have eternal life.(E) 🙏!!

[@LiloDemon]

Fortissax theme is one of my favourites songs of all Soulsborne saga. The organ in this song is on fire haha. I would like to Recomend Godskin Apostle from Elden Ring, my favourite song of the game. I was so sure the songs would be so amazing that I pre-ordered the deluxe edition just to have the album and I wasn't dissapointed at all. :D. LORE CONTENT: Fortissax is a Dragon who was defeated by a demigod, Godwyn, but Godwyn decided to create a friendship after this conflict. Years passed and Godwyn was killed and as desperate try to save his friend's soul from Death's corruption, he, Fortissax, could not resist to it and got corrupted as well, becoming the Lichdragon.

[@MarcoMeatball]

I gotta relisten to godskin!

[@TsogtheehtgosT]

@@MarcoMeatball hell yeahhh

[@robertanderson9460]

He’s awesome. Literally maybe my favorite boss because of the music and mood. *spolier* I mean you literally fight him in a deathbed dream to unlock the great rune of death so it’s like a surreal nightmare in the world between life and death. The music is so perfect. Plus you know, cool spells you can acquire

[@reclusiarchgrimaldus1269]

John 3:16 New International Version 16 For God so loved(A) the world that he gave(B) his one and only Son,(C) that whoever believes(D) in him shall not perish but have eternal life.(E) 🙏!!

[@tuyoufpazic5746]

​@@reclusiarchgrimaldus1269 there is no other god than marika

[@etoyoshimura8982]

6:03 is just absolutely brilliant!

[@mlggodzilla1567]

Real, the percussion is what gives the track so much impact

[@hankcyclone9442]

I feel like the cello is meant to represent Fortissax's love and respect for Godwyn as well as his grief. The organ underneath to me is the gradual corruption of destined death slowly eating away at the soul of Fortissax while the choir is like his indomitable will that keeps him alive and protecting the corpse of his now long gone friend.

[@Slothhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh]

I’ll never get over how hard the opening of this OST is. My first time hearing this in the game and seeing Fortissax i immediately got goosebumps. Just an insane spectacle

[@wojakc7745]

Fortissax was easily one if my favourite boss fights. When he rears back and summons two ancient lightning spears, it was one of the most terrifying first experiences in the game

[@draw2death421]

Yeah! Untill you realise another ancient dragon in Farum azula also has that attack and then it just kinda flops when you start to think how much of a reskin Fortissax is lol.

[@matthewmontesano9517]

Grabbing spears of lightning from the sky is the most badass thing I have ever seen in a videogame

[@drdanster1987]

Phase 2 is probably my favorite piece of music in the game. Great reaction and thoughts on it!

[@reclusiarchgrimaldus1269]

John 3:16 New International Version 16 For God so loved(A) the world that he gave(B) his one and only Son,(C) that whoever believes(D) in him shall not perish but have eternal life.(E) 🙏!!!!!

[@hoxlas]

@@reclusiarchgrimaldus1269 Was this written for Marika and Godwyn?

[@tactile2878]

Glad Marco agrees this is the best track in the game. Because it is. Fortissax’s fight is one I wish I could do over and over just so I could keep hearing his theme. The energy of the music flows so well with the combat, especially in that second phase.

[@MarcoMeatball]

It absolutely still is

[@draw2death421]

Even tho its the same as Lanseax but with the one Lighting glaive spin and the Twin Lightning spears taken from that on wounded dragon in farum azule?

[@cosmic2750]

I absolutely LOVE how Fromsoft tells stories through their music. Like, you can just listen to a track, and you can almost exactly guess the type of character that they are in the story. Like how Fortissax has now went a bit mad with the death of his beloved friend, and you can hear that crazy madness to the track. Yet, somewhere in there there's a hint of sadness, of regret that he couldn't save his friend. The best part of all is that this thing is a dragon. And a completely optional one at that. Very very amazing how they gave an optional boss, a dragon nonetheless, a whole character and personality of its own. I say this because I've fought dragons in other games like Skyrim, and even Alduin didn't have this much character to him. I love that Fromsoft just goes in all in, with everything, and even things that the players have like a 90% chance to miss (even Fortissax is tbh, because the fight is part of a pretty complex questline) they just go all in. Which is why I love what Fromsoft does, they never half ass something, not even things they're almost sure the player will miss.

[@PenguinsAreColdish]

any good ost will tell a story

[@flowingwater6836]

6:03 always makes me tear up. It feels like the moment you find strength to keep fighting despite having nothing left to give.

[@dumbsterdives]

i love how this song sounds so majestic and twisted at the same time because youre fighting a dragon corrupted by undeath, but at the same time has a sorrowful feeling to it. You can only fight this boss by aiding someone who wants Godwyn, Fortissax's close friend, to fully succumb to the curse and become the lord of those who live in death, so in essence you are crushing a worn down, fallen legend who only wants to protect his dear friend from the defilement that was forced on him, even wielding Godwyn's golden lightning that is twisted by the deathblight consuming them both.

[@eatyorkshire9375]

Dragonlord Placidusax is another mouthful and also a really good ost - also mohg lord of blood is great

[@supercock370]

Yeah, mohg and morgott has very good osts

[@dnlkr]

Nihil! Nihil! NIHIL!

[@Erlisch1337]

Placidusax was defenitly the most fun fight in the game

[@reclusiarchgrimaldus1269]

John 3:16 New International Version 16 For God so loved(A) the world that he gave(B) his one and only Son,(C) that whoever believes(D) in him shall not perish but have eternal life.(E) 🙏!!

[@realstevetyler]

0:03 "Lihkdragon Fortissax"...

[@Novellecorn]

Man, this theme was amazing, a big 10/10. By the way, could you react to yet another Elden Ring OST called "God Devouring Serpent"? This piece of music is probably my favourite amongst all of them ^^

[@guyperson2651]

I wholeheartedly agree. God devouring serpent is stupidly good.

[@Leonhart_93]

Unfortunately I couldn't enjoy it as much as the composition deserved, due to the exaggerated amount of intentional compression during mastering. Everything is too crowded and my ears just beed. Such a shame, I would have liked to listen to it as unmodified as possible after recording...

[@JC-Alan]

Good taste. These two are two of my favorites. I use them as inspiration fuel while writing.

[@t4k3y0ur5hirtoff]

@@JC-Alan Both made by the same guy too

[@reclusiarchgrimaldus1269]

John 3:16 New International Version 16 For God so loved(A) the world that he gave(B) his one and only Son,(C) that whoever believes(D) in him shall not perish but have eternal life.(E) 🙏!!

[@kaylunhokes3919]

1:02 mans was giving in to the darkness for a second

[@Del2394-g3z]

It’s amazing that the boss this soundtrack was used for can be missed very easily lol, totally wasn’t expecting that when I went into Fia’s dream, legendary game.

[@ZephyrusAsmodeus]

God, I have listened to this literally at least a hundred times, and that first chorus swell of the second phase STILL gives me chills. I can not express how exhilerating that progression is to me. it's crazy. His theme and surrounding setting alone place him at the very top of my favorite bosses and characters, let alone the tragic story of his honor leading to his overwhelming corruption.

[@ICE_1861]

The moment the choir charges in at 6:03 and 7:30 is my favorite. It's like we get glimpses at the former glory of Fortissax, before the organ takes back over and instills that undertone of unease and fear.

[@Tulip_bip]

the opening with the cello just hits a certain part of my brain and i'm so obsessed with it lmao

[@Never_heart]

This might be the most evocative song in Elden Ring, and it is for an optional boss with way to little health for the level at which most players fight him. Also this dragon starts the fight with dual lightning Lances of Longinus. There is so much hype in this fight, it needs a health buff for no other reason than we need an excuse to hear the full song in battle

[@LegacyArkGames]

I love this piece. It's surprising to me that they put so much effort into this song when it belongs to what is, overall, one of the more obscure ending path quests.

[@c1ue13ss]

[@MarcoMeatball]

lol. your username :D Thank you. Enjoyed this one, a lot.

[@c1ue13ss]

@@MarcoMeatball Thanks! :)

[@Thereallifebasil]

Wow your channel is very small for how energetic and fantastic you and your content are, keep up the great work!

[@MarcoMeatball]

Thank you! It started a month ago 😢

[@reclusiarchgrimaldus1269]

John 3:16 New International Version 16 For God so loved(A) the world that he gave(B) his one and only Son,(C) that whoever believes(D) in him shall not perish but have eternal life.(E) 🙏!!!!!

[@TheStraightestWhitest]

He's now closing in on 200k subs. Love to see it.

[@cristianasoltanei7848]

Watching you have a literal eargasm during the 2nd part was funny 😅. This is my favorite Elden Ring OST.

[@IWantDownFromTree]

Big agree with everything you’re saying here. A lot of the themes you brought up regarding this track can also be said for the Darkeater Midir boss fight track from Dark Souls 3. Easily one of my favourite boss themes. That “drama” you speak of elicits such an emotional response that makes me hesitate throughout the fight.

[@robertdurst9089]

God your use of Faust in this reaction was so good 😭

[@MarcoMeatball]

Oh thank you!! Yes I’m always attempting to connect it back to opera if I can somehow.

[@glen3133]

i like how, while themes like maliketh's, godfrey's, radahn's, or even godrick's are just so emotional and connected to their respective character, fortissax's theme just goes in guns blazing and slapping yo ass frame one. definitely the craziest theme in this game by far.

[@nikosuokko8370]

Honestly, your takes on the songs have made appreciate more gaming music in general! The songs from elden ring that I loved feel more vivid now. So what I want to say is that I love your videos and your takes on the songs. Please don't stop making these! Mohg, Lord of Blood is my favorite track from the game and I would really love have your take on it!

[@MarcoMeatball]

Thank you!!!

[@Christian-je7fj]

Never say you're bad at the game! use all the recourse that the game brings you enjoy the journey, never feel ashamed of asking for help or share for something you don't know, this game is all about community work and help others, I am sure you'll become Elden Lord

[@reclusiarchgrimaldus1269]

John 3:16 New International Version 16 For God so loved(A) the world that he gave(B) his one and only Son,(C) that whoever believes(D) in him shall not perish but have eternal life.(E) 🙏!!!!!

[@arinloche858]

This music is way to epic for a boss that had barely any buildup, just a few item discriptions " oh they were freinds with Godwyn cool" BAM, giant black dragon that hurls lightning spears

[@princeapoopoo5787]

this song was composed by yoshimi kudo, this soundtrack being the first souls game that he's composed music for. i'm blown away by how he authentically feels likes been around the games for a long time! i was happy to see a basiscape artist show up on elden ring's staff ... i personally suggest listening to bunwaii desert from caravan stories or - (ISOLEUCINE) - from 13 sentinels aegis rim for some completely different, but still excellent, pieces of work from him.

[@doublee7110]

I believe that yoshimi kudo actually worked on the Fromsoft sound design team before becoming a composer, as was Shoi Miyazawa who composed Maliketh’s theme. I guess that explains how familiar they seem with the series!

[@reclusiarchgrimaldus1269]

John 3:16 New International Version 16 For God so loved(A) the world that he gave(B) his one and only Son,(C) that whoever believes(D) in him shall not perish but have eternal life.(E) 🙏!!!!!

[@cadenreinhart3779]

This track is absolutely wild. My second favorite track from the FromSoftware games I've played, behind Elden Beast. I have a hard time comprehending how someone could compose something as crazy as this is.

[@connorryan2715]

I get this feeling of a gorgeous, terrifying tradgedy from this song. Which is very emblematic of the character of Fortissax and his fight. I believe he was corrupted in trying to save a friend of his. And now he’s this staggeringly powerful dragon whom you face in an area that looks like a nightmare in of itself. It’s really something to behold. By the way, I think you’d love the music from the Monster Hunter games if you get the chance. Much like Fromsoft titles it’s a series of massive scale dramatic boss battles which an exceptional soundtrack to match its larger than life enemies. Great video!

[@MarcoMeatball]

I love MH:W! Just not sure where to begin. Have seen some requests though!

[@MastaDRD]

@@MarcoMeatball Personally, I'd be really pleased to see you do Nergigante (NOT Arch-Tempered; the regular theme) and Valstrax (the older version from MHGU, not the newer, Japanified mix from Rise. Rise's versions of a lot of the pre-existing themes are greatly changed/arguably worse than the originals.) Also great for reacting are Bazelgeuse, Vaal Hazak, Ahtal-Ka, Deviljho (pre-World version, look for MH3U)

[@Reklov.66]

@@MastaDRD rise's themes are different,not worse. they were made like that to fit the game,which i love

[@reclusiarchgrimaldus1269]

John 3:16 New International Version 16 For God so loved(A) the world that he gave(B) his one and only Son,(C) that whoever believes(D) in him shall not perish but have eternal life.(E) 🙏!!!!!

[@Amber_the_Floof]

The second phase just goes nuts, and I love it

[@en-men-lu-ana6870]

I love how easy it is to see that you're REALLY focused and immersed in the songs you listen to, you just go into your own world, and I love it.

[@reclusiarchgrimaldus1269]

John 3:16 New International Version 16 For God so loved(A) the world that he gave(B) his one and only Son,(C) that whoever believes(D) in him shall not perish but have eternal life.(E) 🙏!!!!!

[@TerryHesticles87]

The first part of the song sounds like hope and goodness might just prevail. Then the drop happens and you realize that was just a dream.

[@reclusiarchgrimaldus1269]

John 3:16 New International Version 16 For God so loved(A) the world that he gave(B) his one and only Son,(C) that whoever believes(D) in him shall not perish but have eternal life.(E) 🙏!!!!!!!

[@Mistrzu_Yoda]

Normal person - "you cannot make organ sound metal" Elden ring composers - "hold my beer" By the way, I'm still waiting for your listening of Midir theme from Dark Souls 3 :)

[@MarcoMeatball]

Itll be a good while but it’ll happen :)

[@Mistrzu_Yoda]

@@MarcoMeatball great :) you sir, have just made my day :) I wish you all the best Marco, have a good time ;)

[@MarcoMeatball]

@@Mistrzu_Yoda my Pleasure, friend!

[@frameofmindmovie]

hold my estus

[@nicolaslabra2225]

hold my asahi...

[@CeraphineLuna]

Possibly my favorite Ost to date. The sad part is, (at least by the time I found the boss) he was so easy that I never got to hear his 2nd phase music until like a year later when I stumbled across it on yt.

[@Crimsonfur]

I get chills every time I hear that cello come in at the start of the song

[@Sonacnights]

I think my favorite, by far, is the theme for Maliketh. The second half is just so unbelievably incredible and invokes so many different emotions at once.

[@reclusiarchgrimaldus1269]

John 3:16 New International Version 16 For God so loved(A) the world that he gave(B) his one and only Son,(C) that whoever believes(D) in him shall not perish but have eternal life.(E) 🙏!!!!!!!

[@NotimPorten]

I've been playing Souls games since the original Dark Souls, possibly thousands of hours in all the games combined. And I agree with Marco. This is the singular best piece of music in From Software history, if not the best music I've heard in my life. I was so stunned by it that I had a reverse Marco experience: I was too captivated by the music to notice the boss and had no idea how to fight him in the second playthrough.

[@MarcoMeatball]

I still think this is the best track in FromSoft history

[@hamiltonrankin8462]

@@MarcoMeatball to bad not enough people appreciate this masterpiece since he’s meant to be a mid game boss but is very hard to find.

[@ruthlesslistener]

Loved your breakdown on this! I feel like this song really capitalizes on the lore, where you really feel the glory and awe and magnificence of Fortissax mixed with the horror of what has become of a once-noble being. The lore is pretty brief, but the tale of a dragon- one of the previous rulers of the Lands Between- befriending Godwyn the Golden and then fighting the death within his best friend until he himself was corrupted is a really powerful and awe-inspiring story

[@canadiangopnik7007]

quick note; A lich is a common trope in fantasy, usually they're powerful undead humanoids with vast magic power and are infamously hard to kill... and Fortissax is a LICH-DRAGON... the first half of his name alone tells you exactly what you're fighting, a living nightmare

[@RitsuCurisu]

I had the same reaction to the second phase. Especially the 3:13 bit. Also, I would REALLY recommend Mohg, Lord of Blood. Spoilers ahead: There is something both noble and tragic to Fortissax. The dragon once fought Godwyn in battle, but lost to the man. Instead of killing the dragon, Godwyn spared him and became close friends with him. After Godwyn was murdered through the curse of death, Fortissax sent his soul into the cursed dream where Godwyn's soul is trapped in an attempt to save his friend. However, even something as mighty as the ancient dragon Fortissax lost to the nightmare and now remains trapped and corrupted forever alongside his old friend.

[@reclusiarchgrimaldus1269]

John 3:16 New International Version 16 For God so loved(A) the world that he gave(B) his one and only Son,(C) that whoever believes(D) in him shall not perish but have eternal life.(E) 🙏!!!!!!!

[@zizzi9806]

Just wow. I've fought him and did not realise how absolutely incredible this track is. Mindblowing.

[@Ultrakrill2411]

Warms my heart seeing someone reacting like that to my favourite souls ost lol

[@MarcoMeatball]

❤️

[@mininabs]

Ah, good ol Lichdragon Fortissax. Decent boss, tied to the end of a questline and one that is required for a specific ending in the game. The name kind of gives away part of his lore, he's a LICH dragon, undead essentially. He actually uses the Death status ailment mechanic in his fight, it's terrifying. The use of the organ I think is spot on in your analysis, it's being used to show that this dragon is unholy, similar to Faust. I hope you get to Fortissax yourself, it's accessible even after you beat the last main bosses, but I do recommend a guide on how to access it.

[@reclusiarchgrimaldus1269]

John 3:16 New International Version 16 For God so loved(A) the world that he gave(B) his one and only Son,(C) that whoever believes(D) in him shall not perish but have eternal life.(E) 🙏!!!!!

[@concrete_dog]

This boss fight is so chaotic that you barely have any time to process the music, but it's still so effective at delivering the necessary emotional impact. The hallmark of a great soundtrack I think.

[@sethmartin8038]

the change from 3/4 to 5/4 then back to 3/4 if absolutely wild in the first section from 1:10 to 1:53 absolutely loved that

[@sethmartin8038]

it really creates an unsettling feeling where you can't predict what is going to happen, especially when mixed with the off beat cymbal crashes and haunting choir and organs

[@JonatanE]

what I love about Elden Ringe is how much effort is put into everything, even hidden bosses have the greatest music and visual design.

[@blueberry4209]

You know it's good when even professional musicians are left speechless through whole sections of the song

[@bowlofriskies6486]

0:31 That was exactly my reaction when I heard the menacing organ. I just wanted to run around and avoid his attacks so I could listen to it, but for being such a good fight with an unbelievable theme, it's really short

[@hahahayourebloated]

The cello really conveys so much feeling

[@thomasbitmail7937]

Okay, now that i listened to it properly, this is really badass! Sounds similar to Midir's song from DS3. While i was fighting it, i had to concentrate to avoid death blight, the lightning, the dragon's lightning, the dragon's hits... no time to listen to music 😂

[@reclusiarchgrimaldus1269]

John 3:16 New International Version 16 For God so loved(A) the world that he gave(B) his one and only Son,(C) that whoever believes(D) in him shall not perish but have eternal life.(E) 🙏!!!!!

[@rypieuwu]

@@reclusiarchgrimaldus1269 wut

[@Korvxx]

Omg the ost is so good and I missed fighting this optional boss in my first playthrough, god damn top 3 Elden ring track for sure, actually top 3 in all of from software games after listening for a few days

[@Scoobydoo-ju9ch]

I can't wait for the final boss theme react I really love how somber the theme is compared to how pretty chaotic the actual fight it, and it really feels like something like Gwyns fight or it even has abit of plin plin plon

[@MarcoMeatball]

It’s in the fromsoft playlist ☺️

[@M12GProductions]

Now imagine listening to this with lightning striking all around you and hearing a dragon roaring.

[@Auberc]

Literally the best boss fight because of the theme song

[@edwinpritom6336]

6:10 "We are the Warriors who built this town?" - feels?

[@dawsonperry9006]

I think the time has come for you to react to godskin apostles. Hands down the best theme in the game. Also another evil church theme

[@MarcoMeatball]

NO I HATE THEM 🤣🤣 I will soon, Dawson :)

[@randomclipsofmedoinrandomd4253]

Nahhh IMO fortisaxx is peak second phase theme

[@hansfriedemann4194]

One of the coolest fights and ost's. Blew me away. Great discussion of the piece, have a good one!

[@kinsa7]

also, for one of this boss' attacks, he grabs red lightning, and slams his fist with it into the ground, for about 5 seconds the entire arena and music goes quiet as he does this and it's honestly beauitful

[@praisethesun980]

that's Placidusax not Fortissax but it's beautiful nonetheless

[@kinsa7]

@@praisethesun980 oh yeahhhh i always get them mixed up lol

[@reclusiarchgrimaldus1269]

John 3:16 New International Version 16 For God so loved(A) the world that he gave(B) his one and only Son,(C) that whoever believes(D) in him shall not perish but have eternal life.(E) 🙏!!!!!

[@reclusiarchgrimaldus1269]

John 3:16 New International Version 16 For God so loved(A) the world that he gave(B) his one and only Son,(C) that whoever believes(D) in him shall not perish but have eternal life.(E) 🙏!

[@SebuTK]

You know it’s amazing when you take your glasses off to hear better

[@johnpetrila4823]

Yeah, this track is up there with Godskin Apostles, Starscourge Radahn and Beast Clergyman in terms of weaving religious motifs into a more traditional sweeping 'epic' soundscape and coming up with something much deeper than the sum of its parts. This soundtrack (I honestly almost feel like calling it a 'score' is merited) really is an embarrassment of riches. I loved your analysis as usual, and watching you trace the lines of the melody in real time (especially those wild scales in the back half) was a treat; the way the composer tied all of those elements together into a satisfying whole is something that might be easy to overlook because of how powerful the music is, but as you said in your analysis, when you break down all the layers of what's going on, it shouldn't work, and yet it does. As to Fortissax's lore, he was at one point an enemy of Queen Marika and her husband Godfrey, the first Elden Lord, but was subdued in battle by Marika and Godfrey's son Godwyn The Golden, after which Fortissax and Godwyn became friends and the kingdom actually started a cult that worshiped dragons in its capitol. After Godwyn was sort-of killed (killed in soul but not in body), Fortissax fought against the corruption that spread through Godwyn as a result, but failed and was in turn also corrupted, turning him from a dragon into a Lich (undead) dragon. As with most things in Elden Ring's lore, it's a case of "things used to be nice and happy, but we can't have that in a FromSoft game, so here's your patina of melancholy over everything" lol. Your Faust comparison was quite apt, in that sense. Have a great weekend, and cheers as always for the content!

[@MarcoMeatball]

Thanks for the kind words, the lore, and the praise. I’m certainly no composer of music analyzer but as an interpreter it’s important to listen to all aspects so that one can then project the correct emotion to the audience. So I appreciate the validation!

[@reclusiarchgrimaldus1269]

John 3:16 New International Version 16 For God so loved(A) the world that he gave(B) his one and only Son,(C) that whoever believes(D) in him shall not perish but have eternal life.(E) 🙏!!

[@championgundeer]

I only got to Fortissax in Elden Ring this month, and your reaction is almost the exact same as mine when that second phase dropped ingame. Although I experienced it while he was slamming lightning on me lmao. By far one of the most epic and incredible OST in the game and I loved your reference to Faust.

[@LuciaLaVA]

Fortisax once was a great warrior in the ancient dragon War who faced Godwyn The Golden himself, and upon a victor being chosen in their battle the two found a mutual respect for one another and would become comrades, following the Night Of The Black Knives when Godwyn's soul was destroyed Fortisax dove into Godwyn's mind to fight off the deathblight that formed within Godwyn, and Fortisax would fight off the blight until he himself became consumed by the blight, left to suffer without mind or will until Fia layed with Godwyn's body, and began to dream, where Fortisax would enter her dream and through us finally be granted the mercy of a true death, instead of being plagued to live in death for all eternity

[@kellyh7202]

As a huge gamer who also went to school for flute performance, I am loving your channel! I agree that this is probably the best track in a game full of amazing music. I was stunned when I came across it in the game!

[@MarcoMeatball]

Hi Kelly! Musicians unite ❤️

[@igor_kossov]

5:36 is when he takes off, you can hear the string notes glide up and down, like the slow beat of big wings. The next section then reminds me of a dive onto the enemy

[@elementalterror]

The organ is going so ham on this piece, i love it! Organ, and strings are such a good combination

[@ImMrDanny95]

I did NOT know this OST was so damn good. I was busy trying to dodge this bastards lightning lmao

[@reclusiarchgrimaldus1269]

John 3:16 New International Version 16 For God so loved(A) the world that he gave(B) his one and only Son,(C) that whoever believes(D) in him shall not perish but have eternal life.(E) 🙏!!!!!

[@athelise]

In my opinion, one of the absolute best songs on the track. The nightmare-ish organs, the sorrow in the strings and choral, it blew me away every time I had to go back into the boss room.

[@Alkatraz242]

This one caught me off guard too. Especially the part after the racing organ portion that swells immediately into this heart wrenching chorus filled with duty, respect, but also despair and sadness that emulates Fortissax's own feelings because he couldn't reach his best friend in time to save him. Even in the opening lyric it sounds like "Me Frater/fratello" which is Fortisax calling Godwin his brother. It gives this feeling that we're seeing the Night of the Black Knives (when Godwin got assassinated) from Fortissax's own perspective, him racing to save his friend but inevitably being too late to do so. So Istead Fortissax chose to stay by Godwin's side as the corruption of death slowly consumed him as well. One of the best in the game. Always love your reactions and analysis, thanks for doing this! :)

[@Sdothull]

Had to take the glasses off for this one 🔥🔥

[@MarcoMeatball]

😂

[@ironiccaesar178]

The 2nd half Is pure godlike composition for me That choir's constant up&down climax and that organ, they scream DEATH and DAY OF JUDGEMENT with every note. AND I LOVE IT

[@Beanibirb]

Its an absolute shame Fortissax has such a low health pool because the fight is usually over before you reach the second phase of the music

[@jonahward4522]

This might be my favorite in the game man. It’s such an incredible listen

[@burns0100]

In this boss particular at one point the boss does a very unique attack and in that moment the music drops off suddenly, completely cuts off, the attack happens and you get to experience and hear that attack then the music comes back in full swing. The sudden shift in the fight, the flow, the now rush of emotions you feel truly make this one of the best fights in the game because of this music and just how much it adds. The entire boss fight is actually set out really well, visually the boss itself it stunning but the arena you fight it in just adds even more to that drama. You should watch a video of the fight or experience it yourself.

[@LowIntSpecimen]

unless fortissax also does it, that's placidusax who does that

[@McconneIIRet]

Love the commentary!

[@villelepoaho4105]

This is one of those tracks that makes you take your glasses off so you can hear better :D

[@MarcoMeatball]

Exactly

[@liamobrien9186]

Everything about this fight was excellent, from the build up to the music and even the arena was striking. The greatest thing about it is that it's totally optional and even an illusive secret.

[@Grayfox82]

This song is one of the best in the game....PERIOD!

[@lucasarcelin4300]

When i fight this dragon (god) i hear the theme and get really excited with a really high fear of this dude but continue to fight because this ost is totally epic

[@Phoenix_9902]

its funny listening to the music because ive never heard it even though ive played all the bosses multiple times now. 2-8 times and i don’t remember any of the themes or songs. all of them are incredible. you can almost feel the essence of the fight and boss itself reflected into the music. which is incredible. I love this game so much. its just 👌 perfect

[@Focus716]

Fun fact: The Cello is the BEST instrument

[@Loreboar0]

I love the powerful presence of the organ, but the cello can be so versatile, either emotional or sinister

[@reclusiarchgrimaldus1269]

John 3:16 New International Version 16 For God so loved(A) the world that he gave(B) his one and only Son,(C) that whoever believes(D) in him shall not perish but have eternal life.(E) 🙏!!!!!

[@psychicmane7636]

@@reclusiarchgrimaldus1269 it’s weird you say that and your nickname is a literal death machine but I appreciate bible verses wherever I see them

[@MonoFlax]

Alright thats it, i’m subbing Im so glad you’re talking about the music theory behind some of these creative decisions, as a layman its really fascinating to hear! Would love to hear your thoughts on Beast Clergyman and Lord of Blood, they’re propably my favorites from the game!

[@megustaelmate5499]

This is one of my favourite OST of the game along with Morgott's and Radahn's. In this case, it's like I could feel what Fortissax feels in that arena, fighting to protect what's left of his friend. _(Lore about Fortissax (As far as I know): He fought against Godwyn, the Golden. Both fought with bravery but Fortissax was defeated, but Godwyn didn't finish Fortissax. After seeing how much they fought to end the fight, Fortissax and Godwyn respected each other and became friends. Time passed and the Night of the Black Knives occured, where Godwyn is killed. This angered Fortissax but also made him blame himself for not being able to help him in time. After that, Fortissax dedicated himself to protect the corpse of Godwyn, his old friend)_ Listening to this song I can feel Fortissax's concern about what might happen to Godwyn if he fails, the feeling of "Even if he's death he's my friend, I'll not leave him. I failed once, I'm not going to fail again". The feeling of "Don't care if he's strong enough to kill me, I need to keep fighting". Something similar to what I feel with Morgott's theme but different. And that's antoher thing, because even if both themes can make me feel the same, Lichdragon Fortissax OST adds something in his second phase: *The feeling that you're fighting a dragon* , something really powerful that will give everything to destroy you, it's terrifying to hear the chorus while a rain of lighting bolts comes at you because a massive creature is throwing them at you.

[@mimirtells]

My favorite theme in the entire game. I could not hear the whole thing but when I listened to all of it, I did not kill him right away in my second run of the game. It was an amazing experience. Would love to see Placidusax theme his theme is also great and fun fact he has the biggest aeo attack in the game that stops the music entirely.

[@reclusiarchgrimaldus1269]

John 3:16 New International Version 16 For God so loved(A) the world that he gave(B) his one and only Son,(C) that whoever believes(D) in him shall not perish but have eternal life.(E) 🙏!!!!!

[@kumo1814]

6:00 holy biscuits that is amazing Btw do you stream on twitch/yt Marco?

[@MarcoMeatball]

Here ❤️

[@kumo1814]

@@MarcoMeatball great!

[@DubiousShell]

Absolutely fantastic content, you're a very charismatic speaker - Obviously you said yourself you haven't fought this boss just yet, but to me it always sounded like a funeral procession, but I was also made aware of the lore through the gameplay. As the story goes, Godwyn conquered the dragons, and Fortissax befriended him during this conflict, they were extremely close friends - so when Godwyn was the first demi-god to die, Fortissax took him and did everything in his power to hold death itself at bay, eventually falling to the corruption of the rune of death himself. So with that information the song always felt like mourning not only for Godwyn, for for his companion that gave everything even beyond his own life to save his friend. A grand farewell to the majesty that once was.

[@Sci-Fi_Freak_YT]

Part 2 of this song is my favorite in this game, so over the top and epic.

[@phntmthf5505]

For the record, the ch in lichdragon is pronounced like in torch. It’s the concept of a lich applied to a dragon, in the same way that D&D has dracoliches.

[@MarcoMeatball]

I know

[@nishcheta885]

He pronounced it the German way. Intentionally. Congrats on in-correcting him

[@jackshapiro4668]

This track gives me like ancient mythological god, that’s been corrupted vibes, or is potentially malevolent in some way. It also has the a similar use to charts as in the God of War (2018) soundtrack, where it uses the chorus to instill heroism, but in this it also instills some kind of despair, and evil to it.

[@reclusiarchgrimaldus1269]

John 3:16 New International Version 16 For God so loved(A) the world that he gave(B) his one and only Son,(C) that whoever believes(D) in him shall not perish but have eternal life.(E) 🙏!!!!!