|
> The Phantasy Star Online
(OST) set new standards in quality, much like the corresponding
Sonic
Team game. Unfortunately, Sega never released
an official PSOv.2 soundtrack, even though the semi-sequel
contained enough new music to warrant one. With the release of Phantasy
Star Online: Episode I&II, Sega graced fans with
another official soundtrack, titled "Phantasy Star Online: Songs
of Ragol Odyssey" (PSOSORO). Thankfully, it's a two disc
set, complete with the original, missing PSOv.2 tracks and
(of course) all the new music.
> Disc one has the missing PSOv.2 tracks, as well as some
new material. I'd say the new music on this disc compares favorably
with the first soundtrack. Disc two is all Episode II.
Even though it was a seemingly impossible task, Sega managed
to create a new soundtrack (for Episode II) that comes as close as one
could imagine (or expect) to maintaining the magic of the original soundtrack.
No, the second Episode's music is not as good as the first, but it comes
close enough to delight and satisfy me.
> I would say PSOSORO's music just doesn't have quite the
same fantasy, sci-fi feel of the original PSO. Even
so, the new music ranges from excellent to good on its own merit.
If you have both OST's, then the only music you'd be without is the supplemental
Sonic
Team music from games like Burning
Rangers (Saturn) and Sonic
Adventure (Dreamcast). Those soundtracks
are available as well (good luck finding them though).
Bottom
Line:
> If you enjoy videogame music, then PSOSORO is a must buy.
The new songs don't surpass the original game's, but no one expected that.
Together with the first PSO (OST), you will have a timeless
collection of exceptional music.
Overall:
9.5 |
