The Breath of Fire series has seen a multitude of composers throughout its time. In its latest iteration, Breath of Fire 6, a mobile and web-based game, Tamiya Terashima, known for his earlier works with Falcom, serves as the composer. How does his effort turn out for Breath of Fire 6 Original Soundtrack -Ryuushou- and how does it compare to his effort on the Breath of Fire 6 Original Soundtrack -Myakudou-?
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The album opens with “Dragon Saying -RYUUGON”, a tune that features exotic vocals that mirror “Invitation of the White Dragon” from Breath of Fire 6 Original Soundtrack -Myakudou- in progression, with its Celtic and orchestral sounds. The melody itself is quite strong and opens this soundtrack on a positive note. As with the first soundtrack, there are a number of “Dragon Song” pieces. “Dragon Song <Star> (Peridot)” is a haunting strings driven vocal with a beautiful atmosphere while “Dragon Song <Hatred> (Black Dragon Miko)” is a dark and dramatic vocal tune with an enchanting melody. “Dragon Song <Fear> (Nina)” gives off a mystical and mysterious sound with its vocals while “Dragon Song <Fear> (Elena)” features the same melody as the “Nina” version with a more dramatic and ominous tone. Lastly, “Dragon Song <Moon> (Elena)” is a beautiful vocal tune with a fantasy feel.
In terms of action-oriented tunes, “Time of War -SENKI-” has a militaristic march tone and some classically oriented piano that give it a bit of a romantic feel. The melody itself is quite beautiful, but the accompaniment leaves a bit to be desired. “Fog of War -SENMU-” has a sweeping militaristic sound featuring choir, organ, and orchestra. The end result is tense, dramatic, and beautiful while “Threatening Fire -ENI-” is a dramatic, tense, and beautiful orchestral tune.
“Beautiful and Elegant -REIGA-” features ethereal vocals with a Japanese mood. The erhu adds a contemplative touch and helps reinforce the beautiful atmosphere. “Skyscraper -KOUROU-” is a harpsichord-led piece featuring strings that give it a classical air and a mysterious atmosphere, while “Wide Metropolis -KOUTO-” features an airy melody with some electronic elements that give off a bit of a futuristic and modern vibe. Lastly, both “Festival Dancer -HANETO-” and “Sacrifice -SHISAI-” are upbeat and jovial, Celtic-influenced pieces featuring catchy melodies and a great atmosphere.
Summary
All in all, the Breath of Fire 6 Original Soundtrack -Ryuushou- is a better listen than its predecessor. While I thought its predecessor lacked some of the charm found in some of the other entries in the series, I think that this album makes strides toward providing some more interesting musical ideas. If the game’s music were to continue being released, I would hope it trended more towards what is present in this soundtrack.
