Game music of the day: Chrono Cross

Welcome to GamesRadar's daily blast of all things pertaining to the ever-growing field of game music. Each post will introduce new sounds, games, composers and fan-made remixes of gaming's greatest aural achievements.

April 2, 2010

Game: Chrono Cross

Song: Time's Scar

Composer: Yasunori Mitsuda

Above: "Time's Scar" from Chrono Cross

Even in the comparatively small realm of videogame music there are "holy grail" soundtracks that are known and cherished around the world. Obviously songs from Mario, Zelda,Mega Man,Castlevaniaand various Final Fantasies make up this list, but right up there with 'em is this much-loved but nearly forgotten sequel to Chrono Trigger.

Released in 2000 to near unanimous praise, Chrono Cross nailed every important aspect of a good RPGexperience - strong characters, a gripping plot, an addictive battle system and, most importantly, another knockout soundtrack from Yasunori Mitsuda, whose credits also include Chrono Trigger, Xenogears and Shadow Hearts.

The opening track, "Time's Scar," begins slow and relaxed, suggesting a moody but paced introduction to this new world. About 60 seconds in, everything picks up and you're thrust into an intoxicating blend of folksy flutes, pounding drums and a tribal fever that finally peaks as the logo flashes across the screen. Couldn't imagine a better opening cutscene, nor a better song to narrate it. Gets me pumped every single time.

Mitsuda's work has been heavily promoted and remixed over the years, most notably inVideo Game Liveand across dozens of submissions atOverClocked ReMix.

So, when are we going to get this on PSN? Sony, Square, you listening?

Planet Earth by an an uncredited musician

Main themeby Tom Salta

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A fomer Executive Editor at GamesRadar, Brett also contributed content to many other Future gaming publications including Nintendo Power, PC Gamer and Official Xbox Magazine. Brett has worked at Capcom in several senior roles, is an experienced podcaster, and now works as a Senior Manager of Content Communications at PlayStation SIE.