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There's not much to say about Nobuo Uematsu's iconic Final Fantasy 7 music that hasn't already been said by people much more qualified than me, but veteran JRPG composer Yasunori Nishiki is in the unique position to offer genuinely novel insights.
Nishiki, primarily known as the main composer for Octopath Traveler, also handled various arrangements for Final Fantasy 7 Remake and Rebirth, including Rebirth's versions of One-Winged Angel and Hollow Skies, and he recently opened up to RPG Site about what it was like having a hand in adapting such a beloved score.
"Final Fantasy music is something that's legendary to me, and creating remakes or arrangements of it feels akin to deciphering sacred texts," Nishiki said. "There is always something to learn within that work, and I feel my posture straighten every time I engage with Final Fantasy music."
Nishiki's description is great because it could have only come from someone with a lot of years in the music industry. For me, that last line evokes images of a straight-backed composer commanding an orchestra in spirited dance as a crowded theater watches in captivation, while also conveying the sense that Nishiki is simply passionately inspired by the music.
As for his own work, Nishiki said the key to creating memorable video game music is a good caffeinated beverage, but the specific type of drink depends on the scenario.
"Black coffee – especially unsweetened – is what I typically reach for whenever I'm buried in paperwork. On the other hand, a sweet latte usually means I'm gearing up to tackle a crucial battle theme, one I expect will be an uphill battle."
Since I'm sure you're all begging to know what I drink while writing these soon-to-be classic GamesRadar+ news stories, it's usually green tea or decaf coffee because normal coffee makes me too jittery. You're welcome.
There's a reason Final Fantasy 7 still ranks so highly on our list of the best JRPGs.
