MS: The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker
We’ve already explained in great detail why The Wind Waker is brilliant and perhaps one of the last true classics from Nintendo. With its high definition remaster out now, let’s dig a little deeper into its soundtrack.
Its score arguably leaves as big an impression as its iconic cel-shaded art. In many ways the two compliment each other perfectly, charting new territory and crafting a distinct personality while still encapsulating the adventurous spirit of the series.
Four Nintendo veterans scored The Wind Waker; Hajime Wakai, Toru Minegishi, the legendary Koji Kondo and Kenta Nagata (pictured) who was the lead composer.
Though a typical orchestral undercurrent is felt throughout, the game frequently makes use of old world instruments and genres, particularly of European origin. Most memorable are the Celtic inspired pieces such as the main theme (embedded above) which makes use of the violin, flute and mandolin (or a similar stringed instrument, I’m not 100% sure on that) to cheery and infectious effect.
Accompanying the optimistic and breezy numbers that the game is often best remembered for are some genuinely excellent sombre tracks. This haunting subterranean track has always stuck with me, bringing to mind the dark predecessor to The Wind Waker, Majora’s Mask.
Another stand-out track is Dragon Roost Island, a spiritual sequel of sorts to Ocarina of Time‘s Gerudo Valley, that straddles the line between the game’s light and dark tones. Its wistful yet vibrant Spanish sound has a sorrowful reprise later in the story.
When the game reprises familiar series themes it does so only sparingly, usually deploying them at poignant plot moments thus delivering a huge impact to the Zelda faithful. I won’t cite any examples in case the HD version is your first voyage through The Wind Waker but trust me, they’re awesome.
While there’s not much more I can say without sailing across that spoiler boundary, it’s safe to say that amongst a series well-regarded for its music The Wind Waker‘s soundtrack is a particular stand out. I’ll leave it to you, dear reader, to discover the music for yourself or chime in with your favourite highlights.
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