OCTOPATH TRAVELER - Pt. 1 : The character themes
- theostchronicles
- 4 janv.
- 5 min de lecture
Dernière mise à jour : 5 janv.
Welcome to this special OCTOPATH TRAVELER review, which will be divided into three parts.
If the Bravely Default OST is a love letter to Final Fantasy, Octopath Traveler is a love letter to Final Fantasy VI. From strong, melodic character themes to rhythmically intense boss battles and beautiful exploration pieces, everything is in place to make Octopath Traveler even greater than it already is. Let me briefly introduce Yasunori Nishiki, the brilliant composer behind this OST.
Yasunori Nishiki was born on July 10, 1985, in Kanagawa Prefecture. He began piano lessons as a child, but his passion for music awakened when he became a fan of the Japanese band Spitz. After graduating from the Tokyo College of Music, he started working as a composer at Konami, contributing to titles like the Quiz Magic Academy series and arranging national anthems for Pro Evolution Soccer 2011, which continue to be used in later installments.
He left Konami to pursue a freelance composing career, broadening his scope to non-game-related projects such as anime and puppet shows. His first major project was the soundtrack for Octopath Traveler, which was well received by critics and fans alike and earned a nomination for “Best Score/Music” at The Game Awards 2018.
So, what makes this OST incredible? Let’s take a closer look together.
Disclaimer : I’m not here to give a deep dive into composition or harmony. Instead, I’ll briefly explain what makes certain tracks memorable. Opinions shared are my own!
Main Theme The OST opens with Main Theme, where Yasunori Nishiki skillfully gives space to each section of the orchestra.
From the very start, the brisk tempo feels like an invitation to movement. Enter the woodwinds. Typically, high-register woodwinds (especially flutes) evoke a sense of travel and adventure. Soon, French horns harmonize the melody, hinting at heroism. The French horn often sets a heroic tone. The strings also shine, taking center stage to create a feeling of lightness.
But the real magic happens when the theme returns a second time.
A rhythmic folk guitar and percussion accompany the flute theme. Strings, violins, and violas form a rich harmonic bed, with trombones doubling the melody. The pull of adventure becomes irresistible! Everything shouts "Let’s go!"
For me, the keywords here are hope and adventure. The track ends in a grand flourish, with a rising melody played by French horns and trumpets, runs from violins and flutes adding to the momentum.
One thing is certain: Yasunori Nishiki nailed it. Are you ready for the adventure? I’m already on the road with my bundle and sword!
Ophilia, The Cleric
If I had to choose my favorite theme, it would be Ophilia’s without hesitation. Right from the beginning, Nishiki’s love for woodwinds is clear. Once again, the flute leads the melody, accompanied by a harp with a fairytale-like softness. The simplicity of the chords and melody makes it instantly memorable.
Strings enter gently, taking over from the harp and supporting the secondary melody, sometimes doubling it with violins. Violins and flutes always make a perfect pair.
Later, the harp returns with livelier arpeggios, as a counter-melody emerges from a French horn, adding warmth. This simple, beautiful theme perfectly represents Ophilia’s character.
Cyrus, The Scholar
Is this adventure taking us to Vienna? Cyrus’ theme is a delightful waltz. I adore 3/4 time signature in music! It’s hard to remain indifferent to a waltz.
The theme begins modestly with strings and a piano (listen closely, it’s subtly in the background). The melody, played by strings in unison, conveys immediate respect and gravitas. We sense Cyrus’ intellect right away!
When the secondary theme arrives, it shifts to a solo violin, highlighting sensitivity and perhaps symbolizing the loneliness of scholarly life.
Woodwinds are sparse, but brass instruments provide heroic grandeur. This theme exudes majesty.
Tressa, The Merchant
The first time I heard Tressa’s theme, it warmed my heart. This is due to Nishiki’s brilliant orchestration choices.
Using a harmonica for the melody brings unexpected tenderness and nostalgia. The flowing violins enhance this sentiment, with delicate harp runs adding charm.
Then, the B theme arrives. Violins adopt a rhythmic drive, and the melody transitions to a clarinet. Its warm, high register brings it to the forefront.
This theme embodies innocence and joviality, yet also evokes the bittersweet life of a traveler. Nishiki perfectly captures Tressa’s essence.
Olberic, The Warrior
Right from the very first seconds, it’s clear there’s no fooling around here (just some skull-smashing). Cymbals, timpani, and bass drum announce the arrival of strings playing a heavy, powerful theme.
Here’s where Nishiki’s genius shines: multiple modulations (changing key) keep the theme dynamic. The second repetition comes in a higher key, with violins soaring, French horns providing support, and violas and cellos gaining intensity.
The second theme? A masterpiece!
French horns take center stage, creating a heroic, chivalric feel where honor reigns supreme. Snare drums evoke military might (classic trick, but don’t give one to a 4-year-old), and trumpets honor the fallen soldiers.
What more could you want from a warrior’s theme? Perhaps just not to be the one facing his sword...!
Primrose, The Dancer
This theme marks a drastic change in tone!
From the opening, guitar rhythms, ethnic percussion, and dulcimer melodies set a clear dancing mood. Note: we’re once again in three time signature (3/4 isn’t just for waltzes). Surprising instrumental choices abound. Strings step aside for a solo violin. Guitar and percussion maintain a dance rhythm, while a fretless bass (what a clever choice!) lends sultriness. In the second theme, strings return to add harmony and depth.
Primrose is one of my favorite characters, and this theme fits her perfectly.
Alfyn, The Apothecary
Alfyn’s theme is the longest of the eight, and also the most nostalgic. Its consistency, with a single instrument leading throughout, evokes stability and steady movement.
The choice of a saxophone brings warmth and melancholy. While a clarinet could have worked, the saxophone adds maturity where the clarinet might evoke childhood warmth. Smart choice!
The other instruments remain in the background, with the violins, piano and harp adding a subtle beauty.
Everything here is just right. Nothing more, nothing less. It’s simply beautiful.
Therion, The Thief
Therion’s theme exudes sadness, loneliness, and mystery. The oboe, paired with a classical guitar and discreet strings, delivers this melancholic yet enigmatic feel.
But what a shift in the second theme! A modulation infuses hope with flutes but also a sense of redemption.
Once again, Nishiki’s character-driven compositions shine.
H'aanit, The Hunter
H’aanit’s theme stands out entirely. It gives me chills every time. Words aren’t enough—just listen and let yourself be carried away.
Feel the sorrow, the melancholy, and the light that flickers amid the darkness. That’s what I experience when listening to H’aanit’s theme.
CONCLUSION
Though I dislike comparisons, it’s hard to listen to Octopath Traveler’s OST without recalling classic RPGs. That’s no accident—Nishiki pays homage to the golden age of JRPGs. Yet, we’re never bored or reminded of mere copies. This OST recalls our greatest gaming memories while offering something 100% original, profound, and immersive.
Most importantly, it proves orchestral music’s timeless power to enhance visuals.
In every world, there is music.
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