Overview

Ys III Wanderers from Ys Game Soundtrack is a bonus album with the limited edition version of the PlayStation 2 remake of Ys III: Wanderers from Ys in Japan. It features six tracks from the remake, each offering enhanced arrangements and sound quality compared to their originals. However, can six tracks really be enough to satisfy?

Body

The promotional album mainly sticks to the classics from Ys III. The opener "Premonition = Styx =" is a predictable inclusion and sounds similar to the original, once again repeating several phrases in a mellow and meditative way. However, there is a more organic sound created with the woodwind backing and a slight rock influence with the eventual drum beats. "The Boy Who Had Wings" also returns and, in my opinion, this is one of the most enjoyable versions of Adol's theme. The light rock sound is quite enjoyable after the various underwhelming and overblown in the past.

There are a few arrangements of Ys III's dungoen themes. "Ilbern Ruins" really benefits from the meatier rock samples that the PlayStation 2 is able to offer, even if it is still on the low end of the synth quality spectrum. The dramatic chord changes and sweeping arpeggios are especially enjoyable here. "Varestine Castle" meanwhile is an unashamed rock anthem arranged in the spirit of Ys' past compositions. This slightly retro, yet still impacting piece, is enjoyable for such a special dungeon.

"Shock of the Grim Reaper" is the hardest contribution here. It's quite easy to tell the arrangers are based at Arc System Works with their approach here, though things do tend to grow repetitive. Finally, the staff roll theme "Wanderers from Ys" deviates quite considerably from its original in favour of a bold militaristic orchestration. I actually personally find this refreshing after the light rock staff roll themes in the past, though sometimes the orchestration is a bit too plain.

Summary

The Ys III Wanderers from Ys Game Soundtrack is a good sampler from the PlayStation 2 remake of Ys III: Wanderers from Ys. However, with just six decent arrangements, there isn't really enough and it's a pity a full original score wasn't offered. For those looking out for a more elaborate remake score, check out the Ys The Oath in Felghana Original Soundtrack instead.