Overview

Cyber Troopers Virtual-On is the first instalment of a moderately successful mecha fighting series developed by Sega for Arcades and consoles. Its score by Kentaro Kobayashi blended techno, rock, and pop elements to create a suitable instrumental score. The results simultaneously sound mechanical, action-packed, yet also endearing. Cyber Troopers Virtual-On Official Sound Data was the initial album release for the game, but was superseded a decade later by an expanded release.

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First of all, it seems pertinent to mention some presentation issues concerning the Cyber Troopers Virtual-On Official Sound Data. Though the original score features some 28 tracks, a large proportion of these are not worth listening to. There are many short tracks used in menu screens and cinematic sequences that comprise little more than a few drum machine rolls, a synthpad chord sequence, or an abrupt victory fanfare. Furthermore, a large proportion of tracks on the score feature voice samples from a robotic young female voice. While these samples are intended to immerse listeners into a futuristic world, they actually sound very dated nowadays and are quite annoying too. They are particularly disruptive at the introduction and prevent a definitive start to the soundtrack.

Despite these problems, there are a number of highly enjoyable tracks on Cyber Troopers Virtual-On. "In the Blue Sky" is regarded as a classic for fans of the game and for good reason. The track defines the type of light-hearted technopop to expect from the album with its fast-paced electronic beats and jubilant synth melodies. Structured in a typical pop format, the verse section is highly lyrical, yet also somewhat ridiculous with its uncontrolled runs, while the chorus is more stable and anthemic. Plenty of other tracks adopt a similar format to this track, ranging from the hyperactive "Everything Merges with the Night" to the rocking "Higher Ground" to the carefree "The Wind is Blowing", always to delightful effect. "She's Lost Control" deserves special mention for really defining that motivating fighting sound.

Though largely a light-hearted soundtrack, there are nevertheless some intense moments to diversify the experience. "Alice in the Wonderland" is probably the darkest track on the soundtrack, contrary to expectations raised by its name. While Kobayashi clearly focused on offering a frivolous feel to most of the score, it is clear he is capable of offering brooding, uncompassionate soundscapes too. "Ruins" and "Fade to Black" meanwhile remind one of the boss battle themes featured in certain classic RPG soundtracks, the latter even having a slight Castlevania vibe. Their blend of rock and techno is certainly encouraging, but there is an undeniable epic and tragic quality contained within their melodies. Somehow their unique lyrical quality ensures they sound like they firmly belong in the Virtual-On universe nevertheless.

There are two bonus arrangements by Kentaro Kobayashi at the end of the soundtrack of perhaps the most popular themes on Cyber Troopers Virtual-On, "In the Blue Sky" and "The Wind is Blowing". These are quite humble and straightforward synthetic arrangements, so don't expect anything spectacular. "In the Blue Sky" provides a more laidback interpretation of the original — featuring a more stable verse section yet maintaining the elating qualities of the chorus. "The Wind is Blowing" is also quite enjoyable, despite its conventional qualities, and provides an uplifting end to the album. Note those who purchase the recently released Cyber Troopers Virtual-On Original Soundtrack instead will benefit receive these arrangements and two additional ones, including a performance by Sega's new in-house band [H.].

Summary

Overall, Cyber Troopers Virtual-On features an enjoyable score. It's impressive how Kentaro Kobayashi managed to define the franchise with a unique hybridised sound and also incorporate plenty of memorable anthemic tracks. That said, this album is let down by its presentation and there are far too many short tracks and voice samples that detract from the experience. Those still interested in the musical experience should consider the more elaborate Cyber Troopers Virtual-On Original Soundtrack, featuring bonus compositions and arrangements.

Overview

Virtua Fighter was the first instalment of Sega's popular versus fighting series, hitting Arcades around the world in 1994. Takayuki Nakamura's light-hearted soundtrack for the game featured a range of character-based stage themes. The original music, together with an arranged version, was compiled together in the following album release.

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As with most fighting game soundtracks, the highlights here are provided by the character themes. The first of these, "Jacky", is a fairly upbeat and carefree with a slight funk vibe. It's quite catchy, though more because of the extent of the repetition of the focal motifs, rather than the melody itself being particularly special. Indeed, those expecting a rich expansive melody on par with Street Fighter II or a deep psychological exploration similar to Tekken 2 will be disappointed. Beyond the melody, the composition is pretty straightforward and shows the effects of time in terms of its synth. It's pretty memorable and effective, but not exactly a classic.

An attractive feature of the soundtrack is how each character has a different styled theme. It makes for a diverse soundtrack that reflects a diverse cast of characters. There are alley-style fighting tunes like "Jeffry" paired alongside more frivolous feminine tracks such as "Sarah". In addition, there are also those inspired by traditional world music, such as "Kage" with its mix of shakuhachi infusions and contemporary elements, "Pai" with its wailing vocals and pentatonic scales. Admittedly, the varied approaches are heavily inspired by the Street Fighter series and the latter, in particular, is a blatant rip-off of Chun-Li's theme. Aside the character themes, there are only three other tracks, the only notable of these being the rocking "Game Start.

While the original version is quite brief, the album does offer some value for money since it is headlined by some arranged tracks. Many of Yoshiyuki Ito's arrangements are synthetic renditions of the original material with some elaborations here and there. "Jeffry", for instance, retains the rock feel of the original but soon becomes dominated by a succession of electric guitar solos, none of which are particularly focused or interesting. The likes of "Kage" and "Wolf" are also considerably thickened from their original versions, though still retain a worldly feel and a quirky edge. They're not necessarily more enjoyable than their originals and sometimes sound absolutely amateurish. Nevertheless, conceptually, they offer a fresh and interesting perspective nevertheless.

The most accomplished arrangements are those by Sega's former in-house band B-Univ, comprising Takenobu Mitsuyoshi and Koichi Namiki. "Fighter's Eyes" shows that the sound team is able to rock when they want to, combining a solid melodic focus with plenty of solos; it is much more successful than "Jeffry" and reflects both musicians' extensive background in rock music. Also fascinating is "Virtua Fighter". This is one of Mitsuyoshi's earlier vocal arrangements, following the success of Daytona USA. It maintains an anthemic quality during the interpretations of the melody, but also features some free styling rap-inspired sections. Like many of Mitsuyoshi's tracks, it is simultaneously ridiculous yet enjoyable. There is also an instrumental version of the track at the end of the arranged version.

Summary

The soundtrack does stand out bit, even within its own series. I especially enjoy the light-hearted overall sound and the diversity that reflects all of the characters. That said, much of the soundtrack is underdeveloped and also not quite energetic enough. The original version doesn't totally win me over, but it's a decent start and the arranged version is an interesting, if flawed, bonus. Fans will most likely enjoy this album.