Welcome to ‘Scattered Showers’, a new feature where we take a more lighthearted look at the world of videogames. Be it memes, cosplay or music videos – funny, weird or touching, nothing is out of bounds.
Ahh, the internet is a beautiful thing.
For this week’s Scattered Showers, we’re looking at what we think are some of the best video game music covers found on the Internet. There are some pretty impressive and very talented people out there covering video game music.
Wind Waker Unplugged, by FreddeGredde
This rendition of music from The Legend of Zelda series, mainly Wind Waker, has been around for a few years now, but it doesn’t make it any less splendiferous. The musician, who goes by the YouTube name FreddeGredde, is seriously skilled, and if this is the first time watching his mastery then prepare to be gobsmacked. Honestly, if from the 1:44 mark you don’t feel all warm and fuzzy inside, then you may as well declare yourself as clinically dead.
FreddeGredde’s Youtube channel
Streets of Rage 2 – Clean Again, by Megadriver
Some of you may be aware of my obsession with the cult SEGA classic, Streets of Rage. If not, then check out my Origins piece about why I love this scrolling beat-em-up series so much. One of the key reasons why I have such an attachment to the series is because of the awesome soundtracks that accompany each game—especially the ending theme to Streets of Rage 2. Well, imagine my delight when I discovered that a Brazilian heavy metal band called, aptly enough, Megadriver, had covered the ending theme. Retitled from ‘Good End’ to ‘Clean Again’, it still retains the same soothing melody but adds in some wicked electric guitars to really get your juices flowing.
Super Mario Bassoon Quartet, by sgy000
There are many covers of music from the Super Mario games, but how many are as quirky as this? A mishmash of some of the more recognisable tunes from the Mushroom Kingdom, all played on that popular musical instrument—the bassoon. Throw in some impromptu beat-boxing and you’ve got an unforgettable cover.
Chrono Trigger Theme, by moonbowmusicmovie
The soundtrack to Chrono Trigger is often regarded as one of the best of all time, and its most recognisable track is, by far, the main theme. A trio of Japanese musicians have produced an excellent acoustic cover of the popular piece. Not only does this display their awesome talent, but it also showcases how beautiful the main theme of Chrono Trigger really is.
moonbowmusicmove’s Youtube channel
Lara Plays Guile’s Theme, by lara6683
You may have seen this girl on YouTube before, but if you haven’t, you should definitely check out her channel. Lara, which I believe is her name, has a HUGE catalog of videos where she covers various different video games on either a piano or violin. One such awesome cover is of the ever so popular “Guile’s Theme” from Street Fighter II. Ever heard that saying ‘The Guile Theme goes with anything’? Well, in this case, it’s true, as Lara proves with her exquisite violinist skills.
Aerith’s Theme – Guitar Duet, by SongeLeReveur
Quite possibly, one of the most iconic pieces of gaming music, that accompanied one of the most iconic moments in gaming. Final Fantasy VII will be remembered for a lot of things, but none more so than *SPOILER ALERT* the death of Aerith. The music that starts up as her life ebbs away is extremely emotive and powerful, and it’s given a whole new style with this fantastic acoustic guitar duet. Like lara6683, SongeLeReveur covers a lot of video game music, so it’s worth checking out his channel. But for now—click, listen and enjoy.
SongLeReveur’s Youtube Channel
Toberu Mono, by ridia84
Naturally we can’t have an article about gaming music without mentioning one of the original games Oprainfall campaigned for. The Last Story‘s, Toberu Mono, composed by the legendary Nobuo Uematsu, is one of those pieces of music that will no doubt be remembered in years to come. This cover is one of the more unique ones out there, as it also features vocals alongside the accompanying piano. The video is also in need of more views, so share it with your friends and your grandmother.
And then, there is this…
What are some of your favourite covers? Let us know in the comments below.
