Game Soundtrack Review: Video Games Live – Classical Games in Concert (Self Released)

Video Games Live is a touring showcase of the video game music. Created by Tommy Tallarico, for fans of video game music it is an exhilarating showcase of some of the most famous video game music played live with a symphony. We’ve been to see it twice, the most recent last October and it’s always a blast.

However if seeing the show isn’t for you then you can always check out the albums and other releases they’ve put out. The latest being Classical Games in Concert. The word classical meaning both the style the music is performed under and that it focuses on ‘classic’ games.

Recorded live in Paris, you’re only clue to the live side of things is the applause that comes at the end of each track. A heavy metal concert, this is not, of course.

Regular Video Games Live listeners will be familiar with a lot of the arrangements on this album, however not focused solely on classical instruments only. This makes the album something a little different even if Sonic, Mario, Castlevania and more medleys are here and present. Why wouldn’t they be though? They are the epitome of classic gaming and here we get well put together transitions that span the entire musical history’s of these franchises.

One highlight is an incredibly emotional rendition of Medal of Honor’s intro that sees the live crowd break out into applause several times throughout. The powerful finale is chest-swelling, fist in the air stuff.

Another a personal favourite is Donkey Kong Country and the medley we get here. Both fun and impressive renditions of a game series with an incredible soundtrack. Although it would be a lie to say that The Legend of Zelda’s medley doesn’t put a big smile on the face too.

It’s very much more of the same for those who listen to everything Video Games Live puts out even if it is solely within the classical sound only. Regular listeners won’t find anything new which is disappointing, however that doesn’t mean it isn’t still great because it is.

New listeners will have an absolute blast though.

Video Games Live – Classical Games in Concert Full Track Listing:

1. Sonic the Hedgehog
2. Metroid
3. Megaman
4. Castlevania
5. Medal of Honour
6. Monkey Island
7. Tomb Raider
8. Chrono Trigger and Chrono Cross
9. Tetris
10. Mario
11. Street Fighter II
12. Everquest II
13. Earthworm Jim
14. Donkey Kong Country
15. Final Fantasy VII – Liberi Fatali
16. The Legend of Zelda
17. Pokemon