Ranking Every Final Fantasy By Their Soundtrack

Advent Children OST: Tracks - 26, Composer(s) - Nobuo Uematsu, Before Crisis & Last Order OST: Tracks - 27, Composer(s) - Takeharu Ishimotu, Crisis Core OST: Tracks - 55, Composer(s) - Takeharu Ishimotu & Kazuhiko Toyama , Dirge Of Cerberus OST: Tracks - 53, Composer(s) - Masashi Hamauzu, Dirge Of Cerberus Multiplayer Mode OST: Tracks - 27, Composer(s) - Masashi Hamauzu & Ryo Yamazaki

The compilation of Final Fantasy VII seemed like a dream come true when it was first announced, as fans of the original title were entranced by the opportunity to revisit its cast in new scenarios. In retrospect, it was the definition of a mixed bag, both in terms of gameplay and soundtrack quality.

Cinematic sequel Advent Children made extensive use of both heavy and melodic tracks, with new takes on 'Jenova' and 'Let The Battles Begin!' and piano renditions of 'Aeris' Theme' and 'Tifa's Theme' amongst the highlights. Several original tracks also made the grade, including the tense 'For The Reunion' and 'Savior'.

Zack-focused prequel Crisis Core also relied on quite a few remixes of established tunes, with the likes of 'Mako Monopoly', 'A Flower Blooming In The Slums' and 'Timely Ambush' standing out where many of the game's original creations fail to do so. Sombre violin piece 'Burden To Bear', however, is up there with the series' best compositions.

There's very little to say about the 27 song soundtrack made for Before Crisis & Last Order, the forgotten elements of the compilation. Much more can be said about the Vincent-led Dirge Of Cerberus, where a strong soundtrack headed by 'Calm Before The Storm' made up for the shoddy gameplay experience.

All in all from a musical standpoint, however, the entire compilation is guilty of relying too extensively on its predecessor rather than trying to strike out on its own, the odd gem here and there notwithstanding.