Gaming Critique: Valkyria Revolution Part 3

The Music that Motivates in Valkyria Revolution

Welcome back! If you just recently started out with this Gaming Critique, here's the links for the Opener, Part 1 and Part 2 of the previous Critiques. This is the third part focusing primarily on the Music aspects of Valkyria Revolution.

Lost Potential

This will be relatively brief, but also the most damning. The Original SoundTrack for this game is horrendously underutilized while certain tracks will drone on and on. In other words, it's not balanced out to give a unique experience throughout the game. Now, many critics would say the same of the other Valkyria Games, and Games in general. This is because having a motif to fall back on makes moments easier to recognize; however, having the same three songs belt on as you continue mission after mission with lackluster story and characters can hurt your overall enjoyment. Another lost potential is simply not adding in any of the series staple music; even for a few missions, it would help connect the game with other Valkyria Chronicles games, even if this is to be the side-story. 

Valkyrian Solo is Not Even Used In Game

This is more of a nitpick than a concern, but it still needs to be addressed. First, it was the opening theme song that was used as both the trailer and, obviously, the opening to the game. This is never used or heard from until near the end of the game. Also, considering the lore is based on song, you would think there would be some point in the game that would warrant its use; like the final battle or final moments of the Valkyria. No. Nothing of the sort. Just like the next musical focal point of the game...

The 'Galdr'

This is essentially the 'weapon' used to subdue the Valkyria. Nothing is known about it other than it's a song. That's it. The key to this entire game hinges on this one MacGuffin. Also, there is no difference inbetween the type. The MacGuffin that is sung for healing is the same one sung for damage dealing.

The Overarching Ensemble

While the use of orchestral instruments is always a welcomed touch, it just falls flat because there isn't a sense of ensemble; by that I mean the songs are there but not in a way that makes the game experience whole. It fell flat in most instances, and did not give you the lasting sense of completion along with the lackluster gameplay.

Apologies for the lateness of the critique, but this concludes Part 3 of this series. Tune in next time when we begin Part Four: The Overall Experience. Until then, I'm looking forward to your comments! Talk to you soon!