History AwesomeMusic / CompilationOfFinalFantasyVII

** ''[[Anime/FinalFantasyVIIAdventChildren Advent Children]]'' takes the tune to its [[UpToEleven fullest extent of awesomeness]] (to date) by turning the whole thing into pompous, Nightwish-esque '''[[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B_MW65XxS7s symphonic metal]]'''. The ''[[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_MQ6Nn_6tdY Advent Children Complete]]'' version is revamped awesomeness. It was awesome enough to be used in Sephiroth's reveal trailer for ''VideoGame/SuperSmashBrosUltimate'', to boot, as well as the official game itself alongside the original version.

** What, did you think that ''VideoGame/FinalFantasyVIIRemake'' ''wasn't'' going to get a new remix of One-Winged Angel? [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6dBGChy1EPo Think again!]] "One-Winged Angel- Rebirth" starts off with a totally new and incredible interpretation of Sephiroth's theme. Then, at about the halfway point, it switches back to a much more traditional interpretation of Sephiroth's theme that continues to crank the menace and sheer intensity of the original theme UpToEleven! There are a full ''four minutes'' of false starts to this version before it really gets going... which ultimately ends up being a form of FridgeBrilliance that ties in with the very name ''VideoGame/FinalFantasyVIIRemake'', because the entire game to this point has been Sephiroth's attempt to [[MakeWrongWhatOnceWentRight remake history so he wins]], so of course his song would be rearranged temporally. And it is so, ''so'' satisfying when it begins in earnest.

* "[[https://youtu.be/kocY1quJ-4o Safe and Sound]]", the ending song included in only [[NoExportForYou the Japanese versions]] of the ''Complete Edition'' re-cut, weirdly enough. It is sung in full English lyrics, no less, and written and performed by Gerard Way of Music/MyChemicalRomance fame alongside Kyosuke Himuro (who provided the song "Calling" for the original and international releases).

* More terror-inspiring music: [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CBRAkpXTmCs You Can Hear the Cry of the Planet.]], which plays while you're exploring the desolate City of the Ancients before [[ItWasHisSled meeting up with Aerith]]. The remake has a remix in [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LOlOP3FuCbA Seven Seconds Till The End]], played near the end of the game with Cloud and Sephiroth's final confrontation at the edge of creation. Haunting, unsettling, and even with a triumphant portion, just enough to send shivers down one's spine.

* Perhaps the biggest case of AscendedExtra in the game, Jessie gets [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gU9QKkB-630 her own theme]] in the remake, a wistful and elegant melody. [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dlmaa1tIat4 Flying High]], which plays during the parachute jump off the plate, is an energetic variation of her theme that sounds like it came straight out of the '80s movies.

* From the same segment of the game, we have [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u9v7hx93IQM Lifestream]], a tranquil melody backing the observatory's keeper's explanation of the universe.

%%** The [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zkZGFNCS6iQ Distant Worlds orchestrated version!]]
%%What's awesome about it?

%%* From the same segment of the game, we have [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u9v7hx93IQM Lifestream.]]

%%* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Pi9xgOXvTs INTERRUPTED BY FIREWORKS.]]

Given its place in video game history of pretty much bringing [=JRPGs=] to the Western market, and the number of affiliated titles in part of the ''Compilation'', it's no wonder that ''Final Fantasy VII'' and its spin-offs has their own page of Awesome Music.

* After building up with some pretty good boss themes, ''VideoGame/FinalFantasyVII'' unleashes [[TropeNamer the]] OneWingedAngel accompanied by [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KDIeaTI6cGQ the theme of that name]]. Chances are you'll recognize it just by the signature PsychoStrings that open it.

** What, did you think that ''VideoGame/FinalFantasyVIIRemake'' ''wasn't'' going to get a new remix of One-Winged Angel? [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EB8K0AJgiWs Think again!]] One-Winged Angel- Rebirth starts off with a totally new and incredible interpretation of Sephiroth's theme. Then, at about the halfway point, it switches back to a much more traditional interpretation of Sephiroth's theme that continues to crank the menace and sheer intensity of the original theme UpToEleven! There are a full ''four minutes'' of false starts to this version before it really gets going... which ultimately ends up being a form of FridgeBrilliance that ties in with the very name ''VideoGame/FinalFantasyVIIRemake'', because the entire game to this point has been Sephiroth's attempt to [[MakeWrongWhatOnceWentRight remake history so he wins]], so of course his song would be rearranged temporally. And it is so, ''so'' satisfying when it begins in earnest.

* The ''timing'' of the music at certain points creates a CMOA. In Cloud's original flashback section, Sephiroth begins his murderous rampage through Nibelheim by dramatically announcing, "I'm going to see my mother." Cue [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3rV40ypje7o spine-chilling theme song of pure evil]]. The scene's music is perfect because up until Sephiroth says that, the music in the mansion had been just the backing percussion and bell sounds... the rest of the theme kicks in as he leaves to go burn the place. The ''true'' account of what happened in Nibelheim has dull, repetitive background music all the way through it until the point where Sephiroth stabs Cloud through the chest. The very moment that Cloud grabs Sephiroth's sword and begins to overpower him the music reaches a dramatic and beautiful swell and becomes appropriately heroic.

** There are also a number of great variations. [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FpXVJTqftkg The Star of Seventh Heaven]] at the bar is warm and cosy. [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z7Yi-8rRJh8 Hole in the Sky]] plays when the party returns to Sector 7 to see the bar completely destroyed is easily the darkest and most tragic revision of her theme thus far, and perfectly matches the scene as she struggles to suppress her grief and devastation. [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aBeQw3jqyco Tifa's Tears]], that plays during [[CryIntoChest Tifa's resolution scene]] is both haunting and beautiful, gently rising to a crescendo when Cloud finally embraces the crying Tifa.

** The [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tsMmKbmrj_M version]] that plays when the party returns to Sector 7 to see the bar completely destroyed is easily the darkest and most tragic revision of her theme thus far, and perfectly matches the scene as she struggles to suppress her grief and devastation.
** An alternate version, [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aBeQw3jqyco Tifa's Tears]], that plays during [[CryIntoChest Tifa's resolution scene]] is both haunting and beautiful.

** The [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OWaLhXsN-hs version that plays]] during Tifa's resolution scene is both haunting and beautiful.

* After building up with some pretty good boss themes, ''VideoGame/FinalFantasyVII'' unleashes [[TropeNamer the]] OneWingedAngel accompanied by [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qDD-iYkHBhc the theme of that name]]. Chances are you'll recognize it just by the signature PsychoStrings that open it.

** What, did you think that ''VideoGame/FinalFantasyVIIRemake'' ''wasn't'' going to get a new remix of One-Winged Angel? [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EB8K0AJgiWs Think again!]] One-Winged Angel- Rebirth starts off with a totally new and incredible interpretation of Sephiroth's theme. Then, at about the halfway point, it switches back to a much more traditional interpretation of Sephiroth's theme that continues to crank the menace and sheer intensity of the original theme UpToEleven! There are a full ''four minutes'' of false starts to this version before it really gets going... which ultimately ends up being a form of FridgeBrilliance that ties in with the very name ''VideoGame/FinalFantasyVIIRemake'', because [[spoiler:the entire game to this point has been Sephiroth's attempt to [[MakeWrongWhatOnceWentRight remake history so he wins]], so of course his song would be rearranged temporally]]. And it is so, ''so'' satisfying when it begins in earnest.

** Following the [[VideoGame/FinalFantasyVIIRemake Remake's]] release, we now have [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7T3-j_XlZmM multiple]] [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1gPwo4qfvO4 versions]] [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CUpnQ6UdDcM of]] [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CIKWU45ZPnQ Aerith's]] [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g8NpjkgGRrk theme]], ranging from heartwarming, melancholic, triumphant, or romantic, and each of them are absolutely ''breathtaking.'' [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KWxBdCmOHSI The version]] that plays during [[spoiler: Aerith's optional romance scene in Chapter 14]] is simply beautiful, having a wonderful ethereal feel.
* The ''timing'' of the music at certain points creates a CMOA. In Cloud's original flashback section, Sephiroth begins his murderous rampage through Nibelheim by dramatically announcing, "I'm going to see my mother." Cue [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3rV40ypje7o spine-chilling theme song of pure evil]]. The scene's music is perfect because up until Sephiroth says that, the music in the mansion had been just the backing percussion and bell sounds... the rest of the theme kicks in as he leaves to go burn the place. The ''true'' account of what happened in Nibelheim has dull, repetitive background music all the way through it until the point where Sephiroth [[spoiler: stabs Cloud through the chest.]] The very moment that Cloud [[spoiler: grabs Sephiroth's sword and begins to overpower him]] the music reaches a dramatic and beautiful swell and becomes appropriately heroic.

* More terror-inspiring music: [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CBRAkpXTmCs You Can Hear the Cry of the Planet.]], which plays while you're exploring the desolate City of the Ancients before [[ItWasHisSled meeting up with Aerith]]. The remake has a remix in [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LOlOP3FuCbA Seven Seconds Till The End]], played near the end of the game [[spoiler:with Cloud and Sephiroth's final confrontation at the edge of creation]]. Haunting, unsettling, and even with a triumphant portion, just enough to send shivers down one's spine.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9oPqxoGzorI Off the Edge of Despair]] perfectly matches the sobering mood of [[spoiler: Cloud's damaged psychological state in the Mideel hospital]], as well as conveying Tifa's utter heartbreak upon seeing [[spoiler: the man she loves]] in such a helpless and desecrated condition.

** The [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tsMmKbmrj_M version]] that plays when the party returns to [[spoiler: Sector 7 to see the bar completely destroyed]] is easily the darkest and most tragic revision of her theme thus far, and perfectly matches the scene as she struggles to suppress her grief and devastation.

* When battling your way down the Northern Crater to get to [[spoiler:Sephiroth]], [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mGHDXDI-DNc Judgment Day]] perfectly encapsulates the feeling of "It all comes down to this. The fate of the world is in my hands. Fortunately, I have my best friends and loved ones to fight by my side."

* From the Remake, while the [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gauk7bxZAww Whispers' theme]] is already a very fine piece of music, the tracks used during the battle against [[spoiler:the Whisper Harbinger]] are absolutely fantastic. [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FLc4HBmDcyk Arbiter of Fate (advent)]] introduces the scene, with an appropriate epic music for a place [[spoiler:where fate is to be defied and changed]]. [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_JCS_utEKVo Arbiter of Fate (Rebirth)]] takes the form of an apotheose of the same epicness with a more dramatic and melancholic direction, fitting a fight against [[spoiler:a tragic, yet originally necessary future, unknowingly sacrificing the ensured survival of the planet]]. In contrast, [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S1gsRrTNFxc Arbiter of Fate (Singularity)]] is filled with hope, playing with the musical theme of the Franchise itself, in a situation where [[spoiler:fate is effectingly being broken and this new entry's future shaping itself, for better or worse.]]
* From the remake, the theme song, [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OulBkYmgN0Q "Hollow"]], a slow, somber sad song that perfectly drives home the game's melancholy. Special note goes to the almost intentionally strong similarities to "The Price of Freedom" from ''Crisis Core'' [[spoiler: which plays over the ending where we see that Zack is still alive]]. Yosh (of the band Survive Said The Prophet) knocks the vocals out of the park. An instrumental variation, [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z5JAPS55-Y4 Hollow Skies]], occasionally plays when Cloud traverses Midgar, setting up the mood for the events to come.

** [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=srXtau8IxvY "Ghoul"]], the theme that plays during the eponymous boss battle, as well as the second battle with [[spoiler: Abzu]]. Astute listeners will notice its reincorporation of the ''Hymn of the Fayth'' theme from ''Final Fantasy X.''

* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mHs9ao9k42g "The One who Receives the Divine Protection of the Planet"]], for the fight with [[spoiler:Genesis Avatar]].

* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KOouUHi1WtQ "The Immaculate"]], Weiss' battle theme, is a tense, yet climatic theme, fitting for the battle against the BigBad of the game. For his BonusBoss battle in ''Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade'', the theme receives [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BvWxYNR9B8s a new remix]], which abridges the song slightly, but in exchange adds stronger instrumentals to create a truly epic theme deserving of a tough boss at Weiss' caliber.

** ''[[Anime/FinalFantasyVIIAdventChildren Advent Children]]'' takes the tune to its [[UpToEleven fullest extent of awesomeness]] (to date) by turning the whole thing into pompous, Nightwish-esque '''[[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B_MW65XxS7s symphonic metal]]'''. The ''[[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_MQ6Nn_6tdY Advent Children Complete]]'' version is revamped awesomeness. It was awesome enough to be used in Sephiroth's reveal trailer for ''VideoGame/SuperSmashBrosUltimate'', to boot.

* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mqq37YGxnkk Midnight Rendezvous]] is a peaceful and gently soothing melody that plays throughout the roads connecting Sector 5 and Wall Market. Its title comes from the beginning of Chapter 9 where Aerith meets Cloud in the middle of the night to accompany him as he makes his way back to Sector 7, bonding with each other along the way.

** Let's not forget the [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zkZGFNCS6iQ Distant Worlds orchestrated version!]]

* The catchy [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2AqYaOHLrmY jukebox mix of "Prelude"]], which might give you a Final Fantasy X flashback.

* "[[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EvYh3uQpqXc The Promised Land]]".

[[folder:''Crisis Core]]

[[folder:''Compilation of Final Fantasy VII'']]
[[AC:''VideoGame/FinalFantasyVII'' / ''VideoGame/FinalFantasyVIIRemake'']]

[[AC:''VideoGame/BeforeCrisis'']]

[[AC:''Anime/FinalFantasyVIIAdventChildren'']]

[[AC:''VideoGame/DirgeOfCerberus'']]

[[AC:''VideoGame/CrisisCore'']]

[[redirect:AwesomeMusic/FinalFantasy]]

[[AC:''VideoGame/FinalFantasyVII'' / ''VideoGame/FinalFantasyVIIRemake'']]
* After building up with some pretty good boss themes, ''VideoGame/FinalFantasyVII'' unleashes [[TropeNamer the]] OneWingedAngel accompanied by [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t7wJ8pE2qKU the theme of that name]].
** ''[[Anime/FinalFantasyVIIAdventChildren Advent Children]]'' takes the tune to its [[UpToEleven fullest extent of awesomeness]] (to date) by turning the whole thing into pompous, Nightwish-esque '''[[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B_MW65XxS7s symphonic metal]]'''. The ''[[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_MQ6Nn_6tdY Advent Children Complete]]'' version is revamped awesomeness.
** The [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r9ySriZOypo Reunion Tracks remix]]. Pure orchestral goodness.
** The Crisis Core version is fittingly titled "[[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5jGUdekVmSc The World's Enemy]]".
** What, did you think that ''VideoGame/FinalFantasyVIIRemake'' ''wasn't'' going to get a new remix of One-Winged Angel? [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VMid3yKc7CA Think again!]] One-Winged Angel- Rebirth starts off with a totally new and incredible interpretation of Sephiroth's theme. Then, at about the halfway point, it switches back to a much more traditional interpretation of Sephiroth's theme that continues to crank the menace and sheer intensity of the original theme UpToEleven!
* "[[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2YWRiq-plxw WEAPON Raid]]" is the sound of GaiasVengeance in the form of gigantic implacable monsters crushing those [[HumansAreBastards bastard humans]] underfoot.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1T3srk8Dkuo Cosmo Canyon]] is just... beautiful. The remix played when Red finds out his father's fate, [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lrI8bHs6Qvk Great Warrior]], is TearJerker in musical format.
%%* From the same segment of the game, we have [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u9v7hx93IQM Lifestream.]]
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UbAy4MfmKrE The Main Theme]]. E major, C sharp minor, E major, C major, D dominant 7, E major.
* The [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=12vlUlLQpQg Main Theme / Bombing Mission with full orchestra]] is absolutely gorgeous.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o0-Be9ArZYc Holding my Thoughts in my Heart]]. Beautiful, just beautiful.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9NYh1QN_A6k Cid's Theme]] and its slower and sadder version, [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NOX4AxH83vo Sending A Dream Into The Universe]]. When it plays, you know it's time to get back in the saddle and save the world.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lnGnJWKyBak Fight On!]]. Also known as Those Who Fight Further. Also known as one of the best standard boss battle songs ever.
** [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NzFh9GuE0rA The Black Mages take on it is just epic.]]
** This naturally follows through in the Remake, where many of the bosses have their own themes that have an overall backbone of the aforementioned (but now remastered) track. [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OrfCJOcJb88 Air Buster's Theme]] in particular is a standout. To give you an idea of just how awesome the song is, it's even considered SugarWiki/AwesomeMusic InUniverse in ''Remake''. And for good reason!
* The brilliantly creepy [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m9kGaw216HM J-E-N-O-V-A]] is even better than the standard boss song. The electronic ostinato, four-to-the-floor drum tracks and synth melodies set the tone perfectly: This is an OutsideContextVillain and ''your Materia will not save you from a space alien.''
** Then there's [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2yX4h8Agi7U Jenova Absolute]] for your final battle with Sephiroth's "mother".
** What about the ''[[Anime/FinalFantasyVIIAdventChildren Advent Children]]'' [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OTLdoK_AU18 remix]]?
** Even the Advent Children remix cannot compete with the [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kIlkvisQM6c Distant Worlds orchestral version]] of the same song.
** The Remake has a wonderful [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1B0Rpun12-U meta variation]] during the unexpected battle with Jenova DREAMWEAVER, where it starts as a very good, albeit standard orchestral arrangement ... before it switches it up in the [[https://youtu.be/1B0Rpun12-U?t=589 third phase]] by suddenly shifting to an incredible, amazingly faithful, synthy-as-hell remix of the classic J-E-N-O-V-A. To put things into perspective with how masterful this switch to the synthy rendition is, it plays as the battle enters the most frantic, final phase. This is ''after'' the player has spent a decent amount of time fighting one of the most anticipated battles in the game and listening to the aforementioned orchestral arrangement, and then is hit with the synth remaster out of nowhere to very good effect, as [[https://youtu.be/TzOBMeBAmJE?t=4454 evidenced]] [[https://youtu.be/I1yfvjH3SN0?t=7124 by the]] [[https://youtu.be/OhqANN-85nA?t=4276 reactions]] of [[https://youtu.be/kNwYXmsoLxg?t=2160 these]] [[https://youtu.be/a9Zt89OpXxU?t=15841 various]] [[https://youtu.be/AioyDP1ciBM?t=2334 players]]. As one savvy commenter on [=YouTube=] put it: "The composers knew EXACTLY what they were doing."
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oQwQnEfbh0U Birth of a God]], played for the penultimate boss fight. It's overshadowed by One-Winged Angel, but still an awesome track in its own right. In ''Remake'', part of the track is reincorporated into [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uNTnKijro5M "Operation: Save Aerith"]] (at around the 0:54 mark), when our heroes storm the Shinra parking garage in search of Aerith, with high-pitched violins used to provide the sense of tension and emotional severity, along with french horns to convey the haunting atmosphere.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4CK2hx377iU Aerith's Theme]]. [[SadBattleMusic Most notable for playing during the Jenova:LIFE battle]] [[BGMOverride following her death]].
** And how about Aerith's Theme ''[[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8vCKFeO3nNs for full orchestra]]''?
** Following the [[VideoGame/FinalFantasyVIIRemake Remake's]] release, we now have [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7T3-j_XlZmM multiple]] [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1gPwo4qfvO4 versions]] [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CUpnQ6UdDcM of]] [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CIKWU45ZPnQ Aerith's]] [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g8NpjkgGRrk theme]], ranging from heartwarming, melancholic, triumphant, or romantic, and each of them are absolutely ''breathtaking.'' [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KWxBdCmOHSI The version]] that plays during [[spoiler: Aerith's optional romance scene in Chapter 14]] is simply beautiful, having a wonderful ethereal feel.
* The ''timing'' of the music at certain points creates a CMOA. In Cloud's original flashback section, Sephiroth begins his murderous rampage through Nibelheim by dramatically announcing, "I'm going to see my mother." Cue [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h1ShkI2L_fk spine-chilling theme song of pure evil]]. The scene's music is perfect because up until Sephiroth says that, the music in the mansion had been just the backing percussion and bell sounds... the rest of the theme kicks in as he leaves to go burn the place. The ''true'' account of what happened in Nibelheim has dull, repetitive background music all the way through it until the point where Sephiroth [[spoiler: stabs Cloud through the chest.]] The very moment that Cloud [[spoiler: grabs Sephiroth's sword and begins to overpower him]] the music reaches a dramatic and beautiful swell and becomes appropriately heroic.
* Nibelheim's theme: [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FUkgnLzQcY8 Anxious Heart]]. There's a reason it's called ''Anxious'' Heart. It's creepy, almost to the point of being downright nightmarish. It puts you on edge, and you can just tell something bad's gonna go down. The Crisis Core remix, [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fTIWd_LJyvM The Shrouded Village]], is also excellent. Faster-paced and thus less overtly sinister than the original version, it gives a feel of the calm before the storm -- and considering what's about to happen...
* More terror-inspiring music: [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CBRAkpXTmCs You Can Hear the Cry of the Planet.]], which plays while you're exploring the desolate City of the Ancients before [[ItWasHisSled meeting up with Aerith]]. The remake has a remix in [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LOlOP3FuCbA Seven Seconds Till The End]], played near the end of the game [[spoiler:with Cloud and Sephiroth's final confrontation at the edge of creation]]. Haunting, unsettling, and even with a triumphant portion, just enough to send shivers down one's spine.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9oPqxoGzorI Off the Edge of Despair]] perfectly matches the sobering mood of [[spoiler: Cloud's damaged psychological state in the Mideel hospital]], as well as conveying Tifa's utter heartbreak upon seeing [[spoiler: the man she loves]] in such a helpless and desecrated condition.
* [[https://youtu.be/S8NGDsnv34M The Opening,]] commonly grouped together with the below-mentioned Bombing Mission, is simply gorgeous. It grows and grows, setting up for an excellent, revolutionary adventure before hitting you full force with an epic crescendo, followed by a seamless segue into the Bombing Mission. [[VideoGame/FinalFantasyVIIRemake The Remake]] gives this incredible opening track a bit more flair, with OminousLatinChanting of the lyrics to One-Winged Angel sprinkled in, while somehow managing to top the intensity of the original. Ladies and gents, [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FaHILGb8_M8 Midgar, City of Mako.]]
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XiBBHihXbQ4 Bombing Mission]], heard right after the opening. Nothing starts a game better than putting you directly in the action. And now, we have the [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hbWexqjpofU Remake's]] take on the Bombing Mission! Absolute perfection.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QY1Vetd7OCs Even the regular battle music is great.]] The [[VideoGame/FinalFantasyVIIRemake remake]] gives this theme [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UsMLJabHriU the modern orchestra treatment]]!
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BrwQPtxR36M Crazy Motorcycle]] plays alongside [[BestLevelEver the end of the Midgar section]]. The Remake does this one better: this version steals the crown for sheer ''maddening effort'' by way of [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SpKU8nndWt8 "Midgar Expressway"]], the remix of "Crazy Motorcycle". Not only does the song carry a whooping ''eight phases'', but as the chase of the expressway builds up further and further, the track begins to mix in several other tracks from the game, including "Bombing Mission", "Let the Battles Begin", "Whispers of Fate", and finally culminating in "Those Who Fight Further" as the M.O.T.O.R comes careening towards Avalanche for Shinra's last-ditch effort to put an end to the chase.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=omEOaHALhFs The Turks' Theme]] from the original game. And [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7AjCgzuZImo Secretly maneuvering in Dark Suits]], the remix for PSP.
* And here's [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XpsDpKFuGPY A Flower Blooming in the Slums]], a sweet guitar-laden version of Aerith's Theme. Also its predecessor, [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zr0pNEnJ2dI Flowers Blooming in the Church.]]
* The [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j6qaPxf7EV4 Those Who Fight piano arrangement]] from ''[[Anime/FinalFantasyVIIAdventChildren Advent Children]]'' may not stand out compared to some of the other songs listed, but, to someone who plays piano, it's absolutely epic.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vwBjCKWaO_0 The Nightmare Begins]]. And the piano version from the piano collection, as well. So incredibly awesome.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EY4yLjqMEPE Wutai]]. If ever there was one piece of music that made you want to live in a fictitious place... [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_OZzl3ewK78 And here's Yuffie's theme!]] As well as the [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eooKfiePZAU remix]] when [[WutaiTheft you know what occurs.]]
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F3U5vcbdSN4 Costa Del Sol]] and [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J8o9gGOKEg4 Under the Rotting Pizza]] [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FH3NQzk38QU (Remake version)]] are great tracks people usually forget.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1FBH9e2WNDw The Sandy Badlands]], especially this particular version, which is a melancholy piano remix.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jj0F2KfCvhg Shinra, Inc.]] ''The perfect'' theme music for an evil MegaCorp. The Remake [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R-5j-1UwWF8 makes it even better]].
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nfNHui7hb9E Infiltrating Shinra Tower]], while repetitive, fits the music of such a MegaCorp. The Remake turns this track into [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CpqfZ7Kcb9g one of the most magnificent pieces in the entire game]], as it becomes an ambient chillwave remake. Combining this music with the breathtaking design of when it's placed (the breathtaking lobby of Shinra Tower) and the foreboding factor of it being the final dungeon, and it's an absolute marvel to behold in your first playthrough of the scene.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7pdtP0zEiXc Tifa's Theme]] doesn't seem to get much love from ''FF'' fandom for some reason, even though it's gorgeous.
** The [[VideoGame/FinalFantasyVIIRemake Remake's]] [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bGec4-i5724 version]] is melancholic, nostalgic, and the perfect update to an amazing track.
** The [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tsMmKbmrj_M version]] that plays when the party returns to [[spoiler: Sector 7 to see the bar completely destroyed]] is easily the darkest and most tragic revision of her theme thus far, and perfectly matches the scene as she struggles to suppress her grief and devastation.
** The [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OWaLhXsN-hs version that plays]] during Tifa's resolution scene is both haunting and beautiful.
%%* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Pi9xgOXvTs INTERRUPTED BY FIREWORKS.]]
* When battling your way down the Northern Crater to get to [[spoiler:Sephiroth]], [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mGHDXDI-DNc Judgment Day]] perfectly encapsulates the feeling of "It all comes down to this. The fate of the world is in my hands. Fortunately, I have my best friends and loved ones to fight by my side."
* Our favorite yellow bird goes country/bluegrass in [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aJmvj7o4ook Fiddle de Chocobo]], complete with a cowboy yelling "Yahoo" near the 1-minute mark.
* The Chocobo goes surfer birdie with [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RHpn-o9n-cs Electric de Chocobo]], which sounds like something Uematsu came up with after he heard "Wipeout" quite a few times.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z-fleXlIRbs Rufus's welcoming ceremony]]. It was good enough to warrant [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qiutkHNiacE a tweaked version]] to appear in ''FFIX''.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nswfLcROs-0 Mako Reactor]] [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RCnoc4XfE90 (Remake)]] is a brilliantly atmospheric piece that plays in EVERY Mako reactor you go into. It becomes even better when you realize that the final section of Mako Reactor is a slight change from Aerith's Theme, played in a minor key to contrast the down-to-earth Aerith with the environmentally destructive reactors. The Remake also gives us a [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U8IgdETkxaI battle variant]] of the theme, which perfectly blends the action of combat with the sinister vibe of the original.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3rV40ypje7o Those Chosen by the Planet]], Sephiroth's actual {{Leitmotif}} in the original game. Too bad it's been overshadowed by "One-Winged Angel" to the point that it's easy to forget that the latter incorporates the melody of "Those Chosen by the Planet". ''Remake'' [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T3_1OjudYGM bumps the nightmare fuel]] up to eleven by actually incorporating PsychoStrings.
* From the Remake, while the [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gauk7bxZAww Whispers' theme]] is already a very fine piece of music, the tracks used during the battle against [[spoiler:the Whisper Harbinger]] are absolutely fantastic. [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FLc4HBmDcyk Arbiter of Fate (advent)]] introduces the scene, with an appropriate epic music for a place [[spoiler:where fate is to be defied and changed]]. [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_JCS_utEKVo Arbiter of Fate (Rebirth)]] takes the form of an apotheose of the same epicness with a more dramatic and melancholic direction, fitting a fight against [[spoiler:a tragic, yet originally necessary future, unknowingly sacrificing the ensured survival of the planet]]. In contrast, [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S1gsRrTNFxc Arbiter of Fate (Singularity)]] is filled with hope, playing with the musical theme of the Franchise itself, in a situation where [[spoiler:fate is effectingly being broken and this new entry's future shaping itself, for better or worse.]]
* From the remake, the theme song, [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MStkPCeVtMw "Hollow"]], a slow, somber sad song that perfectly drives home the game's melancholy. Special note goes to the almost intentionally strong similarities to "The Price of Freedom" from ''Crisis Core'' [[spoiler: which plays over the ending where we see that Zack is still alive]]. Yosh (of the band Survive Said The Prophet) knocks the vocals out of the park. An instrumental variation, [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hwk7agQ8LsE Hollow Skies]], occasionally plays when Cloud traverses Midgar, setting up the mood for the events to come.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w8lBBCp0QQQ Ignition Flame]], Roche's theme. The music and beat shows what kind of guy Roche is, a SOLDIER who's willing to fight without any qualms.
* The [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a_2jY8zlAUI Remake's]] take on the [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lelmSW0_Fpc Wall Market]] theme from the original is particularly catchy. The [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N1s21IqUUjE battle version]] even more so.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uMzH5ZXhHh4 Smash ‘Em, Rip ‘Em]], the peppy song that accompanies Aerith and Tifa’s glorious rampage through Don Corneo’s mansion.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6C9SOlhEUc0 Funk With Me]], [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xZkBEOeiNBo Sync or Swim]], and [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rMGWcDEzeNA Vibe Valentino]] accompany the new glorious dance mini-game in all its glory.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xNSJQ9ln1CY Stand Up (Honey Bee)]] captures the spirit of the locale’s new image of a Moulin Rouge-esque cabaret club.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-_Ct4xlnufY The Colosseum Theme]] is another catchy battle theme that perfectly builds up the hype for the occasion.
* The [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2b1f1ytlur8 Train Graveyard Theme]] is sad, haunting, and yet beautiful at the same time.
** Also see [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=isEQdHHWAYM Haunted]], the area's standard battle theme.
** [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=srXtau8IxvY "Ghoul"]], the theme that plays during the eponymous boss battle, as well as the second battle with [[spoiler: Abzu]]. Astute listeners will notice its reincorporation of the ''Hymn of the Fayth'' theme from ''Final Fantasy X.''
* Perhaps the biggest case of AscendedExtra in the game, Jessie gets [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gU9QKkB-630 her own theme]] in the remake, a wistful and elegant melody. [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dlmaa1tIat4 Flying High]], which plays during the parachute jump off the plate, is an energetic variation of her theme that sounds like it came straight out of the '80s movies.
* For Shinra corporate propaganda, [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8kSgz7C0NP4 Stamp's Theme]] is surprisingly catchy.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3OdQ2XhqMSE Fight for Survival]], an action packed piece as you race up to stop the destruction of the Sector 7 pillar.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wM6LoMfZV5w Fires of Resistance]] is a hopeful and heroic theme that plays as the party ascends the destroyed Sector 7 plate in order to reach Shinra HQ, fighting their way through elite Shinra mooks and even [=SOLDIERs=] to reach the top. As its name suggests, Shinra didn't end AVALANCHE's spark of resistance; it turned it into a raging fire that's coming to burn them down.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zy8qhOxxick The Valkyrie]] boss fight theme in the Remake is a contribution of guest composer Keiki Kobayashi, the legendary composer of ''VideoGame/AceCombat'' series. A stunning militaristic action piece that both gives a sense of urgency and hopefulness.

[[AC:''VideoGame/BeforeCrisis'']]
* The sheer beauty of [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1YBkkxYQxB0 Theme of Elfe]] is overwhelming. Takeharu Ishimoto does not get enough credit.

[[AC:''Anime/FinalFantasyVIIAdventChildren'']]
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pCeaCroLN8o "Tenrai: Divinity I"]], and [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4j6uQTteJ8A "Tenrai: Divinity II"]], two absolutely epic tracks filled with OrchestralBombing and OminousLatinChanting. Words cannot describe.
* "[[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EvYh3uQpqXc The Promised Land]]".
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t87GTMm1vg0 "For the Reunion"]] is simply one of the better tracks on the movie's soundtrack. The tension it provides during the exchange between Kadaj and Rufus at Healin is simply atmospheric win.
* "[[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0c5eoYj6dpo The Chase of Highway]]", scored for the duel in Midgar's highways. And then the "Turks' Theme" comes in...
* "[[https://youtu.be/kocY1quJ-4o Safe and Sound]]", the ending song included in only [[NoExportForYou the Japanese versions]] of the ''Complete Edition'' re-cut, weirdly enough. It is sung in full English lyrics, no less, and written and performed by Gerard Way of Music/MyChemicalRomance fame alongside Kyosuke Himuro (who provided the song "Calling" for the original and international releases).

[[AC:''VideoGame/DirgeOfCerberus'']]
* The ending theme [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Py8tpabV4Fw "Redemption"]], as sung by Gackt. The game's ''other'' vocal theme, [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upNgNhm-R7E "Longing"]] (also by Gackt), plays during the final level and is equally as awesome.

[[AC:''VideoGame/CrisisCore'']]
* The [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oqDkE5Ibyp8 "CRISIS CORE Theme"]]. It's nostalgic and soothing, yet so sad knowing [[DoomedByCanon what's going to happen...]]
** ...and its variations [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r1QfdrbTiX8 "Burden of Truth"]] and [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O82Hc_dMehA "The Burdened"]].
** [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q47iesfPbgs "SOLDIER Battle"]], the final boss theme. It's like we've left ''Final Fantasy'' and entered ''Command and Conquer''.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mHs9ao9k42g "The One who Receives the Divine Protection of the Planet"]], for the fight with [[spoiler:Genesis Avatar]].
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PVXt1g6Vr-o "Operated Iron Beast"]].
* "[[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uEpoiiehuXQ The Summoned]]", a remix of "Fight On!" for the battles against Zack's summons.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ikbF3Ez_2QA "Living Legacy"]], the credits music. Especially around the 4:00 mark, when a fully orchestrated version of "Those Who Fight" kicks in.
* [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MOJ91H4mraU "The Price of Freedom"]], probably most remembered not for being an awesome song (which it is), but rather for [[TearJerker the scene it plays in.]]
* And finally, the ending theme, [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M_ipWtjyuIM "Why"]] by Ayaka, a sweet country ballad to reflect the valley boy Zack always was at heart.