Final Fantasy 17’s Musical Future: Will Soken Composing Alone Cut It?

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Fans of Final Fantasy have long admired the emotional music that enhances their experiences during epic adventures, poignant stories, and alternate realities. As the release date for Final Fantasy 17 draws nearer, there’s a growing anticipation among the community towards Masayoshi Soken, a renowned composer who has created music for both Final Fantasy XIV and XVI. However, a post made by user DarthAceZ198 ignited debate within the community about whether Soken is capable of carrying the responsibility of composing for another significant Square Enix title. Fans praised his extraordinary skills, but there were also concerns over his health, especially after his fight with cancer, resulting in a range of opinions on whether he should undertake this large-scale project independently.

Summary

  • Fans deeply respect Soken for his incredible musical talent and dedication amid personal health challenges.
  • There is a recurring desire among fans for Soken to take a break, indicating a collective concern for his health and workload.
  • Some fans are advocating for fresh talent to join the composition process for Final Fantasy 17, citing variety and diversification as key factors.
  • Certain posts highlight specific tracks from FF16 that resonated well with fans, indicating a desire for continuity in quality.

The Legacy of Soken’s Music

Soken’s impact on the Final Fantasy series has been profoundly significant. His scores for FF14 have catapulted the game into a realm of cinematic greatness, providing a potent emotional landscape for players to immerse themselves in. Tracks such as “Away” and “Cascade,” celebrated by fans for their grand melodies and meticulously crafted orchestration, perfectly encapsulate various gaming moments – be they exhilarating battles or poignant narrative points. These tracks have been hailed as essential elements of the gaming experience by fans, with one user commenting that “Away and Cascade were the best songs in FF16,” showing a longing for more compositions like these in future titles. It’s evident that Soken is highly esteemed by many fans, who often refer to him as a “legend.” His music strikes a chord on a deeply personal level, serving not only as the soundtrack for the game but also as a symphony of memories shared among its players.

Health Concerns and the Composer’s Well-Being

There’s obvious admiration towards Soken, but there’s also a growing worry among his followers about his health. Many conversations center around the idea that though Soken is incredibly talented, they believe he should avoid overworking given his past battle with cancer. One vocal fan, HexenVexen, has expressed this concern, urging Soken to rest even as they appreciate his work. The fact that he composed music from a hospital bed highlights his dedication, but fans are insisting that his health should come first. In essence, they yearn for new creations from him, but they want Soken to be in good health above all else. Instead of pushing him to keep going at an exhausting rate, they’re advocating for his wellness, suggesting he deserves a break from the keyboard.

Voices Calling for New Talent

Among the accolades for Soken’s work on Final Fantasy 17, some enthusiasts are advocating for a shift in the series’ musical direction. A thought-provoking discussion has emerged, suggesting that involving fresh talent could be beneficial in sharing the composing responsibilities. ApprehensiveLaw7793 voiced this opinion, expressing that while Soken’s influence is significant, it might be time to introduce new ideas into the mix. This viewpoint showcases a desire for innovation within the franchise’s music while also honoring the accomplishments of earlier creators. Additionally, user DaMaBar has joined the conversation, urging the return of Yoko Shimomura, a well-known composer from previous editions. It seems that fans are eager for a fusion of different musical styles and interpretations, which could result in an exciting soundtrack for the upcoming game.

The Balance of Expectation and Reality

In pondering the musical direction of Final Fantasy 17, a recurring topic in discussions is anticipation – a powerful force that can fuel excitement and also bring about apprehension. On one hand, fans are eagerly waiting for fresh soundtracks to transport them into the next chapter of their beloved series. There’s a strong yearning for tracks that evoke the same emotional resonance as what Soken has delivered, a craving that is almost tangible. At the same time, this anticipation can be a heavy burden. Fans often express the need for a harmonious balance between preserving the iconic styles of the past and incorporating fresh influences. This sentiment reflects a desire to push boundaries while still preserving what makes Final Fantasy music so enchanting.

Discussions about the musical future of Final Fantasy 17 frequently center around Soken’s influence and commitment. Fans are eagerly anticipating his potential contributions, but there’s a deep-seated sentiment that resonates: let’s not lose sight of the man behind the music. The passion and skill he has infused into the franchise deserve recognition, yet we must ensure this doesn’t compromise his wellbeing. Whether he works independently or collaborates with others, fans eagerly await an awe-inspiring soundtrack that encapsulates the spirit of adventure, while simultaneously cheering on a beloved composer who deserves some rest. Striking a balance between preserving legacy and fostering innovation will be crucial, enabling the new music to stand independently and add another layer to the already rich narrative of the Final Fantasy series. Here’s to Soken and the melodies yet to come; whatever lies ahead, it promises to be as enjoyable as it is harmonious!

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2025-04-10 19:14