[Medli’s Melodies is a series in which we choose our favourite tracks from the Zelda franchise, or highlight a special piece of music from the perpetually creative fan community. Music has always such been such an integral component of Zelda games, and we’re here to celebrate that every week!]
Few pieces of music in Breath of the Wild have as much personality and energy as the Divine Beast Vah Naboris battle theme. It stands out significantly compared to the other Divine Beasts — and in fact all other bosses in the game — which either sound a little too generically heroic or, in the case of the Blight bosses, overbearingly threatening and dramatic.
Vah Naboris’ battle theme is energetic and playful, and captures the Saharan atmosphere perfectly. It has such an upbeat, memorable tune that the other Divine Beasts don’t even come close to — their themes lack the confidence and identity that Naboris’ has.
The continuous beat of all the different drums creates a feeling of constant movement, which pumps your adrenaline and drives you (and your seal) forward through the sand. You feel unstoppable; you feel ready to chase that mechanical camel for as long as it takes.
Then, the playful piano comes in to remind you that Link is not battling an enemy. It helps you relax and encourages you to enjoy the battle. The piano is an interesting choice of instrument compared to all the others, which sound very Arabian. The contrast in tone makes it stand out; it strongly emphasises the upbeat, entertaining side of the fight.
The continuous beat […] creates a feeling of constant movement […] you feel ready to chase that mechanical camel for as long as it takes.
Likewise, the violin and flute mainly play high notes that sound lively and positive, almost like you’re racing. An occasional low note reminds you that danger still lurks, however — that you need to keep your wits about you.
What’s also interesting about this track is that it’s adaptive, which communicates the pace of the battle really effectively. The drums play alone when you’re far away from Vah Naboris, but the nearer you get the louder the violin or flute becomes. This compels you to keep moving forward. If you fall behind, the music literally helps you regain your momentum by pulling you back into the action and rebuilding the energy.
All that, combined with the fact that it reminds me of an incredibly enjoyable Divine Beast battle, makes for a standout piece. I clearly remember the excitement of surfing behind a sand seal, carefully steering to remain under Riju’s protective dome and stay safe from Naboris’ wild flares of electricity.
