Prequel stories in video games can be quite controversial. While origin stories generally offer a less contentious premise, conveying the backstory of a tragedy is much more difficult. Like reading the last chapter of a book, gaming communities already know the end of the story. As a result, character arcs and presentation are even more crucial to maintaining player interest. So how should developers navigate these murky waters? For starters, they can establish the right mood with a killer main theme, which Koei Tecmo accomplished in Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity.
While the Zelda community is rather divided on the gameplay and story of Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity, the game’s soundtrack is perhaps more unifying. I, for one, believe the orchestration is one of the best in franchise history. In particular, the main theme has been ingrained in my mind since the release date.
Age of Calamity’s underlying premise is to delve into the events leading up to Breath of the Wild. As such, the opening theme establishes moods of catastrophe and impending doom. The piano and violin begin by creating a eerily quiet atmosphere, which signifies the moments leading up to a storm. Trumpets and vocals then assume a powerful leading role and further accentuate the themes of conflict and struggle. As the symphony crescendos, the instruments combine into a concentrated outcry of love and loss.
While the main theme from Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity is profound and emotional, a small YouTuber by the name of Nico Mendoza used the song’s underlying framework to craft a unique interpretation. Specializing in bass and percussion, Nico replaced the full orchestra with carefully selected instruments. With the help of trumpeter Nathan Banegas, Mendoza produced a truly masterful and intense arrangement.
The main difference between the original track and Nico’s rendition is the instruments used to create depth. While the original relied on strong vocals and a dynamic violin ensemble, Nico’s cover harks back to its creator’s roots with excellent percussion and bass guitar riffs. In addition, the trumpet harmony by Mendoza’s friend Banegas is much more pronounced and featured throughout the entire cover. Although the Mipha and Link amiibo threatened to derail the piano accompaniment (the latter somehow found its way back onto the keyboard), Nico recorded a wonderful arrangement that pays homage to the original while adding his own creative flair.
The irony is that Nico Mendoza does not specialize in video game covers or YouTube creation. In fact, like many artists, the global pandemic has put a halt to Nico’s live performances. Coupled with an increase in gaming, Nico turned to video game music to keep his skills sharp. Not only did YouTube allow Nico to maintain his proficiency, but the platform also created an opportunity for this talented multi-instrumentalist to continue his lifelong passion: performing for a group of diehard fans.
Going forward, the gifted musician has ideas for more Legend of Zelda covers as well as featured collaborations with friend and colleague Nathan Banegas. Be sure to check out Nico Mendoza’s YouTube channel for more video game music. Trust me, you do not want to miss out on his next creation!
