Ys I & II Chronicles Soundtrack Vinyl & CD Release Announced
The iconic, high-octane soundtrack of one of the most revered action RPGs of all time is receiving a definitive physical release. Streaming Arrow Records has officially announced that the complete soundtrack for *Ys I & II Chronicles* is being released on both a deluxe vinyl box set and a comprehensive CD collection, with pre-orders now available worldwide.
This release offers fans and collectors a new and premium way to experience the legendary music that has defined the *Ys* series for decades. The announcement is a significant event for video game music enthusiasts, celebrating the arranged and modernized score from the beloved 2009 remake of the classic Falcom titles. The new editions are expected to begin shipping to customers in late June 2024.
A Legendary Score Reborn on Vinyl
For the first time ever, the complete musical score from *Ys I & II Chronicles* is being presented in a comprehensive 4xLP vinyl box set. This is the ultimate physical edition for audiophiles and dedicated fans of the series. The release isn't just a simple pressing; it's a meticulously crafted collector's item designed to honor the legacy of the game's sound.
The vinyl set includes all the adrenaline-pumping battle themes, serene town melodies, and epic dungeon crawlers that players remember. The music, originally composed by the legendary Yuzo Koshiro and Mieko Ishikawa and masterfully arranged by the Falcom Sound Team jdk, has been specifically mastered for the vinyl format to ensure the highest possible audio quality. The packaging itself is a sturdy slipcase box designed to house and protect the four LPs, complete with artwork inspired by the fantastical world of Esteria.
What to Expect From the Release
Streaming Arrow Records is providing several options for fans, ensuring there's a version for every type of collector. Both the vinyl and CD editions promise to be the definitive physical releases of this incredible soundtrack.
Here are the key features of the announced collection:
- Complete Soundtrack: The release contains the entire score from *Ys I & II Chronicles*, covering all the music from both foundational games as presented in the modern remake.
- 4xLP Vinyl Box Set: The centerpiece of the collection is the expansive four-record set. It comes in multiple variants, including a classic black vinyl edition for purists.
- Exclusive Vinyl Variants: Alongside the standard black, special limited-edition color pressings have been announced. These include the "First Step Towards" variant (a blue and white marble design) and the "Darm Tower" variant (a smoky black and grey mix), offering a unique visual flair to match the music.
- 2xCD Collection: For those who prefer the compact disc format, a 2-CD version is also available. This set contains the same complete soundtrack in a high-quality jewel case presentation.
- Premium Packaging: The vinyl set includes a booklet featuring track information and liner notes, giving fans a deeper appreciation for the score's composition and history.
The Enduring Legacy of the Ys Soundtrack
The music of the *Ys* series is not just background noise; it is a core part of the franchise's identity. When the original *Ys I: Ancient Ys Vanished* was released in 1987, its soundtrack was revolutionary. At a time when game music was often simple and repetitive, Falcom's sound team delivered a score that felt more like a progressive rock album, full of driving electric guitars, soaring synth melodies, and complex arrangements.
Tracks like "Feena" and "First Step Towards Wars" are not just memorable—they are iconic pieces of video game history that have been rearranged and revisited in numerous titles and concert performances over the past 35 years. This particular release focuses on the arrangements from *Ys I & II Chronicles*, which took those timeless 8-bit compositions and re-recorded them with a full, modern rock band sound, breathing new life into the classics while maintaining the raw energy and melodic brilliance of the originals. This version of the soundtrack is often considered the definitive one by many fans, making its first-ever complete vinyl pressing a landmark occasion.
How to Pre-Order the Ys Soundtrack
Fans eager to secure their copy of this monumental release can do so now. Pre-orders for both the 4xLP vinyl box set and the 2xCD collection are live directly on the official Streaming Arrow Records online storefront.
Given the passionate fanbase for both the *Ys* series and video game vinyl collecting, the limited-edition color variants are expected to sell out quickly. The sets are scheduled to ship globally near the end of June 2024, meaning fans won't have to wait long to add this essential soundtrack to their personal collections.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is this the original 8-bit soundtrack?
No, this release features the modern, fully-arranged soundtrack from the 2009 PC and 2013 PlayStation Portable release of *Ys I & II Chronicles*, performed by the Falcom Sound Team jdk.
Who is releasing this soundtrack?
This official soundtrack release is being produced and distributed by Streaming Arrow Records, a label dedicated to releasing high-quality video game and anime music on physical formats.
What formats are available?
The soundtrack is available as a comprehensive 4xLP vinyl box set and a 2-CD collection. The vinyl set also has several color variants.
When will the soundtrack be shipped?
Pre-orders are currently open, and the items are expected to begin shipping to customers worldwide in late June 2024.