The Elder Scrolls: Arena
Adventurous past
In the distant year 1994, one of the most successful video game brands was born: The Elder Scrolls. A series with now five main games, various add-ons and spin-offs as well as one of the best fantasy soundtracks - at least today. As is the case with most origins, the first musical draft is of course difficult to compare with today's creations. The technical limitations of the MIDI format alone rarely help games, unless nostalgic romanticization can infuse the beeping and humming with a comforting warmth.
I obviously lack this, as my first contact with the TES games was The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion, which was released in 2006, a whole 12 years later. Nevertheless, I can't ignore the charm of the score that accompanies the events in The Elder Scrolls: Arena. In fact, I'm pretty sure that a few of the tracks would be on my best list if I had been able to play the game back then.
Composer Eric Heberling creates a harmonious fantasy sound atmosphere, which lacks prominent motifs but oscillates pleasantly between the dark/gloomy fantasy moods (The Late HoursEric Heberling, The Mages GuildEric Heberling) and the early episodes of the Heroes of Might and Magic-series (The Wandering InnEric Heberling, A Warm WelcomeEric Heberling). At times, one is also reminded of The Legend of Zelda (Winter in HammerfellEric Heberling), which is never a bad thing.
Consequently, despite a comparatively average overall rating, I can definitely recommend a listen. Not only for the fans, but especially for all (still) young people like me who have only experienced the fascination of arcade games and text adventure role-playing games from stories. The Elder Scrolls: Arena makes a good impression without you having to struggle through it and, despite its considerable size, you can listen to it in no time at all.
