It's worth noting that the later games each have a different "Objection!" theme for each playable character. They each serve the same purpose for moving the trial along, but they also serve as personal themes for the characters associated with them. This allows for some unique uses for them outside of the standard situations, such as Athena's "Objection!" theme being rearranged to represent her past trauma, or Phoenix's "Objection!" theme signifying that you are _losing_ when you face him in a civil trial.
My personal favourite example is Apollo's Objection theme getting a slower remix as his out-of-court character theme. It might not seem like much but it really shows how much the song represents him, especially since he didn't get a ton of development in his first game but was expanded on much more in the sequels.
I feel that the biggest reason Ace Attorney’s soundtrack has stuck with so many people, including myself, is the game’s heavy focus on reading and storytelling. It’s like you’re reading a book with music that adapts to the mood, rather than playing a game. The themes just fit so well. And more often than not i’ll find myself bobbing my head or tapping my feet along with it as i’m playing.
I understand "Fragrance of Dark Coffee" wouldn't have really fit within this video, but its an amazing track, everyone reading this go listen to it right now!
One of my favorite things about the game's music is their ability to break the rules that they set up. For example, we know that Pursuit (Cornered) is Phoenix's theme, it's the song that plays when we/he is about to throw the whole case on its head and turn things around. And then they give it to Edgeworth instead of you. What a way give a lot of weight to the narrative shift and how dire things have gotten - even your theme just got hijacked!
It also shows that Edgeworth is on your side. He's not just there to get your client guilty, he wants to expose the truth, even if it means losing to you. Especially when the true culprit is a total bastard.
My favorite example of this is in the first ace attorney, when in trial 2, things seem almost finished, but then edgeworth turns the tables against pheonix, and that's when cornered starts playing.
I think my favorite example is when you're in court and having a civil court dispute with Phoenix as apollo's openante and for the first time you hear his objection theme play against you and its an "Oh fuck" moment. Because you specifically know what it means and how screwed you are.
@@robertlupa8273 and they use this same twist with Godot later. When he says "So what? Death have no meaning in this courtroom!" and pursuit started playing, I just like him, spitted my coffee. Genius.
What I find so interesting is how the AA music doesn't get repetitive, despite the loops being relatively short for video games. Lesser games would struggle massively with this issue, making the entire game a bore. However AA is somehow able to prevent that feeling of repetition, despite the music very obviously repeating many, many times.
I agree! Most loops are about a minute/minute and a half in length. The longest I can think of is about 3 minutes (the Phantom theme). And yet I could listen to many of them a thousand times.
@@EphemeralPseudonymwhile playing tgaa I would pause it mid trial and leave it on suspense music for like 40 minutes while I was doing other stuff, somehow didn't get annoyed lol
@@EphemeralPseudonymSometimes I listened to Cornered for the thrill of it, not even playing the game itself, and it still doesn't feel repetitive in isolation tho
I can't imagine playing these games without the music, the songs have probably stuck with me more than almost any other series and this video really captures why. I think the reason the songs don't feel emotionally manipulative is because for the court scenes, you're really driving their appearance. Your choices bring out the songs and each feels like they accent your own mood rather than the other way around. When I'm trying to spot the discrepancy in a testimony, I'm feeling very focused and exacting. When I manage to catch them out, I'm triumphant and charging forward. It's all this wonderful auditory feedback loop
Capcom just always seems to do music well with their games. Well, at least judging from the major franchises I'm familiar with - Mega Man, Street Fighter and Ace Attorney. I'd be surprised if that same quality and attention to detail didn't translate to their other games.
You are so right. I would even say that objection and pursuit theme feel like a reward for your hard work, driving the reward loop through the entire case and releasing dopamine in your body when you finally hear those sweet, sweet notes.
I was so afraid the great ace attorney wouldn’t get the love it deserved because it’s newer. That games soundtrack kicks so much ass. Especially the cross examination and pursuit themes.
Not to forget about the Deduction themes, which grow melodically as you clear up Sholmes' hypotheses. I loved the music of those games more than I thought I would.
The Cross Examination Allegro theme is almost impossible not to nod my head to. I love that song so much, and along with the pursuit theme it’s just… *chef’s kiss*
it has by far my favorite confess the truth theme of the series, which is also just one of my favorite video game tracks in general. it's so intense and gives off an immense feeling of "do I really WANT to know this truth?" it gave me chills every single time
Phoenix Wright, a visual novel game that has a better "hitting feeling" than a lot of the RPG or even fighting games. Capcom does know how to get this right!
@@AEC.1 Technically it's Turnabout Trial, I think. Also I find it funny that in japan they know the games as 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, etc, but over here they translated all of the games to have unique titles like PW:AA, PW:JFA, PW:T&T, AJ:AA, PW:DD, PW:SOJ (using acronyms for text length, you get the point)
@@Jake28 And the two Investigations games are called ("Turnabout Prosecutor"). I wonder what the 2nd game's English subtitle would be if it were to be localized. The unofficial English patch adds "Prosecutor's Path", but who knows what Capcom USA would come up with.
@@AEC.1 To be fair, visual novels have been doing stuff like this to describe deadly battles using just text, music, and the occasional flash of simple effects over a static image.
Fun aside: if you listen to the soundtrack of Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective, you can find some striking similarities with the Ace Attorney framework. Despite being extremely different in gameplay, Masakazu Sugimori used the same tools to create the tense, slowly amping-up music in both games, using it to aide the story's impact (Please play Ghost Trick it's fantastic)
Worth noting that Ghost Trick is available on iOS (and probably Android) and first couple of chapters are free. So it’s easy to give it a go. I recommend it highly.
The first time I heard the Pursuit theme from the original PW game, I couldn't stop laughing since the beginning reminds so much of the Mortal Kombat theme I kept thinking the judge was going to climb down from his chair and try to kick my ass.
Legit got so emotional watching this - I don’t feel like people really give this series enough credit for its incredible music. I regularly put the Apollo Justice OST or the original game’s OST on while I work hahhah - and it does such a perfect job of linking itself with my memories of the characters/moments. Damon Gant’s theme??? Who writes character themes like that???
His theme is so... oppressively relaxed, and intimidatingly grandiose at the same time. It really just demands, "everyone stop what you're doing! Things are going to happen at MY word now, and I don't see what all the rush is!"
You just made me realize why I love Maya's theme so much. With all trial songs being in minor keys, it's extremely satisfactory to hear Maya's theme in a major key after all that tension, bringing a huge sense of relief and resolution. Excellent video.
its funny that you say that because i always found her theme unsettling. it felt like her theme didnt fit in with the game. i guess thats because theres so many minor pieces it feels like an outlier 🤔
I only realised the last couple years that the Suspense theme has literally never been changed throughout the entire series, and I'm so glad you caught that because it's such a perfect simple simmering tension that they knew they could not improve it without being too complicated. Half of the Ace Attorney themes seem to rely on being perfect background noise, allowing the player to focus on the important case whilst keeping their nerves incensed. It's fantastic.
Actually, Apollo Justice: Ace Attorney had a unique Suspense theme, titled "Thrill Theme ~ Suspense." The Layton crossover and TGAA duology also had unique suspense themes.
@@sooper7815 Huh, I didn't know that, I just knew it had a new suspense theme. Would that make the AJ theme more of a "Fate" theme then? Similar to Hotline of Fate, Crisis of Fate, A Cornered Heart, etc. For the TGAA games there are actually two slightly different suspense themes, but it makes sense because those games have a very different feel and a very different soundtrack.
I love how the first case of Great Ace Attorney uses the music to showcase Ryunosuke's development and growing confidence. He has a more subdued "prelude" Objection theme that plays for the first few contradictions, only using his real Objection theme about halfway through the trial, and the Pursuit theme doesn't play until the final nail in the culprit's coffin. The more high-energy themes hit so much harder when they're saved like this. An aspect of Ace Attorney's soundtracks that wasn't discussed here is the "Reminiscence" or "Recollections" themes. These are formulaic only in the sense that they follow a naming scheme and that every major past incident has one, but they're also unique for each instance. These songs can't be separated from their contexts because each one does an amazing job of acting as the musical "theme" for a specific tragedy or unsolved case. In some cases they're rearrangements of character themes, sometimes they're new but take cues from other songs. Sometimes these songs are your "reward" for discovering a long-hidden truth, I think my personal favourite was the one from the end of Spirit of Justice Case 3. The opening notes of that song hit so hard you can almost FEEL it, and it matched my mood once I realized what REALLY happened in that case and why.
And The Great Ace Attorney 2 added 2 new pursuit variants. Prelude to Pursuit is so good. It's a subdued version of Pursuit, but it gives a feeling of hidden intensity, and the moment it plays is moment when you realize that there is something much bigger at play here, and this is just the beginning to unlocking the secret that's hidden beneath the case. And the Great Pursuit theme only plays in the final trial, as the greatest triumph you have achieved up to that point. The music is absolutely genius.
Im so sad that 'Lying Coldly' from the Miles Edgeworth spinoffs wasn't included with the pursuit themes! It's so full of hype and if you haven't heard it go listen to it!
I hoped to see him analyze some of the individual character and gimmick themes, too. Especially how some of the gimmick themes change from game to game. Like Reproducing the Scene going from a mostly-techno feel in the first Invesitgations game to having a stronger bass line and elements of The Great Truth Burglar in the second one. Or cases where a single character might have more than one theme to depict their character arc even in the background music.
You can't praise the music in Ace Attorney high enough. And then... you discover the two official jazz cover albums, and it blows your mind once again, starting with the banger opening track: Court Begins on a Blue Note Scale.
I had such a big smile on my face through this whole video, the Ace Attorney soundtrack is one of my all time favourites from all gaming. Thank you for covering it!
Some honorable mentions from the formula: -Suspense from The Great Ace Attorney/Ace Attorney Chronicles. It isn't as suspenseful as the original Suspense structure, but it nails the feeling of trying to catch the melody, while everyone else in the room watches you, expecting for you to catch the melody, and judging you for not doing so. -Thrill from Apollo Justice. Another variation of the original Suspense, but a lot more dramatic. There's no minnuendos, just crescendos at the background, as if something important is trying to reach the surface, but suddenly falls without being noticed. The melody, however, while keeping the Suspense rhythm, plays with the double notes with no rest or breath, also trying to scale higher and escape the somber notes, but falling abruptly in the process. It's an anticipation, but for a huge drop of information. -Courtroom Revolutionnaire, from Dual Destinies. Instead of using the classic rhythm as her base, she uses her own theme (Let's Do This!) to object, being the only "main character" to leave the formula (it will be official when she gets her game). With this, the tone changes. It's optimistic in the way that you know you've found something important to the case, but it's too good to be the end of the story; however, you've progressed a lot into the case, and you know you can progress more. Almost like an anime opening sounding in the middle of the battle, but not quite. -All the Pursuit variations. The embodiment of comeback, not letting your prey go, and the philosophy of "other point of view", just by skipping right to the momentum (sometimes), and making the background sounds slightly different, and even more epic if they want to. This is more noticeable in Trials and Tribulations (by a mile, you know why), Dual Destinies and Spirit of Justice.
> Suspense from The Great Ace Attorney/Ace Attorney Chronicles. It isn't as suspenseful as the original Suspense structure GAA actually has two Suspense themes! Variation Two is more or less an orchestral arrangement of Suspense 2001, and really captures the suspenseful feel of it.
@Paradoxxis Agreed. The first one is more its own theme rather than the suspense melody, which isn't bad due to the tone of the game. The second one is my favorite so far. Specially with the little variation.
> Spell-breaker from Professor Layton vs Phoenix Wright. Man, this theme embodies how chaotic the entire game can be sometimes and despite only playing twice in the whole game, it's so damn memorable.
Can’t help but dance to it every time Courtroom Revolutionarre plays. Its energetic/optimistic tone is fantastic, even contagious, and it’s so fitting to Athena’s character
I would love to see a follow up to this talking about prosecutor themes and maybe the two presto cross examination themes from the investigation games. The fact that this video is solely focused on general court themes and there’s still so much to talk about is a testament to how fantastic this franchise’s music is. I can’t really talk like I know anything about how music is constructed, but I can say for sure that the emotional depth of “The Dark Fragrance of Coffee” carries changes completely as you play the game. Every character theme has weight in every measure which I absolutely adore. And the prestos? What can I say that hasn’t already been said, other than the first investigation uses it’s music extremely poorly. The prestos get you GOING, it’s the signal of “this is it” before you get the pursuit. You’ve backed them into a corner they can’t weasel out of, and the songs signal that effortlessly.
Investigations does use its music poorly, I recently finished the first game and found myself thinking that… but the tracks are such absolute bangers that I almost didn’t mind, Pursuit: Lying Coldly is a spectacular song
I don't think any of the other games managed to quite match it. It really is the perfect "Hah! I've got you" piece. Such a panicked feeling, but the panic isn't yours.
@@rantingrodent416 The theme makes you feel so badass, like there's no way you can lose now while also painting the desperation of your opponent- it's so perfect!
@@rantingrodent416 I feel you on this. Is still my favourite Pursuit theme in the whole franchise. And the Cornered version, damn, chef's kiss. Maybe the Great Ace Attorney version is the closer to the original ever, but to be fair, the orchestra makes a lot of the work. I wonder how it would sound in the original bit style
The added flourishes in T&T's Pursuit theme almost feel like the defense throwing "punches" after pushing for so long just to stand their ground. It gives off the vibe of finally being in a position to go on the offensive without any complications.
Capcom's greatest attorney that ever lived. I am so glad they decided to localize this franchise. It became one of my favorites ever...from the music, characters, and of course the cases/story. Despite knowing what happens, I've replayed the series so many times. Patiently waiting for that Spirit of Justice sequel.
The original trilogy of Ace Attorney games are complete masterpieces that as a set, I revere no less than any hallowed game in history. The music is a huge contributing factor to that, with the emotional turmoil of the stories captured perfectly in sound in all 3 games. The trilogy is on just about every console that there is right now, and while I’m sure 90% of people here have played it already, if you haven’t, just do it.
I also highly recommend The Great Ace Attorney Chronicles. It rivals, if not surpasses, the original trilogy. Since it's not directly connected, it can be played on its own, but I highly recommend for everyone to play both the Trilogy and TGAA Chronicles.
@@ShallBePurified Hell, play Trilogy, Chronicles, and the remaining three main series games, the only ones I haven't played are the Investigations spinoffs and the Professor Layton spinoff and I loved every single one to death lol
The Apollo Trilogy is amazing too and in regards to music, far surpasses the original trilogy. Opinions can of course vary, but OST is really the second trilogy's strongest suit.
I'm going to reveal something here: I don't play any instrument, nor do I study music theory or even do anything music-related as a hobby. However, this channel is so goddamn good at analysis and explaining things that it doesn't leave me alienated and even has my urges to get into music rising up as I watch. I think this is really just a sign that this is 100% top shelf video content.
I don’t understand anything about music theory and such but Ace Attorney is my reason for living and I love the fact that a video like this exists. Thank you.
whenever I hear the first game's objection theme I can't help but start grinning and bobbing my head. It's just so good. And the moment when Phoenix gets behind the bar in Apollo Justice and it plays for the first time in the game? Absolutely amazing!
The spinoff series Ace Attorney Investigations also has some of the best music in the Ace Attorney line, the second in particular stands out as an outstanding score with how it uses music to convey the personality of characters. While both games are outstanding in this right, the second is supreme here. Could be something to look at, mayhaps? :)
I could not agree more. I listen to mostly TGAA, but AAI2 definitely has the best use of music in the series. I mean the Reminicence themes alone are perfection.
While we're talking investigations, I wanna point out the Professor Layton crossover, Professor Layton vs. Phoenix Wright, which imo in many ways is the spiritual predecessor of the Great Ace Attorney games.
It's interesting that there are many different composers throughout the series, because the music gives each game its own voice and character. Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney often has fairly simple, uncluttered themes. It does a great job of making it feel like Phoenix is still a rookie, and the upbeat, almost aggressive melodies that come in when you expose a lie or corner a witness emphasise that. Justice for All feels a lot darker in tone to me, which suits the setting and story. Phoenix learns all too painfully in this game that it's not just about catching the bad guy, that there are times when difficult decisions have to be made with consequences attached. The music reflects this, it feels a bit edgier, less "Huzzah! I've caught you!" and more "What are you trying to hide from me and why?". Trials and Tribulations is just, *chef's kiss*. I love the soundtrack for this game. As the culmination of the original trilogy, the way the music elevates the story is really incredible to me. Phoenix has come a long way since the first game, but has to face the demons from his past and this game leans a lot harder into some of the spiritual and emotional feelings which I think the soundtrack does an excellent job of reflecting. It also feels like some of the courtroom themes echo Mia's character, which is fitting. Bridge to the Turnabout was such a wild adventure of twists and turns and story threads coming together in ways I never expected, and remains one of my favourite cases in the series to this day. There's a throwback to a particular piece of music in this trial that is just masterfully done. Thank you for this analysis!
Trials and Tribulations is also my favorite soundtrack (and game) from the series. When I hear the cross-examination theme, I immediately think of snow, bridges, and Dahlia Hawthorne. :p The memories attached to those tracks are so strong
I visited Minneapolis over the summer and saw a Phoenix Wright musical written by a local theatre there. It was a lot of fun, and some of these themes were in there! Check out the Minnesota Fringe if you’re ever around there!
That's Turnabout Musical and it waa an Ace Attorney fan project that started in 2007. They eventually made the resources for the project available and Albino Squirrel Productions played a modified version at Fringe.
The composers from The Great Ace Attorny wrote some comments about their journy and goals in the extras for the Nintendo Switch bundle. You could basically feel the fun, determination, respect and personalities they have through these texts and I think it shows in the beautiful music.
This video has confirmed to me that the reason I like this channel is because I can hear somebody who knows music theory tell me how great the soundtracks I already love are, in terms that I only vaguely understand but make me feel vindicated and cultured in my opinions about the music
Woohoo! I'm so glad you took the time to talk about Apollo Justice's 'Tell The Truth' theme, it's my absolute favourite across all of Ace Attorney and gets me all the way hyped!
Few games manage to elevate the hype to such degree as this series with the Pursuit themes. It makes me wanna scream everytime and rub all the evidence in the prosecutor's face while I dance on the stand and jump kick the liar in the witness stand
The music from these games and it’s spiritual counterpart game series, Professor Layton, instantly transport me back to those moments in game and invoke the same feelings I had during those moments in game. They will never get old
The Great Ace Attorney Chronicles's OST really shines imo, favorite soundtrack in the series with its approach to character themes and leitmotifs and how they change over the course of the duology
I think that the Ace Attorney Investigations Duology deserves its own video regarding the music, as both games have an insanely strong OST. This video was fantastic, great work!
An amazing video for a series of games that means so much to me and its fans. Would love an entire video just for The Great Ace Attorney. The music is incredible!
14:05 the original "Confess the truth" also re-uses the theme from the cross-examination themes. I don't know if it's the same for other games, but I find it cool
My only complaint is that you credit Bach with the constant-pedal-tone-counterpoint-thingy, when us gamers know that the TRUE platonic ideal of that style is Bloody Tears from Castlevania II by Kenichi Matsubara
I like how in this series (my favorite), there’s rarely any major chords. I used the “Closing Argument” theme from The Great Ace Attorney and told my buddy to point out a dominant chord. We couldn’t lol
I'd been hoping for you to tackle some Ace Attorney material for YEARS, and while there are over ten games with awesome full soundtracks to choose from, I think you picked the best possible format and presentation to discuss the overall sound of the series. Great video!
Aww I can't believe you didn't bring up my favourite pursuit theme - prelude to pursuit from the great ace attorney 2 resolve! (Its got a really fun part that I can't hear if it's in the main pursuit theme lol, plus I think the whole track is a much smugger vibe than the main pursuit themes, perfect for when you've noticed the discrepancy in someone's words and are waiting for the game to prompt you to answer!)
I love how the stories are lovingly crafted to give you, the player, that moment when everything falls into place, you see the whole event laid out in your mind's eye, and you can effortlessly fend off every objection from the prosecution. And then Pursuit ~ Cornered kicks in.
I love the evolution of the trial themes! By the third game, it conveys a feeling of duty and that Phoenix already knows the truth and that it's now a battle of proving it versus the first trial theme which I think feels more curious and uncertain.
One other cool thing about the later games (especially Great Ace Attorney) is the variations on certain themes. During the last case, when they hit you with a different, even more somber version of that game’s Courtroom Lobby theme, MAN, that just makes that last case, which you are already ramped up for, even MORE hype. They do this once. And MAN, it makes you stand up and take notice, sending chills up your spine. And Great Ace Attorney’s Overture to the Pursuit theme is really really cool. There are a couple of times in Great Ace Attorney 2 when they start playing this Overture to Pursuit, usually right when Ryunosuke starts in character putting something BIG together in his case. This song is quieter, but is basically rhythmically the same as GAA’s pursuit. When I first heard that, I was like “wait, I know something big is about to happen! It’s coming. It’s coming!” There’s just some violins playing as overture loops in anticipation, and you are like “things are about to break WIDE OPEN!”
My favorite moment of the original trilogy is when the original pursuit theme kicks in during at the end of the last game last case. Such a great soundtrack and the throwback hits so hard
Once you know the Phoenix Wright musical formula, the next thing to see is really Ghost Trick, where you can hear how Sugimori adapted the musical formula to an also altered take of Shu Takumi's narrative formula. Oh, and because it's a masterpiece of a game, of course.
I'd also like to add that The Great Ace Attorney is the only game in the series to have a "leadup" track to it's pursuit theme, aptly titled "Overture to Pursuit." It provides great context for the piece and makes the moment when the strings and horns explode out even more impactful.
Great video! I love the ones where you describe a narrative and show how the music outlines that narrative, building up to an amazing climax at the end. (Gusty Garden Galaxy and the BotW main theme come to mind.) Keep up the great work!
I love that the Court Begins themes are also used when the case is wrapped up, as a "Court Ends" theme as well. The same piece of music evokes way more different feelings in that scenario. When played at the beginning, it's more of a "Am I prepared?" kind of feeling, the ending makes it feel like a "Did we really just win?" feeling. It's great. When Trials and Tribulations' Court Begins plays for the last time at the end of case 5, I physically sighed as if it was finally over.
That's why I really love Trials and Tribulations' trial theme. When it plays at the end of case 5, it really feels like a conclusive piece of music. It's like it's saying "and that's the final page of the book".
@@staticchimera44 *- You'd do well to remember this, Maya. The only time a lawyer can cry is when it's all over.* _Trial - 2004 plays along with a little "cutscene"_ Such a glorious moment.
It gives a kind of “we’ve come full circle” feeling, and reminds you of how far you’ve come since the beginning of the trial when you first hear that music. Yeah, I really like how they do that.
If anything I'd love to stress people to listen to the 'oddballs' amongst Phoenix Wright. Like Layton's game being much more orchestral, or Great Ace Attorney being more oriental or even better, being in Edgeworth's shoes where it's not just moderato and allegro but also Presto which kicks it into high gear as opposed to his normal calm self. And since we ended on Great Ace Attorney in the video. Everyone should listen to Samurai With a Mission just to get a sense of how unique these soundtracks get within their own "offspin" world of it not being in Phoenix' homeland yet still sounding like a Phoneix Wright song without any doubt.
I've always been amazed at how well Ace Attorney's score reflects where you are in the trial, always enhancing your worry, or your intrigue, or your cheer at finally figuring out the case. There's never a dull moment in the courtroom with this music!
9:38 This really sounds like the melody to Doctor (and its resulting remixes) from Homestuck to me, especially the first few notes. It sounded really familiar and it took me a moment to realize I was thinking of a different song entirely! Very interesting!
YES! The Suspense theme! First time I heard that I had to lean back in my chair cuz A) This is some tense shit happening in the game and B) This is theme is so damn good for making things tense.
Man I love great ace attorney and the professor Layton crossover’s soundtracks so much Not enough people have played the crossover Go do it now it’s actually good The allegro themes from those games are some of my favourites
@@via3600 good for you again....investigations 1 is really good, but the last case might be a bit boring...but by judging ur love towards aa I think you'll enjoy it......BTW are u on discord cause I think we can be ace attorney friends.
Another really important use of silence is whenever you answer a question or make an objection. It builds tension for the next melody, and more importantly gives you *instant* feedback that you gave the right answer. It's so important that the one time the game *doesn't* do this (when Godot does that "you only get one shot" gimmick and throws his coffee at you when you get it wrong), I ended up resetting the game instead of seeing how it played out.
I’ve been waiting for a video exactly like this, going through the musical structure of a trial and comparing how the different games’ soundtracks do the same thing, for SO long. And this was exactly what I was looking for!
I would certainly love more of this for Phoenix Wright. Perhaps one for the themes of the characters, especially Matt Engarde. His song may have been reused in Trials and Tribulations, but the song is so fixed to him for anyone who played Justice for All that looking up "Matt Engarde theme" on RUclips brings you to that song and some videos even feature his face. If not character themes, perhaps Miles Edgeworth's solo games would be worth looking into, as they are a fusion of both investigation and trial questioning with a "new" main character and thus a new perspective for the songs to work through. And I would love to hear your thoughts on the character theme songs of those games too, especially the final bosses.
12:52 I want to add that the kick drums almost creates an irregular heartbeat pattern, which I noticed the first time I played the game and really adds to the adrenaline 16:06 I also want to add the syncopation pattern is a 4:3 polyrhythm followed by 2 eighth notes to complete a bar of 4/4
I feel it's worth mentioning that the original Pursuit theme is so iconic that at the very end of the third game, for the final turnabout, they bring it back to really drive home that "this is it, there is no possible way they can escape the truth now". Such an amazing moment.
Maybe you could do a follow-up video talking about the personalized Objection/Prosecutor themes from the series? I think there's a lot to be said about how the songs are built and how they reflect the characters they're associated with!
Found you through the FFVII Battle Theme video way back when you first uploaded that. I was on a train alone, far from home. Your videos and channel have meant a lot to me this year, even (somehow) moreso than last year. Thank you, 8-Bit.
Thank you so much.. Iv been looking for a phoenix wright music analysis for weeks now, and this one is just perfect. Music in these games is such a great inspiration, having an analysis of it is soo cool!!
When New Frame Plus did a video on the animation of Ace Attorney, I ended up replaying the entire franchise after having my love for it reawakened. Can't wait to do that again!
This was an amazing breakdown! Listening to all the different versions across different games is so fun to me, especially the Court is Now in Session ones (ToT has to have my favorite of the bunch). Also wanted to give a s/o to Apollo Justice's "Thrill" theme, which more or less seems like it was tailor-designed to BUILD on the intensity that the Suspense theme normally provides standalone. Hearing it hit during the most important twist of Case 1 in that game (when up until that point Suspense was the main theme used for tension) felt amazing.
12:32 Actually, in Apollo Justice, the 4th game, there is another suspense theme. And its GLORIOUS. Super intense, if anxiety were be a sound it would be that theme
The notation in these videos is always amazingly clear and natural-looking, regardless of the complexity of the rhythm or even orchestration or amount of voices present. That takes so much time and effort and a solid understanding of what is going to make something easy to sight-read.
I wish more people loved the Ace Attorney series as much as the fans (and Capcom occasionally) do 😔 Great video!! I was confused by the title and thought you were gonna talk about the actual Ace Attorney musical lmao
Thank you for this incredible video ! I stopped reading music sheets too long ago to be able to catch all of the nuances you put so well into words but the ace attorney music always felt so well adjusted to the games It's really nice to learn the how's and why's !
I've absolutely adored these games-music, characters, humour, narrative tension-since I discovered them when I was... 14 or so? I arranged a suite for concert band of the first game's court music back in high school, and the Pursuit theme has to be one of the most exciting bits of music I'd worked with back then. (Unfortunately that suite never got played-I dunno if my band director would've been willing, but it was definitely too complex for my school's band. The entire trumpet section would have had a *time* in particular with it, given how not into band they were.) ... if I were to rewrite that arrangement, I'd be tempted to put in a trumpet or sax cadenza/solo section in the Pursuit theme. Maybe it'd be better to write it for big band in that case.
Wow! Great analysis - my jaw dropped when I saw this in my recommended! I’d love a closer look into Character Themes if you could! There are compilations for all defense attorneys, prosecutors, victims, murderers to easily compare!
18:38 one of my favorite aa themes. this has no reason to slap this hard also t&ts pursuit theme is great. it perfectly radiates the feeling of danger in the air. excellent piece of music
I want you to know the game called Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective, in which Masakazu Sugimori, who was in charge of the song for Ace Attorney 1, is involved! The Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective is also very good. In addition, Ghost Trick has characters modeled after Ace Attorney characters, and there are conversations and props related to Ace Attorney! I'm translating, so I'm sorry if there is something strange.
I really like how GAA2 Resolve plays with this formula a bit. For most of the game it uses the same court themes as GAA1 Adventures to create the feeling of a singe connected story, and then the final case uses unique Lobby, Court and final Pursuit themes to add extra dramatic weight. The GAA series also expands on the formula a bit in general with unique themes for more events like the new Jury segment, Witness introductions before the Cross-Ex, and a Court Ruling theme seperate from Court Begins.
If you want to feel how its suppose to be. Just play it. The first trilogy has mix of serious and comedy bizzare moment. The chronicle is for those people who wants more serious and logic.
For fans of ace attorney music, I recommend some of the games scored by Ryu Umemoto, especially his work on eve: burst error. While I don’t know if a direct connection has ever been officially made, I know Umemoto was one of the most influential VN composers, so it wouldn’t surprise me if it was intentional similarity.
![I.N "HALLUCINATION" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/n5B5q1Hwt_U/mqdefault.jpg)
It's worth noting that the later games each have a different "Objection!" theme for each playable character. They each serve the same purpose for moving the trial along, but they also serve as personal themes for the characters associated with them. This allows for some unique uses for them outside of the standard situations, such as Athena's "Objection!" theme being rearranged to represent her past trauma, or Phoenix's "Objection!" theme signifying that you are _losing_ when you face him in a civil trial.
My personal favourite example is Apollo's Objection theme getting a slower remix as his out-of-court character theme. It might not seem like much but it really shows how much the song represents him, especially since he didn't get a ton of development in his first game but was expanded on much more in the sequels.
You mean EDGE-worth noting?
Also the "Take That!" "Hold it" and the unique to apollo justice (as far as I'm aware correct me if I'm wrong) "Gotcha!"
Oh god, I LOVE when their themes all mix together at the end of Dual Destinies
Me suddenly realizing that if it's unique to apollo there aren't unique varients because it's only apollo
Apollo Justice has an underrated soundtrack honestly
Out here spitting facts.
Yeah. I've always loved the "cool" vibe it has.
It's very brown in the best possible way.
I'm not sure if describing it with that colour makes any sense, but it just had that vibe.
Best part of the game as a whole if we're being honest with ourselves...
Facts 😌, it's my favorite soundtrack of the mainline games!
I feel that the biggest reason Ace Attorney’s soundtrack has stuck with so many people, including myself, is the game’s heavy focus on reading and storytelling. It’s like you’re reading a book with music that adapts to the mood, rather than playing a game. The themes just fit so well. And more often than not i’ll find myself bobbing my head or tapping my feet along with it as i’m playing.
Go play a visual novel or one of the games inspired by Famicom Detective Club >:D
It's simple all you have to do to continue the story is to figure out what happened next, in other words the true story.
You are literally just describing the entire genre of visual novels
wrrr, soundx or not doesn tmatter, any moodx etc any nmw sk
I understand "Fragrance of Dark Coffee" wouldn't have really fit within this video, but its an amazing track, everyone reading this go listen to it right now!
That’s a hit.
You're gonna make me cry again
also check out the orchestrated soundtrack!!
It’s such a banger
@@BT-rl3nt Is... is this an Alpharad Delux reference?
One of my favorite things about the game's music is their ability to break the rules that they set up. For example, we know that Pursuit (Cornered) is Phoenix's theme, it's the song that plays when we/he is about to throw the whole case on its head and turn things around.
And then they give it to Edgeworth instead of you. What a way give a lot of weight to the narrative shift and how dire things have gotten - even your theme just got hijacked!
It also shows that Edgeworth is on your side. He's not just there to get your client guilty, he wants to expose the truth, even if it means losing to you. Especially when the true culprit is a total bastard.
My favorite example of this is in the first ace attorney, when in trial 2, things seem almost finished, but then edgeworth turns the tables against pheonix, and that's when cornered starts playing.
I think my favorite example is when you're in court and having a civil court dispute with Phoenix as apollo's openante and for the first time you hear his objection theme play against you and its an "Oh fuck" moment. Because you specifically know what it means and how screwed you are.
@@59hawksso true. My heart was pounding the first time I saw it
@@robertlupa8273 and they use this same twist with Godot later. When he says "So what? Death have no meaning in this courtroom!" and pursuit started playing, I just like him, spitted my coffee. Genius.
What I find so interesting is how the AA music doesn't get repetitive, despite the loops being relatively short for video games. Lesser games would struggle massively with this issue, making the entire game a bore. However AA is somehow able to prevent that feeling of repetition, despite the music very obviously repeating many, many times.
I agree! Most loops are about a minute/minute and a half in length. The longest I can think of is about 3 minutes (the Phantom theme). And yet I could listen to many of them a thousand times.
69th like
because you're busy reading! VNs do this too; their music is generally pretty repetitive in isolation
@@EphemeralPseudonymwhile playing tgaa I would pause it mid trial and leave it on suspense music for like 40 minutes while I was doing other stuff, somehow didn't get annoyed lol
@@EphemeralPseudonymSometimes I listened to Cornered for the thrill of it, not even playing the game itself, and it still doesn't feel repetitive in isolation tho
I can't imagine playing these games without the music, the songs have probably stuck with me more than almost any other series and this video really captures why. I think the reason the songs don't feel emotionally manipulative is because for the court scenes, you're really driving their appearance. Your choices bring out the songs and each feels like they accent your own mood rather than the other way around. When I'm trying to spot the discrepancy in a testimony, I'm feeling very focused and exacting. When I manage to catch them out, I'm triumphant and charging forward. It's all this wonderful auditory feedback loop
That's part of the magic of this game I reckon
I played Ace Attorney without music once. I was on a train and had forgotten my earphones. It was incredibly disappointing.
Capcom just always seems to do music well with their games. Well, at least judging from the major franchises I'm familiar with - Mega Man, Street Fighter and Ace Attorney. I'd be surprised if that same quality and attention to detail didn't translate to their other games.
Wikipedia calls the Ace Attorney games "visual novel adventure video games".
You are so right. I would even say that objection and pursuit theme feel like a reward for your hard work, driving the reward loop through the entire case and releasing dopamine in your body when you finally hear those sweet, sweet notes.
I was so afraid the great ace attorney wouldn’t get the love it deserved because it’s newer. That games soundtrack kicks so much ass. Especially the cross examination and pursuit themes.
Not to forget about the Deduction themes, which grow melodically as you clear up Sholmes' hypotheses. I loved the music of those games more than I thought I would.
I fully consider that duology to be the best-made entries in all of Ace Attorney. Music included.
The Cross Examination Allegro theme is almost impossible not to nod my head to. I love that song so much, and along with the pursuit theme it’s just… *chef’s kiss*
also Kazuma's and Sholmes' themes... like HOLY SH*T
it has by far my favorite confess the truth theme of the series, which is also just one of my favorite video game tracks in general. it's so intense and gives off an immense feeling of "do I really WANT to know this truth?" it gave me chills every single time
Phoenix Wright, a visual novel game that has a better "hitting feeling" than a lot of the RPG or even fighting games. Capcom does know how to get this right!
@@AEC.1 Capcom's 打撃感 is unrivaled in the industry ;) even when the game don't involve any actual “action"
@@AEC.1 Technically it's Turnabout Trial, I think.
Also I find it funny that in japan they know the games as 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, etc, but over here they translated all of the games to have unique titles like PW:AA, PW:JFA, PW:T&T, AJ:AA, PW:DD, PW:SOJ (using acronyms for text length, you get the point)
@@Jake28 And the two Investigations games are called ("Turnabout Prosecutor"). I wonder what the 2nd game's English subtitle would be if it were to be localized. The unofficial English patch adds "Prosecutor's Path", but who knows what Capcom USA would come up with.
@@AEC.1 Oh, yeah sorry I misread, thought you were talking about the game's name lol. Nice
@@AEC.1 To be fair, visual novels have been doing stuff like this to describe deadly battles using just text, music, and the occasional flash of simple effects over a static image.
Fun aside: if you listen to the soundtrack of Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective, you can find some striking similarities with the Ace Attorney framework. Despite being extremely different in gameplay, Masakazu Sugimori used the same tools to create the tense, slowly amping-up music in both games, using it to aide the story's impact
(Please play Ghost Trick it's fantastic)
I second this. Everyone needs to try and play Ghost Trick
Ghost Trick is such a hidden gem
Worth noting that Ghost Trick is available on iOS (and probably Android) and first couple of chapters are free. So it’s easy to give it a go. I recommend it highly.
@@Cream147player not android... I can confirm...
Seconded
The first time I heard the Pursuit theme from the original PW game, I couldn't stop laughing since the beginning reminds so much of the Mortal Kombat theme I kept thinking the judge was going to climb down from his chair and try to kick my ass.
Yeah yeah, exactly my thoughts
im fucking dying at that image
Oh he kicks enough @## alright...
Well, Phoenix Wright is a playable character in Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3, so that isn't far-fetched.
I can't unhear it now.
Legit got so emotional watching this - I don’t feel like people really give this series enough credit for its incredible music. I regularly put the Apollo Justice OST or the original game’s OST on while I work hahhah - and it does such a perfect job of linking itself with my memories of the characters/moments. Damon Gant’s theme??? Who writes character themes like that???
Geniuses.
His theme is so... oppressively relaxed, and intimidatingly grandiose at the same time. It really just demands, "everyone stop what you're doing! Things are going to happen at MY word now, and I don't see what all the rush is!"
Sholmes's theme :)
You just made me realize why I love Maya's theme so much. With all trial songs being in minor keys, it's extremely satisfactory to hear Maya's theme in a major key after all that tension, bringing a huge sense of relief and resolution. Excellent video.
its funny that you say that because i always found her theme unsettling. it felt like her theme didnt fit in with the game. i guess thats because theres so many minor pieces it feels like an outlier 🤔
I only realised the last couple years that the Suspense theme has literally never been changed throughout the entire series, and I'm so glad you caught that because it's such a perfect simple simmering tension that they knew they could not improve it without being too complicated. Half of the Ace Attorney themes seem to rely on being perfect background noise, allowing the player to focus on the important case whilst keeping their nerves incensed. It's fantastic.
Actually, Apollo Justice: Ace Attorney had a unique Suspense theme, titled "Thrill Theme ~ Suspense." The Layton crossover and TGAA duology also had unique suspense themes.
@@greninjamastergabe6452 Apollo Justice also uses original suspense theme sometimes
@@sooper7815 Huh, I didn't know that, I just knew it had a new suspense theme. Would that make the AJ theme more of a "Fate" theme then? Similar to Hotline of Fate, Crisis of Fate, A Cornered Heart, etc.
For the TGAA games there are actually two slightly different suspense themes, but it makes sense because those games have a very different feel and a very different soundtrack.
Great Ace Attorney took this further by having two suspense themes.
AJ’s suspense theme is so good
I love how the first case of Great Ace Attorney uses the music to showcase Ryunosuke's development and growing confidence. He has a more subdued "prelude" Objection theme that plays for the first few contradictions, only using his real Objection theme about halfway through the trial, and the Pursuit theme doesn't play until the final nail in the culprit's coffin. The more high-energy themes hit so much harder when they're saved like this.
An aspect of Ace Attorney's soundtracks that wasn't discussed here is the "Reminiscence" or "Recollections" themes. These are formulaic only in the sense that they follow a naming scheme and that every major past incident has one, but they're also unique for each instance. These songs can't be separated from their contexts because each one does an amazing job of acting as the musical "theme" for a specific tragedy or unsolved case. In some cases they're rearrangements of character themes, sometimes they're new but take cues from other songs. Sometimes these songs are your "reward" for discovering a long-hidden truth, I think my personal favourite was the one from the end of Spirit of Justice Case 3. The opening notes of that song hit so hard you can almost FEEL it, and it matched my mood once I realized what REALLY happened in that case and why.
And The Great Ace Attorney 2 added 2 new pursuit variants. Prelude to Pursuit is so good. It's a subdued version of Pursuit, but it gives a feeling of hidden intensity, and the moment it plays is moment when you realize that there is something much bigger at play here, and this is just the beginning to unlocking the secret that's hidden beneath the case. And the Great Pursuit theme only plays in the final trial, as the greatest triumph you have achieved up to that point. The music is absolutely genius.
Im so sad that 'Lying Coldly' from the Miles Edgeworth spinoffs wasn't included with the pursuit themes! It's so full of hype and if you haven't heard it go listen to it!
I swear to God, he himself would have freaked out while hearing that....just a masterpiece.
I hoped to see him analyze some of the individual character and gimmick themes, too. Especially how some of the gimmick themes change from game to game. Like Reproducing the Scene going from a mostly-techno feel in the first Invesitgations game to having a stronger bass line and elements of The Great Truth Burglar in the second one. Or cases where a single character might have more than one theme to depict their character arc even in the background music.
Also brought us "Um, actually... Objection, dumbass."
You can't praise the music in Ace Attorney high enough. And then... you discover the two official jazz cover albums, and it blows your mind once again, starting with the banger opening track: Court Begins on a Blue Note Scale.
I had such a big smile on my face through this whole video, the Ace Attorney soundtrack is one of my all time favourites from all gaming. Thank you for covering it!
Same, I didn’t want the video to end
Some honorable mentions from the formula:
-Suspense from The Great Ace Attorney/Ace Attorney Chronicles. It isn't as suspenseful as the original Suspense structure, but it nails the feeling of trying to catch the melody, while everyone else in the room watches you, expecting for you to catch the melody, and judging you for not doing so.
-Thrill from Apollo Justice. Another variation of the original Suspense, but a lot more dramatic. There's no minnuendos, just crescendos at the background, as if something important is trying to reach the surface, but suddenly falls without being noticed. The melody, however, while keeping the Suspense rhythm, plays with the double notes with no rest or breath, also trying to scale higher and escape the somber notes, but falling abruptly in the process. It's an anticipation, but for a huge drop of information.
-Courtroom Revolutionnaire, from Dual Destinies. Instead of using the classic rhythm as her base, she uses her own theme (Let's Do This!) to object, being the only "main character" to leave the formula (it will be official when she gets her game). With this, the tone changes. It's optimistic in the way that you know you've found something important to the case, but it's too good to be the end of the story; however, you've progressed a lot into the case, and you know you can progress more. Almost like an anime opening sounding in the middle of the battle, but not quite.
-All the Pursuit variations. The embodiment of comeback, not letting your prey go, and the philosophy of "other point of view", just by skipping right to the momentum (sometimes), and making the background sounds slightly different, and even more epic if they want to. This is more noticeable in Trials and Tribulations (by a mile, you know why), Dual Destinies and Spirit of Justice.
> Suspense from The Great Ace Attorney/Ace Attorney Chronicles. It isn't as suspenseful as the original Suspense structure
GAA actually has two Suspense themes! Variation Two is more or less an orchestral arrangement of Suspense 2001, and really captures the suspenseful feel of it.
@Paradoxxis Agreed. The first one is more its own theme rather than the suspense melody, which isn't bad due to the tone of the game.
The second one is my favorite so far. Specially with the little variation.
> Spell-breaker from Professor Layton vs Phoenix Wright.
Man, this theme embodies how chaotic the entire game can be sometimes and despite only playing twice in the whole game, it's so damn memorable.
Can’t help but dance to it every time Courtroom Revolutionarre plays. Its energetic/optimistic tone is fantastic, even contagious, and it’s so fitting to Athena’s character
I would love to see a follow up to this talking about prosecutor themes and maybe the two presto cross examination themes from the investigation games. The fact that this video is solely focused on general court themes and there’s still so much to talk about is a testament to how fantastic this franchise’s music is.
I can’t really talk like I know anything about how music is constructed, but I can say for sure that the emotional depth of “The Dark Fragrance of Coffee” carries changes completely as you play the game. Every character theme has weight in every measure which I absolutely adore.
And the prestos? What can I say that hasn’t already been said, other than the first investigation uses it’s music extremely poorly. The prestos get you GOING, it’s the signal of “this is it” before you get the pursuit. You’ve backed them into a corner they can’t weasel out of, and the songs signal that effortlessly.
2
Investigations does use its music poorly, I recently finished the first game and found myself thinking that… but the tracks are such absolute bangers that I almost didn’t mind, Pursuit: Lying Coldly is a spectacular song
@@stillsameguy2836 NUMBERS
Yessssss!
Good thing the second Investigations doesn't suck as much with the music, though it's nowhere near the level of T&T or TGAAC
Hot dang the original Pursuit theme really embodies that "cornered and back's to the wall" feeling holy crap
I don't think any of the other games managed to quite match it. It really is the perfect "Hah! I've got you" piece. Such a panicked feeling, but the panic isn't yours.
@@rantingrodent416 The theme makes you feel so badass, like there's no way you can lose now while also painting the desperation of your opponent- it's so perfect!
@@rantingrodent416 I feel you on this. Is still my favourite Pursuit theme in the whole franchise. And the Cornered version, damn, chef's kiss. Maybe the Great Ace Attorney version is the closer to the original ever, but to be fair, the orchestra makes a lot of the work. I wonder how it would sound in the original bit style
It's so epic, it gives you that revenge feeling which feels so good after the frustration of seeing witnesses lying and feeling powerless about it
The added flourishes in T&T's Pursuit theme almost feel like the defense throwing "punches" after pushing for so long just to stand their ground. It gives off the vibe of finally being in a position to go on the offensive without any complications.
Capcom's greatest attorney that ever lived. I am so glad they decided to localize this franchise. It became one of my favorites ever...from the music, characters, and of course the cases/story. Despite knowing what happens, I've replayed the series so many times. Patiently waiting for that Spirit of Justice sequel.
About Apollo and Nahyuta?
*cries in AAI2*
Waiting for him to be added in the inevitable next Smash game; if he could work in MvC3, Phoenix can work in Smash, you cowards!
The original trilogy of Ace Attorney games are complete masterpieces that as a set, I revere no less than any hallowed game in history. The music is a huge contributing factor to that, with the emotional turmoil of the stories captured perfectly in sound in all 3 games. The trilogy is on just about every console that there is right now, and while I’m sure 90% of people here have played it already, if you haven’t, just do it.
I also highly recommend The Great Ace Attorney Chronicles. It rivals, if not surpasses, the original trilogy. Since it's not directly connected, it can be played on its own, but I highly recommend for everyone to play both the Trilogy and TGAA Chronicles.
@@ShallBePurified Hell, play Trilogy, Chronicles, and the remaining three main series games, the only ones I haven't played are the Investigations spinoffs and the Professor Layton spinoff and I loved every single one to death lol
The Apollo Trilogy is amazing too and in regards to music, far surpasses the original trilogy. Opinions can of course vary, but OST is really the second trilogy's strongest suit.
I'm going to reveal something here: I don't play any instrument, nor do I study music theory or even do anything music-related as a hobby. However, this channel is so goddamn good at analysis and explaining things that it doesn't leave me alienated and even has my urges to get into music rising up as I watch. I think this is really just a sign that this is 100% top shelf video content.
oh shit wow I thought you were fully a musician I'm so perused by this relevation
I don’t understand anything about music theory and such but Ace Attorney is my reason for living and I love the fact that a video like this exists. Thank you.
6:25 "The Lick" BMV 850, Op. 21 - J.S. Bach
Ok I’m glad someone else heard it lol
whenever I hear the first game's objection theme I can't help but start grinning and bobbing my head. It's just so good. And the moment when Phoenix gets behind the bar in Apollo Justice and it plays for the first time in the game? Absolutely amazing!
You got me at "table legs are drilling holes" love the dissection of pressure!
This is the kind of series where it could totally happen, too!
The spinoff series Ace Attorney Investigations also has some of the best music in the Ace Attorney line, the second in particular stands out as an outstanding score with how it uses music to convey the personality of characters. While both games are outstanding in this right, the second is supreme here. Could be something to look at, mayhaps? :)
I could not agree more. I listen to mostly TGAA, but AAI2 definitely has the best use of music in the series. I mean the Reminicence themes alone are perfection.
I freakin love everything about AAI2
While we're talking investigations, I wanna point out the Professor Layton crossover, Professor Layton vs. Phoenix Wright, which imo in many ways is the spiritual predecessor of the Great Ace Attorney games.
AAI2 has some incredible bops.
The character themes in particular really stand out to me in AAI2, Joking Motive and Goddess of Law are such masterpieces
Huh. I genuinely didn't notice that the bass rhythm in PWAA's Objection theme was the same as the opening rhythm in the cornered theme until 16:06
That was EXACTLY my thought! Like how did I never notice 😂
It's interesting that there are many different composers throughout the series, because the music gives each game its own voice and character.
Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney often has fairly simple, uncluttered themes. It does a great job of making it feel like Phoenix is still a rookie, and the upbeat, almost aggressive melodies that come in when you expose a lie or corner a witness emphasise that.
Justice for All feels a lot darker in tone to me, which suits the setting and story. Phoenix learns all too painfully in this game that it's not just about catching the bad guy, that there are times when difficult decisions have to be made with consequences attached. The music reflects this, it feels a bit edgier, less "Huzzah! I've caught you!" and more "What are you trying to hide from me and why?".
Trials and Tribulations is just, *chef's kiss*. I love the soundtrack for this game. As the culmination of the original trilogy, the way the music elevates the story is really incredible to me. Phoenix has come a long way since the first game, but has to face the demons from his past and this game leans a lot harder into some of the spiritual and emotional feelings which I think the soundtrack does an excellent job of reflecting. It also feels like some of the courtroom themes echo Mia's character, which is fitting. Bridge to the Turnabout was such a wild adventure of twists and turns and story threads coming together in ways I never expected, and remains one of my favourite cases in the series to this day. There's a throwback to a particular piece of music in this trial that is just masterfully done.
Thank you for this analysis!
Trials and Tribulations is also my favorite soundtrack (and game) from the series. When I hear the cross-examination theme, I immediately think of snow, bridges, and Dahlia Hawthorne. :p The memories attached to those tracks are so strong
I visited Minneapolis over the summer and saw a Phoenix Wright musical written by a local theatre there. It was a lot of fun, and some of these themes were in there! Check out the Minnesota Fringe if you’re ever around there!
Ooo do you have a link to this production?
That's Turnabout Musical and it waa an Ace Attorney fan project that started in 2007. They eventually made the resources for the project available and Albino Squirrel Productions played a modified version at Fringe.
The composers from The Great Ace Attorny wrote some comments about their journy and goals in the extras for the Nintendo Switch bundle.
You could basically feel the fun, determination, respect and personalities they have through these texts and I think it shows in the beautiful music.
This video has confirmed to me that the reason I like this channel is because I can hear somebody who knows music theory tell me how great the soundtracks I already love are, in terms that I only vaguely understand but make me feel vindicated and cultured in my opinions about the music
No fucking clue what he's saying but I agree with all of it
I think it's a huge testimate to these games that just these little clips of the music can put you right back into the cases you first heard them.
Woohoo! I'm so glad you took the time to talk about Apollo Justice's 'Tell The Truth' theme, it's my absolute favourite across all of Ace Attorney and gets me all the way hyped!
Few games manage to elevate the hype to such degree as this series with the Pursuit themes. It makes me wanna scream everytime and rub all the evidence in the prosecutor's face while I dance on the stand and jump kick the liar in the witness stand
The music from these games and it’s spiritual counterpart game series, Professor Layton, instantly transport me back to those moments in game and invoke the same feelings I had during those moments in game. They will never get old
The Great Ace Attorney Chronicles's OST really shines imo, favorite soundtrack in the series with its approach to character themes and leitmotifs and how they change over the course of the duology
I think that the Ace Attorney Investigations Duology deserves its own video regarding the music, as both games have an insanely strong OST. This video was fantastic, great work!
Wow this video really made me appreciate the game's music way more. The work that the bass is doing is something I've never noticed before and yet...
An amazing video for a series of games that means so much to me and its fans. Would love an entire video just for The Great Ace Attorney. The music is incredible!
14:05 the original "Confess the truth" also re-uses the theme from the cross-examination themes. I don't know if it's the same for other games, but I find it cool
My only complaint is that you credit Bach with the constant-pedal-tone-counterpoint-thingy, when us gamers know that the TRUE platonic ideal of that style is Bloody Tears from Castlevania II by Kenichi Matsubara
Did you see the video he did on Castlevania musical fusion?
I like how in this series (my favorite), there’s rarely any major chords. I used the “Closing Argument” theme from The Great Ace Attorney and told my buddy to point out a dominant chord. We couldn’t lol
I'd been hoping for you to tackle some Ace Attorney material for YEARS, and while there are over ten games with awesome full soundtracks to choose from, I think you picked the best possible format and presentation to discuss the overall sound of the series. Great video!
Aww I can't believe you didn't bring up my favourite pursuit theme - prelude to pursuit from the great ace attorney 2 resolve! (Its got a really fun part that I can't hear if it's in the main pursuit theme lol, plus I think the whole track is a much smugger vibe than the main pursuit themes, perfect for when you've noticed the discrepancy in someone's words and are waiting for the game to prompt you to answer!)
this was so fascinating!
I love how the stories are lovingly crafted to give you, the player, that moment when everything falls into place, you see the whole event laid out in your mind's eye, and you can effortlessly fend off every objection from the prosecution.
And then Pursuit ~ Cornered kicks in.
I love the evolution of the trial themes! By the third game, it conveys a feeling of duty and that Phoenix already knows the truth and that it's now a battle of proving it versus the first trial theme which I think feels more curious and uncertain.
One other cool thing about the later games (especially Great Ace Attorney) is the variations on certain themes. During the last case, when they hit you with a different, even more somber version of that game’s Courtroom Lobby theme, MAN, that just makes that last case, which you are already ramped up for, even MORE hype. They do this once. And MAN, it makes you stand up and take notice, sending chills up your spine.
And Great Ace Attorney’s Overture to the Pursuit theme is really really cool. There are a couple of times in Great Ace Attorney 2 when they start playing this Overture to Pursuit, usually right when Ryunosuke starts in character putting something BIG together in his case. This song is quieter, but is basically rhythmically the same as GAA’s pursuit. When I first heard that, I was like “wait, I know something big is about to happen! It’s coming. It’s coming!” There’s just some violins playing as overture loops in anticipation, and you are like “things are about to break WIDE OPEN!”
Im so so glad you mentioned The Great Ace Attorney's pursuit. Its so different form the other ones yet it has the same strength. I love it so much
My favorite moment of the original trilogy is when the original pursuit theme kicks in during at the end of the last game last case. Such a great soundtrack and the throwback hits so hard
Once you know the Phoenix Wright musical formula, the next thing to see is really Ghost Trick, where you can hear how Sugimori adapted the musical formula to an also altered take of Shu Takumi's narrative formula. Oh, and because it's a masterpiece of a game, of course.
I'd also like to add that The Great Ace Attorney is the only game in the series to have a "leadup" track to it's pursuit theme, aptly titled "Overture to Pursuit." It provides great context for the piece and makes the moment when the strings and horns explode out even more impactful.
Great video! I love the ones where you describe a narrative and show how the music outlines that narrative, building up to an amazing climax at the end. (Gusty Garden Galaxy and the BotW main theme come to mind.) Keep up the great work!
I love that the Court Begins themes are also used when the case is wrapped up, as a "Court Ends" theme as well.
The same piece of music evokes way more different feelings in that scenario. When played at the beginning, it's more of a "Am I prepared?" kind of feeling, the ending makes it feel like a "Did we really just win?" feeling. It's great.
When Trials and Tribulations' Court Begins plays for the last time at the end of case 5, I physically sighed as if it was finally over.
That's why it's just called 'Trial' rather than 'Court Begins.' It represents the trial as a whole.
That's why I really love Trials and Tribulations' trial theme. When it plays at the end of case 5, it really feels like a conclusive piece of music. It's like it's saying "and that's the final page of the book".
@@staticchimera44
*- You'd do well to remember this, Maya. The only time a lawyer can cry is when it's all over.*
_Trial - 2004 plays along with a little "cutscene"_
Such a glorious moment.
@@garr_inc legit the moment makes me tear up
It gives a kind of “we’ve come full circle” feeling, and reminds you of how far you’ve come since the beginning of the trial when you first hear that music. Yeah, I really like how they do that.
I love the music of these games as well as Ghost Trick
Ghost trick needs more attention. If only it sold well enough for more Ghost Trick.
I don't really have anything to add. I'm just here to continue this comment chain of Ghost Trick appreciation! ❤️
all i need is more ports
This is the best video I've watched in quite a while. Well done!
If anything I'd love to stress people to listen to the 'oddballs' amongst Phoenix Wright. Like Layton's game being much more orchestral, or Great Ace Attorney being more oriental or even better, being in Edgeworth's shoes where it's not just moderato and allegro but also Presto which kicks it into high gear as opposed to his normal calm self. And since we ended on Great Ace Attorney in the video. Everyone should listen to Samurai With a Mission just to get a sense of how unique these soundtracks get within their own "offspin" world of it not being in Phoenix' homeland yet still sounding like a Phoneix Wright song without any doubt.
Samurai With A Mission is an S-tier track, it holds so much emotion and character. I heard it before even playing the game and instantly loved it
I've always been amazed at how well Ace Attorney's score reflects where you are in the trial, always enhancing your worry, or your intrigue, or your cheer at finally figuring out the case. There's never a dull moment in the courtroom with this music!
9:38 This really sounds like the melody to Doctor (and its resulting remixes) from Homestuck to me, especially the first few notes. It sounded really familiar and it took me a moment to realize I was thinking of a different song entirely! Very interesting!
YES! The Suspense theme! First time I heard that I had to lean back in my chair cuz A) This is some tense shit happening in the game and B) This is theme is so damn good for making things tense.
20:20 is the reason why this game will be forever in my heart
Man I love great ace attorney and the professor Layton crossover’s soundtracks so much
Not enough people have played the crossover
Go do it now it’s actually good
The allegro themes from those games are some of my favourites
But the game itself was very dishartening
@@amitharavindpai3049 I liked it
@@via3600 Good for you man...but I think the best is investigations 2 and 1..Honorable mentions: Trials and Tribulations
@@amitharavindpai3049 Oh I’m playing through investigations 1 right now! :D
@@via3600 good for you again....investigations 1 is really good, but the last case might be a bit boring...but by judging ur love towards aa I think you'll enjoy it......BTW are u on discord cause I think we can be ace attorney friends.
Another really important use of silence is whenever you answer a question or make an objection. It builds tension for the next melody, and more importantly gives you *instant* feedback that you gave the right answer. It's so important that the one time the game *doesn't* do this (when Godot does that "you only get one shot" gimmick and throws his coffee at you when you get it wrong), I ended up resetting the game instead of seeing how it played out.
I’ve been waiting for a video exactly like this, going through the musical structure of a trial and comparing how the different games’ soundtracks do the same thing, for SO long. And this was exactly what I was looking for!
I would certainly love more of this for Phoenix Wright. Perhaps one for the themes of the characters, especially Matt Engarde. His song may have been reused in Trials and Tribulations, but the song is so fixed to him for anyone who played Justice for All that looking up "Matt Engarde theme" on RUclips brings you to that song and some videos even feature his face. If not character themes, perhaps Miles Edgeworth's solo games would be worth looking into, as they are a fusion of both investigation and trial questioning with a "new" main character and thus a new perspective for the songs to work through. And I would love to hear your thoughts on the character theme songs of those games too, especially the final bosses.
12:52 I want to add that the kick drums almost creates an irregular heartbeat pattern, which I noticed the first time I played the game and really adds to the adrenaline
16:06 I also want to add the syncopation pattern is a 4:3 polyrhythm followed by 2 eighth notes to complete a bar of 4/4
I feel it's worth mentioning that the original Pursuit theme is so iconic that at the very end of the third game, for the final turnabout, they bring it back to really drive home that "this is it, there is no possible way they can escape the truth now". Such an amazing moment.
Dear god the trial theme of the first game it's perfect, or the cross examination theme of justice for all (moderato), amazing
Ahhh my patreon request come to life!! this is amazing, thank you so much!🙏 ☺️
THANK U FOR THIS
HAHA WHAT IF U DID MORE ACE ATTORNEY WOULDNT THAT BE SOOOO FUNNY
Maybe you could do a follow-up video talking about the personalized Objection/Prosecutor themes from the series? I think there's a lot to be said about how the songs are built and how they reflect the characters they're associated with!
ooooo, love seeing TGA music in this too
*Translate to English*
Found you through the FFVII Battle Theme video way back when you first uploaded that. I was on a train alone, far from home. Your videos and channel have meant a lot to me this year, even (somehow) moreso than last year. Thank you, 8-Bit.
Thank you so much.. Iv been looking for a phoenix wright music analysis for weeks now, and this one is just perfect. Music in these games is such a great inspiration, having an analysis of it is soo cool!!
When New Frame Plus did a video on the animation of Ace Attorney, I ended up replaying the entire franchise after having my love for it reawakened. Can't wait to do that again!
This was an amazing breakdown! Listening to all the different versions across different games is so fun to me, especially the Court is Now in Session ones (ToT has to have my favorite of the bunch). Also wanted to give a s/o to Apollo Justice's "Thrill" theme, which more or less seems like it was tailor-designed to BUILD on the intensity that the Suspense theme normally provides standalone. Hearing it hit during the most important twist of Case 1 in that game (when up until that point Suspense was the main theme used for tension) felt amazing.
12:32 Actually, in Apollo Justice, the 4th game, there is another suspense theme. And its GLORIOUS. Super intense, if anxiety were be a sound it would be that theme
The notation in these videos is always amazingly clear and natural-looking, regardless of the complexity of the rhythm or even orchestration or amount of voices present. That takes so much time and effort and a solid understanding of what is going to make something easy to sight-read.
I wish more people loved the Ace Attorney series as much as the fans (and Capcom occasionally) do 😔
Great video!! I was confused by the title and thought you were gonna talk about the actual Ace Attorney musical lmao
I've just begun my Ace Attorney journey and I'm loving it.
clicked as soon as I saw the notif, I adore phoenix wright this is gonna be fun
Thank you for this incredible video ! I stopped reading music sheets too long ago to be able to catch all of the nuances you put so well into words but the ace attorney music always felt so well adjusted to the games
It's really nice to learn the how's and why's !
10:00 with the beat written like a heart beat, it's like musically saying that "my heart skipped a beat".
I've absolutely adored these games-music, characters, humour, narrative tension-since I discovered them when I was... 14 or so? I arranged a suite for concert band of the first game's court music back in high school, and the Pursuit theme has to be one of the most exciting bits of music I'd worked with back then. (Unfortunately that suite never got played-I dunno if my band director would've been willing, but it was definitely too complex for my school's band. The entire trumpet section would have had a *time* in particular with it, given how not into band they were.)
... if I were to rewrite that arrangement, I'd be tempted to put in a trumpet or sax cadenza/solo section in the Pursuit theme. Maybe it'd be better to write it for big band in that case.
Wow! Great analysis - my jaw dropped when I saw this in my recommended! I’d love a closer look into Character Themes if you could! There are compilations for all defense attorneys, prosecutors, victims, murderers to easily compare!
Me having no knowledge about music watching this: "Yes, very interesting..."
18:38 one of my favorite aa themes. this has no reason to slap this hard
also t&ts pursuit theme is great. it perfectly radiates the feeling of danger in the air. excellent piece of music
My favorite part is when i object and the music goes out to show how fucking awesome i am
I want you to know the game called Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective, in which Masakazu Sugimori, who was in charge of the song for Ace Attorney 1, is involved!
The Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective is also very good. In addition, Ghost Trick has characters modeled after Ace Attorney characters, and there are conversations and props related to Ace Attorney!
I'm translating, so I'm sorry if there is something strange.
I am offended that in the pursuit section, you did not showcase the apollo justice one, but apart from that, a very well explained video. Hats off.
i literally just finished the main trilogy and of course you make a video about it, fantastic video ❤️
I really like how GAA2 Resolve plays with this formula a bit. For most of the game it uses the same court themes as GAA1 Adventures to create the feeling of a singe connected story, and then the final case uses unique Lobby, Court and final Pursuit themes to add extra dramatic weight. The GAA series also expands on the formula a bit in general with unique themes for more events like the new Jury segment, Witness introductions before the Cross-Ex, and a Court Ruling theme seperate from Court Begins.
This is a perfect new year present, I wanted this video to exist so much. Thank you!
YES i've been waiting so long for a video that could explain to me why i love the pursuit themes so much. great stuff
I'd never even heard of this game or this kind of game, looks interesting.
You should absolutely play or watch this series. It's awesome and really addictive, and I'm not even playing the game, just watching a RUclips series.
If you want to feel how its suppose to be. Just play it. The first trilogy has mix of serious and comedy bizzare moment. The chronicle is for those people who wants more serious and logic.
@@robertlupa8273 Slyzer has complete collection of gameplay for the entire Ace Attorney franchise.
Ace Attorney Trilogy and Great Ace Attorney Chronicles are for sale at Steam.
For fans of ace attorney music, I recommend some of the games scored by Ryu Umemoto, especially his work on eve: burst error. While I don’t know if a direct connection has ever been officially made, I know Umemoto was one of the most influential VN composers, so it wouldn’t surprise me if it was intentional similarity.