Masayoshi Soken is a renowned Japanese composer known for his exceptional work in the video game industry, particularly for his contributions to the MMORPG (Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Game) "Final Fantasy XIV" by Square Enix. The "Ruby Sea Night Theme" is a piece of music from the game that has garnered much attention and admiration from players and fans alike. Here are some interesting facts about Masayoshi Soken and this particular musical composition:
Composer for "Final Fantasy XIV": Masayoshi Soken has been the lead composer and sound director for "Final Fantasy XIV" since the game's reboot, known as "Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn," which was released in 2013. He has played a pivotal role in shaping the game's iconic music.
Diverse Musical Background: Soken's musical background is incredibly diverse, and this is reflected in his work on "Final Fantasy XIV." He blends various musical genres and styles to create a unique and memorable soundtrack for the game.
"Ruby Sea Night Theme": The "Ruby Sea Night Theme" is part of the soundtrack for the "Final Fantasy XIV: Stormblood" expansion, released in 2017. This expansion introduced the Ruby Sea area to the game, and the night theme captures the serene and mystical atmosphere of this underwater realm.
Player Appreciation: Masayoshi Soken is well-known for his interaction with the "Final Fantasy XIV" player community. He has made appearances at fan conventions and events, often performing live music from the game and engaging with fans. His enthusiasm and connection with the player base have made him a beloved figure in the "Final Fantasy XIV" community.
Battling Cancer: In 2020, Masayoshi Soken revealed that he had been diagnosed with cancer. Despite his health challenges, he continued to work on the game's music remotely and received an outpouring of support and well-wishes from players and fans.
Resilience and Dedication: Soken's determination and passion for his work were evident when he removed his own voice from an in-game track to avoid straining his vocal cords during treatment. He also continued composing music for "Final Fantasy XIV" even while undergoing chemotherapy.
"From the Ashes" Concert: In 2019, Square Enix held a special concert titled "From the Ashes" in honor of the game's rebirth and Soken's contributions. The event featured live performances of "Final Fantasy XIV" music, including the "Ruby Sea Night Theme," and showcased Soken's resilience and dedication to his craft.
Masayoshi Soken's journey as a composer and his impact on the "Final Fantasy XIV" community are inspiring. The "Ruby Sea Night Theme" is just one example of his ability to create beautiful and emotionally resonant music that enhances the gaming experience for players.