What inspired the haunting melody of "Somnus" in Final Fantasy XV? Learn!
"Somnus," the main menu theme of Final Fantasy XV, is a hauntingly beautiful piece of music composed by Yoko Shimomura. Here are some interesting facts about this iconic track:
Latin Lyrics: The song features Latin lyrics, which were written by Taro Yamashita. The use of Latin gives the song an ethereal and otherworldly quality that fits well with the game's fantasy theme.
Multiple Versions: "Somnus" has several versions throughout the game, each with its own arrangement and instrumentation. These variations are used in different parts of the game to convey various emotions and moods.
Prominent in Marketing: Square Enix, the developer of Final Fantasy XV, heavily featured "Somnus" in the game's marketing materials and trailers. The song's haunting melody helped create anticipation and excitement for the game.
Extended Play: "Somnus" is a long and complex piece of music, running for over six minutes in its full version. This is unusual for a video game main menu theme, as they tend to be shorter and looped.
Influence of Classical Music: Yoko Shimomura, the composer of the song, drew inspiration from classical music when composing "Somnus." The composition features elements reminiscent of works by famous composers like Claude Debussy and Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky.
Emotional Impact: The song is designed to evoke a sense of melancholy and reflection, setting the tone for the emotional journey that players will embark on throughout the game. It's often associated with the tragic elements of the game's narrative.
Live Performances: "Somnus" has been performed live in various Final Fantasy concerts and events, showcasing the song's enduring popularity among fans of the series.
Cover Versions: Due to its popularity, "Somnus" has inspired numerous cover versions by fans and professional musicians alike. These interpretations often bring out different aspects of the song's emotional depth.
Nostalgia and Themes: As a main menu theme, "Somnus" is often the first piece of music players hear when starting the game, and it becomes intimately associated with their journey through the world of Final Fantasy XV. It serves as a musical touchstone for players' memories of the game.
Legacy: "Somnus" is considered one of the standout tracks in the Final Fantasy series' long history of memorable music. It continues to be celebrated by fans and demonstrates the enduring impact of music in video games.
"Somnus" is a prime example of how music can enhance the storytelling and emotional impact of video games, and it remains a beloved piece of the Final Fantasy series' musical legacy.