Dive into the complete episode list for Battle Bards. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.
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Title
Pub. Date
Duration
The Final Refrain
27 Mar 2025
01:20:19
It's been a very long while, but the Battle Bards haven't fully abandoned you -- at least not without a goodbye! In the grand final episode of the show, Steff, Syl, and Syp gather together one last time to share memories of the show, the reason behind the decision to end it, and a few of our favorite MMO music tracks. Enjoy -- and from the bottom of our hearts, thank you so much for listening these past 12 years. We had a blast doing it.
Episode 234 show notes
Songs featured in this episode:
"Hamlets of Aquilonia" from Age of Conan
"Silus Mountain" from Aion
"Fly into the Sky" from Blade & Soul
"Freedom Theme" from City of Heroes
"Hills of the Shire" from Lord of the Rings Online
"Townston Theme" from Dungeon Runners
"Below the Asteroids" from EVE Online
"Main Theme" from EverQuest II
"The Republic of Bastok" from Final Fantasy XI
"Tidecaller" from League of Legends
"Home Sweet Home" from RuneScape
"Alsalvara Light" from Lime Odyssey
"Island Village" from Lineage II
"Silverwood" from RIFT
"Invincible" from World of Warcraft
"Traveling Tale" from Runes of Magic
"A Golden Field" from WildStar
"Lana, The Advisor" from Star Wars: The Old Republic
"World Map 2" from The Sims Online
"Stones" from Ultima Online
"Seascape" from Anarchy Online
"Townlife" from Ultima X Odyssey
"Bamboo Forest" from Vanguard
Outro (feat. "Elwynn Forest" from World of Warcraft)
This podcast is produced using copyrighted material according to Fair Use practices as stated under Section 107 of the 1976 Copyright Act.
Episode 233: Epic battle music
13 Aug 2024
00:54:37
For Battle Bards' penultimate episode, Syp and Syl explore some EPIC battle music across many MMOs. After all, if we're going to go out in style, that style's going to be loud enough to blast a hole in your eardrums! We also learn that nobody likes the Flute Guy.
Episode 233 show notes
Intro (feat. "Epic Raid Boss 4" from DCUO, "Mission Battle" from CABAL Online, and "Boss Fight 1" from Kritika Online)
"Flame Incursion" from World of Warcraft
"Battle Theme 4" from Atlantica Online
"Battle on the Breachmaker" from Guild Wars 2
"Abyss Battle" from Aion
"The Copied Factory Boss Theme" from FFXIV
"Enemy Territory" from WildStar
Which one did we like best?
Jukebox Picks: "The Blue Hole" from Dave the Diver and "A Verdant Wind Blows Day" from Octopath Traveler II
Outro (feat. "Nasod-King Boss" from Elsword Online)
This podcast is produced using copyrighted material according to Fair Use practices as stated under Section 107 of the 1976 Copyright Act.
Episode 232: Wayfinder
23 Apr 2024
00:52:27
A small online RPG proves to have a big musical heart with Wayfinder, as Syp, Steff, and Syl discover! These consummate professionals chew through this soundtrack and ask for seconds, only to be denied because they made such a mess along the way. Also, we are the only people in the world who dislike Baldur's Gate 3.
Episode 232 show notes
Intro (feat. "Call of the Void," "Echoes of the Fallen," and "Skylight")
"Awakening"
"Wayfinder"
"Deepwood Holt"
"In the Beacon's Light"
"Kragan Highlands"
"Blood in the Wood"
Which one did we like best?
Jukebox Picks: "Fillmore" from ActRaiser, "The Apostle Myrkul" from Baldur's Gate 3, and "Death's Door" from Death's Door
This podcast is produced using copyrighted material according to Fair Use practices as stated under Section 107 of the 1976 Copyright Act.
Episode 231: Caravan Stories 2
20 Feb 2024
00:54:28
Returning to the fertile soundtrack of Caravan Stories, Syl and Syp are rejoined by Steff to give us a fresh take! It's another journey through a charming and laid-back MMO landscapes.
Episode 231 show notes
Intro (feat. "Entrust a Will," "Toasting Dance," and "Open the Map")
"Foothills of Carvendel"
"Enigma Rips the Sky"
"Folka Village"
"Baldu Pipe Town"
"Slapstick Castanet"
"Glenmore Fault Valley"
Which one did we like best?
Listener mail from Minimalistway
Jukebox Picks: "Graphorn Ride" from Hogwarts Legacy, "To the Heroes of the Light" from Bravely Default II, and "Subterra" from A Boy and His Blob
This podcast is produced using copyrighted material according to Fair Use practices as stated under Section 107 of the 1976 Copyright Act.
Episode 230: Palia
12 Dec 2023
00:51:37
Ready to get your cozy on? Syp and Syl take you into the relatively new life sim Palia to explore its down-home-on-the-player-farm tunes. Is this a little TOO laid-back and boring, or is there a rural charm to this soundtrack? We'll be the judge of that.
Episode 230 show notes
Intro (feat. "Home Sweet Home," "Palia's Kilima Village Daytime Theme," and "The Creation")
"Daiya Farm Badruu's Melody"
"Main Theme"
"Chapaa Chase"
"Einar's Cave"
"Daydreams, Sunsets"
"Maji Market"
Which one did we like best?
Jukebox Picks: "Not Tomorrow" from Silent Hill and "Lost in Random" from Blake Robinson
This podcast is produced using copyrighted material according to Fair Use practices as stated under Section 107 of the 1976 Copyright Act.
Episode 229: Caravan Stories Part 1
07 Nov 2023
00:47:23
Come along for a trundling trip through the countryside with Caravan Stories, a 2017-era MMO that charmed Syl so much that she demanded they do a two-part show on its soundtrack! Bring your sympathy for Syp, who has to put up with this nonsense!
Episode 229 show notes
Intro (feat. "Dubious Person," "In Trials," and "Rallying Man")
"Caravan Trip"
"Eastern Part of Denon Hill"
"Free City of Nero"
"Arlosa Mine"
"Polka"
"Mad Cow Brewery"
Which one did we like best?
Jukebox Picks: "Chef Saltbaker" from Cuphead and "Save Room Theme" from Resident Evil 2
Outro (feat. "Sailing to the City of Freedom - Elf")
This podcast is produced using copyrighted material according to Fair Use practices as stated under Section 107 of the 1976 Copyright Act.
Episode 228: Cheery dungeons
26 Sep 2023
00:51:53
Not every dungeon has to be a drab and dour affair -- a fact which sent the Battle Bards searching for the cheeriest tunes from MMO instances! Join Syp and Syl as they recount a good half-dozen upbeat tracks from online RPG dungeons. If you've got to loot... loot with a smile.
Episode 228 show notes
Intro (feat. "Commence to Jiggin'" from WildStar, "Brawler's Trial" from World of Warcraft, and "Daring Dalliances" from FFXIV)
"Den of Secrets" from Free Realms
"Dohn Mheg" from FFXIV
"Balzack's Bachelor Boogie" from Dungeon Runners
"Ellinia Forest Dungeon" from MapleStory
"The Motherlode" from World of Warcraft
"Math Dungeon" from Mabinogi
Which one did we like best?
Jukebox Picks: "The Streets Suburbia" from The Lawnmower Man and "Summer Breeze" from TOEM
This podcast is produced using copyrighted material according to Fair Use practices as stated under Section 107 of the 1976 Copyright Act.
Episode 227: NCsounds
05 Sep 2023
00:49:27
Syp and Syp return to the vast library of NCsoft's MMO soundtracks, with games like Aion, Lineage, and Blade & Soul to keep our ears happy for decades now. With so much new music coming out of this studio on a regular basis, there's always something fresh to experience!
Episode 227 show notes
Intro (feat. "Glimmer of Hope" from Aion, "A Tropical Getaway" from WildStar, and "Coastline" from Guild Wars)
"Corridor of Awakening" from Blade and Soul 2
"The Labyrinth in the Garden" from Lineage II
"The Recluse" from Lineage
"Greenhollow" from Blade and Soul
"Darkened Land" from Aion
"Cormans" from Tabula Rasa
Which one did we like best?
Jukebox Picks: "NCsoft Playlist" and "Shamburger" from Age of Empires II
Outro (feat. "SissiRat Theme" from Dungeon Runners)
This podcast is produced using copyrighted material according to Fair Use practices as stated under Section 107 of the 1976 Copyright Act.
Episode 226: Echoes of MMOs that never were
27 Jun 2023
00:52:30
It's always highly bittersweet when MMO fans sit back and consider the games that never were — the projects that got far along in development but, for various reasons, didn't cross the finish line. But some left behind a melodic footprint that's very much worth examining, which is what our intrepid Battle Bards do today!
Episode 226 show notes
Intro (feat. "Overture" from Stargate Worlds, "Sentience" from The Repopulation, and "Ancestral Lands" from Glitch)
"Town" from Peria Chronicles
"Alpha 6" from EverQuest Landmark
"Roobrik and Balzare" from Glitch
"Barren Plains" from Ultima X Odyssey
"Sunlit Forest 2" from Project Copernicus
"West Tumbara Day" from Lime Odyssey
Which one did we like best?
Listener notes: Katriana
Jukebox Picks: "The Way Home" from Terranigma (SNES) and "Main Theme" from Timerborn
Outro (feat. "Zingo's Faire" from Project Copernicus)
This podcast is produced using copyrighted material according to Fair Use practices as stated under Section 107 of the 1976 Copyright Act.
Episode 225: Embers Adrift
06 Jun 2023
00:46:33
One of the newer MMOs on the market, Embers Adrift leaned hard into tougher PvE gameplay and the darkest of dark nights. But how does its music support this fantasy game world? Syl and Syp investigate the "living soundtrack" of this hardcore title.
Episode 225 show notes
Intro (feat. "Adventures Adrift," "Gardens and Ruins," and "Into the Trees")
"Meadowlands Melody"
"Newhaven"
"Newhaven City Theme"
"Hunted in the Dark"
"Sojourn in the Mist"
"Wanderer"
Which one did we like best?
Listener notes: Thuan
Jukebox Picks: "Pizza Deluxe" from Pizza Tower and "Staff Roll" from Super Soccer
This podcast is produced using copyrighted material according to Fair Use practices as stated under Section 107 of the 1976 Copyright Act.
Episode 224: A return to EverQuest II
19 Apr 2023
00:46:45
It's been an almost egregiously long time since the Battle Bards turned their attention to the EverQuest II soundtrack -- but now that wait is over. Join Syp and Syl as they comb through the expansions for all sorts of delightful musical morsels to enjoy!
Episode 224 show notes
Intro (feat. "Main Theme," "Landing Zone," and "Darkpaw")
"Artisan Theme"
"Qeynos Rises"
"Stonewood"
"Dreadcutter"
"Visions of Vetrovia"
"Enchanted Lands"
Which one did we like best?
Listener notes: Zinn
Jukebox Picks: "Big Apple 3PM" from TMNT Shredder's Revenge and "A New Land Awaits" from Going Medieval
This podcast is produced using copyrighted material according to Fair Use practices as stated under Section 107 of the 1976 Copyright Act.
Episode 223: Dragonica
29 Mar 2023
00:48:14
The steely gaze and pointy ears of the Battle Bards turns to 2009's Dragonica -- also known as Dragon Saga -- to see what musical treasures might be stashed in this beast's lair. Syl and Syp descend into this all-too-cute realm to find tracks of whimsy and madness awaiting. Listener beware!
Episode 223 show notes
Intro (feat. "Sky City," "Ferell," and "Haruka's Sushi Restaurant")
This podcast is produced using copyrighted material according to Fair Use practices as stated under Section 107 of the 1976 Copyright Act.
Episode 222: World of Warcraft Dragonflight
01 Mar 2023
00:57:17
Will our fascination with giant, skyfaring, flame-belching lizards subside? World of Warcraft bets not, as it's currently soaring through its Dragonflight expansion. Will the music also ascend to lofty realms or fall to the earth with a dud? You'll have to listen to the Battle Bards as they figure out the answer to that question!
Episode 222 show notes
Intro (feat. "The Dragon's Hoard," "Riverbends," and "The Isles Awaken")
"Take to the Skies"
"Giants of the Span"
"Windsong"
"Tyrhold"
"Ramparts of Valdrakken"
"Gardens of Unity"
Which one did we like best?
Listener Notes: George and Bullwraith
Jukebox Picks: "Encounter Elite" from Sea of Stars, "Jubilife Village Theme" from Pokemon Legends Arceus, and "Density" from Citizen Sleeper
This podcast is produced using copyrighted material according to Fair Use practices as stated under Section 107 of the 1976 Copyright Act.
Episode 221: LOTRO Before the Shadow
01 Feb 2023
01:01:58
The power of the One Ring doesn't just rule them all -- it also brings Steff back from retirement! All three Battle Bards are here today to talk about Lord of the Rings Online's enormous Before the Shadow soundtrack. From Hobbits to swans to everything in between, our radio dial is stuck on Middle-earth for now.
Episode 221 show notes
Intro (feat. "The Silver Bastion," "Valor of Yore," and "Hidden Hearths")
This podcast is produced using copyrighted material according to Fair Use practices as stated under Section 107 of the 1976 Copyright Act.
Episode 220: Guild Wars 2 End of Dragons
21 Dec 2022
00:46:59
Whether or not you like dragons, you have to admit that Guild Wars 2 certainly ended them in style! Join Syl and Syp as they rewind to last winter's End of Dragons and its incredible bounty of soundtrack goodness.
Episode 220 show notes
Intro (feat. "Daigo Ward" and "Mist Connections")
"A Future Carved in Jade"
"A New Era of Heroes"
"I'm Home"
"The Petrified Forest"
"Captain of the Aetherblades"
"Stroll in the Night Markets"
Which one did we like best?
Jukebox Picks: "Crystal Garden" from King's Quest V and "Knucklebones" from Cult of the Lamb
This podcast is produced using copyrighted material according to Fair Use practices as stated under Section 107 of the 1976 Copyright Act.
Episode 219: Peace and quiet
23 Nov 2022
00:48:24
If anyone's ever told you to "take a chill pill," then the Battle Bards have your full dosage in today's episode. Exploring peaceful and serene tracks from MMORPGs, Syl and Syp find their inner calm -- before the inevitable slaughter.
Episode 218 show notes
Intro (feat. "A Farmer's Life" from WildStar, "Dream of Peace" from Lineage II, and "Silverfrost Mountain" from Blade and Soul)
"Aro to the Sun" from Runes of Magic
"Settler's Campsite" from Aion
"Serenity" from TERA
"Ammon Vale" from World of Warcraft
"Shire Nights" from LOTRO
"Aquarium" from RuneScape
Which one did we like best?
Jukebox Picks: "Be'elze Territory" from Valkyrie Elysium and "Closing Medley" from Space Quest III
This podcast is produced using copyrighted material according to Fair Use practices as stated under Section 107 of the 1976 Copyright Act.
Episode 218: Dungeon Fighter Online
03 Nov 2022
00:44:19
Rock out with your mace out as the Battle Bards crank up the soundtrack to Dungeon Fighter Online. Have we been missing out on the vast bounty of action setpieces? Is there a delightful orchestral soundtrack tucked inside all of this synth noise? Tune in and find out!
Episode 218 show notes
Intro (feat. "Main Theme," "Tower of Despair," and "Adios Verrickt")
"The Seatrain"
"Character Select"
"White Night"
"Forgotten Forest Boss"
"We Are Desperado"
"Alfhlyra Post"
Which one did we like best?
Listener notes
Jukebox Picks: "High Score" from Rotox (Amiga) and "Trichroma Sunset" from Narita Boy
This podcast is produced using copyrighted material according to Fair Use practices as stated under Section 107 of the 1976 Copyright Act.
Episode 217: Legend of Edda
28 Sep 2022
00:48:39
Chances are you've never heard of today's featured MMO -- or its quirky little soundtrack! So why not come along with Syp and Syl to explore Legend of Edda, a now-defunct RPG set in a realm of Greek Mythology?
Episode 217 show notes
Intro (feat. "Ballack's Castle" and "Cybele Garden")
"Title Theme"
"Frigid Valley"
"Gaiyan Town"
"Wailing Wall"
"Kobalos Mines"
"Silver Lake"
Which one did we like best?
Jukebox Picks: "Millick Meadows (Night)" from Xenoblade Chronicles 3 and "Drug Store" from EarthBound
This podcast is produced using copyrighted material according to Fair Use practices as stated under Section 107 of the 1976 Copyright Act.
Battle Bards Episode 216: FFXIV Before Meteor
31 Aug 2022
00:48:25
While Final Fantasy XIV players won't shut up about A Realm Reborn, it's not often you hear people speaking fondly of the original 1.0 edition. Yet in this episode of Battle Bards, Syp and Syl find something to praise from this era: the Before Meteor soundtrack. Let's rewind the clock and hear the O.G. Eorzea tunes!
Episode 216 show notes
Intro (feat. "Canticle," "Promise of Plunder," and "The Rider's Boon")
"When a Tree Falls"
"Navigator's Glory"
"Born of the Boughs"
"Desert Moon Defied"
"Eorzea de Chocobo"
"Dreams Aloft"
Which one did we like best?
Jukebox Picks: "Stage 2" from TMNT 2 and "The Fallen Kingdom" from Blue Fire
This podcast is produced using copyrighted material according to Fair Use practices as stated under Section 107 of the 1976 Copyright Act.
Battle Bards Episode 215: Lineage W
17 Aug 2022
00:40:04
Maybe you've never heard of Lineage W, a 2021 spin-off of NCsoft's long-running franchise. But after today's Battle Bards episode, you'll have heard it's sweet tunes! Join Syl and Syp as they explore this fantasy soundtrack to see how it stacks up against its amazing ancestors.
Episode 215 show notes
Intro (feat. "Against Odds," "Moment of Peace," and "Woodbeck Village")
"Main Theme"
"Elven Forest Village"
"Lone Wanderer"
"Atoning Elf"
"Knight of Faith"
"Magician in the Nightmare"
Which one did we like best?
Jukebox Picks: "The Crown" from Oaken and "Golden Forest" from 1080° Snowboarding
This podcast is produced using copyrighted material according to Fair Use practices as stated under Section 107 of the 1976 Copyright Act.
Episode 214: Thieves and rogues
29 Jun 2022
00:46:01
You may never see them coming, but when the Battle Bards strike out of the shadows, you'll either find your pocket picked, your fluffy best friend kidnapped, or your life's blood stolen. After all, they learned from the best thieves and rogues in the world! And what kind of music would these robbers identify with? Find out on today's show!
Episode 214 show notes
Intro (feat. "Rogue" from Blackwater, "The Holy Land of Assassins" from Ragnarok Online, and "Rogues" from WildStar)
"The Call of Cyrodiil" from Elder Scrolls Online
"Thief Theme" from MapleStory 2
"Two Rogues, One Mark" from Hearthstone
"Golden Thief" from Ragnarok Online 2
"Thieves" from EverQuest
"Dark Brethren" from Sea of Thieves
Which one did we like best?
Jukebox Picks: "Seashell Strut" from Monster Galaxy and "Honor and Thieves" from Ruined King
Outro (feat. "Band of Robbers" from Runes of Magic)
This podcast is produced using copyrighted material according to Fair Use practices as stated under Section 107 of the 1976 Copyright Act.
Episode 213: Final Fantasy XIV Endwalker
01 Jun 2022
00:48:03
The END(walker) of Final Fantasy XIV came, went, and brought us some excellent music along the way! In this episode of the Battle Bards, Syl and Syp joust back and forth over the tunes from FFXIV's latest expansion. Is it an acquired taste or an instant hit? Let them be the judge!
Episode 213 show notes
Intro (feat. "Opening Cinematic," "Welcome to Our Town," and "Black Steel, Cold Embers")
"Vibrant Voices"
"The Nautilus Knoweth"
"On Blade's Edge"
"The Day Will Come"
"Spoken Without End"
"Festival of the Hunt"
Which one did we like best?
Jukebox Picks: "Welcome to Wonder Labyrinth" from Deedlit in Wonder Labyrinth and "Elm St." from Nightmare on Elm Street
When the Battle Bards get loaded up with money and jewels in MMOs, they head back into town for a shopping spree! And if they're shopping, you know they're listening to whatever muzak is piped into these establishments. Syp and Syl listen to the music of shops and services -- and deliver their best to you!
Episode 211 show notes
Intro (feat. "Cash Shop" from Dragon's Nest, "Shopping Arcade" from MapleStory 2, and "The Store" from Neverwinter Nights)
"The Mystic Forge" from Guild Wars 2
"The Magic Shop" from PlaneShift
"Temple of Gold" from Aion
"Aesthetician's Theme" from FFXIV
"Brownie Storehouse" from Vanguard
"Auction Hall" from LOTRO
"Smithy" from Meridian 59
Which one did we like best?
Jukebox Picks: "The Ewer" from Sable and "The Lake" from Ecco the Dolphin: Defender of the Future
This podcast is produced using copyrighted material according to Fair Use practices as stated under Section 107 of the 1976 Copyright Act.
Battle Bards Episode 210: Warframe
02 Mar 2022
00:55:09
We heard your many requests, and we delivered! The Battle Bards crew is back to explore the final frontier of music in the Warframe soundtrack. From funky ninja fighting tracks to stirring interstellar ballads, Warframe ended up being a fun journey through space, time, and composition.
Episode 210 show notes
Intro (feat. "Fortuna Login," "March of the Moa," and "Venus Combat")
"This is What You Are"
"Cetus"
"KDrive Race Music A"
"Gene Molds C"
"Smiles from Juran"
"We All Lift Together"
"Sleeping in the Cold Below"
Which one did we like best?
Jukebox Picks: "Main Theme" from The Sims 4: Cottage Living, "On Blade's Edge" from FFXIV, and "Easthaven in Peace" from Icewind Dale
This podcast is produced using copyrighted material according to Fair Use practices as stated under Section 107 of the 1976 Copyright Act.
Battle Bards Episode 209: Superhero MMOs
26 Jan 2022
00:54:15
When they're not saving the world from bad tunes, the Battle Bards stuff themselves into spandex and try out for sixth-tier superhero teams. Because saving the world is en vogue, don't you know? In today's episode, the crew takes a tour through the music of superhero MMORPGs past, present, and future!
Episode 209 show notes (show page, direct download)
Intro (feat. "Freedom Court" from City of Heroes, "The Rime Woods" from Champions Online, and "Credits" from Marvel Heroes)
"Digital Death Dream" from City of Titans
"Nightclub District 2" from Marvel Heroes
"Funk" from City of Heroes
"Asgard Town" from Super Hero Squad Online
"Arkham Asylum" from DCUO
"Desert Disaster" from Champions Online
"A Brave New World" from City of Heroes
Which one did we like best?
Listener notes from Katriana
Jukebox Picks: "Welcome to a Kick in the Pants in Good Old Hillville" from Commander Keen 4, "The Winding Meadow" from RuneScape Orchestral, and "Opposites Attract" from It Takes Two
This podcast is produced using copyrighted material according to Fair Use practices as stated under Section 107 of the 1976 Copyright Act.
Battle Bards Episode 208: Valheim
05 Jan 2022
00:58:03
Mighty Vikings and meek bards come together to sing the praises of the soundtrack to 2021's smash hit Valheim! Syl does her best to sell us all on the game (and, perhaps occasionally, its soundtrack) as the threesome hack, slash, and plunder the score to see what spoils might be taken back to the homeland.
Episode 208 show notes
Intro (feat. "Moder v2," "Mountain," and "Yagluth")
"Menu Theme"
"Entering Valheim"
"Black Forest"
"Meadows"
"Home Base"
"Plains"
"Sailing"
Which one did we like best?
Jukebox Picks: "In the Belly of the Beast" from Deep Rock Galactic, "Forest of Mystery" from The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past, and "Main Theme" from Deathloop
This podcast is produced using copyrighted material according to Fair Use practices as stated under Section 107 of the 1976 Copyright Act.
Battle Bards Episode 207: Seeing Red
22 Dec 2021
00:47:35
Have you ever gotten so mad that you literally saw red? Better yet, have you ever heard the color red when you've listened to an MMO's soundtrack? In this episode, the Battle Bards explore the diversity that exists within this singular blood hue. What does red sound like? Find out in this hour!
Episode 207 show notes
Intro (feat. "Red Broth" from Warframe, "Red Menace" from Stargate Worlds, and "Crimson Cove" from City of Heroes)
"Scarlet Raven" from World of Warcraft
"Ruby Weapon" from FFXIV
"The Scarlet Desert" from EverQuest
"Red Land" from Aion
"Bloody Ice" from Cabal Online
"Red Scar" from Ragnarok Online 2
"The Morning of Crimson Peak" from Blade and Soul
Which one did we like best?
Jukebox Picks: "Main Theme" from Red Dead Redemption, "Will of the Spirits" from Tales of Arise, and "Rain" from The 7th Guest
This podcast is produced using copyrighted material according to Fair Use practices as stated under Section 107 of the 1976 Copyright Act.
Battle Bards Episode 206: Warping back to WildStar
08 Dec 2021
00:51:53
It's been a long, long time since the Battle Bards have ventured down to the surface of Nexus -- at least, as a full episode. Now, it's time to warp back to WildStar! But after having featured this amazing soundtrack so often on the show, are there any good picks left... or just the dregs from a former civilization?
Episode 206 show notes
Intro (feat. "Main Theme," "A Tropical Getaway," and "Sea of Green")
"March of the Empire"
"Operation Northern Wastes"
"Legend of Blue Horizon"
"A Very Dominion Shade's Eve"
"Clear Skies"
"From the Ashes"
"Grist for the Mill"
Which one did we like best?
Listener notes from Friendly Necromancer
Jukebox Picks: "Main Theme" from Wild West World, "Main Theme" from Metroid Dread, and "Fading Twilight Battle Theme" from Dungeon Encounters
This podcast is produced using copyrighted material according to Fair Use practices as stated under Section 107 of the 1976 Copyright Act.
Battle Bards Episode 205: Love is in the air
24 Nov 2021
00:53:49
They might not be the most naturally romantic crew at heart, but the Battle Bards have been known to get, er, swoony when love is professed and crushes confessed. In the spirit of love and romance, Steff, Syl, and Syp explore romantic themes in MMORPG soundtracks to see if they can figure out what the heart really wants!
Episode 205 show notes (show page, direct download)
Intro (feat. "Lana, the Advisor" from SWTOR, "Origa, Beautiful" from Aion, "Tieve's Theme" from Vindictus, and "Chapel of Love" from EverQuest II)
"Endless Affection" from Rohan Online
"Votan Romance" from Defiance
"And Love You Shall Find" from FFXIV
"Happily Ever After" from FFXI
"Love Story" from RuneScape
"Waltz in the Forest" from Aion
"Romeo and Juliet" from Mabinogi
Which one did we like best?
Listener notes from Katriana
Jukebox Picks: "FFXIV Remix Medley" by Calico, "Side-Crawler's Dance" from Wonder Boy III (SMS), and "Main Theme" from Square-Enix's Guardians of the Galaxy
This podcast is produced using copyrighted material according to Fair Use practices as stated under Section 107 of the 1976 Copyright Act.
Battle Bards Episode 204: New World
10 Nov 2021
00:53:02
The MMORPG smash hit of 2021 is now a soundtrack of far-off lands, dangerous vistas, and bewildering secrets. To navigate this New World, the Battle Bards have disembarked onto the shores of this score to see what wonders they can pillage.
Episode 204 show notes
Intro (feat. "A New World," "Discovery," and "Heart of Corruption")
"Embark"
"Cutlass Keys"
"Everfall"
"Sunset Ballad"
"Monarch Bluffs"
"Brightwood"
"Homeward Bound"
Which one did we like best?
Listener notes from George and Minimalistway
Jukebox picks: "Yara Para Todos" from Far Cry 6, "Deep Thoughts" from Tales of Crestoria, and "Engineering" from System Shock 2
This podcast is produced using copyrighted material according to Fair Use practices as stated under Section 107 of the 1976 Copyright Act.
Battle Bards Episode 203: The music of mobile MMOs
27 Oct 2021
00:52:24
For this week's episode, the Battle Bards turn their attention to an oft-neglected realm of MMO music -- that of mobile titles. Will Steff walk into a pole while playing Pokemon Go? Will Syl instantly recognize an old musical favorite? Will Syp use the word "cacophony" at least once this hour? You'll have to listen to find out!
Episode 203 show notes (show page, direct download)
Intro (feat. "Take the Lead" from AdventureQuest 3D, "Diagon Alley" from Harry Potter Wizards Unite, and "Track 7" from MapleStory M)
"Main Theme" from Order & Chaos Online
"Walking" from Pokémon Go
"Main Theme" from Another Eden
"Glish" from Black Desert Mobile
"Royal Fight" from Mobile Royale
"Title Screen" from Epic 7
"Airship Theme" from Stella Arcana
Which one did we like best?
Listener notes from Friendly Necromancer
Jukebox picks: "Volcano" from The Flintstones SNES, "Dance of Illusions" from Castlevania Symphony of the Night, and "Into the Labyrinth" from Final Fantasy Brave Exvius
This podcast is produced using copyrighted material according to Fair Use practices as stated under Section 107 of the 1976 Copyright Act.
Battle Bards Episode 202: Silkroad Online
13 Oct 2021
00:48:09
Piggybacking on a historical lifeline, Silkroad Online has enjoyed a long run in the MMORPG market. But how is its music? To find this out, the Battle Bards begin a long trek through desert and rainforest to discover the truth of Silkroad's soundtrack.
Episode 202 show notes
Intro (feat. "Karakorum," "Roc Battle," and "Donwhang Cave")
"Jangan Town"
"Togui Village"
"Constantinople Town"
"Samarkand"
"Festival Event"
"Alexandria/Egypt Field Delta"
"Jupiter Temple"
Which one did we like best?
Listener notes from Katriana and Bullwraith
Jukebox picks: "The Finest Scenery" from Behind the Frame, "Security Breach" from Angry Video Game Nerd II, and "Befriending Spirits" from Kena: Bridge of Spirits
This podcast is produced using copyrighted material according to Fair Use practices as stated under Section 107 of the 1976 Copyright Act.
Battle Bards Episode 201: Don't stand in the fire!
29 Sep 2021
00:56:21
Have you stood in the fire? Did you start the fire? Are you on fire at this very moment? Then stop, drop, and roll your way to this episode of the Battle Bards, where the crew put out the flames of music tracks from fire zones, volcanoes, and the like!
Episode 201 show notes
Intro (feat. "Firelight" from TERA, "Molten Core Battle" from World of Warcraft, and "Flow Like Fire" from Warframe)
"Desert of Fire" from Aion
"Burning Steppes" from World of Warcraft
"Sleeping Volcano" from Ragnarok Online
"Mt. Hotenow" from Neverwinter
"Flame Mountain" from Dragon Oath
"Navigating the Crevasses of Orodruin" from Lord of the Rings Online
"Taimi's Game Part 1" from Guild Wars 2
Which one did we like best?
Listener notes from Zinn, Lewenburg, and Psychae
Jukebox picks: "Hellwalker" from Doom 2016, "Non-Boss Battle" from Eastward, and "CAS and Build Complete 4" from The Sims 4: Cottage Living
Outro (feat. "Gather Around the C.A.M.P.fire" from Fallout 76)
Can you believe it? The Battle Bards have hit 200 amazing episodes! Join Steff, Syl, and Syp as they take a victory lap around the field of MMO music, sharing their personal soundtrack discoveries and listeners' favorite tracks. It's a Battle Bards Bicentennial!
Episode 200 show notes
Intro
Reminiscing about the history of Battle Bards (feat. "Fields of the Shire from LOTRO and "Tempest Bay" from RIFT)
Our favorite MMORPG soundtrack discoveries over the past 100 episodes
Syp: Club Penguin
Steff: The Division 2
Syl: Lost Ark
Syp: Myst Online
Steff: Lost Oasis
Syl: Star Stable
Syp: MapleStory 2
Steff: Tree of Savior
Syl: Lineage
Listeners' favorite tracks
"Mystery of Wistmead" from LOTRO (Katriana)
"Title Screen" from DCUO (Friendly Necromancer)
I Am the Sea" from FFXIV (Lewenburg)
"Twilight Over Thanalan from FFXIV (Drelkag)
"Undead Tavern in Brill" from WoW (JinxedThoughts)
"The Length and the Measure" from Warhammer Online (Thomas)
"The Rebuilding of Lion's Arch" from Guild Wars 2 (Tishtoshtesh)
This podcast is produced using copyrighted material according to Fair Use practices as stated under Section 107 of the 1976 Copyright Act.
Battle Bards Episode 199: World of Warcraft tavern tunes
13 Aug 2021
00:54:53
At the start and end of a long day of adventurin', the Battle Bards love to kick back with a frosty mug of (ginger) ale or a stein of (root) beer at their favorite taverns. And what watering holes have better music than World of Warcraft, which actually released a full album of it? In today's show, Steff, Syl, and Syp share some more great music from the social hubs of Azeroth.
Episode 199 show notes
Intro (feat. "Vanilla Tavern," "Deepwater," and "Hunter's Refuge")
"Kul'Tiran Taverns"
"Dive Bar C"
"Slaughtered Lamb"
"Pig and Whistle"
"Midsummer Fire Festival"
"Temple of the Moon"
"Thunderbrew"
Which one did we like best?
Listener notes from Ithirahad and Katriana
Jukebox picks: "Chinatown" from Katana Zero, "Shooting Star" from Overwatch Animated Shorts, and "Main Theme" from Fantasian
This podcast is produced using copyrighted material according to Fair Use practices as stated under Section 107 of the 1976 Copyright Act.
Battle Bards Episode 198: Final Fantasy XI expansions
28 Jul 2021
00:54:45
Return with us to the lands of Vana'diel, as the Battle Bards dip into the ocean of Final Fantasy XI expansion music. While Syl might be chiding Syp over his inappropriate attire, at least these amazing tunes can overcome all hostility!
Episode 198 show notes
Intro (feat. "Where It All Begins," "Vana'diel March #4," and "Echoes of a Zephyr")
"Kazham"
"Breaking Ground"
"The Cosmic Wheel"
"Autumn Footfalls"
"Bustle of the Capital"
"Unity"
"The Sanctuary of Zi'Tah"
Which one did we like best?
Listener notes from Katriana and Branden
Jukebox picks: "The Town of Luncheon" from Chicory, "Sarah's Song" from Tyrion, and "Dolphin Surf" from Tetris Effect
This podcast is produced using copyrighted material according to Fair Use practices as stated under Section 107 of the 1976 Copyright Act.
Battle Bards Episode 197: A royal affair
14 Jul 2021
00:52:21
Bow to your king and queens of MMO music royalty, for the Battle Bards have donned the crown, taking up the majestic scepter, and issued a proclamation that all sorts of royal music must be heard through the land!
Episode 197 show notes
Intro (feat. "Behold Tarantia!" from Age of Conan, "The Royal Bodyguard" from Blade and Soul, and "Illusion Castle Radiant Hall" from Cabal Online)
"To Wear the Crown" from Monarch
"Krakunta" from Lime Odyssey
"Royal District" from Project Copernium
"The Castle of Luteran" from Lost Ark
"The Grand Duchy of Jeuno" from Final Fantasy XI
"Royale" from RuneScape
"Ode to the Queen" from Elder Scrolls Online
Which one did we like best?
Listener notes from George Wilson and Katriana
Jukebox picks: "Letting You Go" from The Sims 4, "Stereo Madness" from Geometry Dash, and "Windward" from Bravely Default
This podcast is produced using copyrighted material according to Fair Use practices as stated under Section 107 of the 1976 Copyright Act.
Battle Bards Episode 196: Project Gorgon
30 Jun 2021
00:44:58
This time around, the Battle Bards cruise into the indie MMO known as "Project Gorgon" to see what musical landscape is being concocted in this usual realm. From dark dungeon crawls to dusty deserts, it's a trip around a world of fantasy, mystery, and deliberate old school musical cues!
Episode 196 show notes
Intro (feat. "Fae Forest," "SunVale," and "The Spider Crypt")
"Overture Theme"
"Quiet Countryside"
"Eltibule"
"Delving for Forgotten Secrets"
"Rakshasa City"
"Anagoge Magical Island"
"The Deep Desert"
Which one did we like best?
Listener notes from Katriana and Mark
Jukebox picks: "Galaxy Map" from Mass Effect, "Main Theme" from Ratchet and Clank, and "Lich is Unbreakable" from Loop Hero
This podcast is produced using copyrighted material according to Fair Use practices as stated under Section 107 of the 1976 Copyright Act.
Battle Bards Episode 195: In the mountains
16 Jun 2021
00:52:42
Attempting to summit the very best of MMO music, the Battle Bards head up, up, up into the mountains with this episode! What musical motifs do the ranges hold in online games? The crew of Steff, Syl, and Syp are going to try to find out -- if the yeti doesn't eat them first!
Episode 195 show notes
Intro (feat. "Berg" from Drakensang Online, "Snowhorn" from Runes of Magic, and "Mountains" from Valheim)
"Interdica High Mountain" from Aion
"Wind-Washed Mountains" from Genshin Impact
"The Vista from Mount Crom" from Age of Conan
"Steamfront Mountains" from EverQuest 2
"Mountains of Past Times" from Elsword Online
"Sunqua Peak" from Guild Wars 2
"The Mountains of Night" from Age of Conan
Which one did we like best?
Listener notes from Katriana
Jukebox picks: "Welcome to the Academy" from The Slormaster, "Frontier Music" from The Trail, and "A Big Adventure" from Sackboy
Outro (feat. "Cold Mountain Duet" from World of Warcraft)
This podcast is produced using copyrighted material according to Fair Use practices as stated under Section 107 of the 1976 Copyright Act.
Battle Bards Episode 194: No Man's Sky
02 Jun 2021
00:52:43
No Man's Sky is a Cinderella story, a turnaround from a project that failed on its promises to exceeding them. But what about its soundtrack? In this episode, the Battle Bards examine this "experimental" score and grapple with how it fits with space exploration theme.
Episode 194 show notes
Intro (feat. "I've Seen Things," "Blueprint for a Slow Machine," and "Escaping the Dark Side")
"Heliosphere"
"Outlier"
"The Lost Traveler"
"Asimov"
"The Journey"
"World of Wonders"
"Escape Velocity"
Which one did we like best?
Listener notes from Katriana
Jukebox picks: "Main Theme" from Outriders, "The Last Artificer" from In Other Waters, and "Track 2" from Bomb Jack
This podcast is produced using copyrighted material according to Fair Use practices as stated under Section 107 of the 1976 Copyright Act.
Battle Bards Episode 193: Tribal jams
19 May 2021
00:53:45
Strike up a drum, flourish a flute, and howl to the moon -- it's time to get funky with some tribal jams! In this episode of the Battle Bards, the intrepid crew enjoy a wide range of chanty, drummy, and peppy tracks from MMORPGs.
Episode 193 show notes
Intro (feat. "Tribal Downtime" from Elsword Online, "Exotic Marketplace" from Lineage 2, and "Hunting" from Lord of the Rings Online)
"Perion" from MapleStory 2
"The Black Hand" from Conan Exiles
"Scent of Memories" from Aion
"Roobrick and Balzare" from Glitch
"Raging Strings" from Aion
"The Federation of Windurst" from Final Fantasy XI
"The Wild's Presence 3" from Guild Wars 2
Which one did we like best?
Listener notes from Katriana
Jukebox picks: "Quicksilver" from Super Burnout, "Norse Worship Site" from Black and White, and "Gamble" from Necrobarista
Outro (feat. "Celestia Tribal Theme" from Wizard101)
This podcast is produced using copyrighted material according to Fair Use practices as stated under Section 107 of the 1976 Copyright Act.
Battle Bards Episode 192: Mabinogi
05 May 2021
00:56:42
Is Mabonogi a muppet, a Welsh adventure, or a Korean MMORPG? It's certainly an odd title, but its music is worthy of the Battle Bards' time. This week, the trio sails through the soundtrack to this anime fantasy sandbox -- and gives proper attention, respect, and love to the country of Wales.
Episode 192 show notes
Intro (feat. "Main Theme (Piano)," "Afternoon Tea," and "Prince of Denmark")
"Sidhe Finnachaid"
"Merlin"
"Tears of Memory"
"Avalon Theme"
"Bangor"
"An Old Story From Grandma"
"Belita: Hunter at World's End"
Which one did we like best?
Listener notes from Katriana and Danny
Jukebox picks: "Main Theme" from The Long Return, "Cowboystrats 3" from Railway Empire, and "Climbing" from Spirit of the North
This podcast is produced using copyrighted material according to Fair Use practices as stated under Section 107 of the 1976 Copyright Act.
Battle Bards Episode 191: Digging up the past
21 Apr 2021
00:50:49
Today's episode of the Battle Bards was phoned in -- phoned in with 2800-baud modems from the 1990s, that is! Steff, Syl, and Syp return to the early era of graphical MMOs to see what video game music existed in that time. From the bleeps to the bombastic, this show digs deep into the past to see what is waiting to be uncovered...
Episode 191 show notes
Intro (feat. "Toxxulia Forest" from EverQuest, "Main Theme" from Asheron's Call, and "Idiotic Ghost" from Lineage)
"The Streets of Furcadia" from Furcadia
"Corloth" from Meridian 59
"Main Theme" from AOL's Neverwinter Nights
"The Dark Theme" from The 4th Coming
"Whispers" from Dark Eden
"Age of Heroes" from Dark Sun Online
"Ocllo" from Ultima Online
Which one did we like best?
Listener notes from Dorian
Jukebox picks: "Main Theme" from Ecco the Dolphin, "Forest of Secrets" from Ikenfell, and "Main Theme" from Treasure Planet
This podcast is produced using copyrighted material according to Fair Use practices as stated under Section 107 of the 1976 Copyright Act.
Battle Bards Episode 190: Genshin Impact
31 Mar 2021
00:49:28
It was the FOMO title of last fall, and now Genshin Impact is in your ears! On this episode of the Battle Bards, Syp, Steff, and the Other One explore the varied and delightfully cheerful soundtrack to this online RPG. Unless you have headphones made of live kittens, it'll be the most adorable thing you'll listen to all day!
Episode 190 show notes
Intro (feat. "Make Haste, Partner," "Liyue Defense," and "Dusk in Mondstadt")
"Beats of Water Drops"
"Spring in Clouds"
"Bustling Afternoon of Mondstadt"
"Welp, Didn't Expect That"
"Chasing the Torrents"
"Symphony of Boreal Wind"
"Against All Odds"
Which one did we like best?
Listener notes from Katriana
Jukebox picks: "Space Trip" from The Light Corridor, "Main Theme" from Desperados III, and "Expedition" from Epic Seven
This podcast is produced using copyrighted material according to Fair Use practices as stated under Section 107 of the 1976 Copyright Act.
Battle Bards Episode 189: Spooky and Magical 3
17 Mar 2021
00:58:20
Is that a chill creeping down your spine? Did your ears just perk up at the hint of fae music in the trees? Is Tinkerbell blasting you with a cannon full of musical confetti? Then you must be in a good place to listen to some more spooky and magical music from MMORPGs with the Battle Bards!
Episode 189 show notes
Intro (feat. "Emerald Labyrinth" from FFXIV, "Wizard City Tower Golem" from Wizard101, and "Jawaii Town" from Ragnarok Online 2)
"Enraptured" from Final Fantasy XIV
"Uralia" from Glitch
"The Lullaby of Praxis" from Elder Scrolls Online
"A Very Exile Shade's Eve" from WildStar
"Bow and Jubilate" from Runes of Magic
"Floating Whispering" from Aion
"Bloody Moon Melody" from Black Desert
Which one did we like best?
Listener notes from Valheim Composer Patrik Jarlestam and Pheeb Hello
Jukebox picks: "The Cemetery" from Pumpkin Jack, "Dungeon" from Sword of Vermillion, and "Rain" from Call of the Sea
Outro (feat. "The Fortune Teller" from Star Stable)
This podcast is produced using copyrighted material according to Fair Use practices as stated under Section 107 of the 1976 Copyright Act.
Battle Bards Episode 188: World of Warcraft Shadowlands
03 Mar 2021
00:58:10
While the Battle Bards tend to agree that World of Warcraft: Shadowlands isn't as strong of an expansion soundtrack compared to the last few, it's still WoW, and it still has some gems worth uncovering. Join Syl, Steff, and Syp as they journey into the afterlife and see what the freshly dead listen to in their eternities!
Episode 188 show notes
Intro (feat. "Bastion Kyrian," "Ardenweald Nocturne Mischief," and "Revendreth Decadence")
"Through the Roof of the World"
"Oribos the Eternal City"
"Only Human"
"Ember Court Band"
"Revendreth Venthyr"
"Ardenweald Nocturne Melancholy Dream"
"Bastion Steward Hoot 'n' Doot"
Which one did we like best?
Listener note from Michał Korniewicz
Jukebox picks: "Login Theme" from World of Warcraft, "Celebration" from Greedfall, and "Testing the Passionate Bonds" from Tales of Zesteria
This podcast is produced using copyrighted material according to Fair Use practices as stated under Section 107 of the 1976 Copyright Act.
Battle Bards Episode 187: Sewers and swamps
17 Feb 2021
00:53:39
Oh yeah, this is destined to be our most-downloaded show ever, because the Battle Bards are bringing the THRILLS of sewer systems and the EXCITEMENT of swamps right to your eardrums! Decaying organic matter and waste disposal are always fun times in the music department! Syp, Steff, and Syl comb through their MMO soundtrack archives to see what intriguing specimens they could pull out. It's gonna be gross, people.
Episode 186 show notes
Intro (feat. "Freeport Sewers" from EverQuest II, "Marsh of Peril" from Vanguard, and "Swamp of Silence" from Aion)
"Dalaran Sewers" from World of Warcraft
"Purple Lotus Swamp" from Age of Conan
"Wetlands" from World of Warcraft
"Swamplands" from EverQuest Online Adventures
"Battle in the Swamp" from Star Wars: The Old Republic
"Swamp of No Hope" from EverQuest II
"Empyrea Zanadu Sewers" from Wizard101
Which one did we like best?
Listener note from Katriana
Jukebox picks: "Landing Zone" from Chex Quest, "Bastion" from Spellforce 3, and "Day 10" from Viva Pinata
This podcast is produced using copyrighted material according to Fair Use practices as stated under Section 107 of the 1976 Copyright Act.
Battle Bards Episode 186: Lineage
03 Feb 2021
00:48:36
While Lineage II is one of the absolute favorite soundtracks of the Battle Bards, the first game in this series has been shamefully overlooked on the show. No longer! In today's episode, Syl, Steff, and Syp dig into this rather lovely and expressive score for an MMO that's been around longer than some of their listeners have been alive. From the sappy to the sublime, Lineage has more than a few surprises in store for the adventurous listener!
Episode 186 show notes
Intro (feat. "The Fog of Dawnlight," "Before Sunset," and "Town Market Stargaze")
"Against Odds"
"Phantasmal Island"
"Across the Sea"
"Eternally"
"The Adventure of Racoon"
"Take a Rest Here"
"Waltz on the Cloud"
Which one did we like best?
Listener note from R. Ellen Ferare
Jukebox picks: "Learn Step Turn" from Creaks, "Quicksilver" from Super Burnout, and "Main Theme" to Spider-Man: Miles Morales
This podcast is produced using copyrighted material according to Fair Use practices as stated under Section 107 of the 1976 Copyright Act.
Battle Bards Episode 185: Taking Flight
20 Jan 2021
00:48:08
Flying has always been both beloved and controversial in MMORPGs, but no matter what your stance on it, at least you can agree that when you slip the surly bonds of earth, you need an amazing soundtrack for that moment. Thankfully, captain Steff, co-pilot Syl, and navigator Syp are here to point out some of the best flying-themed tunes found in online games. So raise your tray tables to their locked position, because this episode's about to take off!
Episode 185 show notes
Intro (feat. "Boundless" from Final Fantasy XIV, "Skybound" from Entropia Universe, and "Gryphons Soar in the Sun" from Elder Scrolls Online)
"Main Theme" from World of Warplanes
"Eagle Flight" from Guild Wars 2
"A Glorious Flight" from War Thunder
"Adventure" from Guns of Icarus
"Fly into the Sky" from Blade and Soul
"Flying Sky" from Trove
"Flying" from Flyff
Which one did we like best?
Listener note from Bullwraith
Jukebox picks: "Main Theme" from Star Wars Squadrons, "Menu Theme" from Medieval Dynasty, and "Salutations" from Subnautica