War-Zard

Normally, I'd have nothing but praise for a Capcom original soundtrack, especially after hearing the great music from games such as "Forgotten Worlds" and "Ghouls 'n Ghosts". I'd look forward to hearing catchy melodies played over the beautiful harmonies that Capcom is known for. With War-Zard though, I should have looked elsewhere.

What's really disappointing about War-Zard is that it sounds very similar to Vampire Hunter, one of Capcom's earlier (and disappointing) soundtracks. This is especially evident in the songs "Zipang Stage" and "Crypt Stage". Disc 2, which is mostly character themes, is no different. "Theme of Tao" sounds very much like Hsien-Ko's theme song, and the three "Mukuro Ending Theme" songs reminded me of Bishamon's music from "Vampire Hunter."

The similarities don't end there, though. "War-Zard" and "Vampire Hunter" also have the same sound quality, which, compared to that of most other arcade games, is average at best.

Sadly, the only shining moments of this soundtrack come when the CD booklet is opened. Inside is some nice color artwork of the main characters and bosses and the musical notation for "Theme of Leo".

The bottom line is that the War-Zard soundtrack is substandard and uninspired. Many other (and older) Capcom arcade games have much better music and are more worth buying.