Either / or. More rumbling, less fumbling~

I say we finish the round-- Zak, you can take over after that.

Right, to iterate the results of the most recent battle:

Knocking on the Front Gates - 1
You Can Never Know Another - 8


And now, the second round:

The Sweet Dalmascan Air
No Right
The Party Enters The Imperial City Of Archades
I'm Captain Basch!
Resistance, Not Insurgence
Surprisingly Rude
Dalmasca's Desert Bloom
Some 'Eynah', Or Was it 'Venat'?
Gods know, he deserves it
What is it you're after, Balthier?
The Reins of History
Bahamut, Lord of the Sky
The Leading Man Never Dies
Bones/Treasure/Fall
Believe What You Want To
You Can Never Know Another


As always, the above list is for reference. I've gone ahead and edited the results in the first post. I'm not drawing up all the battles right now, battles will drawn up on the fly like I do in my rumbles. First battle...


I'm Captain Basch

Balthier: (regarding Ondore) The men he's been funding bear little love for the Empire. (to Basch) They won't be thrilled to discover that rumors of your death were, in fact, greatly exaggerated. If we were to raise a clamor to that effect, we might just get their attention.

Vaan: Nothin' to it! I'll just go around town spreading the word. How 'bout this? I'm Captain Basch Fon Ronsenburg of Dalmasca! Well? Whaddaya think?

Balthier: That certainly qualifies as a clamor. All right, Vaan, get to it. For the girl's sake, eh? Oh, and the more people around to witness your little performance, the better. If we're going to reach the Marquis, it's up to you. We'll be waiting here, if you need us.

vs.

Bahamut, Lord of the Sky

Bahamut, Lord of the Sky

Basch: Vayne holds the Dusk Shard no longer. His advantage is lost.

Al-Cid: Vayne has advantages enough. He stands in higher ground, and my birds tell me he has awoken something quite large. (takes his sunglasses off to reveal the eyes and then places it back on again) Bahamut, Lord of the Sky. There was a stirring in the Mist near Ridorana, I am told. Bahamut awoke soon after this.

Fran: It is the Mist that came before the Cryst was undone. It breathed life into this Bahamut. If Reddas had not stopped it when he did, how much more Mist might it have drunk? All went according to Doctor Cid's designs.

Balthier: Yes, the man's last great accomplishment, I fear. And so it falls to me to put an end to the thing.

I'm Captain Basch

I say we finish the round-- Zak, you can take over after that.

I rather not start in the middle of a rumble, even if it's a round. Someone else can finish this rumble, not me. I can take over after that though.

Unless we scrap this and do over.

Oh, and I'm Captain Basch.

I'm Captain Basch!

Also why isn't there a FFX rumble ;-;

I rather not start in the middle of a rumble, even if it's a round. Someone else can finish this rumble, not me. I can take over after that though.
Actually, that's what I meant.


Also why isn't there a FFX rumble ;-;
Because Zak's ended and nobody else has said that they want to do one.

Bahamut, Lord of the Sky

Sorry about the absence guys. They were supposed to have our bathroom done by last Thursday/Friday, but I just now got to come back home. I didn't mean to leave you hanging, but it was out of my hands.

Bahamut, Lord of the Sky

Only a few votes-- I guess a lot of people don't realize it's back yet. Anyways...

I'm Captain Basch - 3
Bahamut, Lord of the Sky - 2

"I'm Captain Basch" wins, but only by one vote.

Next up:

Resistance, Not Insurgence

Vaan: (regarding "Amalia") What’s wrong with her?
Balthier: Urgh. You have a lot to learn before we even get started on your thievery.
Vaan: What’s that mean?
"Amalia": The situation requires I accept such help as I find. Thought it be from thieves. I shall accompany you until we find my companions. No longer.
Balthier: Let’s think of her as a “Guest”, then. Unlike Fran or myself, our “Guest” probably won’t be taking orders from anyone anytime soon. And she’ll leave when she pleases. So, we keep to our affairs, and she to hers. I doubt we’ll find her wanting in valor… Being such an upstanding member of the insurgence.
"Amalia": Resistance.

vs.

What is it you're after, Balthier?

Basch: And what is it you’re after, Balthier? You’re a welcome hand, and a great aid, but why?
Balthier: Worried I’m out to steal the Nethicite, eh? Can’t say I’m unaccustomed to people doubting my intentions. Nothing could be further from my mind. Shall I swear by your sword or some such?
Basch: Apologies. But I needed to know where you stand. Her Majesty depends on you. And you seemed to have an interest in the stone.
Balthier: I’m only here to see how the story unfolds. Any self-respecting leading man would do the same.

What is it you're after, Balthier?

What is it you're after, Balthier? Good to see the rumble back!

What is it you're after, Balthier?

What is it you're after, Balthier?

What is it you're after, Balthier?

What is it you're after, Balthier?

Didn't expect that result. All right, I've decided to go ahead and apply 6-0 instead of 8-0 here, based on the general pattern of voting.

Resistance, Not Insurgence - 0
What is it you're after, Balthier? - 6


Easy win for "What is it you're after, Balthier?"


Next up is:

The Sweet Dalmascan Air

Basch: To think Dalmascan air could taste so sweet.
Vaan: (to Balthier) Where are we?
Balthier: The Estersand, by the look of it. Let’s back to Rabanastre before we shrivel up. (to Basch) By your leave, Captain.

vs.

Bones/Treasure/Fall

Bald Man / Reddas: Cid! You know Deifacted Nethicite brought down the Leviathan! How can you persist in this folly?
Cid: Heh, heh, heh, heh. And you’ve come here to stop me? I’d fain see you try.
Voice of Balthier: Consider your bones, old man. You’re outmatched.
Cid: Pirate scum of the skies. What brings you here?
Balthier: Treasure. What else would a pirate want? We’ll take the Dusk Shard.
Cid: Heh! You’ve come all this way for that trinket? I thought you above this. Hm? What’s that? Ah! The Princess of Dalmasca come to visit? Mm. She’s not entirely without merit. A test of sorts for our princess? Ah!
Ashe: You’re a babbling fool.
Cid: (out loud) A trial for Ashelia B’nargin Dalmasca! (normal tone of voice) You lust for the Stone’s power, do you not?
Ashe: (sighs angrily)
Bald Man: Lend him not your ears, m’lady. He means to use you.
Cid: Ha, ha, ha, ha, ha, ha, ha, ha, ha, ha, ha!!
Fran: Manufacted Nethicite! Like Bergan.
Balthier: How could you do this? How could you fall this far?

The Sweet Dalmascan Air

Also why isn't there a FFX rumble ;-;

Agent's response aside, there is now. Or, there will be as soon as I get the list ready, check it out.


Oh, new battle? I vote for Bones/Treasure/Fall.

Bones/Treasure/Fall, anything with Reddas.

Sweet Dalmascan Air

Sweet Dalmascan Air, this one seems like it might be a close call.

The Sweet Dalmascan Air

Agent's response aside, there is now. Or, there will be as soon as I get the list ready, check it out.




Good to hear Zak, and I'm looking forward to it ^^

Bones/Treasure/Fall

The Sweet Dalmascan Air - 4
Bones/Treasure/Fall - 3


So The Sweet Dalmascan Air wins by just one vote. Next up...

Surprisingly Rude

Vaan: (to Fran) Uh, how old were you again?
Balthier: (sighs) Nice, Vaan.
Ashe: �
Larsa: Surprisingly rude.
Penelo: Try to grow up, please.

vs.

Some 'Eynah', Or Was it 'Venat'?

Balthier: (regarding the Nethicite) Use its power to restore Dalmasca�something like that? The best intentions invite the worst kind of trouble.
Ashe: Lusting for ever greater power, blinded by the Nethicite. Is that how you see me?
Balthier: That does sound like someone I know. He was obsessed with Nethicite. It was all he cared about. He�d babble nonsense, blind to aught but the Stone�s power. He�d talk about some �Eynah,� or was it �Venat�? No matter. Everything he did, he did to get closer to the Nethicite, to understand it. He made airships, weapons� He even made me a Judge.
Ashe: You were a�a Judge!?
Balthier: Part of a past I�d rather forget. It didn�t last long. I ran. I left the Judges�and him. Cidolfus Demen Bunansa. Draklor Laboratory�s very own Doctor Cid. That�s when he lost his heart to Nethicite, lost himself. And I suppose that�s when I lost my father. Don�t follow in his footsteps. I ran away. I couldn�t stand seeing him like that, a slave to the Stone. So I ran. Free at last. Funny I went for the Dusk Shard. How could I have known that it was Nethicite? And then, of course, I met you. All that running, and I got nowhere. It�s time to end this�cut my ties to the past.

Some 'Eynah', Or Was it 'Venat'?

Surprisingly Rude


Also, FFX RUMBLE STARTED! GO VOTE IN IT :-D

Some 'Eynah', Or Was it 'Venat'?

Only three votes? I think I'm gonna give this another day.

Surprisingly Rude

Surprisingly Rude

Two more votes? Well, I guess that's it, then:

Surprisingly Rude - 3
Some 'Eynah', Or Was it 'Venat'? - 2


So "Surprisingly Rude" just manages to scrape ahead.


Next up...

The Reins of History

Cid: Ashelia B’nargin Dalmasca! Just how far will you go for power? Does your lust for Nethicite consume you?
Ashe: (gasps)
Cid: Am I right? I am, aren’t I. A worthy daughter of the Dynast-King! You would do well to go to Giruvegan. Who knows? You may receive a new Stone for your trouble.
Ashe: Your words mean nothing to me!
Cid: The reins of History back in the hands of Man. I too make for Giruvegan. Give chase, if you dare it! (flies away on a hover drone)
Balthier: Hate it when he does that.

vs.

You Can Never Know Another

Balthier: Empires parade down city streets, while refugees walk barefoot through the snow.
Larsa: And so I sue for peace to stop short war and ease their suffering. My father will choose peace.
Balthier: Will he now? You sound sure of yourself. You can never know another, even your father.

The Reins of History

I agree, The Reins of History

The Reins Of History

Reins of History.

The Reins of History

Maybe I should consider changing the blowout condition to 4-0. Anyways...


The Reins of History - 5
You Can Never Know Another - 0


Next up, we have...


The Party Enters The Imperial City Of Archades


Penelo: You’re gaping like a fish out of water.
Vaan: I’m just checking out the city. Even if it is the Empire.
Penelo: You’ve changed, Vaan. You were always marching to your own beat… Almost like you were impatient, even. In a good way.
Vaan: Maybe it’s because I’ve seen more now. Huh. Never imagined I’d ever come this far away from home. Hey, Larsa’s here in the city, isn’t he? He’s a tough one. I wonder how he’s doing.
Penelo: You always were a soft touch, Vaan. You know what’s amazing? I thought I’d go my whole life without...meeting people like the Princess, or Lord Larsa. And here we are in the capital!
Vaan: I know! It’s a little over my head sometimes.
Basch: Good, Vaan. You’ve come to understand the difficulties of serving royalty.
Vaan: Hey, I’m just along for the ride.
Penelo: That wasn’t a complaint, was it, Basch?
Basch: Ahem. Right. Let’s get moving.
Penelo: Hey, don’t change the subject!
Basch: Right.

vs.

Believe What You Want To


Balthier: A twin brother? Fancy that. Hmm. But still, the pieces fit. I’ll give you that much. And he did look like you.
Vaan: I don’t believe you.
Basch: Of course not. It was my fault that Reks was there. I am sorry.
Vaan: My brother, he trusted you. He trusted you, and he lost everything. How can I believe you?
Basch: Not me then. Believe in your brother. He was a fine soldier. He fought to the last to protect his homeland. No. Surely he fought to protect his brother.
Vaan: You don’t know anything!
Balthier: Believe what you want to. Whatever it takes to make you happy. What’s done is done.

Believe What You Want To

Believe What You Want To

Believe What You Want To

Believe What You Want To

Believe What You Want To

Believe What You Want To

That's 6-0, that's enough...

The Party Enters The Imperial City Of Archades - 0
Believe What You Want To - 6


Two battles left in this round. Here's the first of them:


Dalmasca's Desert Bloom

Larsa: This is the man I wanted you to meet. Believe it or not, he is a member of the noble House Margrace, rulers of the Rozarrian Empire.
Al-Cid: (approaching Ashe) Hah! I am but one of very, very many. Try as I might, I could not stop this war alone…thus I came seeking Larsa’s assistance. Al-Cid Margrace, at your service. To think I stand before the Lady Ashe. It is truly an honor. (tries to kiss Ashe's hand) I see it is true after all. Ah, stunning is Dalmasca’s desert bloom.
Larsa: Errh!

vs.

Gods know, he deserves it

Rikken: Blast the sea! Blast the water! Blast it all! I don't believe he's gone... He's Reddas... How could he die?
Elza: Hadn't you noticed? He'd been searching for a place to die all along.
Raz: Lord Reddas weren't the sort of man to run away from his problems by dyin'! He weren't! How could he abandon this town!?
Elza: You'd have him regret passing? You'd have him suffer and wail for eternity…?
Raz: Th-That's not what I meant… No, if he's gone, then he should rest in peace. Gods know, he deserves it.

Al-Cid's accent is great, but Gods know, he deserves it gets my vote.

Dalmasca's Desert Bloom, though I like 'em both.

Gods know, he deserves it

Gods know, he deserves it

Dalmasca's Desert Bloom

Gods Know, He Deserves It, toughest choice yet.

Dalmasca's Desert Bloom - 2
Gods know, he deserves it - 4


Final battle of this round...


No Right

Gabranth: Have you your fill of this?
Basch: I would ask you the same. Let this end, Noah.
Gabranth: I have no right to be called by that name.
Basch: Then live, and reclaim it.

vs.

The Leading Man Never Dies

Vaan: Wait, Balthier, where are you!?
Balthier: Ah, Vaan! Sounds like you made it out okay! The Strahl�s a fine airship, eh?
Ondore: What does he think he's doing? Balthier!
Balthier: Marquis! Stop that fool Judge on the Alexander for me, would you? Just getting somewhere with these glossair rings. Almost done! Don't want him ramming me before I fix them, do we?
Ashe: Balthier! Do you understand exactly what it is you're doing?
Balthier: Princess! No need to worry. I hope you haven't forgotten my role in this little story. I'm the leading man. You know what they say about the leading man? He never dies.

The Leading Man Never Dies, definitely a tough choice for me, though.

No Right

The Leading Man Never Dies

No Right.

No Right

Leading Man Never Dies

That ends the second round...

No Right - 3
The Leading Man Never Dies - 3


Seems we have a tie. Last round, No Right won with 5/7 and The Leading Man Never Dies won with 6/11. 5/7 is a better majority than 6/11, so No Right wins.


Quarter finals are...

I'm Captain Basch!
The Sweet Dalmascan Air
No Right
Believe What You Want To
What is it you're after, Balthier?
Surprisingly Rude
Gods know, he deserves it
The Reins of History


Remember, that list is for reference and you can find the updated results in the first post of the thread. First up...


I'm Captain Basch!

Balthier: (regarding Ondore) The men he's been funding bear little love for the Empire. (to Basch) They won't be thrilled to discover that rumors of your death were, in fact, greatly exaggerated. If we were to raise a clamor to that effect, we might just get their attention.
Vaan: Nothin' to it! I'll just go around town spreading the word. How 'bout this? I'm Captain Basch Fon Ronsenburg of Dalmasca! Well? Whaddaya think?
Balthier: That certainly qualifies as a clamor. All right, Vaan, get to it. For the girl's sake, eh? Oh, and the more people around to witness your little performance, the better. If we're going to reach the Marquis, it's up to you. We'll be waiting here, if you need us.

vs.

Surprisingly Rude

Vaan: (to Fran) Uh, how old were you again?
Balthier: Nice, Vaan.
Ashe: �
Larsa: Surprisingly rude.
Penelo: Try to grow up, please.

Surprisingly Rude

Surprisingly Rude

Surprisingly Rude

Surprisingly Rude

I'm Captain Basch, dammit.

Surprisingly Rude

I'm Captain Basch

I'm Captain Basch!

Surprisingly Rude

I'm Captain Basch! - 3
Surprisingly Rude - 6


Mini-rally for I'm Captain Basch! not enough. Surprisingly rude wins by three votes.

Next we have...

Gods know, he deserves it

Rikken: Blast the sea! Blast the water! Blast it all! I don't believe he's gone... He's Reddas... How could he die?
Elza: Hadn't you noticed? He'd been searching for a place to die all along.
Raz: Lord Reddas weren't the sort of man to run away from his problems by dyin'! He weren't! How could he abandon this town!?
Elza: You'd have him regret passing? You'd have him suffer and wail for eternity�?
Raz: Th-That's not what I meant� No, if he's gone, then he should rest in peace. Gods know, he deserves it.

vs.

The Reins of History

Cid: Ashelia B�nargin Dalmasca! Just how far will you go for power? Does your lust for Nethicite consume you?
Ashe: (gasps)
Cid: Am I right? I am, aren�t I. A worthy daughter of the Dynast-King! You would do well to go to Giruvegan. Who knows? You may receive a new Stone for your trouble.
Ashe: Your words mean nothing to me!
Cid: The reins of History back in the hands of Man. I too make for Giruvegan. Give chase, if you dare it! (flies away on a hover drone)
Balthier: Hate it when he does that.

The Reins of History. As much as I loved the scene between Rikken, Elza, and Raz, Dr. Cid takes the cake for me.

The Reins of History

The Reins of History

The Reins of History. As much as I loved the scene between Rikken, Elza, and Raz, Dr. Cid takes the cake for me.

The Reins Of History

Gods Know, He Deserves It. Reddas, please.

Okay, but check your wording-- I think you'll find that the characters of the world of Ivalice believe in polytheism.

The Reins Of History

reins of history

The Reins Of History

Let's put this out of its misery...

Gods know, he deserves it - 1
The Reins of History - 8


Not even close.

Two battles left in the quarter-finals. Next we have:

No Right

Gabranth: Have you your fill of this?
Basch: I would ask you the same. Let this end, Noah.
Gabranth: I have no right to be called by that name.
Basch: Then live, and reclaim it.

vs.


What is it you're after, Balthier?

Basch: And what is it you�re after, Balthier? You�re a welcome hand, and a great aid, but why?
Balthier: Worried I�m out to steal the Nethicite, eh? Can�t say I�m unaccustomed to people doubting my intentions. Nothing could be further from my mind. Shall I swear by your sword or some such?
Basch: Apologies. But I needed to know where you stand. Her Majesty depends on you. And you seemed to have an interest in the stone.
Balthier: I�m only here to see how the story unfolds. Any self-respecting leading man would do the same.

No Right.

Dont really like any of them. What is it you're after, Balthier?

No Right

No Right

No Right

What is it you're after, Balthier?

What is it you're after, Balthier?

What is it you're after, Balthier?

What is it you're after, Balthier?

Hmm, I need to start keeping up with these again.

What is it you're after, Balthier?

No Right

No Right - 5
What is it you're after, Balthier? - 6


Close one!


Final battle of the quarter-finals:


The Sweet Dalmascan Air

Basch: To think Dalmascan air could taste so sweet.
Vaan: Where are we?
Balthier: The Estersand, by the look of it. Let�s back to Rabanastre before we shrivel up. By your leave, Captain.

vs.

Believe What You Want To

Balthier: A twin brother? Fancy that. Hmm. But still, the pieces fit. I�ll give you that much. And he did look like you.
Vaan: I don�t believe you.
Basch: Of course not. It was my fault that Reks was there. I am sorry.
Vaan: My brother, he trusted you. He trusted you, and he lost everything. How can I believe you?
Basch: Not me then. Believe in your brother. He was a fine soldier. He fought to the last to protect his homeland. No. Surely he fought to protect\ his brother.
Vaan: You don�t know anything!
Balthier: Believe what you want to. Whatever it takes to make you
happy. What�s done is done.

Believe What You Want To, another tough decision if I do say so myself.

Believe What You Want To

Believe What You Want To

Also, I'd like to humbly ask everyone to check out the Video Game Music Rumble (Thread 66118) and please vote!

Believe What You Want To

The Sweet Dalmascan Air

Believe What You Want To

The Sweet Dalmascan Air, though it was a tough decision this time.

The Sweet Dalmascan Air

The Sweet Dalmascan Air

Believe What You Want To

Believe What You Want To. Don't get what's so great about the other...

The Sweet Dalmascan Air - 4
Believe What You Want To - 7


Some support for "The Sweet Dalmascan Air," but "Believe What You Want To" is definitely the winner.


It's semi-final time! Here's what's left:

Surprisingly Rude
Believe What You Want To
What is it you're after, Balthier?
The Reins of History


Blah blah blah, updated battle info in first post. First up:


Surprisingly Rude

Vaan: (to Fran) Uh, how old were you again?
Balthier: Nice, Vaan.
Ashe: �
Larsa: Surprisingly rude.
Penelo: Try to grow up, please.


vs.

The Reins of History

Cid: Ashelia B�nargin Dalmasca! Just how far will you go for power? Does your lust for Nethicite consume you?
Ashe: (gasps)
Cid: Am I right? I am, aren�t I. A worthy daughter of the Dynast-King! You would do well to go to Giruvegan. Who knows? You may receive a new Stone for your trouble.
Ashe: Your words mean nothing to me!
Cid: The reins of History back in the hands of Man. I too make for Giruvegan. Give chase, if you dare it! (flies away on a hover drone)
Balthier: Hate it when he does that.

Surprisingly Rude

I'll actually go for The Reins Of History. Really tough choice

The Reins of History

Tough choice but Surprisingly Rude gets my vote

Surprisingly Rude

The Reins of History

All right, so that's...


Surprisingly Rude - 4
The Reins of History - 3


Bit of a surprise, I kinda thought "The Reins of History" was a lock. But it's "Surprisingly Rude" in the final.


Now to determine the second finalist...


Believe What You Want To

Balthier: A twin brother? Fancy that. Hmm. But still, the pieces fit. I�ll give you that much. And he did look like you.
Vaan: I don�t believe you.
Basch: Of course not. It was my fault that Reks was there. I am sorry.
Vaan: My brother, he trusted you. He trusted you, and he lost everything. How can I believe you?
Basch: Not me then. Believe in your brother. He was a fine soldier. He fought to the last to protect his homeland. No. Surely he fought to protect\ his brother.
Vaan: You don�t know anything!
Balthier: Believe what you want to. Whatever it takes to make you
happy. What�s done is done.

vs.


What is it you're after, Balthier?

Basch: And what is it you�re after, Balthier? You�re a welcome hand, and a great aid, but why?
Balthier: Worried I�m out to steal the Nethicite, eh? Can�t say I�m unaccustomed to people doubting my intentions. Nothing could be further from my mind. Shall I swear by your sword or some such?
Basch: Apologies. But I needed to know where you stand. Her Majesty depends on you. And you seemed to have an interest in the stone.
Balthier: I�m only here to see how the story unfolds. Any self-respecting leading man would do the same.

What is it you're after, Balthier? It was hard to decide, but I chose to go for the one without Vaan.

What is it you're after, Balthier?

What is it you're after, Balthier?

What is it you're after, Balthier?

Believe What You Want To

What is it you're after, Balthier?

Believe What You Want To - 1
What is it you're after, Balthier? - 5


Pretty one-sided there. And now, our grand final! This is for the winner of the Quotes edition!


Surprisingly Rude

Vaan: (to Fran) Uh, how old were you again?
Balthier: Nice, Vaan.
Ashe: …
Larsa: Surprisingly rude.
Penelo: Try to grow up, please.

vs.

What is it you're after, Balthier?

Basch: And what is it you’re after, Balthier? You’re a welcome hand, and a great aid, but why?
Balthier: Worried I’m out to steal the Nethicite, eh? Can’t say I’m unaccustomed to people doubting my intentions. Nothing could be further from my mind. Shall I swear by your sword or some such?
Basch: Apologies. But I needed to know where you stand. Her Majesty depends on you. And you seemed to have an interest in the stone.
Balthier: I’m only here to see how the story unfolds. Any self-respecting leading man would do the same.



After this battle, control of this Rumble reverts to whoever wants to take over. Zak, were you the one that said that you were interested?


P.S.: Do you guys want me to do 3rd/4th place, or do you care if I don't?

What is it you're after, Balthier?

Removed by request.

And I'd like to humbly ask that you stop posting a plug for that with each vote. It was fine the first time, in fact, I authorized it, but now it's starting to get a bit old. It's linked in your signature, that's enough.

What is it you're after, Balthier. LOL to the two comments above.

What is it you're after, Balthier?

What is it you're after, Balthier?

If you don't want to do the 3rd/4th place vote, you won't see any complaints from me. Although, it would be nice to know which one was which, so why not use the TCS system to decide those places?

What is it you're after, Balthier?

Hard choice, but I'll go for Surprisingly Rude.

Surprisingly Rude - 1
What is it you're after, Balthier? - 6


Not even close. Our big winner:



<font color="wheat">What is it you're after Balthier?</font>



Basch: And what is it you’re after, Balthier? You’re a welcome hand, and a great aid, but why?
Balthier: Worried I’m out to steal the Nethicite, eh? Can’t say I’m unaccustomed to people doubting my intentions. Nothing could be further from my mind. Shall I swear by your sword or some such?
Basch: Apologies. But I needed to know where you stand. Her Majesty depends on you. And you seemed to have an interest in the stone.
Balthier: I’m only here to see how the story unfolds. Any self-respecting leading man would do the same.




If you don't want to do the 3rd/4th place vote, you won't see any complaints from me. Although, it would be nice to know which one was which, so why not use the TCS system to decide those places?
That's a very smart idea. Let's do that...

Believe What You Want To - 7/8, 6/6, 7/11, 1/6
The Reins of History - 9/11, 5/5, 8/9, 4/7


I don't even need to run calculations, third place is awarded to <font color="red">The Reins of History</font>!


Well, that's it for my involvement as far as running this rumble. If people want to start nominating ideas for the next edition, go ahead. Zak, were you going to go ahead and take over? If you want, you can keep using this thread. I'll just update the first post each time you post a battle.

Ooh, yay.

Taking category requests... though at some point I want to do Rare Game, all 80 of them for that matter, since each one is unique and has its own gimmicks and things they're famous for (Dustia for early leveling, Larva Eater for the wild rumors about it's appearance rate... I can barely think of any that haven't been brought up in some discussion), and 80 halves down to only five. Would take a while.

I'm down for other suggestions though, cause I'd imagine not such a majority would be up for it. I can't think of anything else, we've done marks, bosses, music, quotes, locations... am I missing something?

If no one says anything, I'll do that, starting with 40 battles in round 1. It'll be long I know, but nothing I have a problem with. The question is whether Agent will have the patience to keep updating the first post.

Have you done Major NPCs that contribute to the game. Its just a thought....only a thought.

Yes, we have done major NPCs. The results of all previous battles are listed in the first post in the thread.


we've done marks, bosses, music, quotes, locations... am I missing something?Major NPCs. For that matter, major "PCs" as well.


I suppose Rare Game would be fine.

Okay sorry 'bout that.

Ill shut up now....until next rumble.

'K. Erm, so... question... does anybody actually ever read the updated results in the first post? Sometimes I seriously wonder if anyone ever does.

We've actually done NPCs twice in this very thread. At the beginning, and later...

Okay I guess Rare Game it is. I'll start soon, and if there's a good amount of votes, then for the first round I might make each battle one day.

Okay, here goes nothing... glad I don't have to pick and choose this time who to use, I have it ready. Battles have been drawn up randomly. Prepare for the long haul... here goes, first round of 40 battles.

Round 1 - Battle 1

Phyllo

A little blood-sucking bat that appears in the Branchway of Golmore Jungle, right after where you fight the Elder Wyrm. This is one that you're likely to get without looking at a guide, but it's so small you may not know you got it until you look at the Bestiary. However, this is also one that the chances increase if you kill all Malboros in the area.

VS.

Vagrant Soul

A great big dark-element Entite, in Rare Game form. Unlike Phyllo, this guy might almost be considered like a mini-boss, as if normal entites weren't already hard enough to kill. It also appears in a very specific area of the Pharos Subterra, after you kill the Seer mark. It's also used as a must-be-killed bridge to fight another Rare Game that's even tougher and with even more specific requirements... but we'll get to that.


Naturally my vote's for the Vagrant Soul.

I hate entites, I'll vote Phyllo.


And yes, I will keep updating the first post. Going to do that now. If for some reason I forget, remind me.

Hmmm I think i'll go for Vagrant Soul. Just cuz its one that people find it hard.

I hate entites, I'll vote Phyllo.

Vagrant Soul just because it brought Vagrant Story image to my mind, for a second o_o however silly it may sound...

I was gonna end this now.. but there's only five votes... gonna give a chance to pick up a little more first.

Know what, fuck it. I planned these battles to be one day instead of the usual two, and it's been three. I'm moving forward... just gonna have to pray for more activity I guess.

Vagrant Soul 3-2 Phyllo

Not a lot of votes, but a pretty close battle. Phyllo puts up a good fight, but the Vagrant Soul entite blasts it.

Round 1 - Battle 2

Aeros

A giant Aeronite that appears in the Shred after you kill all the Wu, but ONLY after you've encountered and defeated the rare Bull Croc. Better have Telekenisis or magic or long range handy!

VS.

Fideliant

A rare Dark Skeleton that may actually be one of the first you ever encounter. It may appear in a number of places in the Westersand, but only during a Sandstorm. It's not hard to miss, walking around emitting an odd glow, a little out-of-place in the desert... hopefully you see it before killing Earth Tyrant!


This time I'll go with the more simple one, Fideliant. Nothing special about either one gets me, but I think the Fideliant looks cool in that background.

Mrm, Aeros I suppose. Neither really hitting it for me.


Honestly, I'm gonna toss this out there-- Rare Game suck and I don't think I'm the only one that thinks so. This isn't a very interesting idea for an edition and that may be why you're not getting very many votes.

There are plenty of things I'd rather do but they've all pretty much been done.

Aeros

There are plenty of other things I'd rather do but they've all pretty much been done.
Then maybe we could brainstorm for ideas? We could probably come up with something more interesting than Rare Game.

Perhaps, but I wish you would have brought forth the issue before I had started.


Yes, we have done major NPCs. The results of all previous battles are listed in the first post in the thread.


Major NPCs. For that matter, major "PCs" as well.


I suppose Rare Game would be fine.



See, that's what gave me the greenlight, why didn't you say something else instead and wait 'till now? Change of mind?

Well anyway if I must change it I would like to do Location Music. I know music was already done, but that was three editions ago no? But I remember there were a lot of location themes which Ceid didn't include. Plus if we narrow down music, locations would be the way to go rather than character themes or battle themes which there aren't a whole lot of in the game.

Anyway, it was a long time because of the last one being juggled around plus NPCs was done twice anyway. Are we cool with that?

If not maybe I could narrow it down to NOTABLE rare game, as in ones that are reognized for something, like Negalmuur, Larva Eater, Helvinek, Disma, etc.

I'll do one of those. Maybe I'll allow nominations if I do notable rares.

Yeah, change of mind, I suppose. Also, I suppose, a bit of a failure to realize at first that the topic really didn't interest me and probably wouldn't interest others either.


Notable Rare Game might be a worthwhile fix. Otherwise, I quite like the idea of Location Music.

I think I will do Location music since I'm doing a monster-related rumble right now in X.

I would have done notable Rare Game from the start if it weren't for 80 being such a nice round even number. Maybe I'll do that next.

Im gonna go for Fideliant.

No more voting, Zak just said we're moving on. I will update the first post to reflect that...

Okay, I got a list of 42 Location music. Since the closest ideal even number is 40, I'm gonna eliminate "The Tomb of Raithwall" for obvious reasons (it's only drums and mostly light noises), and I'm gonna combine "Secret Practice" and "The Port of Balfonheim" into one, seeing as they're both played together as the Balfonheim music. Although "Secret Practice" is also played elsewhere, it's only qualifies as a "location theme" when combined with TPoB.

Just for the record, in case you're wondering how I got 40 (well, there are a lot of places) for me a "location theme" must meet the following criteria to qualify:
-Must be played when you're in control, as in outside of scenes.
-Must be outside of battle or outside of a special quest or mode.
-Must be something that starts when you enter the place and stops when you exit a place.
-Can't be in somewhere where you're in for too short, like "Time For a Rest" which is played in the rooms at the end of the Tomb of Raithwall and the Miriam Stillshrine where you get the artifacts. I thought about "Infiltration" since it's in Nalbina Fortress as Reks, but nah, too short. I didn't include Bahamut either. Trust me, 40 may seem like a lot, but these are all in locations where you spend enough time for their themes to seem familiar enough.

But believe me... I haven't overdone it, these are all good :)

Just gonna get these matched up and stuff, and I'll start momentarily.

Okay, starting now.

Round 1 - Battle 1

The Golmore Jungle - Listen Here (http://bluelaguna.net/downloads/mp3s/final-fantasy-xii-12-ost-soundtrack/308+The+Golmore+Jungle.mp3)

Not a whole lot description required I bet you can guess where this theme is, nowhere but the Golmore Jungle. Very mysterious sounding, perfect fit... walking through those jungle planks.

VS.

To the Peak - Listen Here (http://lamda.bluelaguna.net/final-fantasy-xii-12-ost-soundtrack/413%20To%20the%20Peak.mp3)

The only thing this has in common is it's also played only in one place, and that's the Pharos' Second Ascent. Just as the title implies, it's pretty suspenseful sounding, like you're about to reach something big... the second ascent is the tricky one where you have to give up a power, for those who forgot, and probably takes the longest.

And I will cast my vote later... like them both on the same scale and can't decide.

To the Peak

Hrm, neither are on the top of my list, but To the Peak for me.

To the Peak, listened to them both again and it looks like I prefer that one.

To the Peak

Golmore Jungle

Golmore Jungle.Spent lots of time training here to beat the damn Elder Wyrm.

Hmm, ok.

To the Peak 4-2 Golmore Jungle

The Pharos' Second Ascent theme overtakes this one... must be the opening... plus the fact that you probably hear it less.

Round 1 - Battle 2

Ashe's Theme - Listen Here (http://bluelaguna.net/downloads/mp3s/final-fantasy-xii-12-ost-soundtrack/409+Ashe%27s+Theme.mp3)

This is a very weird song as it's kind of two very different tracks in one, so I suggest listening to the whole loop. Both "parts" of it, happen to be location themes for two different locations, but it's more the second part that should be recognized as such. The initial part plays in the entrance walkway section of Giruvegan up until where you fight Daedalus, which isn't very far, but the second more fast-paced part plays throughout all of the Pharos Subterra. I'd prefer to recognize it as the latter, so listen in all the way. But feel free to vote based on whatever, as I have no control over that. But if it didn't have the Pharos Subterra second part I probably would not have used it.

VS.

Giruvegan's Mystery - Listen Here (http://lamda.bluelaguna.net/final-fantasy-xii-12-ost-soundtrack/410%20Giruvegan%27s%20Mystery.mp3)

Interesting pairup eh... both Giruvegan. Well, this is the theme for greater Giruvegan, up to the great crystal, which is a lot more arguably a whole location. I guess this is good to have early, one Giruvegan at a time anyway (even though I said the other one was to mostly represent Pharos Subterra). So, it's a very mysterious theme... it's also used briefly in the cutscene when you first discover the nethicite with Larsa in the Lhusu Mines, right before Ba'Gamnan and co. start chasing you. I'm sure if you've spent a lot of time painfully hunting the Diakon Entite you'd be familiar with it.


Anyway I'm a go with Ashe's Theme

Ashe's Theme, since the background music in Giruvegan made my brain go numb while leveling up/collecting loot...

My choice is Ashe's Theme, though I'm not sure I'll vote for it in any later battles.

Ashe's Theme, I guess.

Both are pretty 'meh'. I'll go with Ashe's Theme.

Dont really like any of them. But ill go for Ashe's Theme

That was fast.

Ashe's Theme 6-0 Giruvegan's Mystery

Well, a wipeout all right, but this seems to be more of a "lesser of the two evils" case. Surprised though, I thought Ashe's theme was popular. Not even sure why it's HER theme because other than those two locations (one of which closely relates to her) it's played very briefly in a couple Waterway scenes near the beginning and that's it.

Anyway.

Round 1 - Battle 3

The Forgotten Capital - Listen Here (http://bluelaguna.net/downloads/mp3s/final-fantasy-xii-12-ost-soundtrack/407+The+Forgotten+Capital.mp3)

The theme of the ever-so-frustrating Necrohol of Nabudis. That place made it far in the location rumble... third place I believe? Well anyway, the tune, possesses a pretty rare characteristic, being in 7/8. Don't see that very often... I can name only two other Uematsu/Sakimoto/whatever tracks like that. Anyway, very dark-sounding and fitting... also used in a couple of scenes, when Mjrn is missing and when the Dawn Shard is destroyed.

VS.

Jahara - Land of the Garif - Listen Here (http://lamda.bluelaguna.net/final-fantasy-xii-12-ost-soundtrack/306%20Jahara,%20Land%20of%20the%20Garif.mp3)

Catchy tune, as the title says, the theme of Jahara. Very different mood than it's opponent, then again, Jahara's a very different place as well. Sounds like a good theme for a settlement. Also, even though you go to Jahara a little later in the game, this is one of the first songs you'll hear starting a new game, as it's used as the background for Ondore's narration. Also during a brief scene before entering the Tomb of Raithwall.


For me? The Forgotten Capital, easily.

Jahara, Land of the Garif, easily.



Edit: Forgive me, but I don't normally make a habit out of doing this. I change my vote. I'm voting for The Forgotten Capital.

Forgotten Capital because 7/8 for the win...is it just me or does it feel like we just did a music rumble?

Jahara - Land Of The Garif

Forgotten Capital.Didnt really like the Jahara music.

Jahara - Land of the Garif

Didn't expect it for this battle, but we've got a tie! I know who to pick for the tiebreaker... arthurgolden, your call!

Also, Hawkeye - You're sort of right, except it was a year ago considering how long this one took. But this is more specific, and if you look at the beginning of this, you see I originally wanted to do something else.

The Forgotten Capital


EDIT: oh wait sorry Zak, just read your post

It's okay, I'll count it if he doesn't respond... and if he picks Jahara I'll do another one.

Right... Arthur's time is up. So, I'm giving this one to The Forgotten Capital. Very close match! Far closer than I expected, but too bad for Jahara...

Round 1 - Battle 4

Rabanastre Downtown - Listen Here (http://bluelaguna.net/downloads/mp3s/final-fantasy-xii-12-ost-soundtrack/119+Rabanastre+Downtown.mp3)

The title may be a bit confusing, as this is the theme for Lowtown. As in, DOWNtown, get it? The home of Old Dalan and all the unlucky Dalmascan folk, the aspiring Sky Pirates, etc. Very nice and fitting beat... quite unusual for this game.

VS.

Secret Practice + The Port of Balfonheim - Listen Here (http://lamda.bluelaguna.net/final-fantasy-xii-12-ost-soundtrack/107%20Secret%20Practice.mp3) and Here (http://lamda.bluelaguna.net/final-fantasy-xii-12-ost-soundtrack/403%20The%20Port%20of%20Balfonheim.mp3)

Yes, these are two tracks, but because this is a LOCATION Music rumble, and Balfonheim plays a combination of these two, they might as well both contend together. See, it might make sense to include TPoB alone, but listen to them both... and I'd imagine the average person associates Balfonheim more with the catchy "Secret Practice". And if I include Secret Practice alone, it would be weird to not include the track with the NAME of the city it's representing, as "Secret Practice" is actually originally from the rat-hunting at the beginning. TPoB is only here, and in the game at all times combined with SP. Why? Ask the developers, maybe they thought TPoB was boring, I don't know, but if it's a combination in the game, it's a combination in this rumble.

Regardless of all that, I'm voting for Rabanastre Downtown.

Rabanastre Downtown. Sorry to be absent for the last battle. Just drove home from the beach.

Zak, I'll post my vote later, but I think you need to check your vote-counting more carefully-- the last battle wasn't a tie, it was a clear win at 4-2 for The Forgotten Capital.

Rabanastre Downtown

Oh... sorry Agent, I didn't notice you changed your vote.

I did the counting in a seperate sitting than I had made the post calling a tie, and didn't see any new posts so I called it as I remembered. I'm cool with changing votes, but from now on, notify in a seperate post that you've changed it just so it gets my attention. You can still edit your original one, just when you do, make another post saying "I changed my vote" or something. I don't mind a seperate post since it's a rare occurance and all.

Anyway, keep going.

Zak, I'm still confused as to how you could have called it a tie, because even if you counted both my votes, it still would have been 4-3. Also, I did specifically add a slash through the old vote. I'll make sure to do a separate post in the future, though.

Okay, my vote is for Secret Practice + The Port of Balfonheim and I'm definitely not changing it this time.

Zak, I'm still confused as to how you could have called it a tie, because even if you counted both my votes, it still would have been 4-3. Also, I did specifically add a slash through the old vote. I'll make sure to do a separate post in the future, though.

I just looked again... but I'm not sure what you see. Let me break it down... if your vote was Jahara, Jahara would have you, Slavka, and Ruttokoira, that's 3. Forgotten Capital would have myself, Hawkeye, and Shadow Mage, also 3.
Purrr had posted by mistake AFTER I called a tie and selected arthurgolden, and I didn't want to go back on my word, so I said his will only count if arthurgolden doesn't post. It didn't, so it counted in the end. Maybe you're looking at Purrr's post... but it didn't count as part of the alleged tie.

Secret Practice + The Port of Balfonheim.

Secret Practice + The Port of Balfonheim

Rabanastre Downtown

Rabanastre Downtown 4-3 Secret Practice/The Port of Balfonheim

Another close battle, but for a rundown area that Lowtown is, it's chanty beat makes up fori it, and manages to top Balfonheim... or Secret Practice. Or maybe the confusion factor with the music, but anyway, let's move on.

Round 1 - Battle 5

The Skycity of Bhujerba - Listen Here (http://bluelaguna.net/downloads/mp3s/final-fantasy-xii-12-ost-soundtrack/217+The+Skycity+of+Bhujerba.mp3)

As the name says, Bhujerba's lovely flute and clarinet theme. Listening to it reminds me of the "I'm Captain Basch!" part especially, heh heh. There's actually one other small place it's used for some reason, and that's the Giza Plains nomad village.

VS.

A Land of Memories - Listen Here (http://lamda.bluelaguna.net/final-fantasy-xii-12-ost-soundtrack/406%20A%20Land%20of%20Memories.mp3)

The theme of the misty Nabreus Deadlands. Beautiful theme, eh? Starts out a little slow on one note, but after a minute it gets good once it hits the high notes, if you have the patience... unless you already remember it. A pretty calm and relaxing theme for a place with such tough monsters.

I'll hold off on my vote for now.

The Skycity of Bhujerba. Definitely no changing my vote on this one-- I hate those Deadlands.

The Skycity of Bhujerba

The Skycity Of Bhujerba.

The Skycity of Bhujerba without a doubt.

The Skycity of Bhujerba for me as well. Hard choice.

Just one more... let's make this fast.

The Skycity of Bhujerba without a doubt.

The Skycity of Bhujerba

Absolutely no love for the Deadlands music...

The Skycity of Bhujerba 7-0 A Land of Memories

A surprising blowout against the Deadlands' theme. But yeah, barely anything can beat clarinets.

Round 1 - Battle 6

The Secret of Nethicite - Listen Here (http://lamda.bluelaguna.net/final-fantasy-xii-12-ost-soundtrack/218%20The%20Secret%20of%20Nethicite.mp3)

Although this theme is used in a lot of scenes, this is the main theme of, as you probably can tell by the title, nowhere other than the floating Lhusu Mines. I'd reckon a lot of you spent a lot of time there to be familiar with this theme. It may sound slow paced at first, but it does get dramatic towards the end. I pretty much had it engraved as I was chaining the Bombshell.

VS.

The Garamsythe Waterway - Listen Here (http://lamda.bluelaguna.net/final-fantasy-xii-12-ost-soundtrack/127%20The%20Garamsythe%20Waterway.mp3)

For once, a theme a similar style as it's opponent, with a lot of strings and background twinkling. As far as I know this theme is only here, but a lot of time is spent here as well. This theme also starts out slow and picks up.

For me, The Garamsythe Waterway easily. Certain parts of that underrated track give me goosebumps. I was disappointed when Ceid didn't use it :(

The Garamsythe Waterway

Secret of the Nethicite...

Ooooh So hard to pick. Garamsythe Waterways I reckon really gave me more 'goosebumps'. Plus it took me ages to beat the white mousse.

Garamsythe Waterways. I'm sorry I missed the little bit of the rare game rumble, but I think it would be a good idea to narrow it down to notable ones.

The Garamsythe Waterway


Also, Zak, could you try to make the links a bit more consistent? Sometimes they take you to a page and other times they take you to a direct download.

Really, they're all supposed to go to a direct download, as in, if your browser supports it you'd play it there rather than the file itself. For me it always does the browser thing, never downloads it directly, I double check. Maybe it's your browser settings...

The Garamsythe Waterway

Hi Zak. The music always plays, but sometimes we're looking at the Blue Laguna download page and sometimes we're on the lambda server's page.

So, for example,



The Secret of Nethicite - Listen Here (http://bluelaguna.net/downloads/mp3s/final-fantasy-xii-12-ost-soundtrack/218+The+Secret+of+Nethicite.mp3)



goes to a the Blue Laguna page, whereas



The Garamsythe Waterway - Listen Here (http://lamda.bluelaguna.net/final-fantasy-xii-12-ost-soundtrack/127%20The%20Garamsythe%20Waterway.mp3)


goes to the lambda server. You can see the difference in the url. The solution is actually pretty easy. If you click on the lambda link on The Secret of Nethicite page, and do that for every other song, we'll always get the same visuals with the music.

That must have been the first time I've ever done that, the "Secret of Nethicite" link was supposed to go directly to the lambda link. Editing now... I always right click on the lambda link and copy location, dont know how it ended up like that..

The Garamsythe Waterway 6-1 The Secret of Nethicite

Although the themes are similar in style, the Waterway's ends up trumping the mines' theme. It must be a lot more captivating...

By the way, I did notice it did the same thing to my Bhujerba link... weird. I know I'm always going for the direct download link off the Lambda server (Cobalt doesn't seem to play in the browser) but definitely never the stream page with the links... odd, maybe a glitch in the site or the forum. I'll double check they work and if not edit.

Moving on.

Round 1 - Battle 7

The Stillshrine of Miriam - Listen Here (http://lamda.bluelaguna.net/final-fantasy-xii-12-ost-soundtrack/315%20The%20Stillshrine%20of%20Miriam.mp3)

As the title says, the Stillshrine's theme, nowhere else. This one's definitely interesting and different than most other themes, with the flutes, and bouncy beat. I think (I might be wrong) this track was actually the very first one revealed during the FFXII OST preview at E3 or something... and also, this was the theme they decided to use for the main menu of the Bonus Disc DVD that comes with the collectors edition. Yeah, I guess it does give a "main menu" feel.

VS.

The Dalmasca Westersand - Listen Here (http://lamda.bluelaguna.net/final-fantasy-xii-12-ost-soundtrack/122%20The%20Dalmasca%20Westersand.mp3)

The dark and gloomy thing of the Westersands. Very fitting for the side of the desert in which the sandstorms occur. Reminds me of chaining Dustia for early leveling up...


I have to go with The Stillshrine of Miriam.

The Stillshrine of Miriam

The Stillshrine of Miriam

The Stillshrine of Miriam. The other piece has potential that it just never ends up getting around to.

The Stillshrine of Miriam

The Stilshrine Of Miriam. Westersand is too lifeless.

Yeah, thought so.

The Stillshrine of Miriam 7-0 The Dalmasca Westersand

I can't decide whether the Miriam theme is considered awesome or the Westersand is too lame, but this was a pretty harsh blowout, and a fast one at that!

Round 1 - Battle 8

The Sandsea - Listen Here (http://lamda.bluelaguna.net/final-fantasy-xii-12-ost-soundtrack/301%20The%20Sandsea.mp3)

No, not the pub in Rabanastre. This sad-sounding theme is for the vast Yensan Sandseas... or rather, the giant structures over them. The Sandsea is vast and holds a lot of secrets, and this theme is very fitting for the miserable Yensa-folk. It's also used in the game a couple other scenes before you even set foot in the Sandsea, including when you first meet Ba'Gamnan in the Prison. Perhaps that's a hint as to where his story will end up...

VS.

To the Place of the Gods - Listen Here (http://lamda.bluelaguna.net/final-fantasy-xii-12-ost-soundtrack/411%20To%20the%20Place%20of%20the%20Gods.mp3)

Another theme for a huge place you may spend a LONG time in: The ever-so-confusing maze of oblivion that is the Great Crystal. 'Course, unlike the Sandsea it's optional to do the things that would entail you spending a long time there. If you have, you should be familiar with this mysterious enchanting theme. Looking at it from an outsider's point of view I would say the music also gives a near-end-of-game feel... no?


Anyway, I gotta go with To the Place of the Gods. It's hella fun to play on the piano and I actually really liked the Crystal even though it took a long time, I admire the effort the designers put into planning that thing. They picked a good choice of music here. I was also disappointed when Ceid didn't include it.

By the way, I'm pretty sure I found the root of the problem making my links inconsistent. All links should go to direct download/stream now.

To the Place of the Gods

To the Place of the Gods

To the Place of the Gods...

To the Place of the Gods

To the Place of the Gods

These are going fast... I like it.

To the Place of the Gods 6-0 The Sandsea

A blowout on the Great Crystal's theme, absolutely no love for the Sandsea. Granted, not much can beat the Crystal theme...


Next up.

Round 1 - Battle 9

The Dalmasca Estersand - Listen Here (http://lamda.bluelaguna.net/final-fantasy-xii-12-ost-soundtrack/113%20The%20Dalmasca%20Eastersand.mp3)

So the Westersand theme just lost... how's about the other half, the Estersands? One of the very first places you get to be. As for the music, for something that's the Westersand's other half, the music sure is as different as it could get. More fast and orchestrated. Seeing as it's one of the first places you go, they really wanted to impress us with the OST early in the game... as if they didn't already.

VS.

Clan Headquarters - Listen Here (http://lamda.bluelaguna.net/final-fantasy-xii-12-ost-soundtrack/123%20Clan%20Headquarters.mp3)

As the title says, the theme for the headquarters of Clan Centurio. Kinda a remixed and sped up version of Rabanastre, for part of it at least. You might think it's a small space for a location, but you DO spend a lot of time there enough for it to fit in... but even if you don't, you may remember this is actually also the theme for the Royal Palace which is more of a whole location anyway. Shame you only get to visit it once... "hey bucket-head!".
I don't know if they name the pieces first or decide how to implement them the game, but I would have named this one after the palace rather than the Clan HQ.

Anyhow, I vote Clan Headquarters.

The Dalmasca Estersand

Clan Headquarters

Clan Headquarters

The Dalmasca Estersand

The Dalmasca Estersand.Its such a contrast to the Westersand music.

The Dalmasca Estersand

The Dalmasca Estersand

The Dalmasca Estersand

Clan Headquarters

The Dalmasca Estersand 7-4 Clan Headquarters

Great battle! Both put up a fair fight, but the Dalmasca Eastersand triumphs over the Clan/Palace theme. Talk about a contrast to the Westersand theme!

Round 1 - Battle 10

The Mosphoran Highwaste - Listen Here (http://lamda.bluelaguna.net/final-fantasy-xii-12-ost-soundtrack/324%20The%20Mosphoran%20Highwaste.mp3)

The theme for the land known as the Mosphoran Highwaste, home of Exodus and the water shrine things. Interesting music to say the least, pretty orchestrated, probably because of the rain, but at some point in it, it sounds a little like I'm in a boss battle... no?

VS.

Ozmone Plains - Listen Here (http://lamda.bluelaguna.net/final-fantasy-xii-12-ost-soundtrack/307%20Ozmone%20Plains.mp3)

A more relaxed, yet still upbeat theme... of Ozmone Plains. I've actually heard it's theme get praised before, for some reason! I guess I can understand why. This piece of land serves almost the same purpose as the Highwaste, to bridge between important places!

Throwing one for The Mosphoran Highwaste.

Hmm I'm not a real huge fan of either, but The Mosphoran Highwaste because it reminds me of a tune out of Star Wars.

The Mosphoran Highwaste

Ozmone Plains

The Mosphoran Highwaste

The Moshphoran Highwaste. For some reason the ozmone plains theme just irritates me.

Ozmone Plain...Mosphorian annoyed me tbh...

EDIT: Why did they end up changing the key for the OST and the ingame track? Something that just bothered me...

EDIT: Why did they end up changing the key for the OST and the ingame track? Something that just bothered me...
So it's not just my imagination. But it's not just that track either, is it? Didn't they do that for quite a few of the tracks? I think the same thing may have been done with Final Fantasy X-2.

They may have( for other tracks), I haven't played in a while/listened to the soundtrack...but there is a distinct difference in keys, I can tell...

The Mosphoran Highwaste

Ozmone Plains

The Mosphoran Highwaste 6-4 Ozmone Plains

Very close battle, probably the best one so far, but the Mosphoran Highwaste theme triumphs. And we're halfway!

Round 1 - Battle 11

Eruyt Village - Listen Here (http://lamda.bluelaguna.net/final-fantasy-xii-12-ost-soundtrack/309%20Eruyt%20Village.mp3)

The calm and relaxing theme of Eruyt Village. Fits the Vieras perfectly, and their obsession with peace and tranquility. That place is a little underutilized, however, but it's got a nice theme.

VS.

Seeking Power - Listen Here (http://lamda.bluelaguna.net/final-fantasy-xii-12-ost-soundtrack/304%20Seeking%20Power.mp3)

Also a piano theme, but far more intense, and certainly not calm, except at the very end of the loop. This is the theme of the Paramina Rift, and it's a hell of a theme. Fits the snowstorm environment perfectly. It's also played in various scenes with judges, hence the title, but as for places, it's only the Paramina Rift that gets this theme. It's probably already associated with it enough as it is.

Eruyt Village is good... but Seeking Power is among my favorite tracks in the game and there are few things I'd vote against it. It also didn't get very far last time.

Seeking Power

Seeking Power. The Eruyt Village always reminds me of the slow moments through Golmore Jungle.

Eruyt Village

Seeking Power

Seeking Power

Seeking Power

Eruyt Village

Seeking Power 6-3 Eruyt Village

Good battle, but the Paramina Rift's theme seems to have a greater following. Wonder how far it will go...

Up next are some more ominous themes.

Round 1 - Battle 12

The Zertinan Caverns - Listen Here (http://lamda.bluelaguna.net/final-fantasy-xii-12-ost-soundtrack/405%20The%20Zertinan%20Caverns.mp3)

The Zertinan Caverns... a good place to get your ass whooped early in the game unless you know what you're doing. Anyway, the theme itself may sound like just some one-note slow twinkly noise, but listen all the way through until it picks up. It really gets intense and awesome. Sound more familiar now?

VS.

An Imminent Threat - Listen Here (http://lamda.bluelaguna.net/final-fantasy-xii-12-ost-soundtrack/312%20An%20Imminent%20Threat.mp3)

Another theme where the title doesn't refer the place it's for, and that's the Henne Mines. Home of Tiamat and Zodiark, and the second part of the mines can be a bitch even at high levels. As for the theme, it's also pretty ominous and intensely changes its pace a lot. I'm sure a great deal of you spent enough time there to have heard it a lot.

Tough choice for me, both are really underlooked and good, and similar, sort of! I'm going with An Imminent Threat, though I suggest if you forget how they sound, listening to both loop all the way through since they take a while before picking up.