We seem to be a family of video game junkies - we have five different systems, three of which are hooked up all the time. I'm sure we aren't the only ones. ;) As technology advances, not only are the graphics getting absolutely amazing, but the music is too. Sometimes the musical scores for the games are more than what you will find in motion pictures!
Video Games Live: Level 2 features a never before televised music event with video from games like Super Mario Brothers, Halo, my DH's beloved game series God of War, and lots more. While the orchestra is playing, there is footage of the games being played. It's super neat to see how some of the video game footage has evolved. ;) The stage show is a big production, and there are choirs to go alongside the musicians. And it's not just classical, have no fear.
While there has been a CD released before featuring these scores, this is the first DVD release (it's also available on Blu-Ray). It New Orleans this past April in high definition with 5.1 audio surround sound. All together, the concert features the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, a 34-person chorus; a number of soloists including pianist Martin Leung, flautist Laura “Flute Link” Intravia, original vocalists from the games; plus a rock band featuring Tallarico on guitar, lasers and special effects.
Just as a heads up, there are interviews with composers of the original games and other folks in between some of the performances, it doesn't flow entirely as the performance. If you're looking at it from an entirely musical perspective, this might bug you a little - but my gamer husband didn't mind it all. There is also lots of bonus material that includes more information, behind the scenes looks (look for a super cool feature on the guitarist's unique guitars!!!), as well as a whole host of teasers, trailers, and making of some of the games.
Here's the trailer if you are interested in a sneak peek:
Direct Link for the Feedreaders
And here's the total track listing:
Classic Arcade Medley
Halo Montage
Civilization IV: Baba Yetu (Duet Version)
StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty Theme
Sonic the Hedgehog: Staff Credits
Advent Rising Overture
Interactive Guitar Hero: Aerosmith – "Sweet Emotion"
Warcraft Montage
Chrono Cross: Scars of Time
Mass Effect Suite
Megaman Montage
Tribute To Ralph Baer
Myst Suite
The Legend of Zelda Suite
Super Mario Bros. Medley
God of War: Revenge and Redemption
Martin Leung - Mario Solo Piano Medley
Martin Leung - Tetris Solo Piano Medley
World of Warcraft: Lament of the Highborne
Castlevania Rock Overture
If you are looking for a gift for the gamer geek in your life, look no further than Video Games Live: Level 2. My DH was all over this DVD, and I don't think he shut up the entire show. lol Look at that! This is awesome! Oh oh, SONIC! TETRIS! LOL! It's fun for the whole family - I know Halo is more for the adult crowd, but there are lots of kid friendly games included too. By the way, if you have a Blu-Ray player (or Playstation 3), I highly suggest you pick up the Blu-Ray/DVD combo. You'll probably enjoy the sound and pictures even more!
Video Games Live: Level 2 is available now on both DVD as well as Blu-Ray/DVD combo - and even CD, too. It's not rated, but safe for everyone - don't worry about violent footage from some of the games being used, it's safe - and it runs a total of 280 minutes long. The suggested retail price of the DVD is $19.99, though Amazon has it for $15.99 as of this posting (strangely, the BluRay/DVD combo is $14.99 right now, but there is a delay on shipping - not a big deal if it's a holiday present?)
This post is part of my Holiday Gift Guide 2010. To see more great gift ideas, just click it.
I received a copy of this DVD in order to write a review. All opinions are my own.
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