This is the soundtrack to the Dreamcast game "Climax Landers", known in America as "Time Stalkers". From what I'm told by friends who have played through the game, there aren't any tracks missing from this OST, making it by all means *complete*. I believe that this soundtrack is by all means a good one, and any fan of the Climax adventure games should check this soundtrack out.

One of the big advantages to this soundtracks is the fact that there are multiple composers: four, to be exact. I am a real believer in soundtracks with multiple composers...Look at all the great soundtracks with multiple composers! Chrono Trigger OST, Final Fantasy Tactics, Ogre Battle 64, and Treasure Hunter G, just to name a few. All of these stand out as great soundtracks...Even when the music genre seems similar, there is a definite diversity. While not as dramatic as the previously-listed soundtracks, this one does benefit with its diversity. It's more comparable to something like the Chocobo's Dungeon 2 OST. Also, like the CD2 OST review, samples from each composer are found below.

The synths used on this soundtrack are great. A lot of good piano is put in here, and some of the battle tracks are just hardcore, comparable to some Sakuraba tracks (track 7 is one such example, an amazing piece). The slower tracks come together as somewhat dramatic...All-around solid soundtrack. And though most people hate this game, anyone who has played through a good bit of it with the sound on will tell you that the soundtrack is a fine one. Editor Commodore Wheeler has been quoted by me as saying "The music is probably the best part of the game". That's saying something. Also, a note on the packaging. The liner notes are made of a different fiber than normal glossy paper...I don't really know what it is, but I would definitely call it "higher quality" than what normal CD booklets are made of; less flimsy.

This CD is a tough find, indeed. There was a time when express.com offered it for a mere $13, but they have since cleared out everything they once had, and so your best bets are online auctions. I've never seen it for sale. It's not the best album in the world, but you may want it. Make your choice, friends.

Reviewed by: Patrick Gann