The Mighty Nein's Opening Sequence Selected the Wrong Critical Role Track
The Mighty Nein, the most recent animated series by the beloved role-playing group, revealed a new introductory sequence. It showcases the beloved cast of misfits, outcasts, and criminals kicking ass and making their mark, while teasing at multiple agonizing personal histories for characters including the voice actor's mage Caleb, and Travis Willingham's orc warlock, Fjord.
All in all, the intro looks stunning. However, I felt that something was missing in the music selection.
The intro uses "Welcome to the Continent", a truly stellar song composed by producer and singer the talented musician. This piece originating from the official score of that title, the second release released by the production company's record label Scanlan Shorthalt Music. It's a wonderful nostalgic choice, and I suspect that devotees of the sequel series will love its presence.
Personally, The Mighty Nein's opening doesn't quite capture the hype and excitement that accompanied the second campaign's live-play sessions. "Your Turn to Roll", written by musician Jason Charles Miller, became an immediate hit for me when it was initially unveiled in 2015, and it improved further when cast member Sam Riegel wrote words to the melody for the animated Campaign 2 opening in 2018.
Featuring vocals from Ashley Johnson, another performer, a co-star, as well as the writer, the song was memorable and fun. Back then, I hadn't even watched the second campaign yet, but it was so infectious that I kept it on my device. This track that excites you before you dive into an episode of adventurous fun.
The Mighty Nein's opening with "the new song" fails to hit the right notes for me. It's a grand piece of music, but based on my understanding of the group, I can't help but feel that its mood is somewhat mismatched.
Naturally, the creators has already said that the series will have some changes and differences from the actual-play campaign. An adjusted mood for its intro seems to be one of them.
This animated adventure will be released on the streaming service from November 19. For those eager before that, or want a head start to learn about the characters of Critical Role's Campaign 2, the original episodes are accessible on Spotify and the video site.
