Final Fantasy VIII (4 Discs)

Album review: Elliot Goldenthal outdid himself with the epic score for this box-office bomb. A soaring, triumphant work brilliantly brought to life by the London Symphony Orchestra , Goldenthal 's score surely would have received Oscar consideration if the film itself had performed better. Opening with an almost Wagner-ian tone, Goldenthal weaves a complex tapestry of sound, utilizing some good old-fashioned chorus and brass fireworks along with more transcendent string passages. Many moments are...

During wartime, the great Archadian Empire invades the small kingdom of Dalamasca and establishes a new consul. The move catches the attention of Vaan, a street urchin, who hates the Empire for taking the life of his brother. Vaan hatches a plan to sneak into the castle to steal one of the Empire's treasures. But, before he can act, a resistance movement rises up against the Empire. Amid the ensuing confusion, Vaan sees something he can scarcely believe--Princess Ashe, the sole remaining heir to the Dalamascan throne. From Square Enix. PlayStation 2. Rated E. Made in USA.

The crystal comes back in this outstanding chapter of the Final Fantasy epic. Visually stunning and exciting to play, it's a brilliant game that satisfies both old and new fans.