The New Animated Series' Introductory Sequence Selected the Wrong Critical Role Song

The Mighty Nein, the newest animated series from Critical Role, revealed a new introductory sequence. It features our favorite group of outcasts, misfits, and criminals fighting hard and making their mark, while teasing at multiple agonizing backstories for key figures such as Liam O'Brien's mage Caleb, and another actor's orc warlock, the character Fjord.

Overall, the intro looks stunning. But I couldn't help feeling that something was lost in the song choice.

This sequence uses "Welcome to Wildemount", a truly stellar song composed by artist the talented musician. It's a track from the soundtrack album of that title, the second one put out by Critical Role Productions LLC's record label Scanlan Shorthalt Music. It's a great nostalgic option, and I suspect that devotees of the sequel series will appreciate its inclusion.

But for me, The Mighty Nein's opening fails to capture the hype and excitement that was part of the second campaign's live-play sessions. "It's Your Turn", written by musician Jason Charles Miller, became an immediate hit in my view when it was first revealed in that year, and it improved further when cast member Sam Riegel added lyrics to the tune for the animated Campaign 2 opening in 2018.

Including singing from Ashley Johnson, another performer, Travis Willingham, as well as Riegel himself, the song was catchy and fun. Back then, I hadn't seen the follow-up series yet, but it was so infectious that I kept it on my device. It's a song that excites you before you dive into an episode of adventurous fun.

The Mighty Nein's intro with "Welcome to Wildemount" fails to hit the right notes for me. It's an impressive composition, but based on my understanding of the group, I can't help but feel that its mood is a little off.

Of course, Critical Role has stated that the animated show will have a few surprises and differences from the actual-play campaign. An adjusted mood for its opening appears as one of them.

The Mighty Nein will be available to watch on Prime Video from November 19. If you can't wait until then, or wish to prepare to get to know the personas of the second series, the actual play are accessible on Spotify and YouTube.