The New Animated Series' Opening Sequence Selected the Incorrect Critical Role Track

This latest animated series, the newest animated series by Critical Role, unveiled an exciting opening credits. It features our favorite cast of misfits, outcasts, and criminals kicking ass and making their mark, while also hinting at multiple agonizing backstories for key figures such as Liam O'Brien's wizard Caleb, and Travis Willingham's warlock orc, the character Fjord.

All in all, the opening looks stunning. But I couldn't help feeling that an element was missing in the song choice.

The intro uses "Welcome to the Continent", an exceptional song composed by producer and singer Colm McGuinness. It's a track originating from the official score of that title, the second one put out by Critical Role Productions LLC's music division Scanlan Shorthalt Music. It's a wonderful nostalgic choice, and I believe that fans of the second campaign will appreciate its presence.

But for me, The Mighty Nein's opening fails to capture the hype and energy that accompanied the second campaign's actual-play adventure. "It's Your Turn", written by musician the artist, became an immediate hit for me when it was initially unveiled in 2015, and it improved further when co-founder Sam Riegel wrote words to the melody for the series' animated intro in the later year.

Featuring vocals from one actress, another performer, a co-star, as well as Riegel himself, the song was catchy and enjoyable. Back then, I hadn't seen the follow-up series yet, but this was such an earworm that I kept it on my device. This track that excites you before you start an installment of fantasy hijinks.

The show's opening with "Welcome to Wildemount" fails to hit the right notes in my opinion. It's an impressive composition, but based on my understanding of the group, I can't help but feel that its tone is somewhat mismatched.

Of course, the creators has already said that the animated show will have a few surprises and variations from the original live sessions. An adjusted mood for its intro seems to be one of them.

The Mighty Nein will be available to watch on Prime Video from Nov. 19. If you can't wait before that, or want a head start to learn about the personas of Critical Role's Campaign 2, the actual play are accessible on Spotify and YouTube.

Dr. Shawn Bell
Dr. Shawn Bell

A seasoned entrepreneur and startup coach with a passion for helping others succeed in the business world.