The minigame ‘TRACING THE STARS’ was added alongside the 3.5-anniversary event. Designed as a rhythm game, it was so well-received for its high quality that it has since been integrated as a permanent feature.
Nikke’s OST is already widely acclaimed by players. While no game is perfect, and Nikke has certainly had its share of divisive events and content updates, the music—produced under the direction of sound director ‘Cosmograph’—has consistently earned high praise. Thanks to this, the news that players could finally play these masterpieces in ‘TRACING THE STARS’ was warmly welcomed, and many users continue to enjoy it to this day.
Today, I’ve selected a few tracks from the vast Nikke OST library that are absolute must-listens. I’ve compiled the scenes, backgrounds, and narratives associated with each, so feel free to just enjoy the music or take a moment to reminisce about the scenes that once tugged at the heartstrings of Commanders everywhere.
[#. PLAYLIST.1] Afterglow
‘Afterglow’ is the theme for the Mirror Container boss fight. Given the notoriety of that boss, for many, this track might even trigger some PTSD. Setting that aside, however, the song itself has received immense praise for its violin parts and grand atmosphere. Many fans were so impressed by its quality—which transcends typical mobile game boss themes—that they were moved to tears hearing it performed at orchestral concerts. It is now arguably one of Nikke’s signature themes.
[#. PLAYLIST.2] Stronghold Land Eater
‘Stronghold Land Eater’ is the theme for the Land Eater, one of the early-game bosses. The phase transition, where the boss—which initially looked like a massive structure—stands up and begins to move, was quite a fresh experience at the time. The track’s composition, which maintains tension while building up intensity in sync with the phase shift, fits the boss fight perfectly. Many also find it a great track to listen to when they need a boost of energy in their daily lives.
[#. PLAYLIST.3] The Clarion Call
“What are you doing? Bow your heads. The King is approaching.”
Crown’s theme, ‘The Clarion Call,’ is great for its grand atmosphere, but honestly, it’s a track perfected by the story and narrative of that moment. Crown awakening in a time of crisis, combined with Chime’s lines, was more than enough to move the hearts of Commanders. Even now, many Commanders likely have those lines automatically playing in their heads whenever they hear this song.
[#. PLAYLIST.4] A.C.P.U.! FREEZE!
All I hear is Miranda and Kilo causing trouble, and the sound of the base sighing! ‘A.C.P.U.! FREEZE!’ is the theme for the A.C.P.U. story event. It’s a bit lighter than the tracks mentioned earlier, capturing a great electro-swing vibe. It’s considered one of the most upbeat and addictive tracks in the Nikke OST. Since it even took first place in a Nikke OST popularity poll, I highly recommend giving it a listen.
[#. PLAYLIST.5] Unbreakable
Starting with the line ‘Don’t fade away,’ ‘Old Tales’ and Cinderella’s theme ‘Unbreakable’ are among the most famous OSTs representing Nikke, with the latter having topped the recent popularity poll. As befits Cinderella’s theme, the song is simply beautiful. For those who played through ‘Old Tales,’ it feels like the story Cinderella has written—and will continue to write—is unfolding in your mind all over again. If I had to pick just one track with the highest level of perfection in Nikke, I suspect many fans would choose ‘Unbreakable.
[#. PLAYLIST.6] RE DASH : THE REDHOOD
‘RE DASH : THE REDHOOD’ is Red Hood’s theme, centered on a raw, exhilarating rock sound. It’s a track that captures Red Hood’s unique boldness and the intensity of that final push in the story. The soaring, powerful vocals are the very essence of Red Hood, and many users agree that it is the track that best complements her Burst animation.
[#. PLAYLIST.7] Hurricanes
The 3rd-anniversary story, ‘Goddess Fall,’ was a massive shock to Commanders. ‘Hurricanes’ is the theme song symbolizing Nayuta, the protagonist of that event. The timing of the track was absolutely exquisite. It resonated powerfully at the moment the Goddess Squad was in crisis and everything seemed to be collapsing, just as Nayuta’s trump card was revealed to turn the tide. Of course, the events that followed shocked Commanders in a different way.
Hurricanes’ is an OST where the quality of the music, the timing of its appearance, and the narrative are perfectly intertwined. It left such a strong impression as the definitive track of the 3rd anniversary that many users feel it could easily serve as the next main theme for Nikke.
[#. PLAYLIST.8] Unbreakable Sphere
‘Unbreakable Sphere,’ the 2.5-anniversary theme and the song symbolizing the Little Mermaid, Seiren, is a true ‘tear-jerker’ for Commanders. Singing of Seiren’s kind heart and the salvation that came at the end, this track has drawn tears from countless Commanders. It left a lasting impact not just once, but twice—first at the end of the 2.5-anniversary event and again in Chapter 42 of the main story. Given how it moved players’ emotions across both the event and the main narrative, its impact is among the greatest in the Nikke OST.
[#. PLAYLIST.9] SATELLITES
‘SATELLITES’ is the theme for Nikke’s 0.5-anniversary event, ‘OVER ZONE.’ This was the song that made it impossible for Commanders to hate Dorothy.
The impact of the ‘OVER ZONE’ story was profound, leaving a lasting impression that words struggle to capture. This particular song served as a conduit to understand Dorothy better and to honor Pinne, the seventh member of the Goddess Squad. While most OSTs aim to resonate deeply with Commanders, ‘SATELLITES’ stands out as a track that resonates with the heart.
[#. PLAYLIST.10] COLORLESS
‘COLORLESS’ is Zwei’s theme, offering a sense of solace unlike other OSTs that aim to evoke excitement. Many have found comfort in this track, as it conveys a message of finding color in a seemingly monochromatic life. It is arguably the warmest and most soothing track in the Nikke OST collection.
[#. PLAYLIST.11] TRUE FIREPOWER
‘TRUE FIREPOWER’ symbolizes the rebirth of Neon, embodying the essence of true strength. The rock sound and powerful lyrics resonate with fans of firepower, making it a fitting anthem for Neon as she sheds her old image to reign as the queen of firepower.
[#. PLAYLIST.12] Jump Up
Every visit to the Cash Shop is accompanied by the cheerful tune of ‘Jump Up,’ a refreshing break from the seriousness of Nikke. While enjoyable to listen to casually, it has also become a playful meme among users, adding an extra layer of fun to the experience.
[#. PLAYLIST.13] Be My Star
‘Be My Star’ by T.T.STAR, released for the 3.5-anniversary event, captures the essence of the idol group’s journey. Beyond its upbeat K-pop style, the song holds emotional weight for those familiar with Anis and T.T.STAR’s story. Its quality makes it a delightful track to savor, especially for those still immersed in the emotions of the recent anniversary celebration.
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