OverClocked ReMix Preserving Video Game Music Through Art

OverClocked ReMix, commonly referred to as OC ReMix or OCR, is a non-commercial organization dedicated to the preservation and celebration of video game music. By arranging and re-interpreting iconic songs using both cutting-edge software and traditional musical instruments, the organization ensures that the legacy of gaming soundtracks continues to evolve.

The Mission and Platform

The primary hub for the organization is its website, ocremix.org, which serves as a massive, freely accessible archive. The site hosts over 5,000 curated fan-made arrangements, providing a wealth of information on game music, composers, and resources for aspiring artists. These individual works, termed "ReMixes," are distinct from standard remixes; the term "ReMix" was coined by the founder to describe transformative, interpretive arrangements rather than simple alterations to a master recording.

Beyond Individual Tracks

In addition to single tracks, OC ReMix hosts over 70 albums. These collections include thematic arrangements centered on specific games or series, as well as albums of original compositions intended for video games. The organization's influence extends into the professional industry; in 2008, the community created the soundtrack for Super Street Fighter II Turbo HD Remix for Capcom, and they began publishing commercially licensed arrangement albums in 2013.

History and Evolution

OverClocked ReMix was founded on December 11, 1999, by David W. Lloyd (known online as djpretzel). The project began as a way for Lloyd to share his own arrangement of the title theme from Phantasy Star III: Generations of Doom, titled "Legacy." The name was inspired by OverClocked, a webcomic about video game emulation that Lloyd was creating at the time.

Growth and Professionalization

While the site initially focused on a broad range of platforms and genres to distinguish itself from the Commodore 64-centric mixing scene of the era, it grew rapidly. Originally a basic HTML site with an orange color scheme, it underwent several redesigns before settling into its current form in 2004. In 2007, Lloyd officially registered OverClocked ReMix as a limited liability company (LLC).

The Curation Process

To maintain high standards of quality and originality, OC ReMix employs a rigorous judging process. While Lloyd originally curated all submissions, a panel of community judges was established in 2002 to handle the increasing volume of entries. This panel ensures that every piece meets specific criteria:

• Original Interpretation: Works must be transformative and not merely "MIDI rips" (transcriptions with minor modifications).
• Production Quality: High standards of execution and recording are required.
• Recognizability: While creativity is encouraged, the arrangement must remain recognizable as the source material.
• Authenticity: Stolen or unoriginal recordings are strictly prohibited.

This commitment to quality has led to the site being praised by critics and industry professionals alike. Many contributors have leveraged their experience within the OC ReMix community to launch successful professional careers in video game composition.