This post is [part of the NEXON PEAK Post Challenge].

Collaborations always give me something to get excited about. There's a real thrill in seeing another world come together with one you're already enjoying, and Mabinogi Mobile's collaborations with Kim Chang-wan, Ailee, and Chuu were no exception. I'd like to share three of those collaborations with you.

Kim Chang-wan and Chuu's Duet, 'An Old Story from Grandma'

Honestly, isn't bringing in Kim Chang-wan to sing practically cheating? His voice carries so many memories, so much wistful nostalgia, with a warmth and feeling all its own. Hearing him sing “An Old Story from Grandma,” the soundtrack piece I immediately associate with Mabinogi Mobile, left me a little choked up. I did wonder how his voice would blend with Chuu's lively vocals, but I needn't have worried—they work beautifully together. If you haven't heard it yet, do give it a listen. Paired with the game's imagery, it paints a picture that's quite a treat.

Kim Chang-wan&Chuu(Chuu) - An Old Story from Grandma | Mabinogi Mobile Launch OST MV

Chuu's 'Lullaby of the Wind,' Played During the Ensemble Mechanic in the 에이렐 Raid

Next is “Lullaby of the Wind,” sung by Chuu, which you'll hear every time you take on the 에이렐 raid. The more I listen, the more it feels like a perfect match for 에이렐, and I find myself singing along every time we reach the ensemble section. In-game, this is where you play a rhythm game. 에이렐 is such a lively boss—and one who forces us into a dance of madness. Sometimes, when I listen to Chuu's voice, it really does feel as though 에이렐 is the one singing.

Chuu(Chuu) - Lullaby of the Wind | Mabinogi Mobile OST Making-of Video

Ailee's 'Grasping the Future,' Played Near the End of Raids and Abyss Runs

Whether you're in a dungeon, an Abyss run, or a raid, there's a piece of music that kicks in as the fight draws to a close and the boss is almost dead. You might miss it with the sound turned down, but if you're taking in the BGM as you play, you know exactly what it means: we've almost got it, the boss is about to go down! In a tough battle, it can feel like a buff, giving you a much-needed lift when you're worn out, and Ailee performed it in a video celebrating the 1st anniversary. As I write this, the in-game music has changed again, so we're back to the instrumental rather than the vocal version. I remember spending a stretch of time eagerly hammering away at Tabartas, waiting for this song to kick in. I just loved hearing her belt it out with that exhilarating power.

Ailee(Ailee) - Grasping the Future (1st anniversary vocal ver.) | Mabinogi Mobile OST

That wraps up this look at Mabinogi Mobile's music collaborations, and listening to them again while putting this post together reminded me just how lovely they are. I hear the Very Hard difficulty for 에이렐 is coming soon, so that's something else to look forward to. Here's hoping there are plenty more varied collaborations to come.