I dunno what it is, but listening to the midi versions of the songs that were in the original Japanese version of Dragon Quest VIII (as opposed to the US version I played) is kind of satisfying. I actually wish there were the option of using them in the game. I like the orchestral versions a lot, but I really don't know which I prefer. Somehow precise and flat (instrument-wise) MIDI is satisfying to hear in a video game. It kind of brings out a bit more the character in the original piece and the orchestral version feels a little more lifeless after hearing the MIDIs. I guess the orchestral versions are more atmospheric whereas the MIDI versions feel like a charicature, so they make you feel more like you're playing a game or watching some 80's anime, and that's not a bad thing.