It seems like they went for a similar sound to Duel Monsters, IMO at least? Though the soundtrack still has the "let's cover up the silence!" parts that the spin-offs all have though, haha. Regardless, tracks such as these are pretty impressive.
https://youtu.be/dFpYlOUs7TM
Agreed. My only real complaint with Zarc is that he didn't stick around as long he should have? Not sure how to explain it, but even so. His concept in general is still great.
You may have a point there. I have yet to hear his entire performance so it might grow on me later on, and I think I kinda agree on preferring Eric Vale. At least for younger Phoenix, because to me he pulls him off in a way I don't think Sam really could've. He even sounds rather similar to Ben Judd!