Is it true that this game is emulated poorly on the VC, with the music drowned out by the sound effects? Was the original game on the TG-CD like that? I've considered getting this game, but if that's the case I may get Lords of Thunder instead.

I was wondering the same thing myself. I too want to download this game but I'm not sure if this problem has been corrected yet or if it ever will be. I watched gameplay videos of Gates of Thunder on YouTube for the VC as well as the original Turbo version and unfortunately there is a HUGE difference in the sound quality. You can hear the music just fine in the original but all you can hear is the sound effects in the Virtual Console version. I was hoping to get some more feedback from people before I decide and spend my 800 points. I would however strongly recommend Lords of Thunder. That is an excellent game and no problems exist with it's emulation. Too bad about Gates though because the game and music seem awesome.