In the video gaming world, music often plays a crucial part but sometimes overlooked component that can truly elevate the gaming experience. From the epic melodies of Mario to the haunting tunes of Silent Hill and the legendary soundtracks of The Legend of Zelda, these musical masterpieces have the extraordinary ability to immerse players in the game world like nothing else can.
Without a doubt, the right music can captivate our senses, evoke emotions, and transport us to different realms, making the gaming experience truly unforgettable. us as we delve into the top 10 video game soundtracks ever made, celebrating the magical fusion of music and gameplay that makes these games not just playable, but truly memorable.
10 Best Video Game Soundtracks
1. Koji Kondo, Super Mario Bros
The theme for Super Mario Bros is extremely catchy. In fact, some would say it’s addictive. Play the game a few times, and you’ll find yourself playing the theme out of nowhere while walking down the street. At some point, it becomes annoying.
Koji Kondo’s success makes him one of the most reputable composers in the video game industry. A sequel for Super Mario Bros from 2007 teamed Koji Kondo with Mahito Yokota. The two used a symphony orchestra to help out with the theme, creating a masterpiece.
2. Koji Kondo, The Legend of Zelda
Koji Kondo chose to shine once again with The Legend of Zelda. It’s not a coincidence though, as he worked for Nintendo during those times, so he’s clearly the genius behind many of the company’s top titles, especially in of music.
Now, the music associated with The Legend of Zelda made it further than the music from any other game. It was adapted to orchestral symphony music. The four section set is now known as the Symphony of the Goddesses.
Believe it or not, it’s been performed by quite a few famous orchestras from around the world.
3. Nobuo Uematsu, Final Fantasy
Despite Koji Kondo’s success and ability to create addictive music, Nobuo Uematsu is probably more famous. When it comes to video game music, this is the first game popping into your mind. He’s managed to become a legend in Japan, mainly because of his masterpieces enhancing the Final Fantasy series.
His music pops out throughout different challenges in the game. In fact, it has become so famous that you can even book tickets for Final Fantasy concerts to enjoy it live. Unsurprisingly, such events sell out as soon as tickets go out for sale.
4. Alex Kostov and George Strezov, Tetris
While everyone associates video game music with masterpieces that could easily make it to symphonic music, the truth is simplicity is still the most addictive thing in the industry.
And when you think about it, Tetris is one of the simplest games out there. Its theme isn’t just simple, but extremely addictive as well.
The music theme wasn’t composed for Tetris specifically. In fact, the theme is based on a Russian song known as Korobeiniki. However, it’s the game’s responsibility for making it world renowned, so now it’s famous as the Tetris song.
World renowned orchestras have adapted it to their own symphonic versions.
5. Yasunori Mitsuda, Chrono Trigger
Chrono Trigger nearly killed Yasunori Mitsuda while developing the soundtrack for the game. The composer had to work so hard to make it happen that he ended up with a stomach ulcer and ended up recovering in hospital, all because of the stress to make something that would stand the test of time.
And his dedication did an amazing job. The music for Chrono Trigger became extremely popular both on the screen and in real life concerts. Furthermore, the music for Chrono Cross made it big as well, but it couldn’t even come close to the original.
6. Michael Giacchino, Medal of Honor
Some may know Michael Giacchino for his Hollywood music. He’s definitely a master when it comes to creating atmospheric masterpieces. But before becoming a Hollywood top name, he was also hired to create the soundtrack for Medal of Honor.
Quite a title, if you think about it, as the storyline employed another big name in the industry, Steven Spielberg. Part of the soundtrack offers a more aggressive and militaristic approach, while some of it feels like an official anthem.
7. Greg Edmonson, Uncharted
Uncharted may not be as popular as other top games in this list, but the release and its sequels have won plenty of awards, not to mention the sales records. All in all, the action adventure game has a unique theme that stands out. It doesn’t feel like a video game soundtrack but part of an actual movie.
The music is extremely dynamic and offers a unique cinematic experience. Just like other famous games, Uncharted has had its original music taken over by orchestras from all over the world. Since it’s more realistic, such adaptations were fairly simple, but definitely unique in of sound.
8. Martin O’Donnell, Halo
Halo was developed as a franchise. The idea was to create something that would stand the test of time. For this reason, developers needed a top name to help with the soundtrack as well. And that’s when Martin O’Donnell kicked in to help out.
Part of the blockbusting success of the game is given by the soundtrack, which certainly adds to the atmosphere and vibe. In of sales, the original soundtrack for Halo is the bestselling video game soundtrack in history.
Sales have easily outweighed the competition and will most likely dominate this field for many more years.
9. Akira Yamaoka, Silent Hill 2
Akira Yamaoka’s work on Silent Hill 2 stands out as a masterclass in musical storytelling. Yamaoka’s unique blend of classic rock, alternative, ambient industrial, and trip-hop genres creates a sonic landscape that is as haunting as it is captivating.
One of the standout tracks from Silent Hill 2 is “Theme of Laura”. It is a melancholic piece that sets the tone for the game’s emotional journey. Another notable track, “Promise (Reprise),” tugs at the heartstrings with its touching melody, adding layers of depth to the game’s story.
What is really cool about this music track is the seamless transition between moments of calm reflection and explosive intensity.
10. Jesper Kyd, Hitman 2: Silent Assassin
Danish professional Jesper Kyd had all the tools he required to come up with an astonishing soundtrack. He had the inspiration and creativity, but he also had a full orchestra ready to follow his instructions.
Throw in a Latin chorus as well and you have the perfect scenario to create a Hollywood soundtrack, let alone a game. The music is also enhanced with light electronics to underline a unique environment.
Despite being considered better by the fans, the soundtrack for Hitman 2: Silent Assassin was outweighed by the soundtrack for a sequel, which brought Jerper Kyd a BAFTA award.
Final words
These top 10 video game soundtracks not only made our gaming experience memorable but also changed how we play games. As we keep discovering new things in gaming, one fact stands out – a great soundtrack is the secret to making gaming unforgettable. Right?
Photo by Element5 Digital
