Your top songs in gaming
10-Jan-24 1:27pm
#1 incubus421
Emphasis on your. We all know there are noted and recognizable classics in the industry. I don't think I know a single child or adult that doesn't know the Mario level 1-1 song. While songs like the overworld for the original Zelda, One-winged Angel, or the Halo opening are surely great and deservedly popular, they just aren't always my personal favorites. So here is my personal list of favorite gaming tunes. Post your own favorites as well. Maybe there's a game you or I haven't played and therefore a killer song we haven't heard. I'm always excited to discover another great tune!
I found it difficult to compare old school beeps and boops to modern-day orchestrated soundtracks. These should almost be separate categories. Also, I think I could make my top 10 list almost exclusively off of the FFXIV soundtrack...but I won't. So many outstanding pieces of music in that game!
Some of these are just because they're absolute jams, others are because they were impactful of my time growing up gaming, most are both.
Mega Man 3 - Shadow Man
Move over Wily's Castle (MM2) and Bubble Man, this song is just too good.
Super Mario 64 - Dire Dire Docks
One of my favorite Mario songs. Water themed levels always seem to have great music.
Donkey Kong Country 2 - Stickerbrush Symphony
Until orchestrated tracks came along this may have been my number 1 video game song, it's still close.
Final Fantasy Tactics - Opening
Possibly the first game intro that had me sitting through the opening just to hear the music
Kingdom Hearts III - Opening (CHIKAI)
All apologies to Hikaru Utada, but there is something about the heavy violin replacing the lyrics that is just outstanding! Despite KH3s flaws, I couldn't load up my save without first sitting through the opening at least once. Perfectly emotional for the theme of the game.
Final Fantasy XIV - Close in the Distance
This might be the single greatest piece of music to come out of a video game ever. I can't speak highly enough about it. If you've played the game to it's epic conclusion, you know exactly how hard this song hits!
Might & Magic Darkside of Xeen - Lava Town / Necropolis
This song is a SoundBlaster jam! There was some kind of bug in this game that was never fixed where if you died and/or loaded your game repeatedly every once in awhile the music would not start. You could fix this by going into the settings and toggling the music off and back on. When you did that this was the song that would play until you moved to another area. As a kid I remember intentionally getting this bug to occur so that I could hear my jam before a tough dungeon or battle.
World of Warcraft - Legend of Azeroth Main Title
It's not that great of a track, but damn if I didn't listen to it for hundreds of hours on end. As an avid original WoW player, this is what you hear each time you start the game, cycle through character selection, etc. Not to mention when I would time out of the game busy doing other things, this song would echo through the house to let me know I had been logged out. Such a strong nostalgic song for me and my time as a borderline WoW addict.
Heroes of Might and Magic II (Expansion) - Necromancer Castle
In the expansion for Heroes II were alternate castle theme songs. The Necromancer castle was so damn good. Listen to that piano solo 50 seconds in! I grew up on this game and go back and play it often.
Castlevania Bloody Tears
An all time classic. It was the first song I learned on keyboard as well. The entire Simon's Quest soundtrack (all 5 songs or so!) is excellent!
Honorable mentions, or maybe in my top 10, I don't know:
Final Fantasy XIV - Endwalker Another intro I could sit and watch before logging in. Also, same as the WoW intro, when I time out of the game, this will start playing.
Sonic the Hedgehog - Green Hill Zone Probably one of the most widely accepted classic tunes and for good reason. I just didn't grow up on Sonic and didn't have a Genesis until well into my teenage years when I bought a used one myself. So, Sonic and it's awesome soundtrack just doesn't have a strong nostalgic presence in my mind.
Final Fantasy VI - Terra's Theme and Chrono Trigger - Corridors of Time Two of my first and favorite RPGs as a kid. I can listen to these soundtracks on repeat. These are probably my favorite song from each game, but it's REAL close. While they don't make my favorite singular songs, they would definitely make my top 10 if I ranked entire game soundtracks.
Castlevania Symphony of the Night - Lost Paintings This and Tragic Prince are top notch. Another game that while doesn't have one of my top all time songs, it's probably a top 3 overall soundtrack for me.
Kirby's Adventure - Rainbow Resort Quite possibly the first song I ever heard from a video game that truly made me pay attention to how great a video game song could be. Kirby's Adventure is another game with a killer soundtrack.
Silent Hill 2 - Promise (Reprise) I'd be remiss if I didn't acknowledge the awesome piano work woven all through the Silent Hill 2 soundtrack. Haunting, catchy, perfectly captures the mood and theme of the game.
I'm not sure I could rank these if I tried aside from FFXIV - Close in the Distance, it might be my new and forever number 1. Also, there is a lot of guilt for not having more FF songs on here...almost every FF battle/boss/Prelude music is worthy of a top 10 list. DKC, Chrono Trigger, Castlevania, and Mega Man all have additional great songs, but I wanted to keep my list varied and not take too many of the great ones!
Enjoy!
#1 incubus421
Emphasis on your. We all know there are noted and recognizable classics in the industry. I don't think I know a single child or adult that doesn't know the Mario level 1-1 song. While songs like the overworld for the original Zelda, One-winged Angel, or the Halo opening are surely great and deservedly popular, they just aren't always my personal favorites. So here is my personal list of favorite gaming tunes. Post your own favorites as well. Maybe there's a game you or I haven't played and therefore a killer song we haven't heard. I'm always excited to discover another great tune!
I found it difficult to compare old school beeps and boops to modern-day orchestrated soundtracks. These should almost be separate categories. Also, I think I could make my top 10 list almost exclusively off of the FFXIV soundtrack...but I won't. So many outstanding pieces of music in that game!
Some of these are just because they're absolute jams, others are because they were impactful of my time growing up gaming, most are both.
Mega Man 3 - Shadow Man
Move over Wily's Castle (MM2) and Bubble Man, this song is just too good.
Super Mario 64 - Dire Dire Docks
One of my favorite Mario songs. Water themed levels always seem to have great music.
Donkey Kong Country 2 - Stickerbrush Symphony
Until orchestrated tracks came along this may have been my number 1 video game song, it's still close.
Final Fantasy Tactics - Opening
Possibly the first game intro that had me sitting through the opening just to hear the music
Kingdom Hearts III - Opening (CHIKAI)
All apologies to Hikaru Utada, but there is something about the heavy violin replacing the lyrics that is just outstanding! Despite KH3s flaws, I couldn't load up my save without first sitting through the opening at least once. Perfectly emotional for the theme of the game.
Final Fantasy XIV - Close in the Distance
This might be the single greatest piece of music to come out of a video game ever. I can't speak highly enough about it. If you've played the game to it's epic conclusion, you know exactly how hard this song hits!
Might & Magic Darkside of Xeen - Lava Town / Necropolis
This song is a SoundBlaster jam! There was some kind of bug in this game that was never fixed where if you died and/or loaded your game repeatedly every once in awhile the music would not start. You could fix this by going into the settings and toggling the music off and back on. When you did that this was the song that would play until you moved to another area. As a kid I remember intentionally getting this bug to occur so that I could hear my jam before a tough dungeon or battle.
World of Warcraft - Legend of Azeroth Main Title
It's not that great of a track, but damn if I didn't listen to it for hundreds of hours on end. As an avid original WoW player, this is what you hear each time you start the game, cycle through character selection, etc. Not to mention when I would time out of the game busy doing other things, this song would echo through the house to let me know I had been logged out. Such a strong nostalgic song for me and my time as a borderline WoW addict.
Heroes of Might and Magic II (Expansion) - Necromancer Castle
In the expansion for Heroes II were alternate castle theme songs. The Necromancer castle was so damn good. Listen to that piano solo 50 seconds in! I grew up on this game and go back and play it often.
Castlevania Bloody Tears
An all time classic. It was the first song I learned on keyboard as well. The entire Simon's Quest soundtrack (all 5 songs or so!) is excellent!
Honorable mentions, or maybe in my top 10, I don't know:
Final Fantasy XIV - Endwalker Another intro I could sit and watch before logging in. Also, same as the WoW intro, when I time out of the game, this will start playing.
Sonic the Hedgehog - Green Hill Zone Probably one of the most widely accepted classic tunes and for good reason. I just didn't grow up on Sonic and didn't have a Genesis until well into my teenage years when I bought a used one myself. So, Sonic and it's awesome soundtrack just doesn't have a strong nostalgic presence in my mind.
Final Fantasy VI - Terra's Theme and Chrono Trigger - Corridors of Time Two of my first and favorite RPGs as a kid. I can listen to these soundtracks on repeat. These are probably my favorite song from each game, but it's REAL close. While they don't make my favorite singular songs, they would definitely make my top 10 if I ranked entire game soundtracks.
Castlevania Symphony of the Night - Lost Paintings This and Tragic Prince are top notch. Another game that while doesn't have one of my top all time songs, it's probably a top 3 overall soundtrack for me.
Kirby's Adventure - Rainbow Resort Quite possibly the first song I ever heard from a video game that truly made me pay attention to how great a video game song could be. Kirby's Adventure is another game with a killer soundtrack.
Silent Hill 2 - Promise (Reprise) I'd be remiss if I didn't acknowledge the awesome piano work woven all through the Silent Hill 2 soundtrack. Haunting, catchy, perfectly captures the mood and theme of the game.
I'm not sure I could rank these if I tried aside from FFXIV - Close in the Distance, it might be my new and forever number 1. Also, there is a lot of guilt for not having more FF songs on here...almost every FF battle/boss/Prelude music is worthy of a top 10 list. DKC, Chrono Trigger, Castlevania, and Mega Man all have additional great songs, but I wanted to keep my list varied and not take too many of the great ones!
Enjoy!
10-Jan-24 2:44pm
#2 Anxiouz
Tony Hawk's Pro Skater - Goldfinger's Superman is always the first song I think of. It's burned into my brain.
#2 Anxiouz
Tony Hawk's Pro Skater - Goldfinger's Superman is always the first song I think of. It's burned into my brain.
10-Jan-24 2:57pm
#3 nonamesleft
@incubus421 Thanks for posting that. Video game music is my most listened to genre. Just went through your whole list. Some I already knew, some I didn't.
Dire Dire Docks. Great one.
Stickerbush symphony. Can hear it in my head without even playing it. Heard it many times. The DK series has some great music.
Symphony of the Night. Lost Paintings - liked this one. Had that Castlevania vibe. Kind of a calming one.
Kirby - Great track. Made me head bop. :)
Silent Hill. I started playing it and then had to respond to a message. When I went back to the music, I had forgotten that it was from Silent Hill. And I thought to myself "something about this reminds me of a piece from Silent Hill." It's this one:
https://youtu.be/Ec0...
Close in the Distance - powerful. Tugs at the emotions. What was going on in the game when that song was playing?
Corridors of Time. That's a very good one too. In fact, overall the soundtrack is excellent. Heard the soundtrack many many times. Used to put it on in the background at work. This way when it was done I knew that 3 hours had passed :D
I'll post my list when I have the chance. Definitely want to share some great music.
#3 nonamesleft
@incubus421 Thanks for posting that. Video game music is my most listened to genre. Just went through your whole list. Some I already knew, some I didn't.
Dire Dire Docks. Great one.
Stickerbush symphony. Can hear it in my head without even playing it. Heard it many times. The DK series has some great music.
Symphony of the Night. Lost Paintings - liked this one. Had that Castlevania vibe. Kind of a calming one.
Kirby - Great track. Made me head bop. :)
Silent Hill. I started playing it and then had to respond to a message. When I went back to the music, I had forgotten that it was from Silent Hill. And I thought to myself "something about this reminds me of a piece from Silent Hill." It's this one:
https://youtu.be/Ec0...
Close in the Distance - powerful. Tugs at the emotions. What was going on in the game when that song was playing?
Corridors of Time. That's a very good one too. In fact, overall the soundtrack is excellent. Heard the soundtrack many many times. Used to put it on in the background at work. This way when it was done I knew that 3 hours had passed :D
I'll post my list when I have the chance. Definitely want to share some great music.
10-Jan-24 3:14pm
#4 incubus421
Anxiouz wrote:
Tony Hawk's Pro Skater - Goldfinger's Superman is always the first song I think of. It's burned into my brain.
I was trying to stay away from soundtracks made up of pre-existing bands' songs and focus more on songs made specifically for each game. However, I'm not such a snob to not acknowledge that the THPS games always have nicely hand-picked soundtracks. Superman and Wish by Alien Ant Farm stick out to me as well!
These types of songs/soundtracks should almost have their own category as well. How about Florence and the Machine when they re-did Stand By Me for Final Fantasy XV? Talk about a tear jerker. This would be where the lines become blurred, because, correct me if I'm wrong, Florence did this song specifically for FFXV, it wasn't already a song she had recorded that Squenix nabbed.
If I were including existing band made songs that were used in games I would be placing the Brutal Legend soundtrack at the tippy top!
nonamesleft wrote:
@incubus421 Thanks for posting that. Video game music is my most listened to genre. Just went through your whole list. Some I already knew, some I didn't. Silent Hill. I started playing it and then had to respond to a message. When I went back to the music, I had forgotten that it was from Silent Hill. And I thought to myself "something about this reminds me of a piece from Silent Hill." It's this one: https://youtu.be/Ec0... Close in the Distance - powerful. Tugs at the emotions. What was going on in the game when that song was playing? I'll post my list when I have the chance. Definitely want to share some great music.
@nonamesleft thanks for sharing your thoughts and contributing.
Admittedly I haven't played all the way through the first Silent Hill so I was unfamiliar with the song you linked. It sounds good though. There's another song I listen to a lot on the Silent Hill 3 / movie soundtrack, Akira Yamoaka - You're Not Here. You might like it too!
The emotion of "Close in the Distance" would be hard to explain unless you've played FFXIV and are committed to seeing the story through. Plus, I'd have to go into great spoiler-filled length to drive the points home. It's just a final sigh of relief and emotional farewell to an incredible story, years in the making that took hundreds and hundreds of hours to fully experience.
I look forward to seeing your list.
#4 incubus421
Anxiouz wrote:
Tony Hawk's Pro Skater - Goldfinger's Superman is always the first song I think of. It's burned into my brain.
I was trying to stay away from soundtracks made up of pre-existing bands' songs and focus more on songs made specifically for each game. However, I'm not such a snob to not acknowledge that the THPS games always have nicely hand-picked soundtracks. Superman and Wish by Alien Ant Farm stick out to me as well!
These types of songs/soundtracks should almost have their own category as well. How about Florence and the Machine when they re-did Stand By Me for Final Fantasy XV? Talk about a tear jerker. This would be where the lines become blurred, because, correct me if I'm wrong, Florence did this song specifically for FFXV, it wasn't already a song she had recorded that Squenix nabbed.
If I were including existing band made songs that were used in games I would be placing the Brutal Legend soundtrack at the tippy top!
nonamesleft wrote:
@incubus421 Thanks for posting that. Video game music is my most listened to genre. Just went through your whole list. Some I already knew, some I didn't. Silent Hill. I started playing it and then had to respond to a message. When I went back to the music, I had forgotten that it was from Silent Hill. And I thought to myself "something about this reminds me of a piece from Silent Hill." It's this one: https://youtu.be/Ec0... Close in the Distance - powerful. Tugs at the emotions. What was going on in the game when that song was playing? I'll post my list when I have the chance. Definitely want to share some great music.
@nonamesleft thanks for sharing your thoughts and contributing.
Admittedly I haven't played all the way through the first Silent Hill so I was unfamiliar with the song you linked. It sounds good though. There's another song I listen to a lot on the Silent Hill 3 / movie soundtrack, Akira Yamoaka - You're Not Here. You might like it too!
The emotion of "Close in the Distance" would be hard to explain unless you've played FFXIV and are committed to seeing the story through. Plus, I'd have to go into great spoiler-filled length to drive the points home. It's just a final sigh of relief and emotional farewell to an incredible story, years in the making that took hundreds and hundreds of hours to fully experience.
I look forward to seeing your list.
10-Jan-24 4:25pm
#5 nonamesleft
@incubus421 I'm working on the list now. This isn't easy. I have so many great video game pieces to choose from. My apologies in advance if my list ends up having a lot (you're welcome 😂)
#5 nonamesleft
@incubus421 I'm working on the list now. This isn't easy. I have so many great video game pieces to choose from. My apologies in advance if my list ends up having a lot (you're welcome 😂)
10-Jan-24 4:52pm
#6 KCPenguins
Red Dead Redemption - Far Away
https://m.youtube.co...
I was actually sad when I accidentally skipped this while trying to loot the dead on my last play through but didn't realize it until after I botched the saves. I debated starting the game over, but ultimately decided YouTube would have to suffice.
Super Metroid - THE WHOLE DAMN GAME!!!
I seriously love this soundtrack, and it's at a part of why it's my GOAT.
On the opposite spectrum:
DK Rap - It's so bad it's become borderline iconic.
#6 KCPenguins
Red Dead Redemption - Far Away
https://m.youtube.co...
I was actually sad when I accidentally skipped this while trying to loot the dead on my last play through but didn't realize it until after I botched the saves. I debated starting the game over, but ultimately decided YouTube would have to suffice.
Super Metroid - THE WHOLE DAMN GAME!!!
I seriously love this soundtrack, and it's at a part of why it's my GOAT.
On the opposite spectrum:
DK Rap - It's so bad it's become borderline iconic.
10-Jan-24 5:54pm
#7 SupremeSarna
In no particular order (except the first one):
"Torigoth (Day)" - Xenoblade Chronicles 2
Perhaps the most vibrant and cheerful Irish tune you'll ever hear. It fits the town of Torigoth perfectly, and can always brighten my day.
"Beautiful One Day" - Rhythm Heaven Fever
Nintendo didn't need to empower women this hard, but I'm dazzled that they did. A fantastic song that teaches the value of self-worth and goes crazy on the electric guitar.
"Masters of Darkness" - Pandora's Tower
This is the second boss theme of the game, used in towers 6-10. After naming the six laws of the Aiosian religion (arbor, flamma, terra, aqua, aurum, tenebrae-lux), the booming singers reference a poem by Wilfred Owen, Dulce et Decorum Est--"it is sweet and fitting to die for one's country." This is a fate that the subjects who were transformed into the Masters of the Thirteen Towers (bosses) were honored to take... but one your character, Aeron, wasn't strong enough to follow. The women's choir kills it here, and they're even more fitting for this piece. Each of the six laws is governed by a god and goddess, and the first five towers contained statues of the gods. It only fits that the next five would be built to goddesses, and have a female choir.
"Fruity Factory" - Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze
An extremely moody piece by the legendary David Wise. A great tune to vibe to whilst platforming across watermelons. I'd call DKCTF the best soundtrack in gaming. Honestly, every song in this game is excellent, so you can't go wrong with any of them.
"Whispy Woods Land" - Kirby's Pinball Land
A magnificent tune hidden away inside an overlooked Game Boy game. The second half of the song really seals the deal. This pairs very well with the beeps and boops of a frantic pinball table. The Kirby's Dream Buffet remix is also excellent.
"Rainbow Across the Skies" - Kirby and the Rainbow Curse
A whimsical melody that gets more exciting as it goes. This fits the Kirby series extremely well and is a delight to behold. KatRC has the second-best OST in gaming, so you should check these out, too.
"C-R-O-W-N-E-D" - Kirby's Return to Dream Land
What else fits the Kirby series extremely well? Intense, crazy villains. This song belongs to a mastermind who has gained limitless power and is only a stone's throw away from reaching and conquering Planet Popstar--at least, his possessed body is. This piece adds to an already brilliant final showdown. The first bit sounds a little like the Nightmare Wizard's theme from Kirby's Adventure (though upon further inspection, it's original), the midpoint is a reprise of the Lor Starcutter theme from KRtDL, and the finale is pulled from the Crystal Area in Kirby Super Star. It's a final boss song for the ages!
"LocoRoco Song (Kulche Version)" - LocoRoco
This might be the happiest song I've ever heard. Kulche's childish voice gives it so much life, though Chavez's Argentinian accent is almost as pleasant in his version. Go ahead, babble along to this weird song!
"The Heritors of Arcadia" - Fire Emblem Echoes: Shadows of Valentia
The cleric, Silque, sings a beautiful song that may be the last words of Mila, the divine Mother of the continent of Valentia. It contains a motif from "What Lies at the End," another intrinsic song in the game, and references the hero, Alm (the jasper lion). It's a sweet, adoring song that makes you feel the tenderness of a mother's love.
"Beware the Forest's Mushrooms" - Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars
Yoko Shimomura did a terrific job of bringing her Final Fantasy magic to the Mario series. This jaunty track makes the famous Forest Maze one of the game's highlights.
"Title Theme" - Mario & Luigi: Bowser's Inside Story
The most elegant theme on the DS. It masterfully contrasts with the game's zany tone and fits with the title image: Princess Peach's Castle on the top screen, and a watery reflection of Bowser's Castle on the bottom. Makes you think, or even tear up--I won't judge either way.
"The End" - Drawn to Life
Speaking of tearing up, this is a beautiful duet between two lovers who are unsure if their relationship can last. It ties in the game's main theme and pairs perfectly with the game's ending. The words, "to a life with you," always makes my eyes misty.
"Main Theme" - Super Smash Bros. Brawl
Alright, enough of the waterworks. How about an epic Latin song to accompany your unbalanced, tripping knight? Brawl's got you covered.
"Skyloft" - The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword
Skyloft is the coziest floating archipelago you'll ever find. This peaceful song is a big contributing factor there. The laidback tone goes perfectly with the woodwind and brass instruments.
"Temple" - Zelda II: The Adventure of Link
An ominous, droning tune that bears down on you as you explore the six palaces (temples in the Japanese version, hence the title). I've always thought this made them a little scarier. The Super Smash Bros. Melee and A Link Between Worlds remixes are also excellent.
I can post more if you want.
#7 SupremeSarna
In no particular order (except the first one):
"Torigoth (Day)" - Xenoblade Chronicles 2
Perhaps the most vibrant and cheerful Irish tune you'll ever hear. It fits the town of Torigoth perfectly, and can always brighten my day.
"Beautiful One Day" - Rhythm Heaven Fever
Nintendo didn't need to empower women this hard, but I'm dazzled that they did. A fantastic song that teaches the value of self-worth and goes crazy on the electric guitar.
"Masters of Darkness" - Pandora's Tower
This is the second boss theme of the game, used in towers 6-10. After naming the six laws of the Aiosian religion (arbor, flamma, terra, aqua, aurum, tenebrae-lux), the booming singers reference a poem by Wilfred Owen, Dulce et Decorum Est--"it is sweet and fitting to die for one's country." This is a fate that the subjects who were transformed into the Masters of the Thirteen Towers (bosses) were honored to take... but one your character, Aeron, wasn't strong enough to follow. The women's choir kills it here, and they're even more fitting for this piece. Each of the six laws is governed by a god and goddess, and the first five towers contained statues of the gods. It only fits that the next five would be built to goddesses, and have a female choir.
"Fruity Factory" - Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze
An extremely moody piece by the legendary David Wise. A great tune to vibe to whilst platforming across watermelons. I'd call DKCTF the best soundtrack in gaming. Honestly, every song in this game is excellent, so you can't go wrong with any of them.
"Whispy Woods Land" - Kirby's Pinball Land
A magnificent tune hidden away inside an overlooked Game Boy game. The second half of the song really seals the deal. This pairs very well with the beeps and boops of a frantic pinball table. The Kirby's Dream Buffet remix is also excellent.
"Rainbow Across the Skies" - Kirby and the Rainbow Curse
A whimsical melody that gets more exciting as it goes. This fits the Kirby series extremely well and is a delight to behold. KatRC has the second-best OST in gaming, so you should check these out, too.
"C-R-O-W-N-E-D" - Kirby's Return to Dream Land
What else fits the Kirby series extremely well? Intense, crazy villains. This song belongs to a mastermind who has gained limitless power and is only a stone's throw away from reaching and conquering Planet Popstar--at least, his possessed body is. This piece adds to an already brilliant final showdown. The first bit sounds a little like the Nightmare Wizard's theme from Kirby's Adventure (though upon further inspection, it's original), the midpoint is a reprise of the Lor Starcutter theme from KRtDL, and the finale is pulled from the Crystal Area in Kirby Super Star. It's a final boss song for the ages!
"LocoRoco Song (Kulche Version)" - LocoRoco
This might be the happiest song I've ever heard. Kulche's childish voice gives it so much life, though Chavez's Argentinian accent is almost as pleasant in his version. Go ahead, babble along to this weird song!
"The Heritors of Arcadia" - Fire Emblem Echoes: Shadows of Valentia
The cleric, Silque, sings a beautiful song that may be the last words of Mila, the divine Mother of the continent of Valentia. It contains a motif from "What Lies at the End," another intrinsic song in the game, and references the hero, Alm (the jasper lion). It's a sweet, adoring song that makes you feel the tenderness of a mother's love.
"Beware the Forest's Mushrooms" - Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars
Yoko Shimomura did a terrific job of bringing her Final Fantasy magic to the Mario series. This jaunty track makes the famous Forest Maze one of the game's highlights.
"Title Theme" - Mario & Luigi: Bowser's Inside Story
The most elegant theme on the DS. It masterfully contrasts with the game's zany tone and fits with the title image: Princess Peach's Castle on the top screen, and a watery reflection of Bowser's Castle on the bottom. Makes you think, or even tear up--I won't judge either way.
"The End" - Drawn to Life
Speaking of tearing up, this is a beautiful duet between two lovers who are unsure if their relationship can last. It ties in the game's main theme and pairs perfectly with the game's ending. The words, "to a life with you," always makes my eyes misty.
"Main Theme" - Super Smash Bros. Brawl
Alright, enough of the waterworks. How about an epic Latin song to accompany your unbalanced, tripping knight? Brawl's got you covered.
"Skyloft" - The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword
Skyloft is the coziest floating archipelago you'll ever find. This peaceful song is a big contributing factor there. The laidback tone goes perfectly with the woodwind and brass instruments.
"Temple" - Zelda II: The Adventure of Link
An ominous, droning tune that bears down on you as you explore the six palaces (temples in the Japanese version, hence the title). I've always thought this made them a little scarier. The Super Smash Bros. Melee and A Link Between Worlds remixes are also excellent.
I can post more if you want.
10-Jan-24 11:56pm
#8 citizen_zane
My favorite game soudtrack of all time is from Bit.Trip Runner. Most of these songs are fantastic!
https://www.youtube....
#8 citizen_zane
My favorite game soudtrack of all time is from Bit.Trip Runner. Most of these songs are fantastic!
https://www.youtube....
11-Jan-24 1:05am
#9 Renaissance2K
I feel like a lot of these are going to come from my first 30-Day Game Music Challenge list, but here goes...
Critical Depth - Battle in the Mediterranean
Twisted Metal 2 - The Drop Zone / Antarctica
Jet Moto 2 - Rollercide
Warhawk - Desert Zone (Fast)
Whenever somebody asks something like this, I always jump to Big Idea Music, which did the soundtracks to all of Singletrac's early PlayStation games. They punched way above their weight when it came to epic music. "Desert Zone (Fast)", in particular, was first discovered not by playing the game but by putting my pack-in demo disc in an audio CD player, which launched my decades-long obsession with video game music.
WipEout - Cairodrome
I credit the original WipEout with being my introduction to electronic music, with Cairodrome being one of my favorite tracks from the game. My favorite moment with the song, though, actually happened when I left the WipEout disc in my CD-ROM drive and booted up the Quake demo, which caused the track to blast out the speakers as the attract mode played. It's more awesome than it sounds.
Chrono Trigger - Manoria Cathedral
Chrono Trigger's entire soundtrack is a masterpiece in the truest sense of the word, but I'll never forget the sheer disgust that got thrown back in my face when I confessed to an early Internet fangirl that this was my favorite song from the game. Yeah, I know it's not an obvious choice, but it's just so soothing and beautiful...
The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion - Peace of Akatosh
Speaking of soothing and beautiful, this "overworld" music from Oblivion is arguably my favorite part of the entire game. It's simple, sorrowful, and incredibly well-crafted. In my earliest days of making gaming videos, I ended a video chronicle of a months-long struggle with a particularly awful Final Fantasy XI quest with this song. I don't think I could have more perfectly captured the feeling of exhaustion and relief that I felt when that was all over.
One Must Fall 2097 - Power Plant
The epitome of "listen to this to get pumped up". It just makes me want to pick something up and throw it at an electric fence. #OddlySpecific
Tekken Tag Tournament 2 - What You Will See / Heavenly Garden
I have a thing for songs that build or transform over the course of their runtime. What You Will See is the music for this game's final boss, who - spoiler alert! - transforms into a familiar foe after losing once. Both the initial fight itself and the transformation are a dream come true for a longtime Tekken fan, and this song backs it perfectly.
Super Dodge Ball - Shadow Team
Speaking of final boss fights, this is the greatest final boss theme in the history of video games. Come at me. I've heard a number of excellent modernized arrangements of it, but I'll take the 8-bit original over any of those any day.
I'm probably going to want to post some more later.
#9 Renaissance2K
I feel like a lot of these are going to come from my first 30-Day Game Music Challenge list, but here goes...
Critical Depth - Battle in the Mediterranean
Twisted Metal 2 - The Drop Zone / Antarctica
Jet Moto 2 - Rollercide
Warhawk - Desert Zone (Fast)
Whenever somebody asks something like this, I always jump to Big Idea Music, which did the soundtracks to all of Singletrac's early PlayStation games. They punched way above their weight when it came to epic music. "Desert Zone (Fast)", in particular, was first discovered not by playing the game but by putting my pack-in demo disc in an audio CD player, which launched my decades-long obsession with video game music.
WipEout - Cairodrome
I credit the original WipEout with being my introduction to electronic music, with Cairodrome being one of my favorite tracks from the game. My favorite moment with the song, though, actually happened when I left the WipEout disc in my CD-ROM drive and booted up the Quake demo, which caused the track to blast out the speakers as the attract mode played. It's more awesome than it sounds.
Chrono Trigger - Manoria Cathedral
Chrono Trigger's entire soundtrack is a masterpiece in the truest sense of the word, but I'll never forget the sheer disgust that got thrown back in my face when I confessed to an early Internet fangirl that this was my favorite song from the game. Yeah, I know it's not an obvious choice, but it's just so soothing and beautiful...
The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion - Peace of Akatosh
Speaking of soothing and beautiful, this "overworld" music from Oblivion is arguably my favorite part of the entire game. It's simple, sorrowful, and incredibly well-crafted. In my earliest days of making gaming videos, I ended a video chronicle of a months-long struggle with a particularly awful Final Fantasy XI quest with this song. I don't think I could have more perfectly captured the feeling of exhaustion and relief that I felt when that was all over.
One Must Fall 2097 - Power Plant
The epitome of "listen to this to get pumped up". It just makes me want to pick something up and throw it at an electric fence. #OddlySpecific
Tekken Tag Tournament 2 - What You Will See / Heavenly Garden
I have a thing for songs that build or transform over the course of their runtime. What You Will See is the music for this game's final boss, who - spoiler alert! - transforms into a familiar foe after losing once. Both the initial fight itself and the transformation are a dream come true for a longtime Tekken fan, and this song backs it perfectly.
Super Dodge Ball - Shadow Team
Speaking of final boss fights, this is the greatest final boss theme in the history of video games. Come at me. I've heard a number of excellent modernized arrangements of it, but I'll take the 8-bit original over any of those any day.
I'm probably going to want to post some more later.
11-Jan-24 6:46am
#10 KCPenguins
SMB 2 Ending
https://youtu.be/IPX...
Punch-Out!! Training Theme
https://youtu.be/RW6...
#10 KCPenguins
SMB 2 Ending
https://youtu.be/IPX...
Punch-Out!! Training Theme
https://youtu.be/RW6...
11-Jan-24 7:13am
#11 Bleed_DukeBlue
From the train scene in Life is Strange: Before the Storm:
https://m.youtube.co...
#11 Bleed_DukeBlue
From the train scene in Life is Strange: Before the Storm:
https://m.youtube.co...
11-Jan-24 9:02am
#12 Heavyd814life
Bleed_DukeBlue wrote:
From the train scene in Life is Strange: Before the Storm: https://m.youtube.co...
#12 Heavyd814life
Bleed_DukeBlue wrote:
From the train scene in Life is Strange: Before the Storm: https://m.youtube.co...
11-Jan-24 9:58am
#13 incubus421
@SupremeSarna Thanks for sharing! A few of these songs are in my video game playlist rotation, like Temple from Link, the Smash Bros. theme, and the Mario RPG Forest Maze. I'm impartial to the original SNES forest maze version though. I haven't played every Kirby game, so the few you posted that I hadn't heard, especially Rainbow Across the Skies. This just confirms that Kirby is always putting out great music.
Also, what's with that Drawn to Life song!? I've never played those games but kind of thought they were geared to a much younger audience. They did do a Spongebob version, right? The male vocals I thought could be a bit better, but great song!
--
@citizen_zane The first song on that soundtrack "Blackout City" by Anamanaguchi is in my listening rotation. I never knew what game it was from, so thank you! Anamanaguchi also did the soundtrack for the Scott Pilgrim side scroller beat em up. Check out Another Winter and Rock Club
--
@Renaissance2K I hadn't played most of the games that you listed songs from (I missed your bday challenge topic). Rollercide came through with a sweet guitar solo. Just added it to my own playlist. Cairodrome was a bit too "rave club" for me.
No shame in that Manoria Cathedral Chrono pick. Honestly, you could pick any song from that soundtrack as your favorite and I'd have no qualms.
That Super Dodge Ball song is excellent. I'm pretty sure I beat this game, but this song didn't register for some reason.
--
@KCPenguins Sometimes songs don't stick with me, even when I loved them and their placement in a game. Thanks for bringing that Jose Gonzales song back to memory for me.
and the Punch Out training theme? Fantastic tune, who could forget
#13 incubus421
@SupremeSarna Thanks for sharing! A few of these songs are in my video game playlist rotation, like Temple from Link, the Smash Bros. theme, and the Mario RPG Forest Maze. I'm impartial to the original SNES forest maze version though. I haven't played every Kirby game, so the few you posted that I hadn't heard, especially Rainbow Across the Skies. This just confirms that Kirby is always putting out great music.
Also, what's with that Drawn to Life song!? I've never played those games but kind of thought they were geared to a much younger audience. They did do a Spongebob version, right? The male vocals I thought could be a bit better, but great song!
--
@citizen_zane The first song on that soundtrack "Blackout City" by Anamanaguchi is in my listening rotation. I never knew what game it was from, so thank you! Anamanaguchi also did the soundtrack for the Scott Pilgrim side scroller beat em up. Check out Another Winter and Rock Club
--
@Renaissance2K I hadn't played most of the games that you listed songs from (I missed your bday challenge topic). Rollercide came through with a sweet guitar solo. Just added it to my own playlist. Cairodrome was a bit too "rave club" for me.
No shame in that Manoria Cathedral Chrono pick. Honestly, you could pick any song from that soundtrack as your favorite and I'd have no qualms.
That Super Dodge Ball song is excellent. I'm pretty sure I beat this game, but this song didn't register for some reason.
--
@KCPenguins Sometimes songs don't stick with me, even when I loved them and their placement in a game. Thanks for bringing that Jose Gonzales song back to memory for me.
and the Punch Out training theme? Fantastic tune, who could forget
11-Jan-24 11:05am
#14 Heavyd814life
Love topics like this! We've had similar topics in the past so I want to list three that I don't think I've listed before.
Red Dead Redemption II - Unshaken by D'Angelo
Can't really get into the specifics, but this song plays in Chapter 5 after a HUGE mission. It comes out of nowhere and perfectly captures the way you feel in that moment as you ride back to Shady Belle. I get chills everytime I hear it.
Final Fantasy XIV: Heavensward - Dragonsong
Nobuo Uematsu never misses! I've never played a second of FFXIV, but I remember hearing this for the first time on the Distant Worlds vinyl and absolutely loving it!
Dragon Age: Inquisition - Main Theme
I think Inquisition has the single most underrated OST of all time. I feel that strongly about it. Trevor Morris is a phenomenal composer.
#14 Heavyd814life
Love topics like this! We've had similar topics in the past so I want to list three that I don't think I've listed before.
Red Dead Redemption II - Unshaken by D'Angelo
Can't really get into the specifics, but this song plays in Chapter 5 after a HUGE mission. It comes out of nowhere and perfectly captures the way you feel in that moment as you ride back to Shady Belle. I get chills everytime I hear it.
Final Fantasy XIV: Heavensward - Dragonsong
Nobuo Uematsu never misses! I've never played a second of FFXIV, but I remember hearing this for the first time on the Distant Worlds vinyl and absolutely loving it!
Dragon Age: Inquisition - Main Theme
I think Inquisition has the single most underrated OST of all time. I feel that strongly about it. Trevor Morris is a phenomenal composer.
11-Jan-24 1:15pm
#15 incubus421
@Heavyd814life Good grief, apparently I've completely forgotten about the amazing Red Dead franchise. Those haunting vocal tracks as you head towards the conclusion of these games were always an emotional and powerful experience.
I'm happy to see more love for the FFXIV soundtrack. It's truly a masterpiece with each new expansion adding another handful of unforgettable tracks. I told myself I wouldn't play MMOs anymore after Endwalker was damn near perfect, they just take up so much time. Still, another expansion dropping this year...I'll be tempted to resub if just to hear the music.
#15 incubus421
@Heavyd814life Good grief, apparently I've completely forgotten about the amazing Red Dead franchise. Those haunting vocal tracks as you head towards the conclusion of these games were always an emotional and powerful experience.
I'm happy to see more love for the FFXIV soundtrack. It's truly a masterpiece with each new expansion adding another handful of unforgettable tracks. I told myself I wouldn't play MMOs anymore after Endwalker was damn near perfect, they just take up so much time. Still, another expansion dropping this year...I'll be tempted to resub if just to hear the music.
11-Jan-24 5:55pm
#16 citizen_zane
incubus421 wrote:
-- @citizen_zane The first song on that soundtrack "Blackout City" by Anamanaguchi is in my listening rotation. I never knew what game it was from, so thank you! Anamanaguchi also did the soundtrack for the Scott Pilgrim side scroller beat em up. Check out Another Winter and " target="_blank" rel="nofollow" title="www.youtube.com/watch?v=enBMmvB9xDA (secure)">Rock Club
I'll be sure to check those out!
#16 citizen_zane
incubus421 wrote:
-- @citizen_zane The first song on that soundtrack "Blackout City" by Anamanaguchi is in my listening rotation. I never knew what game it was from, so thank you! Anamanaguchi also did the soundtrack for the Scott Pilgrim side scroller beat em up. Check out Another Winter and " target="_blank" rel="nofollow" title="www.youtube.com/watch?v=enBMmvB9xDA (secure)">Rock Club
I'll be sure to check those out!
11-Jan-24 6:49pm
#17 nonamesleft
These are just some of the pieces that I enjoy:
Radiant Historia - Mechanical Kingdom
One of my favorite pieces from the game. And that violin part (I think it's violin) hits you in the feels.
Kalos Power Plant - Pokemon X & Y
This was actually my ringtone for awhile. Saw someone get excited and bopping his head to it once when my phone rang :)
Cave Story - Plant
Pokemon Mystery Dungeon - Sky Tower
Pokemon Mystery Dungeon Explorers of Sky - Through the Sea of Time
Chronopolis - Chrono Cross
Powerful piece. Gives me chills. Although I haven't played Chrono Cross, I've listened to the soundtrack many times.
Tap Galaxy
A mining tap style mobile game. I liked the music that plays.
The Lonely Tower - Tower of Heaven
This piece was unique to me in that it kept building and building until it ended. Very little repetition.
Fear Factory - Donkey Kong Country Remix by Mykah
Battleblock Theater - Laidback Thrills
0:57 😂
Pokemon TCG - Club Leader Duel
Brings me back. Pretty rich soundtrack overall to this game.
Phoenix Wright Ace Attorney - Objection
The End of Traveling - Mario & Luigi Superstar Saga
This piece of music really had a feel of an adventure ending and going home. And that whistling was great.
Chaos Shrine - Final Fantasy
Very nice piece.
Donkey Kong Country 2 Bayou Boogie Cover by Steven Morris
A lot of creativity in how he puts together all the sounds.
Final Fantasy IV Overworld Theme
Professor Layton and the Curious Village - Professor Layton's Theme
There are plenty of great pieces out there. I was tempted to add more from Yasunori Mitsuda (Chrono Trigger/Cross). He gets an honorable mention.
#17 nonamesleft
These are just some of the pieces that I enjoy:
Radiant Historia - Mechanical Kingdom
One of my favorite pieces from the game. And that violin part (I think it's violin) hits you in the feels.
Kalos Power Plant - Pokemon X & Y
This was actually my ringtone for awhile. Saw someone get excited and bopping his head to it once when my phone rang :)
Cave Story - Plant
Pokemon Mystery Dungeon - Sky Tower
Pokemon Mystery Dungeon Explorers of Sky - Through the Sea of Time
Chronopolis - Chrono Cross
Powerful piece. Gives me chills. Although I haven't played Chrono Cross, I've listened to the soundtrack many times.
Tap Galaxy
A mining tap style mobile game. I liked the music that plays.
The Lonely Tower - Tower of Heaven
This piece was unique to me in that it kept building and building until it ended. Very little repetition.
Fear Factory - Donkey Kong Country Remix by Mykah
Battleblock Theater - Laidback Thrills
0:57 😂
Pokemon TCG - Club Leader Duel
Brings me back. Pretty rich soundtrack overall to this game.
Phoenix Wright Ace Attorney - Objection
The End of Traveling - Mario & Luigi Superstar Saga
This piece of music really had a feel of an adventure ending and going home. And that whistling was great.
Chaos Shrine - Final Fantasy
Very nice piece.
Donkey Kong Country 2 Bayou Boogie Cover by Steven Morris
A lot of creativity in how he puts together all the sounds.
Final Fantasy IV Overworld Theme
Professor Layton and the Curious Village - Professor Layton's Theme
There are plenty of great pieces out there. I was tempted to add more from Yasunori Mitsuda (Chrono Trigger/Cross). He gets an honorable mention.
11-Jan-24 9:44pm
#18 bonham2
Most of my favorites will be from older games because those tunes are some of the most memorable ever. Many of mine have been picked already, but I'll try to list some new ones and try to avoid the most common picks:
Castlevania - Vampire Killer
Honestly, I can pick any song from every 2D Castlevania. They are just so good. This one, along with Bloody Tears, are definitely two of the best.
Zelda: Ocarina of Time - Gerudo Valley
One of the most memorable songs in one of the most memorable soundtracks of all time. This is a banger.
Zelda 2 - Temple Theme
This was mentioned already, but I had to list it. This is easily one of my all time favorite songs from a game ever. I am one of the few out there that swears Zelda 2 is an amazing game, and I will defend this game until the day that I die.
Goonies 2 - Stage 1
Random one, but I always loved this music.
Street Fighter 2 - Vega Theme
The music in this game had to be memorable since we played the same levels over and over SO MANY TIMES. They all stand out, but this was always my favorite.(Guile's is great too).
Super Mario Galaxy - Gusty Garden Galaxy
This is one of the few video game songs that I downloaded and listened to in my car. It was just such a great track. Mario is another series with countless amazing songs, but this one is a personal favorite.
Punch-Out - Fight Music
Zelda Skyward Sword - Ballad of the Goddess Theme
Easily the best part of this game. It was the most epic soundtrack ever, and it's only made better once you realize it's a motif based on Zelda's Lullaby.
Metroid - Brinstar
I know Super Metroid is considered the masterpiece, but this music really set the tone for the epic adventure that you were about to take back when this first came out. I love how they re-used this in Metroid Prime years later.
Mega Man 2 - Wily Fortress 1
How his this not been mentioned yet. Another series with amazing music, but this one has always been my favorite.
Geometry Wars Retro Evolved
This is one of my all-time favorite games, and the music just keeps you pumped no matter how long the game goes on for.
I obviously have to mention the Zelda and Mario main themes because they are absolute classics.
#18 bonham2
Most of my favorites will be from older games because those tunes are some of the most memorable ever. Many of mine have been picked already, but I'll try to list some new ones and try to avoid the most common picks:
Castlevania - Vampire Killer
Honestly, I can pick any song from every 2D Castlevania. They are just so good. This one, along with Bloody Tears, are definitely two of the best.
Zelda: Ocarina of Time - Gerudo Valley
One of the most memorable songs in one of the most memorable soundtracks of all time. This is a banger.
Zelda 2 - Temple Theme
This was mentioned already, but I had to list it. This is easily one of my all time favorite songs from a game ever. I am one of the few out there that swears Zelda 2 is an amazing game, and I will defend this game until the day that I die.
Goonies 2 - Stage 1
Random one, but I always loved this music.
Street Fighter 2 - Vega Theme
The music in this game had to be memorable since we played the same levels over and over SO MANY TIMES. They all stand out, but this was always my favorite.(Guile's is great too).
Super Mario Galaxy - Gusty Garden Galaxy
This is one of the few video game songs that I downloaded and listened to in my car. It was just such a great track. Mario is another series with countless amazing songs, but this one is a personal favorite.
Punch-Out - Fight Music
Zelda Skyward Sword - Ballad of the Goddess Theme
Easily the best part of this game. It was the most epic soundtrack ever, and it's only made better once you realize it's a motif based on Zelda's Lullaby.
Metroid - Brinstar
I know Super Metroid is considered the masterpiece, but this music really set the tone for the epic adventure that you were about to take back when this first came out. I love how they re-used this in Metroid Prime years later.
Mega Man 2 - Wily Fortress 1
How his this not been mentioned yet. Another series with amazing music, but this one has always been my favorite.
Geometry Wars Retro Evolved
This is one of my all-time favorite games, and the music just keeps you pumped no matter how long the game goes on for.
I obviously have to mention the Zelda and Mario main themes because they are absolute classics.
11-Jan-24 9:49pm
#19 Damian254
This list could probably 100 songs long if I thought long enough and there's some games like Streets of Rage 2, Zelda, Mario, Persona 5 & the Mega Man series where I could put 10 songs from each one on this list. Put I'll try my best to limit it to one song per entry
1. Mega Man 2: Dr. Wily's Castle pt. 1
2. Duck Tales Moon Stage
3. Streets of Rage 2: Boss Battle Theme
4. Street Fighter II: Guile's Stage
5. Legend of Zelda: Overworld theme
6. Chrono Trigger: Luca's Theme
7. Persona 5: Victory screen song
8. Dragon Quest series: Title screen song
9. Sonic 2: Chemical Zone
10. Super Mario Galaxy theme
#19 Damian254
This list could probably 100 songs long if I thought long enough and there's some games like Streets of Rage 2, Zelda, Mario, Persona 5 & the Mega Man series where I could put 10 songs from each one on this list. Put I'll try my best to limit it to one song per entry
1. Mega Man 2: Dr. Wily's Castle pt. 1
2. Duck Tales Moon Stage
3. Streets of Rage 2: Boss Battle Theme
4. Street Fighter II: Guile's Stage
5. Legend of Zelda: Overworld theme
6. Chrono Trigger: Luca's Theme
7. Persona 5: Victory screen song
8. Dragon Quest series: Title screen song
9. Sonic 2: Chemical Zone
10. Super Mario Galaxy theme
11-Jan-24 9:51pm
#20 Damian254
bonham2 wrote:
Goonies 2 - Stage 1 Random one, but I always loved this music.
Yes! The 8-bit version Cindy Lauper's Good Enough. This blew my mind when I was a kid.
#20 Damian254
bonham2 wrote:
Goonies 2 - Stage 1 Random one, but I always loved this music.
Yes! The 8-bit version Cindy Lauper's Good Enough. This blew my mind when I was a kid.
11-Jan-24 11:02pm
#21 Heavyd814life
KCPenguins wrote:
Red Dead Redemption - Far Away https://m.youtube.co... I was actually sad when I accidentally skipped this while trying to loot the dead on my last play through but didn't realize it until after I botched the saves. I debated starting the game over, but ultimately decided YouTube would have to suffice. Super Metroid - THE WHOLE DAMN GAME!!! I seriously love this soundtrack, and it's at a part of why it's my GOAT. On the opposite spectrum: ...
Missed this post somehow. Riding into Mexico and then Far Away comes on out of nowhere. I still get chills thinking about it. What a moment!
#21 Heavyd814life
KCPenguins wrote:
Red Dead Redemption - Far Away https://m.youtube.co... I was actually sad when I accidentally skipped this while trying to loot the dead on my last play through but didn't realize it until after I botched the saves. I debated starting the game over, but ultimately decided YouTube would have to suffice. Super Metroid - THE WHOLE DAMN GAME!!! I seriously love this soundtrack, and it's at a part of why it's my GOAT. On the opposite spectrum: ...
Missed this post somehow. Riding into Mexico and then Far Away comes on out of nowhere. I still get chills thinking about it. What a moment!
Your top songs in gaming